Defense A Fall Priority For Illinois
Defense: A Fall Priority for Illinois
Introduction
After a decade of underfunding and neglect, Illinois' defense has fallen to historic lows. The state's National Guard is understaffed and underequipped, and its active-duty military forces are stretched thin by deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. This has left Illinois vulnerable to a range of threats, both foreign and domestic.
In recent years, there have been several high-profile incidents that have highlighted the need for a stronger defense in Illinois. In 2017, for example, a group of armed men stormed the state capitol building in Springfield, Illinois. The incident ended peacefully, but it raised concerns about the state's ability to respond to a major terrorist attack.
In 2018, Illinois was hit by a series of tornadoes that caused widespread damage. The state's National Guard was called in to assist with the relief effort, but it was quickly overwhelmed. This highlighted the need for a more robust National Guard force in Illinois.
The Need for a Stronger Defense
There are several reasons why Illinois needs a stronger defense. First, the state is home to several major military installations, including the Rock Island Arsenal and the Scott Air Force Base. These installations are critical to the national defense, and they need to be protected from attack.
Second, Illinois is a major transportation hub. The state's highways, railways, and airports are essential for the movement of people and goods. A strong defense is needed to protect these vital transportation links from disruption.
Third, Illinois is a target for terrorism. The state's large Muslim population makes it a potential target for terrorist attacks. A strong defense is needed to deter these attacks and to protect the state's citizens.
The Challenges of Building a Stronger Defense
Building a stronger defense in Illinois will not be easy. The state faces a number of challenges, including:
- Funding: The state's budget is already strained, and it will be difficult to find the money to invest in a stronger defense.
- Personnel: The state's National Guard is understaffed, and it will be difficult to recruit and retain the personnel needed to build a stronger force.
- Equipment: The state's National Guard is underequipped, and it will be expensive to purchase the equipment needed to build a stronger force.
The Way Forward
Despite the challenges, it is essential for Illinois to build a stronger defense. The state's security and prosperity depend on it. There are a number of steps that can be taken to build a stronger defense, including:
- Increase funding: The state needs to increase funding for the National Guard and other defense programs.
- Recruit and retain personnel: The state needs to recruit and retain qualified personnel to serve in the National Guard and other defense programs.
- Purchase equipment: The state needs to purchase the equipment needed to build a stronger National Guard and other defense programs.
Conclusion
Building a stronger defense in Illinois will not be easy, but it is essential for the state's security and prosperity. By taking the steps outlined in this report, Illinois can build a stronger defense that will protect the state from a range of threats, both foreign and domestic.