Why 75% of young Americans unable to serve in the military

RallyPoint Team — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 15:55:01 -0400

75% of young people ages 17 to 24 are currently unable to enlist in the United States military. These are the most common barriers for potential recruits: failure to graduate high school, a criminal record, and physical fitness issues, including obesity.

What do these statistics say about young Americans and today’s society? Should we be alarmed by this data, or should we not be so concerned since the military is downsizing?

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Oct 8 at 2014 4:07 PM

Maj Chris Nelson — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 16:07:15 -0400

With the reduction of the military, the services are turning away people at the door. While these issues are significant for the USA and says a lot about where portions of our country is going, the military is only taking the best that WANT to join!

Failure to graduate: Not a clue how to address that..... parents, society, and the individual are failing to promote better way of living through education.

Criminal Record: well, we know that some of the reason for this is related to drugs. But also related to lack of parents being parents, lack of home structure, and a growing lack of respect.

Obesity: Diet, exercise, and fewer video games.... or loosen up the standards for entry then the first few weeks for some of these kids would be the military "fat farm" prior to going to their assigned basic training.... otherwise, they will just fail out at MEPS for this. For the individual that WANTS to join, they will do what they need to do to get in if everything else is working for them.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2014 4:13 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 16:13:30 -0400

We should be concerned. We may be downsizing today but what about tomorrow?

Response by SFC Jason Bautista made Oct 8 at 2014 5:13 PM

SFC Jason Bautista — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 17:13:29 -0400

Hey...in life, if you're not gonna be smart...you'd better be strong!

So I guess America better start studying harder!

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2014 5:29 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 17:29:03 -0400

I see the military stating that recruits are not cutting the mustard now that we are in a downsizing trend. But that mustard was spread pretty thin with plenty of waivers during war time. If you change the expectation, society takes some time to catch up. I was not in during the immediate years after Vietnam, but I understand from my SNCO's who were that that was a very troubling time as the USMC tried to adjust from a corps of Judge mandates to a volunteer force. The USMC raised its expectation had some growing pain, but that then leveled out. If the military changes their expectation there will be growing pains. And as civilians understand the new expectation they will slowly rise to that in order to join.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2014 5:44 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 17:44:01 -0400

Obviously alarming.

A follow-up question for RallyPoint Team (or any one else who may know): How do these numbers stack up historically against earlier generations?

Response by MSgt Dennis Dudley made Oct 8 at 2014 5:48 PM

MSgt Dennis Dudley — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 17:48:18 -0400

Yes we should be alarmed by this kind of data, cuz this seems to be the direction youth may be heading. Physical Fitness is the hardest hit, because the kids don't get out the way we used to. I like technology but is has an impact on the lifestyle of today's youth.

Response by PO3 Rod Arnold made Oct 8 at 2014 6:18 PM

PO3 Rod Arnold — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 18:18:00 -0400

Theres no balance between liberals and conservatives. The last 6 1/2 years we, the US, have been led by the worst leftist administration ever. When young men and women expect the government to give them what they want, there's is no drive, no initiative, no pride. Obama has taken this great nation, and tried to turn it into a socialist country. When I joined the service in 1970, I wanted to do whatever I could to help the USA, that was pretty much the mind set than. Now it's, what is the government going to give me. I blame this all on the Obama administration, he does not show himself to be an American leader, and its my personal opinion, he hates the American Constitution, and what it stands for. We the People, is being taken away, and it shows in our young men and women, it's like Obama has taken the American spirit out of them. His salute with the coffee cup in his hand shows just how disrespectful he is towards the men and women who serve, have served, and have died fighting for this, United States of America.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Oct 8 at 2014 6:18 PM

Capt Richard I P. — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 18:18:48 -0400

Concur with SGT Private RallyPoint Member: in order to assess the situation we are missing data. We have current stats, but lack the trend line from before.
There is an interesting question posed in the original question: we are drawing down, do we need to worry about a reduced recruit pool? I would submit we needn't worry. It's all about supply and demand. If the demand for soldiers goes up, standards will be adjusted to make sure the supply fits, always happens in all wars.

Response by SSG John Erny made Oct 8 at 2014 6:52 PM

SSG John Erny — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 18:52:14 -0400

The following and not in any certain order
1. Fat and Lazy
2. Drugs & Booze
3. dumber than a box of rocks
4. Has children
5. Health issues
6. Bleeding Heart Liberal
7. Mommy & Daddy would not approve
8. XBOX
9 PLAYSTATION
10 MINCRAFT
11 PC GAMES
12 Boy Friend / Girl Friend
13 Chicken Shit
14 Too Cool
15 Anti American
16 Will Run North or South in case of Draft
17 Objector status
18 Criminal Record
19 Pervert
20 Bat Shit Crazy
21 Can't Handle Military life.
22 can't handle the PT
23 Too short
24 Too tall
25 Can't speak English
26 Built like a Brick Shit House but can not make tape (body builder types)
27 Uniform and boot size not in inventory
28 Drank the PC Kool-Aid
29 Their a Hippie
30 Occupy what ever member

Response by CMSgt James Nolan made Oct 8 at 2014 7:23 PM

CMSgt James Nolan — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 19:23:49 -0400

I find it awfully hard to believe that 75% are unqualified. That just seems horribly high.

The problem is that we are currently living in the "everyone gets a trophy" generation. To me, there is no complaint when you complain about not being able to serve in the military due to the following:

Major Drug Use (because some drug use is allowable prior to signing up-not all drugs, but some: and this will be interesting with the legalization of marijuana in some states), everyone knows that drugs are illegal and that using them has consequences, so just don't . Or, if you do, then don't whine about it when later doors are closed to you.

Felony convictions-hey hello, there is not one person in the world over the age of 10, who does not know that beating someone with a bat, robbing a bank or selling drugs is illegal and will have consequences, so if you want to be able to get whatever your dream job is, consider your actions before taking them. Bad decisions made repetitively are not "mistakes".

Lack of education-hey, get your HS diploma-newsflash-MOST jobs require a HS diploma, many are unobtainable without college-figure out how to accomplish that. Education is something that can never be taken away.

Not everyone is "entitled" to serve in the military. Last time I checked, that uniform was earned. Issuance should not be cheapened.

Parents have a responsibility to ensure that their children are prepared for success. Not all parents are good, and there are many children who are raised by parents who are uninvolved at best with their children, this is really unfortunate. I wish that I were smart enough to say that I have the answer on how to ensure that children are given opportunities, but sadly, I do not. Sometimes, you (even as a teen ager) have to look at the life that surrounds you, the circumstances that surround you, and engage a mentor/advisor/role model and figure out how to better your situation. If you pick people with criminal mindsets for those positions, you will likely grow into that lifestyle. Many times, "you are the company you keep".

End of rant.

Response by LTC Dr Richard Wasserman made Oct 8 at 2014 7:26 PM

LTC Dr Richard Wasserman — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 19:26:53 -0400

We need to be concerned about downsizing. It's a travesty. The best offense is a great defense. Works in Sports (ask the Seahawks and KC Royals about that) and works in the military. No one respects our government because we are getting weaker and we don't keep our promises (ask Ukraine).

Response by SSgt Nicole Biscoe made Oct 8 at 2014 7:36 PM

SSgt Nicole Biscoe — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 19:36:11 -0400

I think the obesity problem is a major issue. Just watched a documentary called Fed Up a few days ago and it's definitely an eye opener. I had no idea that 80% of schools were giving students the option of buying fast food at school everyday. That combined with placing soda machines in the hallways and giving them energy drinks... I think that's a huge problem. Our nation is becoming too fat to fight and it's sad.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2014 8:05 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 20:05:25 -0400

Regardless of downsizing or not; the fact that increasingly more people are unqualified to serve should be alarming to any citizen. Mental, moral and physical problems with our youth won't go away, whether they attempt to serve or not.

As a parent, this reinforces my belief that "it's up to me" to raise my kids; not the schools, government or media. That experiment looks like it failed (as is evident by the increasing numbers of fat, dumb criminals cited in the article).

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2014 9:38 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 21:38:01 -0400

This has been around since 2009. And yes it should be concerning but not only for the military but America as a whole. But even if the numbers are that high at any given time in the past decade, less than 1 percent of the American population has been on active military. So I believe the military should still be able to find qualified candidates. And I believe a lot of those would have had parents, grandparents who have had military experience. And have passed down the heritage of the military.

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Oct 8 at 2014 10:00 PM

SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 22:00:15 -0400

I LIKE #1, MY GOODNESS WHERE IS THE MOTIVATION AMERICA?

