The Military Is Deliberately Electrocuting U. S. Troops

Well, here's my WTF moment for this week.  The government is intentionally shocking our soldiers!

When I first saw this, I couldn't believe it but, as I read farther, it began to make sense. Kind of.

Some assignments in the military require especially sharp attention and, when faced with long duty hours and/or very uncomfortable sleeping conditions, soldiers are often sleep deprived. Therefore, exhausted and sleepy so the government has been experimenting with using electric shocks to keep them awake and alert.

According to a story at engadget.com;

By using a mild current to stimulate key parts of the brain, the military's scientists can keep people awake and focused for long periods -- up to 30 hours in recent trials.

The current does have some, seemingly, mild side effects such as skin irritation and short headaches.  (What the hell is a "short" headache?)

It's weird but, apparently, it works.  I have a lot of friends and family in the armed forces and I know they already go through so much; I'm not to sure I like this.  What do you guys think?