Covert conscription?

Wonder why this is only now receiving any attention:

The number of soldiers forced to remain in the military past their enlistment period under the government's "stop-loss" program will be cut in half within 15 months under a plan that will virtually eliminate the practice within two years, the Defense Department said Wednesday.

The number of soldiers forced to remain in the military past their discharge dates hit a peak of nearly 16,000 in winter 2005. The number was about 13,000 in January, the latest figures available.

The next time you hear someone tout the achievements of our "all-volunteer force," remember that the equivalent of a full Army division are being held past their contract for active service. But don't worry... it's not like the military is stretched to the breaking point or anything...