Pentagon Decides Against Smoking Ban

"Sorry, soldier. This is a smoke-free zone."


This week, after having commissioned a study together with the Veteran's Administration, the Pentagon decided not to institute a ban on the use and sale of tobacco products on military bases. Sounds laughable on its face, doesn't it? But with the new collection of pinheads and hacks who have infiltrated the government, it was under serious consideration.

Some hack named Jack Smith, who is the head of the Pentagon's Office of Clinical programs and Policy (whatever that is) told USA Today on July 10 that he was recommending such a move to Defense Secretary Robert Gates. Five days later, after the public got wind of it and the laughter started pouring in, Gates axed the idea.

Smoking is still a part of the military culture, and it is estimated that one in three troops smoke. Calmer voices reasoned that those in combat probably need those cigarette breaks.

One wonders what new idea the control freaks in Washington will come up with next? No beer? No tattoos? Since when do we decide to put such restrictions on our troops who put their lives on the line?