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File: 082696_d50028_059.txt
A9.)
Poll conducted by Americans Talk Security, a bipartisan group of polling and
consulting firms, finds strong support for President Bush's goals in Persian Gulf, but also
finds reluctance to start a war. (New York Times, October 1, p. A9.)
Senator Sam Nunn (D-Georgia), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee,
blocks a House passed extension of reserve forces from 180 days to 360 days. The
extension was included in a $2 billion emergency funding bill to help the Department of
Defense cover the cost of Operation Desert Shield. Senator Nunn says the longer
mobilization period should be carefully studied based on the effect of the current law on
Operation Desert Shield, any change in the role of Congress with regard to military
actions, and the effects of such a change on the rights and protection of reservists and
employers under a call-up. (Navy Times, October 22, p. 19.)
U.S. soldiers headed for the Middle East may find it difficult to purchase new life
insurance as companies scramble to minimize their losses by either refusing to insure
military personnel or issuing policies that do not pay if the soldier dies in combat.
(Chicago Sun Times, September 30, p. 59.)
Guard and reserve unit personnel activated to support Operation Desert Shield as of
30 SEP:
(DOD Release 9 DEC 90)
October 1
Monday ---In a speech to the U.N. General Assembly, President Bush continues to
denounce Iraq's invasion of Kuwait, but hints at possibilities for negotiated solution.
(New York Times, October 2, p. Al.)
House of Representatives passes joint resolution by a 38O~29 vote supporting President
Bush's current Persian Gulf policy, but stops short of endorsing future military action
against Iraq. (New York Times, October 2, p. A12.)
According to Senator Sam Nunn (D-Georgia), Chairman of the Senate Armed Forces
Committee, the failure to recall reserve forces in prior national contingencies (such as
the Persian Gulf in 1988, and Panama) when needed has "sent the wrong message to both
the active and reserv~ forces. It told the reserve that their skills and training would not
be used in a contingency, and it told the active forces that we can't afford to rely on the
reserves." (The Officer, October 1, p. 21.)
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