Reining in Military Contractors

10/12/2007

Paul Munnis

As we review the policies for dealing with contractors serving in combat zones we do not need to shoot ourselves in the foot.

The problems that we face are ones of supervision, accountability, and the administration of justice.

Solve those three problems and the contractors can get on with doing their jobs.

One amendment to their contract can solve all three problems.

Make the contractors report to the military and the military to extend supervision over the contractors when the contractors are serving in a war zone.

Also, make contractors to fall under the provisions of the UCMJ when they are serving in a combat zone. UCMJ stands for “Universal Code of Military Justice.” The UCMJ is what governs soldiers in service while they are at home or abroad.

No need to fire Blackwater -- just rein them in and make them accountable for their actions. That will establish the needed check and balance now missing. Even Rambo needs a boss.