Posted on 01/17/2013 3:42:17 PM PST by blam
The Military Is Already Preparing For The Worst-Case Sequester Scenario
Paul Szoldra
January 17, 2013
There's plenty of talk about the "fiscal cliff" -- which was avoided by a last-minute deal last month but that only delayed a huge Pentagon fear: Sequestration.
What happens if the military is slapped with sequestration -- automatic budget cuts to the tune of about $500 billion over ten years?
The Defense Department is the biggest loser in the latest budget battle, and although Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta is hopeful about reaching an agreement, they still need to plan for the possibility, which left unchecked would hit in March.
"Indeed, we are seeing the formation of what I would call a perfect storm of budget uncertainty," Panetta said on Jan. 10. "With a sequester that could happen on March 1st, a continuing resolution that could simply be extended for the rest of this fiscal year, as opposed to having a defense appropriations bill adopted, and, thirdly, a debt ceiling crisis that could create even further turmoil that could impact on our budget and on our economy."
"And the fact is, looking at all three of those, we have no idea what the hell's going to happen."
The guidance from the Pentagon to all service branches is to give specific recommendations on what they can cut by Feb 1st. Here's the broader view from Panetta on what would happen if Congress does not act to avoid the sequester.
(Excerpt) Read more at businessinsider.com ...
Was not the "sequester" the result of Mister Boehner's foolish gamble a couple of years back?
.
Ya know, it might not be such a good idea for him to tick off the guys with the real automatic assault weapons.
Virtually all training that requires travel has been cancelled by SECAF. I’m hearing rumblings that they may cut annual tours as well.
Hugh and series, indeed...
Colonel, USAFR
Gut our military, shut down 95 percent of all defense spending - and presto - a defenseless United States.
BUT LETS KEEP THE MONEY FLOWING TO DEMOCRAT VOTERS ON MULTIPLE FORMS OF WELFARE!
WWIII will be upon us shortly - and this time the US loses - by design.
Well, at least if we’re invaded we’ll have the means to defend ourselves...
Oh wait. I guess they’re trying to take that away from us too. Mehmed II is at the gates of Constantinople and Obama seems to be opening the gates himself so as to say “Come on in!”
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.