Recruiting is in decline, and most of Gen Z is ineligible for service. The U.S. military is at risk of being unable to answer the call to the country's defense.
I think domestic terrorism and political divisiveness greater than ever before as key factors for young people not feeling “proud to be an American” are factors that should not be left out in an article on this topic. I also bristle when entire generations of people are lumped into categories. There are lots of Gen-Z folks who are extremely passionate and knowledgeable of the intricacies of current events and American history. I’d love to read a part two that adds more nuance to an incredibly complex topic.
It’s obvious that we’re doomed. I stopped encouraging young people to enlist when I found out how corrupted the military justice system is, and the lack of support from military leaders, when good soldiers can be unjustly court martialed and sent to Leavenworth Prison. From what you have written about generation X, bringing back the draft wouldn’t help recruit good prospects. Again and again I ask for so many situations, “Where are the parents?”
Hope that there is a solution to the recruitment problem, for all our sakes. As a Canadian, and often referred to as US's little brother (picture a little guy (Canucks) on the top bunk and the larger bro (American protector) on the bottom of the bunk) - we will are right there with you. And both our countries have a lot at stake. Good article, Jim.
Curious whether a reduction in foreign entanglements/deployments would help the situation.
I think domestic terrorism and political divisiveness greater than ever before as key factors for young people not feeling “proud to be an American” are factors that should not be left out in an article on this topic. I also bristle when entire generations of people are lumped into categories. There are lots of Gen-Z folks who are extremely passionate and knowledgeable of the intricacies of current events and American history. I’d love to read a part two that adds more nuance to an incredibly complex topic.
It’s obvious that we’re doomed. I stopped encouraging young people to enlist when I found out how corrupted the military justice system is, and the lack of support from military leaders, when good soldiers can be unjustly court martialed and sent to Leavenworth Prison. From what you have written about generation X, bringing back the draft wouldn’t help recruit good prospects. Again and again I ask for so many situations, “Where are the parents?”
Hope that there is a solution to the recruitment problem, for all our sakes. As a Canadian, and often referred to as US's little brother (picture a little guy (Canucks) on the top bunk and the larger bro (American protector) on the bottom of the bunk) - we will are right there with you. And both our countries have a lot at stake. Good article, Jim.
Wow. This is gold.
You have provided us with vital clarity, Jim!
Your analysis is powerful and convincing.
I am personally grateful to you for it.
Reading and absorbing your essay will directly contribute to my achieving my goals as a writer.
You have given me new insight and information on the challenge we face to have the military strength to maintain our democracy.
I am all about building the essential strength we need: psychological, spiritual, political.
I seek to inspire and build the morale and wellbeing of our young,
so that they grow and develop to become builders and defenders of our freedom.
Your essay motivates and focuses me.
So well done.
This is your comeback triumph after shingles' futile attempt to stop you.