Why Mercenaries Make Sense

[scoone]

by James Dunnigan
April 6, 2004
The continued disorder in Iraq and Afghanistan, and general increase in violence by Islamic radicals, is causing an enormous spurt in demand for professional security personnel willing to work overseas. Companies are increasing security at their foreign operations, and providing more bodyguards for their key personnel. While you can always hire security personnel locally, the Islamic radicals are proving capable of infiltrating local security forces. So large organizations are paying more to bring in skilled foreigners to take care of security.

Iraq alone has over 10,000 of these foreign security personnel on duty. Worldwide demand is about triple that. In the next year, over a hundred million dollars will be spent, in Iraq alone, on these commercial security forces. The problem is, the recruiters are going after the most experienced troops available, no matter what country they are serving in. If you can speak English (which is the common language of international business) and have at least five years military experience in the appropriate area (military police, special operations and so on), you are recruitable. The standard offer is two to three times what you made as a full time soldier, plus fringe benefits. Even experienced police are being recruited, especially if they have SWAT experience. Smaller nations, like Chile, are finding their ranks being depleted as recruiters lure away some of the best trained and most experienced officers and troops. It's hard to pass laws to stop this "poaching," as that smacks of slavery.

Because there is a limited pool of highly trained, English speaking soldiers and para-militaries (SWAT), the demand for quality security professionals is making a dent in the existing armies and police forces. While many of those recruited are recently retired, the recruiters have found many men (and some women) willing to quit their current service and go commercial. There is also fear that this large pool of experienced security troops could provide a large enough group that unscrupulous operators could put together traditional mercenary units for less legal enterprises (like propping up dictatorships or overthrowing legitimate governments in small countries.). When the war on terror eventually dies down, in a decade or so, there will be a lot of "commercial soldiers" cut loose. Some of them will be tempted to work for less savory employers. This could be interesting, and, at times, quite nasty.
http://www.strategypage.com/dls/articles/200446.asp

[Korth]

It makes alot of sense because it is cost effective and the troops themelves get paid more. It is also a way for Western governments to avoid the political problems of using military forces.

Also, businesses having been using "rent-a-cop" security forces for many years. There are also the "private detectives" that do intelligence gathering. An example would be the Pinkerton Detective Agency (http://www.pinkertonagency.com/) who may have contracts in Iraq.

[cut]

ok but don't complain if mercenaries are rented to fight aginst the coalition.

[mustamato]

And mercenaries doesn´t show up in lists like this:

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2003/iraq/forces/casualties/

But those that do it, well they are there because they want to, so I won´t cry
any tears if they get RPG´s up their asses. And I can guess that some countries,
like in example Sweden and so forth, there is officers that want to see some
combat, and will probably never do it if they don´t become contractors...

[Korth]

ok but don't complain if mercenaries are rented to fight aginst the coalition.

The mujahadeen are not mercenaries, they are volunteers.

Also, it is highly probable that government agents from Syria and Iran are involved with the insurgents in Iraq. These agents are professional, not amatuer like the mujahadeen.

[cut]

ok but don't complain if mercenaries are rented to fight aginst the coalition.

The mujahadeen are not mercenaries, they are volunteers.

Also, it is highly probable that government agents from Syria and Iran are involved with the insurgents in Iraq. These agents are professional, not amatuer like the mujahadeen.

I didn't say that they were but if there were mercenaries payed to fight the coalition, you'd complain.

[MaDuce]

No we would just shoot them.

[Korth]

What profit is there for professional security forces in supporting Islamic terrorists?

My complaints about the enemy is that they are not dead. I also complain that too many misguided Westerners support the Baath Party thugs and Islamic militants out of hostility to the USA.

Some support the terrorists because they hate Israel and they hate the US for supporting Israel. There are also many Leftists who are simply furious at the USA for having won the Cold War for capitalism, they wish to see the Arabs give the USA a bloody nose. Then there are those 'anti-racists" who believe that the muslims terrorists are the good guys because they are percieved to be fighting against white christian civilization.

