Role of the United States Military in Counterdrug Operations in the Year 2000

This study looks into the feasibility of change in the United States military's role in counterdrug operations in the year 2000. The dangers of illegal drug usage and trafficking have had a major effect on the United States. In 1983 President Reagan declared a 'war on drugs' because of the threat narcotics trafficking posed to the national security of the United States. In doing this, he enrolled the use of many Federal agencies to include the military. The drug threat remains a threat to the United States as many countries abroad continue to depend on the income from illegal drug products for their livelihood. However, with the possibility of decreased personnel and financial resources, the future status of the military is hard to envision. The possibility of an increased role or continued current counterdrug role may affect combat readiness of the military. In conclusion, the military plays an important role in the United States counterdrug effort. Although its effects are difficult to measure, its participation continues to be necessary to protect the security of the United States. In that respect it is imperative that the military maintain its current counterdrug role as it approaches the new millennium in accordance with the law and future resources.