putz wrote:
A good idea in theory. However, the sheer numbers of personnel required to respond for a mass disaster situation would still require the resources and manpower of the regular force as well as the reserve force. Its also all fine to say that reservists are all spread out across the country but last time I checked so was the the reg force too....
Yes the reg force would probably still be needed but at the same time responding to domestic emergencies is what the reserves are there for. It is our primary function within the military and actual training for that scenario has been lacking. We have already seen changes that will help us respond better and our focus now is less on traditional methods of operations but operating within the civilian population at home.
Eisensapper wrote:
The retention rate in the reserves is a problem though, you can leave at the drop of a hat. Also for every excellent reservist I know I can think of two that couldnt find their dick with both hands.

Thats a bit excessive I think. The nature of the reserves does allow certain people to stick around that wouldn't be allowed at the Reg Force level. A lot of that being because the units are simply trying to maintain numbers. But to day it is the minority is wrong because most people want to be there and take pride in what they do. As a result we are able to accomplish our tasks effectively even in spite of the odd person who doesn't know which end is up.