Iraq War and the Effects on the Military Family

NB: We do not resell your papers. Upon ordering, we do an original paper exclusively for you.

NB: All your data is kept safe from the public.

Table of Contents

Introduction
Thesis statement
Thesis
Conclusion
References

Introduction

The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have necessitated the separation of families as military troops are deployed to the two regions. Marines and soldiers are the main troops that have been representing the land force in the two wars. This has put a demand on the military families to support their kin when they are in these wars. However, the effects of the wars have been felt by the nationals of the warring regions as well as the families of the troops fighting in the war.

Thesis statement

The deployment of military troops to Iraq and Afghanistan to fight has resulted in unprecedented stress on both the troops and their families.

Thesis

During the time that Iraq has been at war, there have been about 513,000 soldiers on active duty deployed to serve in the region. Among these, there are about 197,000 who have been deployed to this region on more than one occasion. 53,000 have served three or more times. The war has no doubt had adverse effects on the military families because of the lengthy and repeated deployments. There is a need to sustain the number of troops at high levels in the Iraq war. The consequence is increased apprehension over the mental health of the deployed soldiers. This has been noted and expressed by the army leaders. The ratio of those who show signs of depression, anxiety, and soaring stress levels is high. The state is compounded by high rates of suicide. The strain on troops means that if such an emergency were to erupt elsewhere in the world, missions would be successful but operations would no doubt be slower, more expensive in terms of lives and equipment, and take a longer time (Ocala Star and Bennington Banner 2008).

The Ocala Star also reports that besides, mental strain, there is also a high divorce rate among the soldiers and marines. Reports show an estimate of 10,200 failed marriages for the fiscal year ending on September 30. The increased demand that is placed on the troops and their families is a challenge to intimate relationships. The divorce rate does not even take into account the marriages that are not working though still in existence. This means that spouses are under the obligation to take care of their families without the support of their partners in the war.

Among the resolutions suggested is that by President Bush who felt that the number of troops who should remain in Iraq in the summer be reduced to about 140,000 (Bennington Banner 2008). However, this would be difficult since the troops would have greater responsibility and therefore the stress would be overwhelming. Military programs have been established to help couples choose their partners wisely. This is not so effective though as one would not guarantee strong marriage even with a wise choice of partners. The factors that are linked to strain are far removed from the choice of partners.

Conclusion

The need to reestablish peace is of utmost importance in the lives of the force. It is therefore important that they serve their countries and humanity. Though marine families are continually in support of the soldiers, the tribulations they suffer should be looked into so that their lives are comfortable. Repeated and long deployments should for instance be reconsidered as it is especially this that puts the most strain on families because of long separations. Otherwise, families will continue to suffer the effects of wars whenever there is a need for the deployment of their soldiers.

The quality of life for military families can be improved albeit in a small way if services and programs aimed at helping the families are funded. Such programs could include health care, schools, and training. The move by marines to offer workshops that teach couples on conflict management, better communication, and problem-solving is also a good venture.

References

“Army worried by rising stress of return tours.” Ocala Star-Banner, Web.

“Divorce rate up in Army Corps.” Bennington Banner, Bennington, Vt. 2008. Web.

Click Here To Order Now!

Iraq War and the Effects on the Military Family

Do you need this or any other assignment done for you from scratch?

We have qualified writers to help you.

We assure you a quality paper that is 100% free from plagiarism and AI.

You can choose either format of your choice ( Apa, Mla, Havard, Chicago, or any other)