FORT KNOX, Ky. (Jan.3, 2014) Challenges inspire me, especially if they come in the form of military problems. Many of you love a challenge, too. I thrive on leading Army professionals to develop viable solutions and putting them in action. Our Army has a long history of success in the most challenging circumstances achieved by Soldiers and civilians who have risen to the test despite the circumstances.
The recruiting environment is becoming more challenging, there is no doubt. Fewer young people are qualified to join our ranks. More and more Americans are socially more separated from the military leading to lower propensity. We have access to fewer of our traditional recruiting tools. And yet the Army, despite the reduction in active duty end-strength, still requires approximately the same number of men and women to volunteer. Sounds like a really good military challenge for us!
Here is the good news: we have the type of people on our team who can win in this environment against lengthening odds. As Command Sgt. Maj. Willie Clemmons and I meet with USAREC's professionals in recruiting centers and key events across the country, we are seeing the creative adaptation by those dedicated to mission accomplishment and winning in their lane. This spirit is alive and well across all of our brigades.
These types of leaders in our command are successful not only because of their attitude, but also because they are committed to executing the core competences effectively and with discipline. As maneuver units train and rehearse to execute gunnery, battle drills, and combined arms operations, so in recruiting we succeed when we focus on those core fundamental recruiting operations: prospecting, intelligence driven operations, applicant processing.
When the challenges increase, the mission focused leader doubles down on the fundamentals and executes them with cold efficiency. This time-proven combination breeds infectious confidence in the face of seemingly overwhelming odds and enables good leaders and units to capitalize on opportunities when they present themselves. The result: success and victory.
My question to you is, are you up to the challenge? I am; CSM Clemmons is, too. Each day, we answer the question through action. How well we respond determines whether we help our unit accomplish its mission in the midst of a tougher recruiting environment.
I am confident that as a team, USAREC's men and women can rise to the challenge and accomplish our tough, important mission for our Army and our country. Whether we do depends on how we face the circumstances as a team, staying focused on our critical tasks, and encouraging and inspiring each other.
Strength starts here!
Army Strong!
MG Allen Batschelet
CG, USAREC
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