thedrifter
06-04-07, 07:38 AM
Death by bureaucracy
Marines in Iraq can't get the equipment they need when they need it, according to a report obtained by the Associated Press.
Between February 2006 and February 2007, Marines in the field made more than 100 requests for equipment through the "Urgent Universal Need Statement" program that was supposed to cut red tape and give greater control to the men and women who are facing mortal dangers every day. They got what they wanted less than 10 percent of the time, the report says.
That failure has almost certainly cost lives.
In February 2006, for example, Marines in Iraq asked for almost 1,200 armored vehicles that would give them a better chance to survive roadside bombs. Instead, they got improved Humvees - mainly because they were cheaper, the report concludes.
But money wasn't the only reason, it says. The Marine bureaucracy was sluggish and afraid to take risks.
Or as the report put it, "Process worship cripples operating forces."
Americans in civilian life have been known to make similar observations about the bureaucracies in which they work. But at least their jargon-encrusted, PowerPointed meetings and reports don't endanger the lives of brave men and women obeying their country's call.
Ellie
Marines in Iraq can't get the equipment they need when they need it, according to a report obtained by the Associated Press.
Between February 2006 and February 2007, Marines in the field made more than 100 requests for equipment through the "Urgent Universal Need Statement" program that was supposed to cut red tape and give greater control to the men and women who are facing mortal dangers every day. They got what they wanted less than 10 percent of the time, the report says.
That failure has almost certainly cost lives.
In February 2006, for example, Marines in Iraq asked for almost 1,200 armored vehicles that would give them a better chance to survive roadside bombs. Instead, they got improved Humvees - mainly because they were cheaper, the report concludes.
But money wasn't the only reason, it says. The Marine bureaucracy was sluggish and afraid to take risks.
Or as the report put it, "Process worship cripples operating forces."
Americans in civilian life have been known to make similar observations about the bureaucracies in which they work. But at least their jargon-encrusted, PowerPointed meetings and reports don't endanger the lives of brave men and women obeying their country's call.
Ellie