[cut]

What profit is there for professional security forces in supporting Islamic terrorists?

My complaints about the enemy is that they are not dead. I also complain that too many misguided Westerners support the Baath Party thugs and Islamic militants out of hostility to the USA.

Some support the terrorists because they hate Israel and they hate the US for supporting Israel. There are also many Leftists who are simply furious at the USA for having won the Cold War for capitalism, they wish to see the Arabs give the USA a bloody nose. Then there are those 'anti-racists" who believe that the muslims terrorists are the good guys because they are percieved to be fighting against white christian civilization.

proffessional mercenaries could be arab.. or are they not mercenaries? :roll:

[Korth]

What profit is there for professional security forces in supporting Islamic terrorists?

My complaints about the enemy is that they are not dead. I also complain that too many misguided Westerners support the Baath Party thugs and Islamic militants out of hostility to the USA.

Some support the terrorists because they hate Israel and they hate the US for supporting Israel. There are also many Leftists who are simply furious at the USA for having won the Cold War for capitalism, they wish to see the Arabs give the USA a bloody nose. Then there are those 'anti-racists" who believe that the muslims terrorists are the good guys because they are percieved to be fighting against white christian civilization.

proffessional mercenaries could be arab.. or are they not mercenaries? :roll:


The call to Jihad is a call for volunteers. Jihad is a religious duty, not a profession. The only professionals would be the government agents from Syria and Iran who are on official (hush-hush) missions from their governments.

[FallenAngel]

I paraphrase Machiavelli...

...you can not buy loyalty. p-)

[Pooga]

If I was a mercenary, I wouldn't fight anybody that had to do with the US if I was paid billions, perhaps millions.

[Korth]

I paraphrase Machiavelli...

...you can not buy loyalty. p-)


Volunteers are always going to have greater loyalty as they are there for the cause, not the cash. Their passion will make them braver and more likely to take risks that a mercenary would not take.

Still, mercenaries can be useful. I would not use them for any hard fighting like Iwo Jima or Stalingrad, but they're fine for security work.

[farmgirl]

And mercenaries doesn´t show up in lists like this:

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2003/iraq/forces/casualties/

But those that do it, well they are there because they want to, so I won´t cry
any tears if they get RPG´s up their asses. And I can guess that some countries,
like in example Sweden and so forth, there is officers that want to see some
combat, and will probably never do it if they don´t become contractors...


I take issue with calling these contractors mercenaries, because of the negative connotations associated with the word. The word mercenary itself is often used to indicate one who is only doing a job for monetary gain. I honestly don't believe that most of the contractors who are working in Iraq are motivated solely by the money. I'm not saying the money isn't a factor for many, I'm saying that many are going because they feel the need to do something. The money is an added benefit. Honestly, they should be well paid for what they are doing.

Regarding the comment that I placed in bold print. You really need to learn some tact. I have some good friends who are working or will be working as contractors in Iraq. They are good men. They are not motivated only by the money, and though I am quite certain that they will return home safely, you are out of line making a statement such as you made. By that way of thinking, no one should mourn firemen or policemen who are killed in the line of duty. That is an absolutely ridiculous statement. In the future you should think before you type. :|

[cut]

And mercenaries doesn´t show up in lists like this:

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2003/iraq/forces/casualties/

But those that do it, well they are there because they want to, so I won´t cry
any tears if they get RPG´s up their asses. And I can guess that some countries,
like in example Sweden and so forth, there is officers that want to see some
combat, and will probably never do it if they don´t become contractors...


I take issue with calling these contractors mercenaries, because of the negative connotations associated with the word. The word mercenary itself is often used to indicate one who is only doing a job for monetary gain. I honestly don't believe that most of the contractors who are working in Iraq are motivated solely by the money. I'm not saying the money isn't a factor for many, I'm saying that many are going because they feel the need to do something. The money is an added benefit. Honestly, they should be well paid for what they are doing.

