ABSTRACT
Declining manpower levels have characterized the US armed forces since adoption in 1973 of policies establishing the all-volunteer force (AVF) and the total force. Although many people are concerned about the effectiveness of the AVF and its future, it has generally been judged successful on the basis of its ability to meet the strength levels and recruiting goals of the active forces. Total force problems involve numerous issues and concerns, but the discussion focuses on the Reserve component, primarily because the problems of the active forces have been extensively studied and in the near term, the Reserve manpower shortages will be the predominant problem facing the total force. The chapter seeks to identify some of unresolved issues by addressing a number of questions related to the total force and all-volunteer concepts. Manpower requirements for the total force reflect existing US national security policy, international commitments, and general military strategy.
