The nation's military brass is grumbling that today's post-draft recruits don't measure up to the ranks of old. Personnel desertions in all branches have increased dramatically, in some cases more than three times the rate of five years ago.
Are we to assume from Pentagon officials that a growing number of today's recruits are wimps who can't cut it⢠Not necessarily. Contrary to years past, service in the military today is but one of many choices facing young people. If the military wants to attract better recruits, it must up the ante - and demand more from those who make the cut.
There are other considerations, as well:
We realize, of course, that today's recruits aren't setting any registration records. On the same token, there's little point in casting a wide net if too many fish must be tossed back - and, in this case, at a considerable cost to the fisherman. (It costs the Army about $31,000 to train a soldier).
The focus therefore isn't necessarily more military recruitment, but better, smarter recruitment.