Regarding the comment that I placed in bold print. You really need to learn some tact. I have some good friends who are working or will be working as contractors in Iraq. They are good men. They are not motivated only by the money, and though I am quite certain that they will return home safely, you are out of line making a statement such as you made. By that way of thinking, no one should mourn firemen or policemen who are killed in the line of duty. That is an absolutely ridiculous statement. In the future you should think before you type. :|

The article called them mercenaries, which is what started it. But you must admit the fine line between contractor and mercenary is being blurred at the very least in the perception of world opinion and that is all that matters.

[Caraway]

Ok, when it comes to PMC ****e, my point was: Everyone likes money. And money always makes sense. It diverts sensless things to sensible ones. :D

[farmgirl]

And mercenaries doesn´t show up in lists like this:

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2003/iraq/forces/casualties/

But those that do it, well they are there because they want to, so I won´t cry
any tears if they get RPG´s up their asses. And I can guess that some countries,
like in example Sweden and so forth, there is officers that want to see some
combat, and will probably never do it if they don´t become contractors...


I take issue with calling these contractors mercenaries, because of the negative connotations associated with the word. The word mercenary itself is often used to indicate one who is only doing a job for monetary gain. I honestly don't believe that most of the contractors who are working in Iraq are motivated solely by the money. I'm not saying the money isn't a factor for many, I'm saying that many are going because they feel the need to do something. The money is an added benefit. Honestly, they should be well paid for what they are doing.

Regarding the comment that I placed in bold print. You really need to learn some tact. I have some good friends who are working or will be working as contractors in Iraq. They are good men. They are not motivated only by the money, and though I am quite certain that they will return home safely, you are out of line making a statement such as you made. By that way of thinking, no one should mourn firemen or policemen who are killed in the line of duty. That is an absolutely ridiculous statement. In the future you should think before you type. :|

The article called them mercenaries, which is what started it. But you must admit the fine line between contractor and mercenary is being blurred at the very least in the perception of world opinion and that is all that matters.

Oh, I'm well aware that they are being called mercenaries. My point was that I don't like the negative connotations of the word. However, the reason I was moved to post wasn't that, but the ignorant statement made in regards to whether contractors who lose their lives should be mourned.

I agree that the line has been blurred.... and using terms like mercenary... does nothing to help avoid that blurring. Personally, I feel that the contractors are filling a necessary void, and I'm thankful that there are those who are willing to do the job.

[cut]

I meant blurred by actions as much as the media

[farmgirl]

I meant blurred by actions as much as the media


Is it your contention that they shouldn't defend themselves and members of our military should a dangerous situation arise? Clearly, if the possibility for violence did not exist, their jobs would not be necessary. Humanitarian aid convoys, for example, must be protected. If they are attacked, how do you suggest they handle it, so as not to blur those lines?

[cut]

I meant blurred by actions as much as the media


Is it your contention that they shouldn't defend themselves and members of our military should a dangerous situation arise? Clearly, if the possibility for violence did not exist, their jobs would not be necessary. Humanitarian aid convoys, for example, must be protected. If they are attacked, how do you suggest they handle it, so as not to blur those lines?

If they are working to protect private companies and contractors I think that is fine. As security for the CPA that is ok, but doing something that would normally be done by the military is seen as mercenary.

[Korth]

I meant blurred by actions as much as the media


Is it your contention that they shouldn't defend themselves and members of our military should a dangerous situation arise? Clearly, if the possibility for violence did not exist, their jobs would not be necessary. Humanitarian aid convoys, for example, must be protected. If they are attacked, how do you suggest they handle it, so as not to blur those lines?

If they are working to protect private companies and contractors I think that is fine. As security for the CPA that is ok, but doing something that would normally be done by the military is seen as mercenary.


What difference does it make as long as the job gets done?

[cut]

I meant blurred by actions as much as the media


Is it your contention that they shouldn't defend themselves and members of our military should a dangerous situation arise? Clearly, if the possibility for violence did not exist, their jobs would not be necessary. Humanitarian aid convoys, for example, must be protected. If they are attacked, how do you suggest they handle it, so as not to blur those lines?

If they are working to protect private companies and contractors I think that is fine. As security for the CPA that is ok, but doing something that would normally be done by the military is seen as mercenary.


