Alaska National Guard faces personnel crisis

[LynneSin]

http://rawstory.com/news/2008/Alaska_National_Guard_faces_personnel_crisis_0904.html

Alaska National Guard faces personnel crisis

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Alaska National Guard, which Republicans are pointing to as an important national-security credential for vice presidential choice Sarah Palin, has personnel shortages that make its aviation units the most poorly staffed in the nation.

Just six months ago, Air Force Maj. Gen. Craig Campbell, the Alaska Guard's top officer, warned in an internal memo that "missions are at risk." The lack of qualified airmen, Campbell said, "has reached a crisis level."

The situation has improved since the March 1 memo was written, Campbell said Wednesday in a telephone interview with The Associated Press — but not enough to eliminate his concern that shortages will result in the "burnout" of troops the Guard already has. That could result in missions and equipment being moved out of Alaska.

Campbell installed a new policy that could stop officers from advancing unless they show success at bringing in new members and retaining existing troops.

Campbell is due to receive a third star on Sunday — a promotion approved by Palin, who has authority over the Alaska National Guard. He described Palin as very supportive of the Guard, but said she gives him latitude to manage the force. Governors typically do not have a direct role in day-to-day operations.

[liberal N proud]

1. And where is their Governor who has such military experience?

Off playing politics with her family

[SpiralHawk]

2. Typical republicon 'leadership'

FAIL.

[PA Democrat]

3. Heckuva job, Palen!

Experience does not equal competency.

[redqueen]

4. Only 84% of assigned positions filled - lowest rating in the country.

Wow... impressive.

[bushisanidiot]

5. So she basically just hands out stars and that's it. GREAT!

THIS is supposed to be EXECUTIVE experience???

they can't be serious!!

[JBoy]

6. That was only after she made him swear loyalty and allegiance to her.

[redqueen]

7. Just like Bush!

[AuntPatsy]

8. Why isn't hte msm interviewing this man this am? Where has all the investigations gone???