PMC, A New Euphimism for a New Mercenary

Most of America remains ignorant of the phenomena of the Private Military Company, civilian groups who contract out to militaries around the world to do work that military can't do for itself (or doesn't want to do). In the old days these guys were known as mercenaries, but with a new world comes a new phenomenon: Soldiers who operate as a corporation. Is this a good thing? A bad thing? We're relying on them a lot over in Iraq right now. Who knows what else we're using them for elsewhere. This article gives some insight into the difficult issues these guys raise for a real military, especially the American military.

Under Security Implications: "These companies recruit qualified warriors using lots of money. But money cannot buy patriotism, selflessness, a sense of duty, and national security."

Under Legal Implications: "PMCs provide political cover for politicians of all stripes. Public outcry over casualties and prisoners is minimized. In comparison to military casualties, the media creates little stir when civilian contractors are killed or wounded."

Under Intelligence Implications: "Historically, intelligence is the weakest facet of U.S. war fighting; proliferation of PMCs will exacerbate this vulnerability."

Think about it.