What difference does it make as long as the job gets done?


For us it doesn't but...


Mercenaries are often considered illegal combatants according to the laws of war.

[Korth]

Laws are changed all the time.

[James]

And mercenaries doesn´t show up in lists like this:

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2003/iraq/forces/casualties/

But those that do it, well they are there because they want to, so I won´t cry
any tears if they get RPG´s up their asses. And I can guess that some countries,
like in example Sweden and so forth, there is officers that want to see some
combat, and will probably never do it if they don´t become contractors...

Mustamato,

I am only speaking for myself, but I am going over because I feel the need to do something to help make things better in Iraq. I guess my alternative (as you must be intimately familiar with) is to sit in front of the computer, bitch constantly, and contribute nothing. I choose to do something, but that is just me.

[1AssToRisk]

Hello, I am a contractor in Iraq. I am writing this from Baghdad. As for as being mercs, We are not. I am a civilian police advisor. We are doing a job that cannot be preformed by the military.

Those that think it can are sadely mistaken. As for the statement posted saying you wont cry if we die. Personally I couldnt care less what you think.

We are not here to perform combat duites, yet we are armed in a military manner. This is a war zone is it not?

As for the money. The money is good but not that good. We will not become rich from working this contract. We will however make a difference in this country. The bottom line is unless you are here STFU.

God Bless :D

[Truthsayer]

We are doing a job that cannot be preformed by the military.

Was in an argument on another board and had a hard time 'correcting the views' of some poster that stated that PMCs handle a lot of the 'dirty work' that the military is forbidden to do.

That would be, they don't only offer protection and VIP-duty, but interrogation (not the nice kind), SF-style (well, russian style) missions against important targets and so on.

Any feedback to correct this image?

[Red]

Hello, I am a contractor in Iraq. I am writing this from Baghdad. As for as being mercs, We are not. I am a civilian police advisor. We are doing a job that cannot be preformed by the military.

Those that think it can are sadely mistaken. As for the statement posted saying you wont cry if we die. Personally I couldnt care less what you think.

We are not here to perform combat duites, yet we are armed in a military manner. This is a war zone is it not?

As for the money. The money is good but not that good. We will not become rich from working this contract. We will however make a difference in this country. The bottom line is unless you are here STFU.

God Bless :D
Well said,well said.Take care

[ibstolidude]

We are doing a job that cannot be preformed by the military.

Was in an argument on another board and had a hard time 'correcting the views' of some poster that stated that PMCs handle a lot of the 'dirty work' that the military is forbidden to do.

That would be, they don't only offer protection and VIP-duty, but interrogation (not the nice kind), SF-style (well, russian style) missions against important targets and so on.

Any feedback to correct this image?
yah I have a comment. As typical of the internet, if you lack the info just plug in whatever you want and say it must be true.

That is just plain silly.

[UkrainianAmerican]

Hello, I am a contractor in Iraq. I am writing this from Baghdad. As for as being mercs, We are not. I am a civilian police advisor. We are doing a job that cannot be preformed by the military.

Those that think it can are sadely mistaken. As for the statement posted saying you wont cry if we die. Personally I couldnt care less what you think.

We are not here to perform combat duites, yet we are armed in a military manner. This is a war zone is it not?

As for the money. The money is good but not that good. We will not become rich from working this contract. We will however make a difference in this country. The bottom line is unless you are here STFU.

God Bless :D
Stay safe, and good luck man.

[injetores que chamejam]

We are doing a job that cannot be preformed by the military.

Was in an argument on another board and had a hard time 'correcting the views' of some poster that stated that PMCs handle a lot of the 'dirty work' that the military is forbidden to do.

That would be, they don't only offer protection and VIP-duty, but interrogation (not the nice kind), SF-style (well, russian style) missions against important targets and so on.

Any feedback to correct this image?

That is not possible as the contracts would not be legal if it were so.

What is legal is that prisoners can be handed to the military forces of other nations that are in the coalition. Laws on human rights vary between nations, so the job gets done by passing prisoners on to ones allies.

