So, I was wondering Where does the DoD get authority to hire mercenaries

[hootinholler]

I mean all the 'security forces' hired to protect KBR and other companies employees. I mean isn't an armed contractor in a free fire zone by definition a mercenary? Some of these guys are pulling in 10K a month or better.

I'm wondering why this is legal. Any takers?

-Hoot

[Telly Savalas]

1. It's legal because the Executive and Legislative branches of government

are run by extremist conservative ideologues who believe in the privatization of government services. That's why.

[Metta]

2. Right. * is doing it because he can.

Pure and simple. He hasn't shown much respect for the law during these past five years.

[bananas]

3. Is this different than the Merchant Marines? n/t

[hootinholler]

6. Interesting point.

During WWII all the oceans were a free fire zone. Very similar.

-Hoot

[tinfoilinfor2005]

4. I've wondered about that too. If it is legal, at the very least it sets

a dangerous precedent. An army for hire obeys orders from the man with the purse, regardless of the fact that it is our money that is in that purse.

[NewJeffCT]

5. it's not through the DoD

I think I heard it on Randi Rhodes, but to get around Congressional restrictions, the mercenaries are under the Dept. of the Interior, or something outrageous like that.