Senate OKs Sweeping Military Reform Bill

WASHINGTON — The Senate approved a sweeping reform of the U.S. military Tuesday, despite a warning from Sen. John Glenn (D-Ohio) that it could undermine the Marine Corps as the country’s battle-ready strike force.

The legislation makes fundamental changes in the roles of the top military and civilian chiefs and is aimed at curbing service rivalries that have plagued the military in recent operations in Iran, Lebanon and Grenada.

The compromise bill, approved by voice vote, was sent to the House for final congressional action.

Sen. Barry Goldwater (R-Ariz.), chairman of the Armed Services Committee who retires this year, said: “This may be the last piece of legislation I have to offer. If it is, I have no regrets. It is the one achievement in my public life in which I take the greatest pride.”