LN's article is a bit disingenuous. The pentagon ratings are using the politically directed definitions of readiness, and offer an explanation that is politically acceptable.
The fact is that "ready" is subjective. I used to conduct inspections of Marine units both Active and Reserve. Most that had issues with inspections were actually ready to physically fight.
Gunnery Sergeant Murphys first law states that "inspection ready units are often not combat ready, and vice versa." I found that to be true.
Additionally, readiness is a measured response. Are we ready to lay siege to Moscow? I doubt it. Can we respond with directed violence at the origin of a terrorist attack? Yup. All it takes is political balls.
There are problems with the US Military. Always have been and always will be. Today, like yesterday, we also have our fair share of defeatists and retreatists. Always have, and always will.
I'm Phil -- 40 something heterosexual white male, fairly self sufficient, great with my kids, wed 29 years to the same woman, and I firmly believe that ones actions have logical consequences. How much more out the box can you get nowadays? -- MSgt of Marines (ret)