The threat from illegal drugs encompasses a variety of substances and geographic sources inside and outside the United States. The Executive Department began in 1989 to develop a pervasive counterdrug strategy that included support from the Department of Defense (DOD). DOD's three counterdrug missions include detection and monitoring; support for Federal, State, and local drug law enforcement agencies; and support to agencies to the Department of State and other agencies without a law enforcement role. Military involvement in drug law enforcement is an activity likely to experience tremendous change and growth. DOD has received carefully limited authority and a circumscribed mission. However, much more can be accomplished. In this area of military practice, active duty, national guard, and reserve judge advocates are actively involved with planners and operators to ensure that military service members operate within numerous legal and policy limits while appreciating the full scope of their authority. Footnotes