Military overstretched, Sen. Hagel Warns.

• Author: Fein, Geoff S.
• Position: Washington Pulse - Brief Article

With a $450 billion budget deficit, extended operations in Iraq, possible intervention in Liberia and the continuing crisis with North Korea, the United States is confronting a situation comparable to the post-World War II era, said Sen. Chuck Hagel, D-Neb.

"We're living in a very historic time," where trust and credibility are paramount as "we are shaping and framing the world for many years to come," Ire told a Washington, D.C., defense industry conference. The United States may be overstretching itself, he said. "Great nations must learn that they have limitations." The arrogance of American policy is taking a toll on the nation's military forces, he added. "Purpose must be connected to our power."

Of particular concern are the thousands of reservists and National Guardsmen who have been on active duty in the Middle East, in many cases...