Posted on Sep 12, 2020
MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P
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It seems every time I open a newspaper, news site, webpage, or other electronic publication there is at least one report of some service member being convicted of criminal acts. Talking with my son (who is active duty) and others who still serve, it seems more and more troops are facing disciplinary actions (up to and including general courts martial and punitive discharge). It makes me ask the question have we lowered the standards to much in an attempt to make recruiting goals? Years ago, we gave individuals the option of joining the military or going to prison. That proved disastrous overall and (thankfully) the policy was largely stopped. Now it seems we are returning to those days and waiving all sorts of derogatory history so an individual can be enlisted into the military.

As a secondary question: Has discipline become more of an issue or is it just in Today's interconnected world we see/hear more reporting of criminal activity?

https://www.wate.com/news/former-fort-campbell-medic-sentenced-to-15-years-in-rape-and-murder-of-infant-daughter/
Posted in these groups: Original CrimeDiscipline1 DisciplineChecklist icon 2 Standards
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Responses: 18
Lt Col Charlie Brown
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Recruits are like a box of chocolate. You really often don't know what you've got until they are on board. Especially with 18/19 year olds
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LTC Eugene Chu
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Standards change depending on time period.Vietnam War had Project 100,000 and OIF had waivers for criminal records. During drawdowns, standards for joining are stricter. The requirements change depending on recruiting needs
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MCPO Roger Collins
MCPO Roger Collins
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Yay, something we agree on 100%.
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CPT Staff Officer
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I wonder when the DOD is going to try to improve manning numbers at the exit door rather than at the entrance door.
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