Stop The Pentagon From Profiting Off Gambling Addiction
Final signature count: 3,420
3,420 signatures toward our 30,000 goal
Sponsor: The Veterans Site
Our troops risk their lives for us—yet the Pentagon profits from slot machines that drain their pay, wreck their futures, and destroy families. It’s time to end this betrayal.
Across U.S. military bases overseas, thousands of slot machines stand ready to take the pay of America’s service members. The Department of Defense profits more than $100 million a year from these machines1. Many of the players are 18- to 24-year-old troops—an age group already at higher risk for gambling addiction2.
Unlike civilian casinos, where the minimum age is usually 21, these machines are placed just steps from barracks and are accessible every day3. They operate under the same department responsible for safeguarding the mental health and readiness of the armed forces.
The Real Cost of “Recreation”
The Pentagon says the revenue supports Morale, Welfare, and Recreation programs4. But the human cost is steep. Military personnel are twice as likely as civilians to develop gambling disorders2. For some, addiction has meant drained savings, career-ending consequences, broken families, and even suicide3.
One Army pilot, Aaron Walsh, lost his family’s savings to on-base slot machines and later took his own life3. His story is not unique. Former service members describe entire weekends spent in base slot rooms without oversight. Experts warn that easy access to gambling in such environments magnifies the risks2.
A Threat to Readiness and Security
Problem gambling is linked to debt, theft, and misconduct—issues that can compromise security clearances and unit readiness5. Congress has recognized the danger but has yet to enact a full ban. While some branches have adopted limited safeguards, there is no consistent, enforceable standard across the armed forces4.
We cannot allow revenue streams to outweigh the wellbeing of our troops. Recreation should strengthen morale without creating new risks. The Department of Defense must end its role in operating slot machines and replace them with programs that promote health, resilience, and trust.
Take Action Now
Service members should never face a preventable threat to their financial stability and mental health from within their own chain of command. Removing these machines is a simple, necessary step to protect those who protect us. Add your name now to demand a complete ban on all slot machines on U.S. military bases.
