New Military Ad and Recruitment
This article discusses a new three-minute military advertisement and its potential impact on recruitment, along with broader reflections on military service and societal attitudes towards veterans.
The New Military Ad
The ad focuses on warfighting, emphasizing a return to traditional values. It promises to measure success not only by victories but also by preventing wars, advocating for "peace through strength." The ad aims to replenish pride in the armed forces and address the recruitment crisis. The core message is fighting out of love for one's nation, not out of hatred for the enemy.
Initial Reactions and Observations
Initial reactions to the ad included observations about the absence of women and the potential connection to increased military enlistment. The speaker wondered if the absence of women was a conscious choice. The glorification of military service was also noted.
Enlistment Numbers and Historical Context
A claim was made that military enlistment is at an all-time high, but this was questioned. A personal anecdote was shared about joining the "Modern Action Army" in 1968, during the Vietnam War. The conversation touched upon the shift in public opinion regarding the military since that time. Only a small percentage of the population currently serves in the military.
Shifting Societal Attitudes Towards Veterans
The discussion shifted to the reception veterans received upon returning home from Vietnam. The speaker was advised to remove their uniform before going to the airport to avoid negative reactions. However, personal experiences varied. One person recalled being largely ostracized, while another cited claims that negative treatment of veterans was largely untrue.
Contrasting Experiences and Changing Times
The contrast between the reception of Vietnam veterans and current attitudes was highlighted. The conversation touched upon coping mechanisms employed by soldiers during and after the war, including substance use.
Potential Factors Influencing Recruitment
The discussion closed by suggesting that the current political climate and leadership within the Department of Defense, specifically a Secretary of Defense with a strong military image, might be contributing to an increased interest in joining the military. The impulse to serve and the desire for a strong military are seen as enduring motivations. A desire to avoid further involvement in Middle Eastern conflicts was also expressed.
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