Army Expands Basic Training to Boost Recruitment

The U.S. Army has unveiled plans to expand its basic combat training as part of a strategic effort to bolster recruitment numbers, which have struggled in recent years. Army officials are optimistic about reaching their target of 55,000 recruits this year, following a series of challenges that have hindered recruitment efforts. Factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which restricted recruiter interactions, a rising number of potential recruits failing to meet physical and mental standards, and a growing disconnect between civilians and military life have all contributed to these difficulties. Army Secretary Christine Wormuth expressed confidence in the Army's recruitment transformation efforts, stating that they are on track to meet this year's goals, with thousands of recruits already awaiting basic training. The expansion will commence in October at Fort Sill in Oklahoma and Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri, where two additional basic training units will be established to accommodate up to 4,000 recruits annually. Wormuth indicated that further expansion could occur next spring if recruitment numbers continue to improve. In response to the recruitment slump, the Army initiated the Future Soldiers Preparatory Course pilot program at Fort Jackson in South Carolina in 2022. This program aims to provide potential recruits with the necessary education and training to meet the Army's academic and physical requirements, offering up to 90 days of instruction before they enter basic training. Despite these efforts, the Army has faced setbacks, failing to meet its recruitment goals in both 2022 and 2023, highlighting the ongoing challenges in attracting new soldiers.