I myself would beat the information out of a captured terrorist if that information could be used to stop a coming terrorist attack on innocents. então eu penduraria os bastardos.

[Trident-za]

I don't consider these guys to be mercenaries - they are doing their bit to help bring stability to Iraq. I'm sure there are some who are merely thrill seekers, but the majority of the PMCs are just people with a sense of duty, and the skillset to make a difference in a terrible situation. Hats off to them...

P.S. James, I didn't realize you were going too - stay safe mate, and thanks for your advice to me the other day. I appreciate you passing on a little of your expertise.

[cut]

Hello, I am a contractor in Iraq. I am writing this from Baghdad. As for as being mercs, We are not. I am a civilian police advisor. We are doing a job that cannot be preformed by the military.

Those that think it can are sadely mistaken. As for the statement posted saying you wont cry if we die. Personally I couldnt care less what you think.

We are not here to perform combat duites, yet we are armed in a military manner. This is a war zone is it not?

As for the money. The money is good but not that good. We will not become rich from working this contract. We will however make a difference in this country. The bottom line is unless you are here STFU.

God Bless :D

Don't the British Military Police do your job down in Basra? Obviously there are all sorts of jobs done by contractors, some those that are more of a fighting role are those under the microscope. Whatever happens, stay safe, and that goes to all those in Iraq that occasionally post on this board.

[Sergei]

And mercenaries doesn´t show up in lists like this:

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2003/iraq/forces/casualties/

But those that do it, well they are there because they want to, so I won´t cry
any tears if they get RPG´s up their asses. And I can guess that some countries,
like in example Sweden and so forth, there is officers that want to see some
combat, and will probably never do it if they don´t become contractors...


I take issue with calling these contractors mercenaries, because of the negative connotations associated with the word. The word mercenary itself is often used to indicate one who is only doing a job for monetary gain. I honestly don't believe that most of the contractors who are working in Iraq are motivated solely by the money. I'm not saying the money isn't a factor for many, I'm saying that many are going because they feel the need to do something. The money is an added benefit. Honestly, they should be well paid for what they are doing.

Regarding the comment that I placed in bold print. You really need to learn some tact. I have some good friends who are working or will be working as contractors in Iraq. They are good men. They are not motivated only by the money, and though I am quite certain that they will return home safely, you are out of line making a statement such as you made. By that way of thinking, no one should mourn firemen or policemen who are killed in the line of duty. That is an absolutely ridiculous statement. In the future you should think before you type. :|

You should not wrap yourself in th flag here, farmgirl. If these mercenaries are so selfless and generous, how come they are not fighting in Iraq for free? Maybe 600 bucks a day is a change of their mind, quite a lot of money if you ask me.
And good men don't go around the village like cutthroats. They have no business in Iraq in the first place and they don't fall under the records of Geneva convention as a military force in uniform since they are not in uniform and they do not represent any country, but a private corporation.
They know the risks, they know where they can end up. I would put volunteer soldiers over this vulture force any day.

[ibstolidude]

They have no business in Iraq in the first place and they don't fall under the records of Geneva convention as a military force in uniform since they are not in uniform and they do not represent any country, but a private corporation.

They do NOT represent the US government?

How do you figure when they are contracted by the US government to perform the majorityof these functions?

[Red]

And mercenaries doesn´t show up in lists like this:

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2003/iraq/forces/casualties/

But those that do it, well they are there because they want to, so I won´t cry
any tears if they get RPG´s up their asses. And I can guess that some countries,
like in example Sweden and so forth, there is officers that want to see some
combat, and will probably never do it if they don´t become contractors...


I take issue with calling these contractors mercenaries, because of the negative connotations associated with the word. The word mercenary itself is often used to indicate one who is only doing a job for monetary gain. I honestly don't believe that most of the contractors who are working in Iraq are motivated solely by the money. I'm not saying the money isn't a factor for many, I'm saying that many are going because they feel the need to do something. The money is an added benefit. Honestly, they should be well paid for what they are doing.

