GEN Z REMAINS UNINTERESTED IN US MILITARY RECRUITMENT EFFORTS


By bblouin
Recruits receive general military training at Recruit Training Command (RTC). More than 30,000 recruits graduate annually from the Navy's only US military recruitment boot camp. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Camilo Fernan/Released)

Recently, it feels like the same story involving US military recruitment continues to cycle. US military recruiting needs to step up its efforts. However, Gen Z doesn’t want to join, and the American Armed Forces continues to scratch its head. But a closer look shows that the “US military recruitment crisis” is multifaceted with no quick fix available. Furthermore, some change is already underway for certain branches. Suggested read: Def. Sec. Lloyd Austin Dealing With Prostate Cancer Complications

Is US Military Recruitment Down?

Yes, US military recruitment is down from its all-time high of being a volunteer service in 1987 and has reached its lowest numbers as a force since 1940. It’s important to recognize, however, that with US military recruitment down, our nation is looking into new ways to attract younger troops. Furthermore, US military recruitment numbers vary from branch to branch. At least they do now. This is because recent trends to the end of the fiscal year 2023 and the beginning of the fiscal year 2024 have seen improvements for some branches. The notable issue remains in the US Army. This is a problem only amplified further by the fact that Soldiers are the largest component of the American Armed Forces. Related read: Can the U.S. Military Win Without its Army Tank?

Marines and Guardians Reverse the Trend

While many branches are finding negative US military recruitment statistics, in 2023, both the Marines and Space Force found success by hitting their goals. It’s important to keep in mind that each are smaller branches of the military; however, any win US military recruitment can claim is welcomed during these times. Innovative methods and culture adjustments are helping aid recruitment. However, the fact remains that these moves are time-consuming. Military leadership, such as Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, understand that improving things will take time and that communication and personal interaction are critical. Furthermore, the military is working to overcome misconceptions about what it means to serve while also promoting the fact that our nation’s military is stronger because of its volunteer nature. US military recruiting problems persist for the other branches of the American Armed Forces, but if Marines and Guardians could right the ship, why can’t the others? A closer look at things shows that the answer isn’t a straight line nor is it simple. Even the solutions, such as having a personal interaction for recruitment, can prove to be difficult due to some of the issues recruiting is facing.

Why Is US Military Recruitment Down?

The DoD is showing that eligible young adults for military service continues to decrease. New measures to help with eligibility are rolling out to help branches meet recruitment goals. However, forgiving the use of marijuana, relaxing educational standards, and adjusting the body fat requirements can only do so much. US military recruitment problems have much deeper roots. Gen Z and younger Millennials don’t have the same positive point of view of the military that older generations do. There isn’t an interest in joining the military in younger adults and it’s complicated to say exactly why:

  • Reports show that younger adults don’t trust the military or government.
  • Obesity and marijuana usage present eligibility issues.
  • Traditional life paths aren’t the same these days. Additionally, younger adults are presented with job opportunities the military must compete with.

Another factor hurting many US military recruiting centers is that when family serves, younger adults related to them are more likely to serve. A trend that is also going in the wrong direction. More than half of young adults view the US military negatively, 53%, according to the Pew Research Center. This shows a noted shift in the demographic, considering the overall positive view that 60% of all Americans hold. There are reports of moldy barracks, sexual harassment, abuse, etc. that continue to be highlighted even further with politics that may not align with what the military is doing. Although for different reasons, the political factor is on both sides. Regardless of how you look at it, US military recruitment is going to have to do a lot more than advertise new slogans or increase its recruiters. Substantial change is necessary and they’re going to have to prove they mean business. Read next: The Navy’s Real Top Gun School Started in a Parking Lot


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