By T.K. Trix
Copyright©1999

The recruiting problem the services are having. I keep reading in the press about the reasons why young people are not coming into the armed services and the analysis is so faulty that it is laughable. They (the experts) believe it is because the economy is so good that people don't want to join the services. They are right in that people don't want to deploy and put up with the hardships. However, there is more to it then that.

I believe the reasons are:

1. No patriotism. Children are being brought up to believe only in what the country can offer them and not what they can do for their country. Many schools do not allow the Pledge of Allegiance, history is being watered down or revisionists have corrupted the curricula. No longer can you say for "God and country" because both terms and persona non grata. We are a selfish society and we only believe in ourselves. "me and me some more." No sacrifice is too great or should I say just no sacrifice? People have patriotism as long as it is in just words and doesn't cost them anything.
   
   
2. Disenchantment With Military. Military personnel are not happy with their lot in life and complain at home. I believe the retirees complain because of lack of support and the active duty complain because of numerous deployments, political correctness and pay problems.

Funny thing is, the military has been shrinking over the years (all services) in leaps and bounds. The Navy has less ships and is the smallest in terms of personnel since 1941. The Army kicked out many of their senior people and downsized. I guess what I'm trying to say is that the problem is much, much worse then it is being reported.

Think about it...the military has shrunk in leaps and bounds and yet they are have recruiting shortfall. Just think if the military was the size of 10 years ago. It would be helpless due to people not wanting to join up.