The late Great 35th President of the United States of America John F. Kennedy said it eloquently:

"My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country."

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2014 10:11 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 22:11:07 -0400

This is generation what have you done for me lately. Besides they all do prescription drugs, smoke weed, light themselves on fire and let's not forget the choking themselves unconscious. This generation's idea of serving their country lives in three words: Call of Duty.

Response by CPL Corey Aldridge made Oct 8 at 2014 10:11 PM

CPL Corey Aldridge — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 22:11:14 -0400

Where to start? Lack of parenting, either both parents have to work to support the home, or the parents just really don't care or were never ready to have kids in the first place "kids having kids" This wont be to popular but the lack of God. I remember saying the pledge of allegiance every morning in school. When I was a Kid I had a serious drug problem.. When I screwed up after I got whooped I was drug to church. If I did not want to go to school my parents drug me to the school. I remember when I was 12 I stole a ball of kite string from the market on the corner. My mom knew that I had to have taken it as I had just asked her for i think it cost a quarter and she told me no. So after i told her She drug me to the market with the kite string and made me not just tell the owner of the market but to look him in the eye when i did, give him the string back, and I had to work for him for a week sweeping the floor taking out trash etc. When dad got home I got the his end. So kids these days have the wrong kind of drug problem. Here in calif. you will go to jail for spanking your kids. Not beating Spanking! WTH? So in my limited ability to make an educated guess I would have to say that liberalism caused the breakdown in society. Separation of Church and State was the cause of moral decay in our ONCE GREAT NATION!

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2014 10:23 PM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 22:23:48 -0400

I think that there are a lot of issues that plague society currently, one of which is the view of the military. There are so many people who don't understand what our actually job is in the military, and why it is so important.

Another is the rise in childhood obesity, with children playing video games and such all of the time, there is little to know time when they go outside and play, as I did when I was younger.

Another is the general lack of discipline from children to their parents, I see this all of the time in the states, kids will talk to their parents however they want, and it's ok. Parents don't want to discipline their children, because they are afraid of being accused of child abuse or something like that.

Also as was said before, the population today, has this sense of entitlement that is out of control, which is not something that is akin to the military traditions or our standards, or way of life. There is way too much selfishness in society today, that make people not want to join the military.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2014 10:54 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 22:54:24 -0400

I think it boils down to the breeding of the entitlement mentality within the psyches of young Americans. They are spoiled and believe they have a right to handouts and privileges not earned.

Response by CW4 Robert Goldsmith made Oct 8 at 2014 11:05 PM

CW4 Robert Goldsmith — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 23:05:45 -0400

Today's American culture promotes laziness and individualism; two characteristics that are in total opposition to military service. The services even lowered enlistment standards when both, OEF and OIF were going simultaneously. There is a reason that so few have ever served and why our all-volunteer force is so small in comparison to other nations. Even the majority of our elected officials have never served because they care more about themselves and their political careers than true service to the nation.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2014 2:20 AM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 02:20:41 -0400

I think it's BS that high school graduation is a disqualification. I joined with a GED and I lived in my car. I was down on my luck and had no real future. Now I I have my Bachelors Degree. I've lived abroad for 11 years and recently made Chief. Some of the hardest working people I've known have a GED. I don't understand why it gets such a bad wrap.

Response by SFC William "Bill" Moore made Oct 9 at 2014 7:34 AM

SFC William "Bill" Moore — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 07:34:42 -0400

My biggest issues while I was recruiting were drugs, legal and illegal, and education. I actually tested 23 individuals in one month and only two passed. This was after screening them and pre-testing! Two were in college at the time and failed! I thought the test must have been harder than when I took it in 1982 so I re-took the test and scored an 85, 2 points lower than my original.

Response by SPC David Shaffer made Oct 9 at 2014 8:28 AM

SPC David Shaffer — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 08:28:48 -0400

I'm not surprised in the least bit! The biggest problem is the parents in my opinion but it's not the whole problem. I can say that society and what is expected from our children is a big problem also. I have a mother that smoked crack and was always drunk and a father that beat my mother and was always drinking and using drugs so I know this first hand. I had gotten into trouble a lot when I was younger and was always in a fight. I figured out life on my own and decided I was going to be different. Now on the other side, I have a brother that had the same life growing up as me but he is doing the same as my mother has and exactly the same as our father. He is always drunk, has had 3 children and takes no part in their lives with another child on the way now (all by different mothers). He has been in trouble all of his life, always high, and can't hold a job. There are the select few like me that growing up without help or a positive roll model is our driving force to be the best we can be but more often they can't psychologically handle not having that in their lives and look for that support and another way to cope. I am proud to say that even though I have a GED and didn't do sports when I was younger that my kids that are old enough to go to school are All on the honor roll every report card and they play soccer, softball, basketball, and my two oldest girls are both cheerleaders.

Response by CW2 Jonathan Kantor made Oct 9 at 2014 9:08 AM

CW2 Jonathan Kantor — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 09:08:22 -0400

In my experience as a recruiter, it's more like 94%.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2014 10:14 AM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 10:14:37 -0400

I think a big problem is this sense of entitlement that a lot of people have these days. I think that hard work is something that turns people off and many people aren't willing to put is the work to get something. Also I feel like a big problem is how we as a society tend to "baby" people. I think that we are so afraid to hurt someone's feeling or offend people that it is hurting us more than we realize. All these things what I see as factors as to why so many young people are unqualified to serve. Now I'm sure its more but those are two big things that I have noticed.

Response by SPC Mike Long made Oct 9 at 2014 10:36 AM

SPC Mike Long — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 10:36:20 -0400

Not disagreeing on any of the comments below because you all state very good points.
but what if its just as simple as nobody wants to give them that chance.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2014 12:13 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 12:13:38 -0400

It is a phenomenon common to affluent societies throughout history. They get lazy, they get fat, they hire mercenaries. They don't listen to seasoned experts. They value luxuries, they lose abilities to make and manufacture basic things, they over-rely on technology...from Rome on down, to the French and English it happened at some point in their history. Our own history involves being isolated, not being ready, being suspicious of a standing professional military, then rapidly expanding to meet the threat. We've been lucky to have time to expand. Likely not next time.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2014 12:47 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 12:47:12 -0400

One reason, there is no pride in serving in the majority of Americans. They are selfish and ungrateful.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2014 2:14 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 14:14:38 -0400

Why are they unable to serve? Capricious entrance requirements. Tell me that a lot of those 42 year old PV2s joining in 2006 were the top 25% our country had. This is completely false. Where there's a will, there's a waiver.

We have a healthier population than we did in both WWII. We have the most intelligent youth cohort in American history. We also have a group that is less independent i.e. they are team players. This is a cohort which, frankly, should be a recruiters dream. Unfortunately, we don't tap into that potential, instead relying on archaic and outdated management models and expecting that somehow, magically, that people will want to serve in the military. This is an All-Volunteer Force. We have given them choices, and as such, we need to make ourselves appealing. Why are 75% not able to serve? Because they haven't been cultivated. They haven't been expected to serve.

I think that many of us in the military need to realize that we perform a vital function for our country but that it is no more vital than any other. We are not unique special snowflakes who cull the best talent and whom the best talent want to become.

Response by SSgt Tim Meuret made Oct 9 at 2014 2:22 PM

SSgt Tim Meuret — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 14:22:11 -0400

Choosing to serve is not delivered on a platter! It's hard and it requires commitment and a choice to do something with your life and face your fears. And probably most of all HEART!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2014 2:45 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 14:45:45 -0400

I'll tell you as a recruiter most of the answers already given are spot on. The new tattoo policy has also really lessened the supply the pool of eligible recruits for the Army.

The long and the short of it is, kids don't think their actions will affect them later and they are taught to see the military as a last option not a first. Unfortunatly by the time they get to that final option they are usually no longer qualified

Response by SPC(P) Samantha Moore made Oct 9 at 2014 4:49 PM

SPC(P) Samantha Moore — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 16:49:57 -0400

I would say they are unable to serve due to fitness, criminal history, and no high school diploma. But recently I have seen a few young Americans unable to join the military due to the new tattoo policy.
Also, just an opinion, I do think that if a person wishes to join the military badly enough, they would quit smoking weed. :)

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2014 6:41 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 18:41:04 -0400

This is not all inclusive but certainly applies:
1. Financial situation / credit report
2. Criminal Record
3. Physical Fitness
4. Other health issues
5. Single parent with no family care plan

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2014 7:19 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 19:19:34 -0400

Despite the dismal stats and lists, I do find some amazing folk out there joining up. I also sit on Eagle Scout Boards of review and handled West Point applications. Some very inspiring people out there that will make your heart glad. There can never be enough of them. When I joined active duty in 1973 VOLAR just started, half my basic company was drafted, the other half signed up, and yes MANY were from that judge who people claim never existed who said enlist or go to jail. It was not pretty. Few made good soldiers, even if they did make me look good...what I learned as the acting jack was that most people are either running away from something or running toward something when they enlist. The ones running toward something seem to stick to their goals.

