Give them M-16s, maybe with new semi-auto only receivers. That will fix the problem with the difficult reloads. They can even be modified for blanks only by replacing the flashhider, it’s what Hollywierd does. But I wouldn’t do that. I’d just let them cycle the action manually between volleys. That’s less complicated than working the bolt of a Springfield.
Most of the Vets that will be needing the services in the next few years will be Vietnam era troops who “grew up” on the AR platform anyway.
M-14s would be an option, if Billy Jeff hadn’t sent so many to Captain Crunch, and the rest weren’t needed in places like Afghanistan, where ranges may often be longer than optimum for the 5.56 rounds. Same ease as the AR platform, only with and even more convenient way to recycle the bolt for blank rounds. The M-1 would have the same issues with blank fire as the M-14 and ARs.
Holder wants to send the ‘03s to Mexico.