Followup ::: [Def. Sec.] Gates: Smoke ‘em if you got ‘em!

Military smokers got even more jittery than usual last month when word came out that a study recommended banning smoking and tobacco use in the ranks.

Yes, it would take 20 years to get to a total ban, but still - I'm sure a few people immediately reached for a calming drag on their Camel Lights.

But, smokers, rejoice! Defense Secretary Robert Gates does not want to take your cancer sticks - at least, not if you're in the middle of fighting a war.

Gates' press secretary Geoff Morrell told reporters on Wednesday, "You should not expect him to take any action which would restrict the use of tobacco products by people - our service members - in conflict zones, in war zones. He knows that the situation there confronting them is stressful enough, as it is. And I don't think that he is interested in adding to their stress levels by taking away one of the few outlets they may have to relieve stress - and that may be chewing tobacco or smoking cigarettes."

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Gates: Smoke ‘em if you got ‘em! | Stripes Blogs