Soldiers of good fortune

They fly helicopters, guard military bases and provide reconnaissance. They're private military companies--and they're replacing U.S. soldiers in the war on terrorism What are Private Contractors? Private contractors are hired by the government to provide housing, meals, mail, military policing, bodyguarding, and other logistical support to the military. The U.S. military out-sources work to private contractors because they claim that it cuts down on spending. Over one-fifth of all U.S. military employees are contractor employees. Blackwater, Vinnell Corporation, Halliburton, KBR (a subsidiary of Halliburton) and Dyncorp are companies that deal partially or entirely in construction, military policing, and other military support services. As of March 2004, spending on private contractors nationally by the Defense Department was at $202.6 billion, having risen 19% since 2002 (San Francisco Chronicle).

For a comprehensive view of the issues attached to private contractors, see this link: Indy Week http://indyweek.com/durham/2003-07-23/cover.html