Lt. Gen. Craig McKinley–chief of the Air National Guard–told a special commission that Washington needs to investigate ways to increase the appeal of serving in the National Guard and Reserves. McKinley’s remarks came at a July 19 at a hearing in San Antonio of the special Congressionally mandated National Commission on the Guard and Reserve. McKinley called on the government to explore all avenues, or face a potential recruiting problem. “What is the cost if we don’t support our Guard and Reserve?” asked McKinley. “I believe it would be a debate over conscription.” McKinley asked for the panel to keep matters in perspective, however, noting, “I’m not saying the sky is falling.” Leaders from all of the military’s reserve components urged the commission to ask Congress to update its policies regarding the staffing of the National Guard and Reserves, as well as improve compensation, benefits, training and equipping.
The Air Force could conduct an operation like Israel's successful air campaign against Iran's nuclear sites, military leadership and air defenses, but readiness issues would make it risky, airpower experts said. Limited spare parts and training, low mission capable rates and few flying hours would put a drag on USAF's…