Response by Jordan Gaudard made Oct 9 at 2014 8:13 PM

Jordan Gaudard — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 20:13:40 -0400

The military isn't for everyone. I am not concerened by these numbers because the military is downsizing. This does say something about our nation, and parents of these children, but I am not concerned.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2014 11:26 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 11:26:00 -0400

Is this number really surprising? I mean, Michelle Obama encouraging children to eat right and exercise regularly was turned into a political issue, so you cannot honestly believe this was unexpected. On top of that, our society worships decadence and in some places encourages it. Have any of you seen the food offerings at the chow hall as of late? I know it is a personal responsibility to get and stay in shape, but our society seems to try to hinder people from achieving their goals by making healthy food seem like torture. Staying healthy starts with the youth and it is a lifestyle; it is immeasurably more difficult to change after umpteen years of bad dietary habits and a sedentary lifestyle.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2014 3:56 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 15:56:21 -0400

I will admit I joined the Army later in life at 27. Never gave it much thought because I had a pretty decent job. Then came the layoffs, and work in my hometown was scarce. Only option I had was joining the Army. I joined 2 yrs after 9/11. And even though the ride hasnt always been smooth, but it has been a good one for the most part. Ive seen a majority of the world, got some college in, and did things in the Army that I never thought I ever do. I do share my Army experiences with young people, and it does peak their interests for the most part. I think sometimes kids today need a good old fashioned kick in the ass.

Response by SPC David S. made Oct 10 at 2014 5:31 PM

SPC David S. — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 17:31:38 -0400

Main reason is that to many kids are a joey bag of dumb fat. Society is setting the bar way to low and life has become to easy and kids are able to be complacent in that lifestyle. Quit handing out trophies to every one and teach kids that there is a big difference in being a loser and a winner and quite frying all the damn food. Kids horking down deep fried Twinkies and we're surprised when junior comes rolling in looking like a butterball.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2014 7:53 PM

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 19:53:07 -0400

Being in Nevada it truly is said to see this fact in my high school class of 900 only 650 of us graduated. There is not much patriotism either. I mean I'm not full HOOAAHHHH but, it's truly sad. Joining the Guard I thought I'd see a lot of my battles in college (there's only 2 major ones here) but even there I don't. But hey this above my pay grade

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2014 10:29 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 22:29:04 -0400

When I was in recruiting the main issues I dealt with were weight, non-resident status or health issues, pregnant...the list could go on but those were the main ones.. I even worked with people to help them get within the correct height & weight requirements, but they didn't want it bad enough. Thinking back to those days is the reason why my daughter does not sit and watch tv and play video games all day and we rarely eat junk food, it's a special treat for her.

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Oct 10 at 2014 10:29 PM

Cpl Dennis F. — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 22:29:11 -0400

Mainly because their mommies didn't pry them away from their X-box and IPhone and throw them out the door to get a life and exercise. Not to mention not smacking their asses when needed. Some do seem to improve with age though.

Response by SPC Cedar Bristol made Oct 11 at 2014 12:32 AM

SPC Cedar Bristol — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 00:32:29 -0400

Born in 73, Basic training at Ft. Benning in 93.

Everything being said today, by people my age about Social media was said about TV in the 80's by schoolteachers in their 30's and 40's. Technology is not the problem.

In WWII less than half of the troops had a High School diploma. In Vietnam, I think it was up above 80%. That was the rising tide of education in the US. Today, college degrees are common, a PHD is the new bachelor's, Masters degree is the new high school. We spend too much time in school.

We need to recognize other forms of education besides school. The military needs to dump the high school diploma requirement. Most high school graduates can't pass basic tests on US history, math, in other words, they don't have a high school education. This also is not a new thing, and it really isn't that big of a deal. Our economy is a lot stronger than countries where students score better on tests.

We need less emphasis on school, more options for young people to work.

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Oct 11 at 2014 1:11 AM

Sgt Packy Flickinger — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 01:11:48 -0400

It's a sign of weakness that our younger generation is unable or unwilling to defend what we have left them. Out of all the wars, conflicts, viruses or what not, the most pressing battle is with the lack of patriotism, integrity and intelligence of the American citizen.

Response by LCpl Rick Ponton made Oct 11 at 2014 7:52 AM

LCpl Rick Ponton — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 07:52:10 -0400

IAM WATCHING CSPAN 2 RIGHT NOW AND IAM PRAYING AND IAM PRAYING EVEN HARDER AND I CARE ABOUT THE FUTURE OF THE USA AND IAM WATHING PAUL RYAN AND MITT ROMNEY AND I LIKE TO WATCH THE HOUSE AND SENATE

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2014 3:23 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 15:23:31 -0400

I worked at a recruiting district from '08 to '11. I must have had phone conversations with thousands of potential sailors. The biggest things I saw were, HS drop outs, drug possession, tattoos(hands,neck,face), overweight, and some just thought they were better than the military. I remember one guy telling me he couldn't have people telling him what to do all day, while handing me my order at Taco Bell? Even with many of the young people I serve with, the biggest problem is their expectation of military life is completely skewed. They expect every decision to be explained to them. The concept of initiative is dead, I have some who will sit and play on their phone all morning, unless they are tasked, and then they will only complete the bare minimum.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2014 6:46 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 18:46:19 -0400

In my opinion the answer is simple and not long winded. Its instant gratification. No one wants to works anymore. They see the rappers and the Kim Kardahina's of the world but they don't understand or realize that a lot of effort goes into the end product. Furthermore, the youth of today is more concerned about being famous and popular than focusing on the United States enemies.
In order, to reconfigure our youths coconsciousness, we would have to reevaluate the educational system. How many children actually know that the Military is an option unless they get into trouble?
Parents need to stop rewarding their children for mediocre behavior now a day's everyone gets a trophy, what happen to be inspired to being number one.
Those are just a few thoughts I have on the subject matter.

Response by Cpl Ray Fernandez made Oct 11 at 2014 7:02 PM

Cpl Ray Fernandez — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 19:02:01 -0400

Seeing as the supply of young people versus the demand for military service we've been lucky that we can be selective in who we allow to enlist or be commissioned to lead in our military. Based on numbers alone our military both active and reserve makes up about 1% of our population. If we were in serious need of bodies to fill spaces, I'm sure the rules would be more lenient and the standards reduced. It is a concern in the sense that the cost to treat poor health and physical fitness, prosecute the 10% that has a criminal record, and then the people lacking a basic education all contribute to increased costs to the government which reduces the available resources for defense spending and maintaining a suitably sized force for the wide range of missions and deployments around the world.

Response by Sgt Stephen Walker made Oct 11 at 2014 10:22 PM

Sgt Stephen Walker — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 22:22:41 -0400

As a current Recruiter and having read through some of the other posts below I wholeheartedly agree with everything. The culture and attitude in America today is far different from when I grew up. The environment kids are growing up in is setting them up for failure in terms of values. But my question on this discussion is what would it take to turn the tide. How can we as a generation of war tested Veterans do our part in re instilling that fervor that built America?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2014 11:30 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 11:30:18 -0400

I believe it all falls on the word "entitlement". A lot of young Americans have that sense of entitlement. They are growing up in a society where all schoolwork is accepted. Where every trophy is the same, whether it's for first or fifth. Where it's ok to challenge authority. I've seen this way too much when I was a recruiter. These youths feel that are entitled to freedom, education, prosperity, fortune, fame, and occupation. It's ok to dream, but at least dream with your eyes open!!! Meaning to be realistic with your goals. Things should be handed to youths. Bring back the day where it an honor to serve. Bring back the day when to wear the uniform showed pride. Bring back the loyalty of the United States of America.

