Posted on Apr 23, 2015
WO1 Intelligence Officer (S2)
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"Major General Allen Batschelet, the general in charge of the U.S. Army Recruiting Command, says that 10 percent of young men and women who come to sign up for the Army are refused because they are too heavy. He says that obesity is becoming an issue of national security."

Obesity rates have tripled in a generation with more than one-third of U.S. adults now considered obese, while 17 percent of all children and adolescents in the U.S. are obese.

What do you think? An issue of national security or fear mongering? Is the obesity epidemic big enough to bring this prediction to fruition?

http://hiit-blog.dailyhiit.com/hiit-life/half-young-americans-will-fat-serve-army-2020/
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Responses: 23
SGT(P) Unit Supply Specialist
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Edited 9 y ago
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WO1 (Join to see) this is a topic that touch me because I was there, going week after week to the recruiting office, getting taped, height and weight. Waking up at 0330 to be at the track 0400 run 3-4 miles before 0500 to get ready to work before 0600. Yes, Obesity is a living problem, not just here but, everywhere. As recent as this last Sunday, I went to the Hershey Park in PA and it was really sad seen people make 20-30 mins lines just to get to the ride and been told that they can't ride for safety issues because of their overweight. I would love to say, "If I did it, everybody can" but that wouldn't be true statement. It requires a goal, dedication and a lot of determination to make it and not everybody has it.
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PV2 Senior Web Designer, Web Team Lead
PV2 (Join to see)
9 y
Outstanding!! You are an inspiration!
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PV2 Senior Web Designer, Web Team Lead
PV2 (Join to see)
9 y
I've been there too SGT(P) (Join to see). 170 lbs down myself. Kickboxing, Muay Thai and eating right
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SGT(P) Unit Supply Specialist
SGT(P) (Join to see)
9 y
PV2 (Join to see) I did everything, from MMA training to Zumba Fitness. Whatever made me sweat was good, took time but it was worthy. Great job you too!
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SFC Mark Merino
SFC Mark Merino
9 y
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I went the other route and now pose for the "Before" pictures. Soon my precious.......soon.
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MAJ Multifunctional Logistician
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Looking around as I walk through a store or even the PX, obesity is a problem. Unless something changes, I'm afraid that MG Batschelet may be correct in his prediction.

As members and former members of the military, we know how important PT is. I'm not sure if there is much we can do other than to continue to exercise, be the example, and to not allow our family members to contribute to the obesity problem. To the person, there has to be a decision to be healthier and until that point our society is going to get fatter.
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SGT Infantryman (Airborne)
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Well, they will never have to worry about being a Tunnel Rat.
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1SG David Niles
1SG David Niles
9 y
Only to fat to serve at current regs. They will change the regs as they are doing now.
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SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL
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SSG Brad Shepherd jr
SSG Brad Shepherd jr
9 y
 Makes me sick,Hell I see a lot of fat boys in the ARMY today.
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