The 1970s revealed a number of infamous and sometimes illegal practices used by federal law enforcement agencies to monitor political dissent in the United States. In the aftermath of Watergate the revelation of serious abuses created distrust of virtually all domestic intelligence operations and led to vigorous efforts at reform.

Richard E. Morgan emphasizes the importance of guarding against an overreaction to the disclosures of the mid-1970s. While acknowledging the need for many of the recent reforms that seek to establish accountability, guarantee privacy, and protect dissent,...

Throughout the military history of the United States, the noncommissioned officer (NCO) has played a pivotal central role in the shaping and development of the U.S. Army. Indeed, many consider the rank of First Sergeant to be the "backbone" of the Army. During peaceful times, NCO's develop, train, and apply constructive discipline to those who are entrusted to their care and leadership. And it is in wartime that the true value of the NCO, especially those with the rank of First Sergeant, shines forth. It is during time of war that the First Sergeant assumes an even greater responsibility for...