Part 2/10:
A government shutdown would have a tangible impact on the military's operational capabilities. Active duty personnel would continue their missions but would do so without pay until funding is restored. This situation can undermine morale, especially among troops supporting families or living paycheck to paycheck.
Civilian employees in the Defense Department—often described historically as the War Department—are essential to logistical support, equipment maintenance, and training. Their furloughs could delay critical activities such as weapons testing, training rotations, and maintenance schedules. Even short delays may erode force readiness, leaving vulnerabilities that adversaries could exploit.