Originally posted on 09/26/2011:

Insider - Jobs range from simply mapping out travel maps for convoys, security for those convoys, those sorts of things that the U.S. needs to do but it's harder to strip away personnel at the command level for extended periods of time - so the small groups of contractors are perfectly fitted. Regarding the 'dirty work' think of it like a mall security guard here who is able to search you without 4th amendment limitations that hamper a police officer - contractors can get eyes on things and 'talk' to more people as an extension of a company who is also a recipient of funding from various government agencies if you follow.

Some of the things can be gotten away with more than while in uniform, absolutely....especially rules of engagement. But mostly it has to do with the fact that the guys are like tourists of sorts in say Vegas or on Spring Break....who will actually umbrella them for criminal reasons...they are in country temporarily and aren't subject to some of the UCMJ or Geneva rules as military units are and also the legal system there is just not setup to followup on the cases of traveling groups that are decentralized.

Also get a much better choice of weapons and food/beer when ya go back as a contractor too....just saying.