Response by PO3 Nicole Noe made Oct 12 at 2014 12:54 PM

PO3 Nicole Noe — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 12:54:34 -0400

The cynicism in response to this question astounds me. When you speak of this generation, you realize that in your rash generalization, you are including ALL within this sect. As one who does not like to work with generalizations, I therefore reproach you for your presumptuousness. As a middle school teacher I have seen my fair share of examples that represent the negative stereotypes of Generation Y and Z, and I am here to tell you that the American face is changing, not just the American dream. These kids are far savvier than any of us were in our day. The majority come from parents who were nurturers, unlike the parents before them, who child centric in their lives, and invested heavily in their child’s future. These generations have the lowest teen pregnancy rate than any generation before them. They learned quite early, and in a global manner, that the world is not a safe place, and grew up suspicious of not only of strangers but also their neighbors. They are jaded by a society that continues to dump on them, yet find humor everywhere they go. They prefer teamwork to individualism. They are the largest consumers in the nation, spending their dollars not on trinkets, but on major cash items they see as investments. Generation Z is the second largest baby boom in history. They are quick thinkers; able to apply anything they learn not only to themselves, but also globally. They are book smart, or shall we say Internet smart, because everything they need to know is their's at the touch of a button. They used this knowledge to obtain things we only dared to dream to obtain as children. They understand the economy and the fight that faces them in the future. And while they may not live to work, they will be the first generation to work where they live, in a relaxed environment, free of superficial structures such a management, supervisors, and bosses. Their children will understand the true meaning of the word entrepreneur and the struggles that comes with it. They will be the first generation make substantially less than their parents, but will be recorded as having an over all better quality of life than their parents, due to their work life style. Their technological thinking will save the planet from us and preserve it for the future. They are the generation that will set into motion technological wonders we dreamed of, and achieve more as a unit then any generation before them. Quit looking at the negatives. You forget that you too, were once deemed the “lost generation.” People shook their heads at you too and wondered, “Where in the hell is our world headed?” And yet, there you are, the best of your generation, productive members of society, educated, gifted, and blessed, raising Ys and Zs.

Response by Maj Kim Patterson made Oct 12 at 2014 1:09 PM

Maj Kim Patterson — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 13:09:48 -0400

I've found that the standards are so tight and the need for newbies so low, even when they have a HS diploma or a GED and 15 credits of college, there just isn't room for them all. Soldiers (and I use the term generically) are getting pink slips while still in theater to make the military leaner as we try to depart from conflicts that were supposed to be over quickly and 10 years later...the only way to make the military smaller is to cut and only allow some with special critical skills in. I say we cut it to 1, perhaps a supporting cast of cronies. And then rebuild.

Response by PO1 Steven Kuhn made Oct 12 at 2014 2:46 PM

PO1 Steven Kuhn — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 14:46:07 -0400

I had heard of a news story saying that many of today's youths could not meet the physical readiness standard and another possibility is that of excessive use or abuse of controlled substances, but that is just supposition.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2014 5:20 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 17:20:58 -0400

I would have said "Can't pass the ASVAB", "Drugs", then "Legal issues"

Response by PFC Sean Keenedy made Oct 12 at 2014 7:25 PM

PFC Sean Keenedy — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 19:25:36 -0400

I think what I refer to as the "x-box " generation , is a bunch of lazy , un -motivated , self centered brats . As a small business owner , I get constantly asked for a job , and 9 out of 10 times , as soon as they find out its Landscaping , they run . " oh that too hard of work " are you hiring for say someone to just sit and pulls weeds ? Sadly , its my generation that created this mess . The parents . The ones who are 45-60 say . we felt , because we had to work hard for what we wanted , not deserved , we went out and did our thing , saying , " when I have kids , i'll make sure they get the things I didn't get " . I'm glad I'm 51 , and will be gone from this earth , in say 10-15 years ( health issues ) I do not want to be around in 20 years to see what our country , our Military has become .

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2014 7:44 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 19:44:55 -0400

Mastering the digital age and digital warfare is the future. Sitting in front of a computer doesn't promote a blue collar physicality.

With that said, having spent four years in USAREC as both a second time commander and a battalion XO who signs all waivers, criminal background continues to be my biggest surprise. Minor in possession and of the like no issue, but it's worse.

I once was asked competing for a college scholarship: What is the greatest generation? I answered now, ours. I didn't win the scholarship. Though I agree our fathers, mothers, grandparents, etc., set a high standard the 25% who can serve are ample, digitally inclined and will continue to ensure we stay the world's strongest nation.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2014 8:34 PM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 20:34:40 -0400

UMMM if any of you can read, you would know that the image above is from 2009. You might what to re-think your opinion before put down your fellow Americans.
First of all: Why do you hate video games?
holy moly, you guys need shut up. video games actually increase a persons comprehension and understanding by about 58%. Source is below.
https://www.data.gov/education/ed-games-week-highlights-emergence-video-games-education/
And the reason student are not able to finish high school is not because of video games and drugs and inability to get grades... economic trouble and domestic issues discourage any type of prosperity in furthering education. I'm from a very diverse and populated city, I know why most of my classmates rarely made it to class twice a week. Another source below. Both from 2014!!!!!!!
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/18/magazine/who-gets-to-graduate.html?_r=0
Though I do agree that America is obese, that is very obvious and I plan not to totally unravel your opinion, but in large cities even suburbs "home grown vegetables and organic love" is not growing out of everyone backyard. Just because most of you grew up on a farm, shooting your meals and cashing your crop doesn't mean that everyone else did.
You need to think of physiological backgrounds of parents, medicating their children, mind-fucking them to drugs.
Any yes, there is a portion of the people who have disabilities and cannot participate. Doesn't mean they cannot support. You should not put everyone down because they did not sign.

AND for those who have answer the call, for us who sign that paper and for those who died. Remember who you are dying for! Those people who can't. I sign because I had the ability, despite ALL these disadvantages.

If you see a problem, how about going out and finding a solution.

Ed Games Week Highlights the Emergence of Video Games in Education - Data.gov

Ed Games Week wrapped up with a 48-hour Education Game Jam that brought together over one hundred veteran and independent game developers, teachers, and students. (Photo credit: U.S. Department of Education) Games and play are a central part of childhood … Continued

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2014 9:42 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 21:42:47 -0400

Unfortunately they just "can't get right"! Lack of education, motivation, ambition, having a sense of entitlement, etc, etc, etc. I really wonder what this world is going to become because only 25% of today's youth are actually engaged and have a sense purpose or drive to achieve absolute greatness. Many of the youth today can't even pass the ASVAB or even make it to the test because they have a criminal record... End of rant

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2014 6:59 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 06:59:01 -0400

Honestly I believe People now-a-days are to lazys to serve, people would rather collect a check from the government than actually work if you dont believe me look at a middle class workers fridge and look at someone on welfare fridge or the how someone on welfare live and someone that works for a living the cleanliness of there homes ... ok so if thats not suffiecient obesity 33.8% (adults) and 17% for children 16-18 years old... and even 26% of the military is considered to be overweight.. and in the army the army chief of staff said that obesity and overweight Civilians is the main reason why civilians cant serve.. next thing i would say is a survey in 2012 by National institute on Drug abuse approx. 25 million Americans are users of some form of illicit drugs.... i know when i came in you could get a waiver for almost anything now i have a buddy that cant join because he has surgery on his foot when i know someone in the unit that had that same thing done before the military.. from buddies that have tried to join
1)Criminal Records
2) Individualism (cant take commands for shit)
3) dropped out of school
If we had something Americans that were as patriotic as they were when 9/11 or even pearl harbor happened you will have a military like no other actually fighting for the country than just for a check... we need to bring patriotism back because i feel likes been lost more than ever since the draw down in Iraq and Afghanistan

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2014 9:18 AM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 09:18:01 -0400

Another part of this is that the military has become much more restrictive in admitting people. There was a time, not all that long ago, where not graduating high school was only a minor hurdle to joining the military. Now it takes an act of congress for someone like that to join.

My personal belief is that if a real crisis required us to beef-up the military, we would relax some of the standards. I bet plenty of those obese kids would slim down under a daily PT regime. We'd overlook a lack of education. We'd overlook non-violent misdemeanors (hell, maybe even worse...but again, there was a time when the choice was jail or the military).

Bottom line, I'm not that concerned about it. The issues preventing 75% of people from serving are standards the military has set for itself, at a time it can afford to be selective. If we rapidly needed people, we'd start being far less selective about who could join.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2014 1:24 PM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 13:24:02 -0400

Anti-Americanism should be high on here too. The government is teaching these kids that it is wrong to be a proud American. It isn't PC to hang your American flag on your porch. It isn't PC to recite the pledge of allegiance in school. They aren't even aware of what proper flag/national anthem etiquette's are.

