The Pentagon’s War on Accountability — War Is Boring

That's for sure. But what about the guys who aren't trying to reclass, but want to get a skill identifier? Or just want to develop themselves? How is it possible that we have billions of dollars for all kinds of programs, but try getting sent to master gunner?

Yes that's part of the reason I got out. The Army's goals and mine weren't aligned. I felt leadership was not concerned with my personal goals - I wanted to be a SF Ranger - leadership needed a CAV Scout. - the reality of what the Army needs vs personal wants. So more advice don't get sucked into a dead end MOS just for the signing bonus. Some MOS's are black holes that your never coming out of. I get and I don't get it - you need people in some shit jobs and you don't want them to bail when things get tough however it also prevents SM from growing and taking on more challenging roles, developing leadership skills and having a long military career. Only 17% retire and I would argue that a part of this is due to the DoD deciding if a SM is going to retire more so than it being the SM's decision.