Defense Spending and the Military-Industrial Complex

Someone once entitled their main post "Smelt the Iron Triangle!" A decent pun (and a great plan.)

The military-industrial complex is a "Good Ol' Boy" system, right?

Some Americans assert that the government doesn't create jobs.  Others acknowledge that it does serve a significant role in stabilizing and promoting the economy.

You decide for yourself.

After reading and reflecting this week on the numerous, diverse, costly, and influential political offices, bureaucracies, agencies, and the military-industrial complex, which of the previous claims is true?

Explain briefly your thoughts (no political party attacks are expected).