The education system is an absolute joke now. The feds forcing common core teaching down these kid's throat. If you have not take the time to look at it, YOU PROBABLY SHOULD! Definitely if you have school age kids right now. Kudos to Indiana for being the first state to say the refuse to teach in their schools, because it is damaging.

Response by Cpl Christopher Bishop made Oct 13 at 2014 4:00 PM

Cpl Christopher Bishop — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 16:00:08 -0400

I have to make an argument about "Video-Gaming". I am a "gamer", thought I didn’t start until AFTER my service.

I hate to use the "lesser of two evils" bit, but it fits here.

Compared to the average couch potato, gamers are both more likely to have mental health issues, yet are also less likely to be as unfit. Oddly enough gamers understand at least a little bit about how SOME exercise and SOME outdoor activity helps get blood flowing through the brain, serving us with better brain function. Gaming is primarily a competition of minds. Now obviously some games are better designed than others, and there are some variety of game types.

Anyway, I almost thought that ALL of the "video game related" thoughts here on this thread, might all just boil down to "Doesn't Pack The Gear To Serve", whether health issues or just don't have the nuts. As I say that, I will use myself here as our reminder that once again, there ARE exceptions to everything. =)

I could add a lot of interesting info about "Games" in general, and how to compare them. But I won't dump a long BlibbityBlah here. Anyone with further curiosities can find me lurking around RP.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2014 4:32 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 16:32:19 -0400

Too bad the mjority of America's youth were raised as entitled spoiled brats. Damn proud I'm part of the minority who still believe in hard work and Patriotism. Active duty Navy and 8yr Philippine Veteran Paratrooper here and damn proud ..

HM2 Doc Ferrer

Response by SPC Nicole Vaughn made Oct 13 at 2014 5:22 PM

SPC Nicole Vaughn — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 17:22:56 -0400

Of course there are tons of things that don't allow people to enlist now but I don't think it should all be blamed on the possible civilians... maybe I missed a comment or a few comments in here some where but I also remember a time when the military wasn't telling you every single little thing you could and couldn't do outside of your uniform; I know for a fact that there are tons of people that are in amazing shape that do not fall into these stereotypes that are being put on the people that can't enlist and they won't join simply because they do not want to be a part of a military that is going to tell them how to live their life when it has nothing to do with their job performance or abilities.

Response by SSgt Tim Caucutt made Oct 13 at 2014 9:29 PM

SSgt Tim Caucutt — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 21:29:42 -0400

Parents need to quit putting their kids on psych drugs. Problem 2/3rds solved.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2014 7:13 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 Oct 2014 07:13:16 -0400

In the end it all boils down to parenting. A parent allows their child to run their lives from an early time. Allows them to have what they want when they want it. Video games, Facebooking, cell phones, ex. I am young yes and my own age group is partly the start of this terrible generation. I grew up as a foster child though and I had an Vietnam vet as a foster father and let me tell you I didn't know a thing about sitting on my ass all weekend playing games or doing drugs whatever these kids are into now. I did chores, and had a job even at a young age. He instilled the value of money and respect. I don't see this in the next up in coming generations. I'm very uncertain of the future of our nation as my generation takes over politically and socially.

Response by Sgt Ryan Halvorsen made Oct 14 at 2014 11:09 AM

Sgt Ryan Halvorsen — Tue, 14 Oct 2014 11:09:57 -0400

Could we define serious misdemeanors? I get the impression that our legal system is screwing the pooch here. Mandatory minimums, wider "interpretation" of the law, and a higher willingness to pursue "tough" as oppose to smart on crime policies may have an effect here.

As for the lack of high school diploma, what do you expect when the pay goes down for teachers, classrooms get bigger, and taxpayers complain and say no to increasing taxes to pay for corrections to this failing system? Seriously, our (America as a whole) individualistic views are to blame. All of us did this to us and then we look at each other like it is such a shame that somebody did this while we weren't looking.

Can't even have recess because somebody could get hurt. Nobody has a hope of making it to the middle class without a lawsuit. We may have stepped up when we were needed, but we never made sure the stage was set for the next generation to do the same.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2014 2:01 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 Oct 2014 14:01:45 -0400

not an issue, the other 24.5% out of the available 25% left wouldn't join anyway. They don't wanna play, let em be.

Response by CPT Kit Lancaster made Oct 15 at 2014 5:40 PM

CPT Kit Lancaster — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 17:40:41 -0400

My question to your question is... does it matter? My answer at this point would be that it doesn't matter. We have standards, we should keep them. In the event we have a problem acquiring trainable talent we can create a mechanism or means to deal with it, if or when that problem comes along. I don't see that happening anytime soon.

Response by Sgt Anthony Isoldi made Oct 16 at 2014 9:06 AM

Sgt Anthony Isoldi — Thu, 16 Oct 2014 09:06:20 -0400

It's so sad that so few see the real issues. None of these have anything to do with "entitlement" that I see in half of these posts. We want to talk about entitlement? I've never in my life seen a group of people with more of a sense of entitlement than officers. And it's the damned truth. Patton himself believed it. It was one of the reasons he was so successful. He was more concerned about troop welfare, and mission accomplishment than having a parking spot at the PX, or the color of his office furniture. Today's youth are/have grown up in the worst economic period since the great depression. They have endured two wars, a fractured government, ever increasing costs just to maintain a minimum standard of living. But they are entitled? I'm sorry, but if you were raised in the 80s "and got a job at a young age and worked my ass to where I am now" You simply don't compare. Getting a job in the 80s paid more money adjusted for inflation. There were more jobs available for each citizen. And the economy wasn't in the shit hole. Every generation of Americans have called the up and coming generation lazy and unethical. When in fact crime rates are the lowest in decades, high school graduation rates are the highest ever. College attendance is the highest ever. You cannot compare your experiences in the 80s and 90s with experiences today. But the environment today is much more difficult to live in. Don't mistake cries of injustice with a feeling of entitlement. Today's youth did nothing to cause all the problems we have today. But we expect them to suck it up and deal with it.

Response by CPT Ahmed Faried made Oct 20 at 2014 3:50 AM

CPT Ahmed Faried — Mon, 20 Oct 2014 03:50:59 -0400

More kids spend time indoors on video games than outdoors doing some physical activity. This has an impact on their ability to sustain the physical requirements of military service.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2014 3:51 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 20 Oct 2014 15:51:40 -0400

Social Media and Video games have reuined how kids do stuff today....HA HA Back in my day i would beg to go outside and play, now kids are like "naw, im good playing COD" Really.....Then the parents wanna know why there kids stay at home all the time....

Response by LCDR William Johnston made Oct 24 at 2014 12:40 PM

LCDR William Johnston — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 12:40:32 -0400

Should we be alarmed by this [sic] data ...? We certainly should be! All of the barriers cited are, to a great extent, self-erected; thus the conditions are, to a great extent, preventable. One of the most preventable is obesity. Unfortunately, preventing obesity requires some knowledge of the biochemistry of nutrition. Not many people have this knowledge and bizarrely, that includes health and nutrition professionals, as well as others.

Almost two-thirds of Americans are overweight to some degree. The United States has the highest rate of overweight males among all major countries, with almost 75 per cent of adult American males being overweight or obese.

The prevalence of obesity in the population has more than doubled since the 1970s. The latest estimate from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is that 37.5 per cent of adult Americans are obese. The social costs of obesity exceed those of smoking and alcoholism.

Of American children and adolescents, about 16 per cent are obese. The Journal of the American Medical Association reports that 17 per cent of girls of ages 12 to 19 years are now suffering from childhood obesity, not just excess weight. Even more boys in that age range are obese –20 per cent– and the boys’ rates are still rising. And, worse, most Americans are not aware of how rapidly childhood obesity has increased.

The obesity epidemic in the United States affects not only public health and the labor market. It also affects national security. Mission:Readiness, a not-for-profit organization of retired military leaders, reports that no other major country’s military forces face the challenges of weight gain confronting America’s armed forces.

According to an analysis by the World Health Organization, U.S. male rates of being overweight or obese are higher than those of any other major country. As a result, the military has had to work much harder than in the past to recruit and retain enough qualified men and women who can effectively serve our country. Mission:Readiness has also reported that 27 percent of today’s young adults are too fat to serve in the military, causing concern about the strength of the nation’s future military. Nearly 25 per cent of all applicants to the military are medically disqualified because of excessive weight and body fat.

