Author Description

Takes readers through the turbulent years of transition from drafting young men for service in the U.S. armed forces to the all-volunteer force. Never before had this nation attempted to field a standing Army in peacetime -- based on voluntary enlistments -- with the worldwide responsibilities that faced this force. This transition was accomplished nearly simultaneously with the withdrawal from Vietnam and the subsequent partial demobilization. Examines both the broad context in which the end of the draft occurred and the less well known perspective which the Army's leaders brought to bear on the challenge they faced. Illustrated.