Regarding the comment that I placed in bold print. You really need to learn some tact. I have some good friends who are working or will be working as contractors in Iraq. They are good men. They are not motivated only by the money, and though I am quite certain that they will return home safely, you are out of line making a statement such as you made. By that way of thinking, no one should mourn firemen or policemen who are killed in the line of duty. That is an absolutely ridiculous statement. In the future you should think before you type. :|

You should not wrap yourself in th flag here, farmgirl. If these mercenaries are so selfless and generous, how come they are not fighting in Iraq for free? Maybe 600 bucks a day is a change of their mind, quite a lot of money if you ask me.
And good men don't go around the village like cutthroats. They have no business in Iraq in the first place and they don't fall under the records of Geneva convention as a military force in uniform since they are not in uniform and they do not represent any country, but a private corporation.
They know the risks, they know where they can end up. I would put volunteer soldiers over this vulture force any day.
were you in the briefing room?were you there when they signed their contracts?how do you know that they are hired by the US government?this is what gets me,people who dont know **** just open their mouths and just spew plain rubbish

[Argyll]

And mercenaries doesn´t show up in lists like this:

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2003/iraq/forces/casualties/

But those that do it, well they are there because they want to, so I won´t cry
any tears if they get RPG´s up their asses. And I can guess that some countries,
like in example Sweden and so forth, there is officers that want to see some
combat, and will probably never do it if they don´t become contractors...

That's because you're nothing but a chicken **** motormouth,with a **** up his ass,you think like a ****,act like a ****,and write like a ****...........guess what that makes you............correct .......A ****!!!
Keep your **** for brains sentiments to yourself ,these guys over here have got one thing you havn't.............the guts to do it.
From a contractor point of view..........guess what I couldn't give cry for,you getting murdered in your sleep,or knocked down and killed,you have not got a foking clue as to what is going on here,there are so many foreign nationals here reconstructing the country and they need the protection,something the military does not have the manpower alone to do,that is why we are here.
Fok you ,I'm sick to fok of your **** here,this is a personal tirade against you and your continuing cry baby **** about Iraq,why don't you just fok off,nobody ,especially me, likes you.
Want to make a difference...........come here and see what it's like for yourself,but that's right you have no backbone........foking coward!

[California Joe]

Hiya pal.

[Trident-za]

And mercenaries doesn´t show up in lists like this:

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2003/iraq/forces/casualties/

But those that do it, well they are there because they want to, so I won´t cry
any tears if they get RPG´s up their asses. And I can guess that some countries,
like in example Sweden and so forth, there is officers that want to see some
combat, and will probably never do it if they don´t become contractors...

That's because you're nothing but a chicken **** motormouth,with a **** up his ass,you think like a ****,act like a ****,and write like a ****...........guess what that makes you............correct .......A ****!!!
Keep your **** for brains sentiments to yourself ,these guys over here have got one thing you havn't.............the guts to do it.
From a contractor point of view..........guess what I couldn't give cry for,you getting murdered in your sleep,or knocked down and killed,you have not got a foking clue as to what is going on here,there are so many foreign nationals here reconstructing the country and they need the protection,something the military does not have the manpower alone to do,that is why we are here.
Fok you ,I'm sick to fok of your **** here,this is a personal tirade against you and your continuing cry baby **** about Iraq,why don't you just fok off,nobody ,especially me, likes you.
Want to make a difference...........come here and see what it's like for yourself,but that's right you have no backbone........foking coward!

Hi Argyll :) Why don't you tell us how you really feel - no use holding back ;)

[sinfonía de seis armas]

You should not wrap yourself in th flag here, farmgirl. If these mercenaries are so selfless and generous, how come they are not fighting in Iraq for free? Maybe 600 bucks a day is a change of their mind, quite a lot of money if you ask me.
And good men don't go around the village like cutthroats. They have no business in Iraq in the first place and they don't fall under the records of Geneva convention as a military force in uniform since they are not in uniform and they do not represent any country, but a private corporation.
They know the risks, they know where they can end up. I would put volunteer soldiers over this vulture force any day.