According to Cornell Population Center researchers John Cawley and Johanna Catherine MacLean, in 2007-2008, nearly 12 percent of eligible male civilians, ages 17 to 42, and 35 percent of eligible women. exceeded the Army’s weight and body fat limits. These levels reflect substantial increases over the past four decades. From 1959 to 2008, the percentage of men who were ineligible for enlistment because of their weight doubled, while the percentage of ineligible women tripled.

The monetary costs are high, too. The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) spends an estimated $1 billion per year just for medical care associated with weight-related health problems. And, the DOD must recruit nearly 190,000 new military personnel every year to replace those retiring or leaving military service for other reasons. The current cost is $50,000 per person, or $9.5 Billion.

Since the 1970s, the prevalence of Diabetes in America had more than quadrupled. More than 8 per cent, or nearly 26 million, of American adults and children suffer from the disease. An additional 79 Million have defective mitochondrial function, or Metabolic Syndrome. These people have elevated blood sugar levels and are pre-diabetic.

Obesity, Diabetes and Diabetes-related diseases not only seriously crimp personal and public productivity and national security, they hit everybody squarely in the wallet. The costs of dealing with ill health on so large a scale also imposes immense and growing negative effects on the nation's economy. On the whole, the diseases associated with obesity and Diabetes consume $1 Billion in unnecessary medical expenses every day.

Despite it massive interventions, the government has been unable to control the epidemic of diabetes, the specific failure of the prevailing low-fat diets to improve obesity, cardiovascular risk or general health and the persistent reports of some serious side effects of commonly prescribed diabetic medications, in combination with the continued success of low-carbohydrate diets in the treatment of diabetes and metabolic syndrome without significant side effects, point to the need for a reappraisal of dietary guidelines.

There is real irony inherent in the entire Michelle Obama “anti-obesity” program where the “cure" for obesity is based on unproven and unprovable assumptions and political misdirection by politicians and their cronies in Big Agribusiness, Big Food, and Big Pharma. Just look at the disconnect between what the government nutritional guidelines are and the results of following those guidelines. They all say that the cure for obesity is to eat more whole grains and less fat, etc., as well as get more exercise.

This is where the irony comes in: grains are full of carbohydrates; metabolizing carbohydrates causes the blood glucose level to rise; the rising blood glucose level causes the pancreas to secrete the hormone Insulin; Insulin causes the body to store fat (it also prevents the body from burning fat); and storage of fat makes the body bigger (it increases weight and girth); a bigger body needs more nutrients; the need for more nutrients to support a bigger body causes the person to eat more. The fatter you get, the more you have to eat. The whole thing is a vicious circle that can ultimate lead to metabolic syndrome and a host of chronic diseases including Diabetes Mellitus Type II and/or Type III.

Check all the preceding for yourself. Go to your local supermarket. Walk the aisles. Look at the shelves and get a sense of what kinds of things are sitting there. It won’t take long for you to see that the ratio of floor/shelf space given to carbohydrates compared to protein and fat is greater than 9:1. That top-heavy distribution's just what the government recommends.

For the right solution, it is time to go back to basics: the basics of human biochemistry. People need to know the truth about how the body processes the food they eat, what happens during the process, and what happens to blood chemistry afterward. Our day-to-day choices have a profound effect on the activities of our genes. Only with proper understanding will people be able to make the proper choices of what is healthful to eat and what is not. The process is complex but the concepts are simple and easy to understand. Well-respected scientific research validates the time-honored understanding that by far and away, the most powerful factors affecting health and longevity are modifiable choices including the foods we eat and the lifestyle we lead.

There are three basic nutritional myths with no scientific foundation that need to be dealt with. The first is that a low-fat high carbohydrate diet is good for people. The truth is that there have never been any substantiated benefits to a low-fat diet. Despite what food marketers would have you believe, humans have had a fat-based diet shaping our genome for 2.6 Million years. The second is that cholesterol is bad. The truth is that life cannot exist without cholesterol. The liver produces 80 per cent of the cholesterol in the body. Numerous studies have shown that dietary cholesterol does not affect blood cholesterol levels. The third is that calories count. Buying and eating food based on calorie count doesn’t address the biochemistry consequences. Becoming sick is not inevitable. The diseases we see today are largely brought on by our lifestyle not being in harmony with our genetic predisposition. We can get back into harmony by making different dietary choices..

There is no dispute that humans can eat three categories of food: the macronutrients protein, fat and carbohydrate. Likewise, it is not in dispute that of the three categories, ingestion of carbohydrate has the greatest effect on increasing the level of insulin production. Fat has almost no effect. When metabolized, all of these can release stored energy. If fully metabolized, carbohydrate and protein can release four calories per gram; fat can release nine calories per gram.

Carbohydrate, through its influence on the level of insulin in the body, is a potent regulator of metabolism and controls how the body burns fat. Although the body’s ability to store carbohydrate is very limited, its ability to store fat is not limited. When the body digests carbohydrate and absorbs it as sugar, the body is forced to prioritize its resources to burn that sugar. The level of insulin must rise to handle it. This causes a double whammy. When the body’s focus is on burning sugar, access to and metabolizing of fat is so impaired by the high level of insulin that the body is prevented from burning fat. The result of this twofold effect is that the body’s metabolism is “locked” into both a glucose-dependent state and fat storage mode. In simpler terms, the body becomes carboholic and fat-phobic at the same time. Reducing carbohydrate intake will stabilize blood sugar, stop food cravings and break addictive eating patterns.

It now becomes easy to see that excessive fat and resultant weight gain stems from excessive ingestion of carbohydrate which causes excessive production of insulin which, in turn, leads to the excessive storage of fat in the body’s fat cells. So, we can see that obesity and its metabolic consequences have almost nothing to do with dietary fat consumption and everything to do with its getting the body loaded up with carbohydrate. In a similar manner, eating high-cholesterol foods has no impact on our actual cholesterol levels. The alleged correlation between high cholesterol and higher risk of cardiovascular disease is an absolute fallacy.

Eating carbohydrate can create a state of biochemical dependence on it. The body’s biochemistry must be shifted to one that burns fat. This shift will radically reduce inflammation and act to prevent chronic illness and mental degradation. But for this to happen, the way of eating must change.

Fundamentally, the human body craves and needs a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet. In this regard, it is useful to note that, in terms of genetics, an extremely low in carbohydrate, high in fat, moderate in protein dietary regimen is what the human body is designed to thrive on. For this reason, eating a vegetarian diet for health reasons is misguided. As Dr. Perlmutter says, “It’s time to respect our human genome.” The bottom line rests on whether the body is going to be fed carbohydrate or fat.

What is carbohydrate? Unfortunately, the term “carbohydrate” is an inexact term that is applied to a class of bio molecules that have similar characteristics. The class includes a very large number of materials and includes a wide spectrum of chemical structures. The term carbohydrate was first used more than 100 years ago when detailed knowledge of its structure was not available. Originally, it referred to those naturally occurring substances that have a carbon-hydrogen-oxygen composition according to the formula (CH2O)n. As used today, the meaning of the term carbohydrate is far more general than “carbon-hydrates” and includes any substance that satisfies this criterion and many derived substances. Simply stated, all carbohydrate consists of chains of sugar molecules. Thus, all sugars are carbohydrate.

In general, carbohydrate contains a number of monosaccharides linked together as oligomers or polymers. The latter are referred to as oligosaccharides, polysaccharides, or, more generically, saccharide, sugar chains, or glycans. Except for its presence in milk and eggs, all carbohydrate, regardless of form or structure, is plant-based. The amount of lactose, the carbohydrate present in milk, is high, but the amount in eggs is insignificant. Although some protein and fat comes from plants, most comes from animals.

The focus on the Energy Balance Theory is misplaced. Why does conventional wisdom evade acknowledgment of the fundamentals of biochemistry? The major reason is in the choice of terms of reference. Thomas Pynchon once said, “If they can get you asking the wrong questions, they don’t have to worry about answers.” In addressing nutrition, weight gain and obesity, the focus of conventional wisdom is on biophysics. That focus is misplaced on the previously mentioned EBT, as if the human body was just another, typical, energy-consuming machine. But, the EBT cannot take into account the differences among the forms of dietary carbohydrates, protein and fat. Nor can it take into account the metabolic or hormonal environment into which these foods are introduced. As a result, conventional wisdom is forced to use a thermodynamic metric, namely, the calorie, or more properly, the kilocalorie.

