Will a military based on complete abstinence (no drugs, alcohol, smoking, etc...) be effective in the long run?

My take is, yes. Though it might be a bit 'easier' for me since I don't drink or smoke by choice, for others it might be a challenge somewhat, at least initially. Think about it: 2-3 months in boot camp of your choice branch, not a drink or smoke, and virtually everyone comes-out just fine! Many revert to the old habits, mostly by choice or a weak will.

Military has created programs and right spirit campaigns to encourage total abstinence of drinking and smoking. The best ways so far that I'm convinced of, are the leaders and the role models, particularly LPO/LCPOs and NCOs. They have HUGE influence being that juniors see them more often than others, and if we can reach out to those ranks for the right spirit promotion, we'll have a great success going overall minimal consumption.

Also teaching some history wouldn't hurt either: Prohibition era which banned alcohol from 1920 to 1933. Most casual drinkers who did not break the law did just fine! If we can remind young service members who are the most prone of getting DUI of our country's history on alcohol, it might do some justice as well.

While serving in the Persian gulf on board dd977 I always enjoyed having to be lowered in the captains gig to get my 2 beers.drinking responsible is a navy tradition it will always be.yes some sailors get drunk, it happens its part of growing up in the navy.military life has a lot of pressure.long deployments away from family strict rules, low pay etc.back in 1980 navy wasn't as strict about partying as long as you did a great job for them.

hell you take away the stuff that calms our nerves after a hard day then you are going to see a lot more guys going crazy