BAGHDAD, Iraq (Army News Service, Aug. 27, 2007) - Multinational Corps-Iraq retention goals for fiscal 2007 were met Aug. 15, more than six weeks ahead of schedule.
"We've actually exceeded the goals," said Master Sgt. Connie Davis, MNC-I command career counselor. "It was met today and we exceeded it already in our traditional categories."
The traditional categories for reenlistment are initial (first reenlistment), mid-careerist and careerist Soldiers.
The theater-wide goal was 16,510, but MNC-I career counselor reenlisted 18,721 Soldiers.
"Meeting and exceeding reenlistment goals is a powerful message about the commitment of today's force and how our Soldiers feel about the Army and their mission," said Lt. Gen. Ray Odierno, commanding general of both III Corps and Multinational Corps-Iraq. "When Soldiers reenlist I consider it a vote to stay with the Family - the Army Family. These are incredible men and women who understand the importance of their service and know they are making a difference. I'm proud to be a member of their family."
Master Sgt. Davis said that if Soldiers feel like they belong with their unit and their chain of command has their well-being and interests at heart, not only as a Soldier, but as a person, they are more inclined to remain in the Army. Enhanced Reenlistment Bonuses also help.
However, "Money may not have been the deciding factor in every case," she said. "I think it could have been one of the last pros that helped."
"Soldiers who believe in their fellow Soldiers, their leaders and the Army reenlist," Lt. Gen. Odierno said. "Even in the most complex and difficult combat operations in Iraq, their confidence and pride in their mission and each other are compelling factors in their decision to continue service."
(Sgt. Abel Trevino writes for the 28th Public Affairs Detachment.)
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