Though most experts agree that the size and scope of the U.S. military is well suited for quick action, many argue it is unprepared for occupation, much less an "endless" global war on terrorism. A new round of "stop loss" orders issued on April 7th keeps thousands of troops in Iraq who were scheduled to return home. In addition, new troops are being called to fight continuing Iraqi resistance. Are we stretched too thin?

• Analysts say occupation forces facing resistance often require about 20 soldiers per thousand - Iraqi resistance may require 300,000 soldiers. 150,000 Coalition soldiers now occupy Iraq

Many say that the military is stretched as thin as the national budget supporting it. With 725 US military bases, US forces in nearly 130 countries and a focus on "identifying and defusing threats before they reach our borders," the defense budget consumes more than 56% of all national discretionary spending. This tax day, a full 38¢ of each tax dollar will go to the military. Many are asking whether this is the best use of our sons and daughters, our husbands and wives - and our hard earned money.

"Outsourcing," contracting private companies to provide variety of military services, is thought by some used to cut costs. It's a strategy ripe with controversy.

• There is one private military employee for every 10-15 soldiers in Iraq. In the first Gulf War, there was one private military employee to for every 50 soldiers.
  
  
• Private employees killed in Iraq do not appear on government death tolls. The military is not officially responsible when things go wrong with these companies.
  
  
• Private "soldiers-for-hire" companies often compete with the army for the most seasoned personnel.
  
  
• Army Green Berets and Navy Seals with at least 20 years experience earn $50,000 base pay with a $23,000 pension. Salaries paid by private security companies range from $100,000-$200,000.

Concern is building that an unofficial "economic" draft persists. With promises of job training and college scholarships, the Pentagon spends $2.5 billion a year to lure lower income youth into the military. More than half of all JROTC programs occur in high schools where the community is either working class or impoverished - often with high concentrations of African Americans and Latinos. Though not officially a recruiting tool, over 50% of JROTC cadets enlist in the military. Should war be an alternative to minimum wage, unemployment or prison?

Some argue that a national draft will level the playing field of whose children we send into battle. The administration has begun a quiet campaign to fill community draft boards, left largely vacant after Vietnam. President Bush is adamant that this is not a portent of things to come, but members of Congress and military experts suggest that if the promise of a "war without end" holds true, the U.S. may not have a choice. What's the likelihood of a national draft?

• The Army Reserve missed its retention rate goal this year by 6.7%, and 9.3% among career soldiers.

Whose fathers, brothers - mothers and sisters and children - will fight this war without end? Do we need to reconsider our "global war on terror?" What is the content and status of draft legislation currently in Congress? Is "outsourcing" a good way to cut costs of war? What are the use and advantages of privatizing the military? Are we overextending - and over spending - in our strategy to combat terrorism? What are alternatives strategies for reconstructing Iraq? Can we expect help from NATO or the UN? Can we achieve success without it?