The flip-side is that a lot of non-military personnel working for private contractors are in harm's way. They're not in danger on the level of the grunts on patrol, but if a rocket lands inside a hangar at a base, it doesn't care whether the helicopter mechanics are military or civilian. Of course, private employees can't be forced to work in a combat zone, but saying "No, I won't go," can doubtlessly have adverse effects upon one's career.