US Army Desperately Searches for Competent Recruits
Fewer young Americans are proving suitable for the military. The effects could be catastrophic.
by John Mac Ghlionn
September 28, 2022, 11:41 PM
In the words of Claudia Pemberton, “America without her Soldiers would be like God without His angels.” Although I don’t speak for Ms. Pemberton, one assumes that the award-winning author and very proud member of the Military Writers Society of America meant “without her good soldiers,” fit and healthy individuals capable of defending the country. After all, to be truly safe, the United States requires men and women of a certain caliber. Sadly, if recent reports are anything to go by, the U.S. Army is desperately struggling to recruit the best and brightest. The consequences of this struggle could prove to be catastrophic.
The United States is being tested. Not just by China, its biggest rival, but by numerous domestic issues, including an increase in both violent crime and inflation. Now, it’s time to add the U.S. Army to the list of issues plaguing our country. In short, according to a recent Army Times report, recruiters simply can’t find enough strong, healthy young Americans capable of meeting the basic requirements to enlist. During the pandemic, as the report, written by Todd South, notes, “the service saw a 10% drop in aptitude test scores.” This year, rather disturbingly, the service has witnessed a 13-percent drop. To compound matters, “70% of potential recruits interested in Army service are disqualified in the first 48 hours.” Why?
For three reasons: obesity, low test scores, and/or drug use.
The importance of having a strong army cannot be emphasized enough. The United States’ security and stability relies on the recruitment of competent individuals.
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https://spectator.org/us-army-searches-competent-recruits/