There is a story in USA TODAY Fri, 9-21, that is sad if true. We are aware of how dangerous roadside bombs are to troops in IRAQ, and that the powerful ones can blow up a Humvee. There is a new program for a more heavily armored vehicle, a MRAP. Of course it is big and expensive, but you'd think folks would get behind the program. But that doesn't take into account the profit being made and palms being greased on other favored programs. A Pentagon science and tech advisor, Franz Gayl reported delays and problems with the program. Did the Marines support him and try to correct the problem as one would hope? Nope, not when big defense contracts are at stake. The Maine brass targeted Gayle for "adverse personnel action". To be fair, these can be complex issues, I am only reporting what the article says. The backers of the MRAP likely have $$$$$$$ as part of their interest also, but the poor GI out on the street should have the best protection.
_________________ Bill Greenwood
Spitfire N308WK
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