The Pentagon’s military recruiters may miss their goals unless they use new tactics. Our military troops (regulars, reserves and National Guard) need our best efforts to relieve their sacrifice while protecting us.

One untapped source is the 1.47 million U.S. prison population. I propose the president or Congress should offer a redemption enlistment pardon for prisoners volunteering for immediate active duty. This is not an amnesty program but one mandating service for redemption.

Almost half of those in prison are there for nonviolent and minor offenses like marijuana possession. The public risk is minimized since violent prisoners, habitual prisoners, lifers, death row and notorious inmates would be ineligible.

Military recruiters’ application process would be expanded to evaluate financial, personal, prison, criminal and medical records to identify acceptable candidates. This assures acceptable volunteers will not have the resources to escape and elude capture.

Prison volunteers would receive a conditional pardon while serving. Volunteers receive only redemption of incarceration, so requirements such as restitution or counseling must be completed.

Misconduct or failure to complete service will return the volunteer to prison with the possibility of an extended sentence, no credit for time served and forfeiture of all pay and bonuses. Some acts during service should be considered treasonous and punishable by up to death.

The final reward is a permanent pardon with return of all rights when honorably discharged. And the recruiter could offer fewer financial incentives. This redemption pardon program is no free ride or bonanza.

Prison volunteers should expect to be primarily assigned in Iraq, Afghanistan or other combat zones. Prisons are just as dangerous, but in combat zones, the volunteer has weapons and backup support.

The prison volunteer service is not utopia but an opportunity to regain full rights of U.S. citizenship. Moreover, volunteers will receive freedom, full military benefits and their nation’s gratitude. But more importantly, they will be making a positive contribution to society.

Vernon Weems

Waterloo