The war in Iraq and the problematic military occupation of that country have called into question the adequacy of America's all-volunteer force. Politicians and others have expressed doubts about its equity and capability; some have called for the reinstatement of the draft. Yet over the past twenty years the all-volunteer military has become a technologically advanced force that has contributed to America's overall military advantage. This book analyzes current military pay and personnel policies and identifies changes needed to maintain and improve America's all-volunteer force. Filling the Ranks argues that to attract qualified and motivated volunteers, the armed forces need to offer better tangible inducements—pay, benefits, and training—to accompany such intangible rewards as pride in serving one's country. Many of the policies related to tangible rewards were established shortly after World War II and are no longer effective. Filling the Ranks presents detailed assessments of US military pay and personnel policies in light of the strategic, demographic, economic, and labor realities of the future. It identifies specific problems that today's military career patterns, training, pay, and benefits pose for officers and enlisted men and women in both active duty and reserve forces, discussing such issues as competition with the private sector for talent, the need to restructure compensation, and provision of family support. It offers recommendations for more flexible, adaptive, and effective policies and a blueprint for achieving them.

Manpower is the lifeblood of armies regardless of time or place. In the First World War, much of Canada’s military effort went toward sustaining the Canadian Expeditionary Force, especially in France and Belgium. The job was not easy. The government and Department of Militia and Defence were tasked with recruiting and training hundreds of thousands of men, shipping them to England, and creating organizations on the continent meant to forward these men to their units. The first book to explore the issue of manpower in the Canadian Expeditionary Force, Filling the Ranks examines the administrative and organizational changes that fostered efficiency and sustained the army. Richard Holt describes national civilian and military recruitment policies and criteria both inside and outside of Canada; efforts to recruit women, convicts, and members of First Nations, African Canadian, Asian, and Slavic communities; the conduct of entry-level training; and the development of a coherent reinforcement structure. Canada’s ability to fill the ranks with trained soldiers ultimately helped make the Corps an elite formation within the British Expeditionary Force. Based on extensive research in British and Canadian archives, Filling the Ranks provides a wealth of new information on Canada"s role in the Great War.

With this volume, David Nemec completes his remarkable trilogy of 19th-century baseball biographies, covering every major league player, manager, umpire, owner and league official. It provides in-depth information on many figures unknown to most historians. Each detailed entry includes vital statistics, peer-driven analysis of baseball-related skills, and an overview of the individual's role in the game. Also chronicled are players' first and last major league games, most important achievements, movements from team to team, and much more. By bringing attention to these overlooked baseball personalities, this reference work immeasurably enriches our knowledge of 19th century major league baseball.

Reprint of the original, first published in 1875.

Enrich your Language through Chinese Culture Stories: Embrace Idioms, Folklore, History, and Poetry Appreciation in the Culture Reading Series Are you ready to embark on a captivating journey into the heart of Chinese culture? Immerse yourself in the diverse tapestry of Chinese traditions through a collection of enchanting stories. This comprehensive Culture Reading Series presents a rich blend of Chinese idioms, folk tales, historical accounts, and poetry appreciation, all carefully curated to enhance your language skills while deepening your understanding of Chinese heritage. In this series, you will encounter the captivating allure of Chinese idioms, unlocking their profound meanings and cultural significance. Immerse yourself in the wisdom of ancient sages, as each idiom carries within it a treasure trove of historical anecdotes, moral teachings, and vivid imagery. Through these idiomatic expressions, you will expand your vocabulary, enrich your language proficiency, and gain valuable insights into Chinese culture. But that's not all! The Culture Reading Series goes beyond idioms, taking you on a captivating journey through Chinese folklore, where mythical creatures, legendary heroes, and timeless tales come to life. Discover the extraordinary stories passed down through generations, filled with moral lessons, cultural values, and a deep appreciation for the human spirit. Delve into the annals of Chinese history as you uncover captivating narratives that have shaped the nation's identity. From ancient dynasties to pivotal events, these historical stories provide a glimpse into the past, offering invaluable context and deepening your cultural understanding. Furthermore, the series invites you to explore the world of Chinese poetry appreciation. Experience the elegance and beauty of classical Chinese poetry, as you delve into the works of renowned poets. Engage with the subtle nuances of rhythm, imagery, and symbolism, and gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry that has captured hearts for centuries. Through this immersive cultural exploration, the Culture Reading Series not only enriches your language skills but also enhances your ability to communicate effectively and confidently in Chinese. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Chinese culture, broaden your worldview, and cultivate a deeper connection with the rich heritage that has shaped China's past and present. Embrace the Culture Reading Series and let the captivating stories of Chinese culture ignite your imagination, enhance your vocabulary, and empower you to communicate with eloquence and cultural understanding. Discover the transformative power of language learning through the enchanting tales of Chinese idioms, folklore, history, and poetry appreciation.