USAREC Stigma??

Great point, thanks for the feedback.

SSG, along the lines of what MAJ Sheridan has written about transparency - figures speak. When you can show how many were recruited, where they were from, what their demographics were...that plays a part. The other part is having all of the facts available to potential Soldiers right there at the recruiting station or MEPS. Many people don't know much about the military beyond the stories they've been told by friends and relatives, and the media. Having references to look up whatever you want to know about the military in black and white, from an authority... that would at least give the impression that honesty is the intent. Too frequently we have to meet with a recruiter and take their word for it. I've had many recruiters tell me they have no quota... but if they have no quota, no expectation, how do they know when to push hard and be publicly involved? Why does their station close when they aren't recruiting many Soldiers? Too many veiled truths or outright lies.

Gentlemen, you both bring up great points. I also believe that education plays a large part in the stigma that many have. I would say that we need to educate the general public but also need to do a better job of educating those in Recruiting Command. Your Centers reputation can go a long way to improve your relationship with the community and the public in general. Thanks for the feedback.