That's the recommendation of a new Pentagon commission.
http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/07/12/military.smoking.ban/index.html

Argument is that tobacco use can impact military readiness. I can testify to that. When I was in, most those who could not pass the run on the PT test were smokers. When they told me they were doing everything they possibly do to pass the test, I'd point out to them that so long as they were still smoking that was not true.


"A man never drinks anything that a plant lives in" --DBone (A Real Man).
http://vimeo.com/4938173

If they could not meet the standards than they should be QMPed. People that volunteer for military service and by doing so in essence sign a blank check to the nations defense for an amount up to and including their lives should be allowed to smoke if they want to. PERIOD!

De Oppresso Liber

Gates has decided to not support a ban on tobacco in war zones.
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2009/07/15/military-group-fumes-possible-smoking-ban-troops/?test=latestnews

However, he will review other options. It sounds like cheaper tobacco prices at commisaries and PX's will be a thing of the past.

The report claimed tobacco use cost the DoD over $800 a year in healthcare and lost productivity. I have seen studies showing that soldiers who smoke were more likely to go on sick call.


"A man never drinks anything that a plant lives in" --DBone (A Real Man).
http://vimeo.com/4938173

Well, I wonder how much it costs them to provide all the alcohol abuse treatment programs they have? How much does it cost them to put on air shows, fire power demonstrations, 4th of July fireworks, and all the many various dog and pony shows they put on for civilians, visiting dignitaries and politicians, and such? And this administration, which cut the defense budget by 10% in time of war, expressing a desire for money saving measures is like Al Capone talking about the murder rate in Chicago during his rein.

De Oppresso Liber

Keith, I posted the following on the Politics of Discourse Board tonight, July 16, 2009. Brinkzs. 8-)

Defense Secretary to GIs: Smoke 'em if you got 'em



Keith---Updated July 15, 2009. Brinkzs.



http://current.com/items/90431474_defense-secretary-to-gis-smoke-em-if-you-got-em.htm