In the highly simplistic EBT thermodynamic theory, the problem is defined as caloric disequilibrium. It proceeds from a simple, mathematical idea. The average American adult is said to consume 3,770 calories per day. The number of calories eaten in a day is compared to the number of calories burned in a day and if there is a surplus at the end of the day, the calories get stored as fat. This approach is built upon the idea that once a calorie enters the body the end result will be the same. But, this is a misuse of the laws of thermodynamics. The human body does not behave as if it is a physical machine. In truth, one cannot eat or burn a calorie. And, as the widespread national and global experiences have demonstrated, this approach doesn’t work. It is highly improbable that the two-thirds of Americans who are overweight or obese are lazy clods who overeat and under exercise. Nutrition is more about biochemistry than biophysics.

Because of its concentrated focus on the calorie as the primary metric unit to be used in dealing with obesity, the elephant in the room is not exposed. In fact, this focus solely on the counting of calories works well to obscure it. What is the name of the elephant? Carbohydrate! The appropriate metric unit? It is “grams of carbohydrate.”

Why count grams of carbohydrate instead of calories? Because carbohydrate constitutes the actual operative ingredient that comprises a large proportion of the harmful content of some foods. Tumors thrive on carbohydrate and regress when carbohydrate is lowered. In the Western diet, 70 per cent of energy sources is from refined sugars, grains, vegetable oils and dairy.

Because it has such a powerful effect on raising blood glucose, triggering the pancreas to secrete high levels of insulin, carbohydrate is the dietary component that does the “dirty work” in causing obesity. Thus, in dealing with the biological mechanisms involved in the fat storage process that can lead, ultimately, to obesity and Diabetes, the focus should be on carbohydrate. And, it is not only processed or refined carbohydrate that is the root of the problem. It includes whole wheat, whole grains, multigrain, seven-grain, live-grain, stone-ground, and so on.

It is because of this continuing misplaced focus that, on our journey to get to the core of the problem, we have left the onion of “diabesity” unpeeled. If we are to obliterate obesity and destroy Diabetes, we should not be afraid of confronting popular wisdom. We need to finish the job by peeling back all the layers of the onion. We need to get to the core where we can discover the true cause of obesity.

And, exercising can’t make you lose weight and keep it off, Yes, it uses up stored energy and tones your body (which are good) but it also drives up your hunger so you have to eat to refill depleted storage. Thus, your weight goes nowhere.

Add to all the above the fact that about half of all Americans are carbohydrate-intolerant and you will get over any wonder that you might have had as to why there are so many obese and diabetic people. It’s the carbohydrate, folks. Count the carbohydrate and the calories will take care of themselves.

Through thoughtful consideration of the above, it becomes self-evident that being alarmed about the situation is the right place to be.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2014 4:58 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 11 Dec 2014 16:58:37 -0500

BMI chart needs to change. Tattoo policy needs to change (less strict). Drug waivers will be rampant when they legalize marijuana across the US. What will that do to the recruit process? I think it will hurt the strength of the forces across the board. Big changes need to be implemented.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2014 6:08 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 11 Dec 2014 18:08:02 -0500

Just imagine for a moment, what if…
Soldiers were paid like professional athletes, $250 K minimum, possible signing bonuses, and contract negotiations. What if Soldiers were displayed on TV shows, movies and commercials while they are at work and at play, their vacation pictures plastered all over the tabloids? What if the drug infused, child beating, spouse cheating, ultra swank lifestyles of the currently “rich and famous” were only talked about on the news as an afterthought when they died?
It would be a backwards world. I am not a glory hound and neither is most of us in the military, but just think if that was the culture we grew up in. How many young adults would be selflessly serving others, would not be trying to score another high, or high score, how many would be concerned with fitness to try to get into the most sought after positions in the Military?

Response by LTC Paul Heinlein made Dec 12 at 2014 12:07 AM

LTC Paul Heinlein — Fri, 12 Dec 2014 00:07:27 -0500

Video Games!

Response by SSG Tim Everett made Dec 12 at 2014 10:20 AM

SSG Tim Everett — Fri, 12 Dec 2014 10:20:34 -0500

Fat bodies and criminals. That's my contribution to this thread. I've mentored a few kids into the military.

Response by Cpl Robert Masi made Dec 13 at 2014 1:39 PM

Cpl Robert Masi — Sat, 13 Dec 2014 13:39:44 -0500

I'm familiar with this study. It's because Most Americans are unfit for duty. At 17-24, they are now in trouble with the law far more often, to fat, too lazy, too emotionally weak, and more often than not have kids.
In turn, the Marines have lowered their standards to include women. That's right, I said women have lower standards in order to be Marines, because they can't meet real Marine standards. Go ahead and cry about it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 14 at 2014 5:31 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 14 Dec 2014 05:31:24 -0500

Even in 1945 less than 10% of the population served in the military. I'm not sure how damning these figures are even if they are true.

Response by SPC Christopher Smith made Dec 16 at 2014 7:23 PM

SPC Christopher Smith — Tue, 16 Dec 2014 19:23:51 -0500

For men: I believe the tattoo policy took away from many of the capable candidates off the top. Many people see friends or family in the military with tattoos, think it is alright to get a few, and when they attempt to join are given the go home speech instead.

For women: A good few I have spoken to have all said the same thing, they fear more for their personal safety because of the high amount of attention from sexual assault cases that have popped up over the past few years.

Overall, I believe that we as a military have not been kind to those who need a second shot at life. Yes, some of the young men and women messed up at some point growing up. If they did their time, why not give them an opportunity to serve their country, make some money the right way, and get away from the problems they had. The military is real good about getting rid of problem children when it wants to. If private corporations are willing to give people second chances to prove themselves and they are able to do so successfully, why not the US military?

Education, really when was the last time someone asked to see your high school diploma? Probably your grandmother after you got it. We are willing to pay for people to get associate degrees, and bachelor degrees while serving, how much would it be to demand within the first year or two the new service members successfully pass a night time GED course paid for by the military. If they don't pass it comes out of their pay, and until they pass they cannot get promoted beyond E-3. Problem solved.

I do not think we have done enough to help elevate the problem, there are several ways we could go about fixing some of these issues, and pointing at the young men and women as if they knew some day the military would become an option is not one of them. Many of us here if we'd like to say it or not did not have the military at the top of our list of possibilities. Some of you were a bit doughy when you joined, or maybe you took the time to cut some of the weight beforehand. Instead of pointing out a known problem lets talk about how we can fix it.

Response by SFC William Adamek made Dec 17 at 2014 12:38 PM

SFC William Adamek — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 12:38:09 -0500

Add in that in general HS's, and HS counselors, dont consider the military as a viable option for their students as evidenced by so many not allowing recruiters on campus and not being allowed to attend career days along with tech schools and colleges.

Response by SSG Steve Vincent made Dec 17 at 2014 7:19 PM

SSG Steve Vincent — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 19:19:57 -0500

I think we need to bring back to Draft but this time we use it for 15 years of age and higher , first. We need to motivate then to lose weight and stay in shape , 2 respect , teach them to give and receave respect . 3 team , teach them all about team work so this way they would be ready to join any branch of service they want to . If we as in United States of Anerica we need to be ready to fight any war and help defend other country's that need our help, also, we need to help the U.s. Homeless , practice field Operations on our boarders so we all be ready at a moment noteis I spent 31years in us , Army this country has it to good , people take Freedom for ggranted

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Dec 25 at 2014 3:23 AM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Thu, 25 Dec 2014 03:23:28 -0500

"75% of young people ages 17 to 24 are currently unable to enlist in the United States military. These are the most common barriers for potential recruits: failure to graduate high school, a criminal record, and physical fitness issues, including obesity."

This will be something to throw into the face of a person who says SMs are inferior and that is why they joined the military.

Response by PO3 Aaron Hassay made Dec 31 at 2014 2:44 PM

PO3 Aaron Hassay — Wed, 31 Dec 2014 14:44:42 -0500

I was going through TITLE 10 or maybe it was MEPCOM (need to go back and find the exact articles). But basically english proficiency does not have to be that good, and being a citizin is not necessary. Basically being illegal and not speaking english well is just fine for a recruiter to keep you going in MEPCOM indoc. When I was reading this and thinking of current kids from MEXICO and HONDURAS and wherever else flooding the border and getting more lawyers to support them, waiting in line, at the court house, banging down the walls to support these kids, and our society and how open we are to it, based on how it is reported so sympathetically, I finally understood what was going on and putting the articles in MEPCOM together for processing new recruits. I am a vet with a severe issues that I am finally dealing service related, put my life on the line, mentally and physically honorably, and it was hard for me to admit or understand the connection to service., some decade later after a failed life after being discharged. So, here it is. I don't have a line of lawyers or a society or even a VA that is reacting with open arms and welcoming, unless I am in the same line as these kids that got here from south of the border yesterday or a food bank with the same kids and some bunch of families from CHINA, since I live in the SF BAY Area.

