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INTRODUCTION

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". . . a high priority national security mission for our armed forces. . . . deal with this threat as a clear and present danger. We have accepted that mission. . . . This mission will continue to require deployed, properly trained, and well-equipped forces for the foreseeable future."

Colin Powell
Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff
Feb 91

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". . . The Department [of Defense] will continue to devote significant resources and energy in all aspects of this [counterdrug] effort. . . ."

Hon. Stephen M. Duncan
Coordinator for Drug Enforcement Policy & Support
May 91

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These recent statements emphasize the commitment of the DoD in supporting the war on drugs.

INTRODUCTION

During the 1980s, government, at all levels, was unprepared for what was to become known as the ``war on drugs.'' The drug problem was relegated primarily to Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) who directed their efforts and resources at supply reduction.

There was little unity of effort among the many Drug Law Enforcement Agencies (DLEAs) at local, state, and national levels. In fact, there was a pattern of competition among the DLEAs, motivated in part by a budgeting procedure based on the amount of illicit drugs seized. At the federal level, over 35 agencies have some degree of involvement and responsibility in the war on drugs. To further complicate matters, over 80 Congressional committees have some degree of oversight in the CD effort.

The DoD's role in the war on drugs, up to 1989, was minimal at best. Congress had been pressuring the Executive Branch to more actively engage the DoD in CD operations which did not violate the strict provisions of the law or reduce combat readiness.

Although the majority of DoD support is currently provided by the Army National Guard (ARNG), there is an increasing amount of involvement by active forces. Under the recent guidelines published by the Army Chief of Staff, active forces can expect to play a major role in the war on drugs.

This newsletter provides an overview of the National Drug Control Strategy and the U.S. Army involvement in support of CD operations. Also included are recent observations from units that participated in CD missions.

Table of Contents
Foreword
Background