My stance on this issue of soldiers gambling in camp or barracks as it may be called is beginning to change. Especially on the fact that these soldiers will be gambling with their own money, bear the losses alone and not be able to claim the profits from winning. I have seen these gambling from the angle of entertainment for the soldiers, but now I am beginning to get a clearer picture of the whole situation...and yea you are right, that's stealing. But the soldiers still have the choice to make, if they want to gamble or not.
If the money generated from gaming soldiers is used to support their wards and family in the barracks or improve facilities and artilleries it won't considered a complete waste for the heads in charge of the business. The soldiers lose money directly while the military win indirectly. They could support themselves this way, if things get well organized and coordinated regarding the organisers. Also, the soldiers should be made aware of the harsh effect of addiction .
You only live once and life is short. Let the soldiers gamble and have fun because who knows if they wouldn't survive the next battle that they will go to. However, there should be caution in everything so that the soldiers don't get addicted.
Gambling can be done anywhere as long as humans are living in the place be it in the desert or forest because it keeps body and soul together. Don't forget that gamble ease you from stress. Going to the battle field isn't easy, there will be a lot of thoughts running in the soldiers minds. Gambling can be of help.