http://www.nbcnews.com/storyline/military-spending-cuts/pentagon-set-slash-military-pre-world-war-ii-levels-n37086
Are they serious or just pandering?
Well, sort of.
Even with the cut, according to the story, it still leaves a defense budget larger than the next four countries combined.
There's some playing with words on Hagel's part, because while it would reduce the number of active duty troops to "the lowest level since World War 2", it'll still be twice what it was in 1940.
There would be an increase in Special Forces, and certain equipment and weapons; while trimming some other, less specialised, MOS's and retiring dated equipment.
And finally, Hagel may be recommending this to blow smoke up the public's ass, knowing full well that every body in the DoD will be fighting tooth-nail to save their pet program.