Response by SGT Kennon Nilsen made Jan 16 at 2015 6:21 PM

SGT Kennon Nilsen — Fri, 16 Jan 2015 18:21:22 -0500

I am of the opinion that there are way too many factors involved than can be discussed in this one article. Responsibility is a key component in each of the lacking areas. Parents are no longer responsible for the upbringing of children. When you remove the control of the parents and turn it over to a government employee you begin to tear down the civic society. I for one have taught my children responsibility, not that they have always done things the right way, but once they make a mistake it becomes experience and not a stumbling block. The community I currently reside in has a large number of problems that will take at least 3 generations to correct. Education, both physical and mental, that has high standards can correct many problems. Sadly the same problems facing military recruiters also affect civilian employers. I work in an industry that is heavily regulated and as such there are many requirements that are similar to the military. Yes, to answer your last question, we should be alarmed.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2015 10:10 PM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Jan 2015 22:10:07 -0500

Honestly, if people won't take care of themselves before the military, why should the military take care of those persons for them? If a person isn't smart enough to even get a GED, can't stop eating McDonalds or start running, or has trouble with authority, WHY would the military want them?
To my knowledge, with both active and reserve components, the United States (along with its NATO and non-NATO allies) was able to be directly and heavily involved in 2 major conflict areas while supporting smaller operations in other countries. If we do need more people, I would suggest opening a foreign legion like in France or if really desperate, allow certain individuals to redeem themselves who have a criminal record.

Response by CPT Gary Wilkins made Jan 16 at 2015 10:26 PM

CPT Gary Wilkins — Fri, 16 Jan 2015 22:26:22 -0500

We should be alarmed, I suppose, since the message is that the state of US citizen health is horrific. Thus, many of the obese folks won't survive when ISIS starts attacking here, because they won't be able to run fast enough to escape should they not care to stay and fight.
The crime issue on the other hand, is in part, a victim of the times. In the old days, many kids with marginal criminal records were sent to the military by judges in the hopes of "straightening them out"--however, that's no longer a viable option. It's essentially the same with the education issue. You failed school, you joined the Service and learned a skill. These days, that's no longer a viable option. Got to be smart enough to use Army equipment (regardless of the fact that all kids these days seem to be born adept at using technical devices... :-O

Response by CPL Clifford Gilliam made Jan 17 at 2015 3:44 AM

CPL Clifford Gilliam — Sat, 17 Jan 2015 03:44:57 -0500

tells me they are lazy

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2015 7:56 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Jan 2015 19:56:20 -0500

I think you have to look no farther than TV to get what we think of ourselves. And that is the problem. People who have no regard to commitment, neither to their spouses or their families. Add to the mix that many are becoming irreligious and even contemptuous of each other's spirituality.

Bright people are nerds and geeks, and anti-social behavior becomes acceptable. Voters and people in general no longer know or care what is going on. We hear talk of jobs and education but if we are educating to old school factory jobs then that capital is wasted on careers that are altmodish.

Self-help books have given way to finding stuff for free. Minimum wage laws has some merit as in a living wage but then we get the 15/hr worker who may be lazy and unmotivated. Educated enough to complain but not inspired enough to do for others unless something is in it for them.

Then a president who says their is nothing exceptional about us as a nation. I remember JFK's quote about not asking what the country can do for you, but what can you do for your country. We have police violence and racism here and there but never any true call to action. No plans to be compassionate and finding ways to better all of us. We are divided and have our pet projects. Those include 'fairness' which is generally self-centered.

If I am a leader I get the best out of the people I lead. I remember training a young weather observer who later on went to be Observer of the year. I was a compassionate friend and leader and a perfectionist. Both qualities enhance job and pride in what we do.

If we are going to stand for nothing then we are nothing. If we let inner-cities crumble and violence scare people into silence then we get what we deserve. But we cannot and must not accept mediocrity and a lack of working together. The next 20-30 years we will see all sorts of technological leaps and some of this is right over the horizon. Scientists have already taken older mice in given them new blood and they were healthier and younger in appearance. They are also working on projects to substitute blood with saline and lowering the body's temperature to around 50F. Fixing the body and then reintroducing blood thus saving cells from permanent damage. The sky is the limit.

We need to stop fighting and we need high standards. We need to be able to call out children who are acting out with no consequences and be accountable to each other. Frankly, I am glad I am getting older because some of the new will be culture shock. Kind of like Alvin Toffler's book about that topic.

Response by PO2 Stephen Brinkley (Scott) made Jan 25 at 2015 1:50 PM

PO2 Stephen Brinkley (Scott) — Sun, 25 Jan 2015 13:50:53 -0500

I have an 18 yr old son that came to me this last summer and said Dad, I want to join the Air Force and be a Fire Fighter. So being the good Dad I try to be, I made calls to the local recruiting offices for him. I explained what my son wanted and made sure to throw in there that I was a veteran. What was the response given? We are not looking for Fire Fighters, if he wants to join the Air Force he has to pick one of the following jobs....
There was no, thanks for serving, lets see what we can do for your son. I wasn't looking for them to roll out the red carpet, but what happened to helping those that served previously to keep traditions going?

My son has ultimately decided against the military, even though he is in great shape, will graduate from high school with a 3.2gpa, and passed his SAT with 1300 (which other than #1, I could not say when I graduated). I know that recruiters have to fill those billets that are required the most of, but come on!

Response by SSgt Jacob Lenfestey made Jan 30 at 2015 5:21 PM

SSgt Jacob Lenfestey — Fri, 30 Jan 2015 17:21:36 -0500

Yet we still have recruiting offices over-flowing with eligible applicants who wait over a year to join.

Response by SSG Leonard Johnson made Jan 30 at 2015 6:05 PM

SSG Leonard Johnson — Fri, 30 Jan 2015 18:05:32 -0500

I don't have my notes on me, just did a report for college here in Colorado Springs, (25 pages) I dealt a little with this subject. When we were up to our shoulders in BS in Iraq, the command lowered the standards to join just to fill ranks. If you look now at the situation, we have a mental health issue. Why? Cuz they were bringing in lower standard recruits to fill ranks so they could avoid the draft. If I recall right this happened around the 05 plus era. Ever since the financial bust, people have been coming in for a job. Now standard are way up there where a recruit can't make it in unless they look like a stud and educated.
Now that we let all these sub-standard in, we now have a crisis here and not enough doctors to fix the problem.
Hope that kind a make sense

Response by SP5 Joel O'Brien made Mar 9 at 2015 11:14 AM

SP5 Joel O'Brien — Mon, 09 Mar 2015 11:14:12 -0400

Military service is only one option for the youth of America. It is, however, not for everybody to even consider as a possible lifestyle or occupation/career.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 5:21 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 17:21:18 -0400

Well it shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone that the U.S. has got some fat bastards. But with 75% not being able to enlist, I don't see that as too bad for the force itself considering that considerably less than the remaining 25% enlist anyway, or even would.

Response by CPT Ahmed Faried made Mar 27 at 2015 11:44 PM

CPT Ahmed Faried — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 23:44:28 -0400

Because on average the average American child spends only 13 minutes doing outdoor type activities. Follow that rabbit hole and you can see the implications for impacts on health, strength and other factors that'd disqualify them from service in the Armed Services.

Response by SFC Maury Gonzalez made Aug 7 at 2015 12:48 PM

SFC Maury Gonzalez — Fri, 07 Aug 2015 12:48:39 -0400

The clinic I work now i can tell you that several times a day when i place a kid on the digital scale, besides being to chunky they almost always turn around and say " mama what that say " when the weights are displayed on the screen

Response by CPO Greg Frazho made Feb 4 at 2016 10:43 AM

CPO Greg Frazho — Thu, 04 Feb 2016 10:43:04 -0500

We should be very alarmed because this, such as it is, is the future of America. People of that same generation that seem bent on being ne'er-do-wells, as my wife would call them, are going to populate the leadership and decision-making posts in the next 20 or so years. God help us. We can't expect to fight all wars or martial conflicts with joy sticks, push-button technology and mouse clicks from fortified safe zones halfway around the world.