Most military troops are no different than the mercenaries. Many volunteered because they needed a job with steady pay and good benefits.

It is a job and they are doing good work. So there should not be any criticism.

[farmgirl]

Sergei:

You should not wrap yourself in th flag here, farmgirl. If these mercenaries are so selfless and generous, how come they are not fighting in Iraq for free? Maybe 600 bucks a day is a change of their mind, quite a lot of money if you ask me.
And good men don't go around the village like cutthroats. They have no business in Iraq in the first place and they don't fall under the records of Geneva convention as a military force in uniform since they are not in uniform and they do not represent any country, but a private corporation.
They know the risks, they know where they can end up. I would put volunteer soldiers over this vulture force any day.


I'm not wrapping myself in the flag. I'm quite aware of what I am saying. Personally, I think the contractors should be paid well. They are being paid for expertise. Would you do it for nothing? Should you? Would anyone? It's a dangerous job. They should be rewarded. Saying that they should do it for free is just plain asinine. Our soldiers (although not as well paid as they should be) do not fight for free. They must pay the bills somehow, and PMCs are no different in that regard.
As for how much they are paid. From what I've read, that varies greatly. Some contractors are paid as little as $250 a day and others make up to $1000 a day (perhaps more). I'm certain that the amount of pay is proportionate to their level of expertise and experience. However, no one is going to "get rich" working as a contractor, and honestly, I don't care if they do get rich. It's a job that I would not be willing to accept regardless of the pay, because I wouldn't be willing to take the risk. I honor them for their willingness to put their lives on the line regardless of their motivation.

To say that they are cut throats... and a vulture force is a generalization. Any rational thinking human knows that no entire group can be categorized in such a manner. These contracting companies, do in fact represent the US. They are hired by the US. Perhaps there are some contractors who use methods with which I might take issue, however, I'm certain that there are US soldiers who might do the same thing. My point is.... there are good men doing these jobs... honorable men... heroic men. I'm proud to count some of them among my friends, and I take issue with anyone categorizing men whom I know to be honorable as members of a vulture force.

[Red]

Sergei:

You should not wrap yourself in th flag here, farmgirl. If these mercenaries are so selfless and generous, how come they are not fighting in Iraq for free? Maybe 600 bucks a day is a change of their mind, quite a lot of money if you ask me.
And good men don't go around the village like cutthroats. They have no business in Iraq in the first place and they don't fall under the records of Geneva convention as a military force in uniform since they are not in uniform and they do not represent any country, but a private corporation.
They know the risks, they know where they can end up. I would put volunteer soldiers over this vulture force any day.


I'm not wrapping myself in the flag. I'm quite aware of what I am saying. Personally, I think the contractors should be paid well. They are being paid for expertise. Would you do it for nothing? Should you? Would anyone? It's a dangerous job. They should be rewarded. Saying that they should do it for free is just plain asinine. Our soldiers (although not as well paid as they should be) do not fight for free. They must pay the bills somehow, and PMCs are no different in that regard.
As for how much they are paid. From what I've read, that varies greatly. Some contractors are paid as little as $250 a day and others make up to $1000 a day (perhaps more). I'm certain that the amount of pay is proportionate to their level of expertise and experience. However, no one is going to "get rich" working as a contractor, and honestly, I don't care if they do get rich. It's a job that I would not be willing to accept regardless of the pay, because I wouldn't be willing to take the risk. I honor them for their willingness to put their lives on the line regardless of their motivation.

To say that they are cut throats... and a vulture force is a generalization. Any rational thinking human knows that no entire group can be categorized in such a manner. These contracting companies, do in fact represent the US. They are hired by the US. Perhaps there are some contractors who use methods with which I might take issue, however, I'm certain that there are US soldiers who might do the same thing. My point is.... there are good men doing these jobs... honorable men... heroic men. I'm proud to count some of them among my friends, and I take issue with anyone categorizing men whom I know to be honorable as members of a vulture force.
Tell it to him Farmgirl.Hooyahh p-)