What do you see as the military's greatest challenge in 2023 and why?

RallyPoint News — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 12:00:23 -0400

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Response by COL Randall C. made Apr 6 at 2023 12:05 PM

COL Randall C. — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 12:05:27 -0400

Two words - Recruitment and Retention.

First and foremost, the military's primary mission is to defend the country and its citizens. This requires a well-trained, disciplined, and dedicated force of men and women who are willing to put their lives on the line to protect their country.

Furthermore, the military is a complex organization that requires a wide range of skills, knowledge, and expertise to operate effectively - from combat soldiers to intelligence analysts, logistics personnel to engineers, each person in the military plays a critical role in ensuring the success of the mission.

The military will face numerous challenges - evolving threats, budgetary limitations, geopolitical instability, and an ever changing environment. They have risen to meet these challenges before and will do so again. However, without the right people everything becomes much, much harder.

As our current CSA said (and this applies to all the services), “Winning matters, and People are my number one priority. People are our Soldiers – Regular Army, National Guard and Reserve - their Families, Civilians, and Soldiers for Life – Retirees and Veterans. We win through our people, and people will drive success in our Readiness, Modernization and Reform priorities. We must take care of our people...”

People are the backbone of the military, and without them, it would be impossible for the military to achieve its objectives and protect the country.

Response by SSG William Jones made Apr 6 at 2023 12:06 PM

SSG William Jones — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 12:06:45 -0400

Troop strength is dwindling dangerously low due to administrative mismanagement and wokeism.

Response by LTC Eugene Chu made Apr 6 at 2023 12:19 PM

LTC Eugene Chu — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 12:19:18 -0400

My personal opinion for biggest challenge in 2023 is US political instability. Debt ceiling affects funding in order to keep military paid and operational. One US Senator is currently blocking service promotions due to his views over abortion. If federal government is too divided, military will not have resources or guidance to operate.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Apr 6 at 2023 12:45 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 12:45:35 -0400

Supporting Ukraine because we don't want Russia to win the war.

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made Apr 6 at 2023 4:46 PM

SFC Ralph E Kelley — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 16:46:36 -0400

Rebuilding our arsenal after all the losses in the past 3 years.

Response by SPC James Neidig made Apr 8 at 2023 1:42 AM

SPC James Neidig — Sat, 08 Apr 2023 01:42:55 -0400

Recruitment !
Too Many Young People of America Today Have Been Indoctrinated In The Wokeism Movement And Care More About Themselves Than They Care About Others And The Country , That Is One Reason Why Recruitment Is Down.
Another Reason Is That They Can’t Meet The Standards For Enlistment.
They Are Not Physically Or Mentally Fit, Have Criminal Records And Worst Of All Have A Poor Education And Can Not Pass The ASVAB Test.
Some Of These Can Be Corrected By A Better Education System That Not Only Teaches The Basics Of Reading, Writing And Math ! But Also Physical Fitness ! And Stop Pushing The Liberal Agenda !
More Parental Involvement With Their Children In All Aspects Of Life .There Are Too Many Absent Parents Who Allow Their Children To Not Learn How To Live A Healthy And Successful Life.
Religion Should Also Be Taught To Our Children It Makes No Difference Whether It Is Christian Or Another Faith, If They Are Taught There Is Something Greater Than Mankind Then They Will Know That Service To Others Is More Important Than Service To Self.

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Apr 9 at 2023 10:48 AM

SFC Casey O'Mally — Sun, 09 Apr 2023 10:48:41 -0400

Moving away from the politicians and closer to the populace.

There is a very widespread perception the previously apolitical military is becoming (or has become) politicized. Regardless of how true or untrue this perception is, this is one of those cases where perception is reality. The military needs to fix this, and quick. I don't have the full answer, but we can start with active flag officers NOT taking political stances. And retired ones, if they take political stances, CLEARLY taking a personal stance, not a professional one.

At the same time, the military, over time, has divorced itself from the general populace (or maybe vice versa). So, as the military moves away from politicians and politics, they need to move closer to the people. More engagement. More visibility. Be out in the community. Be in the schools. Show the people that service members are just normal Americans who have answered the call. We are not some special breed of super hero. We are just the people who said "yes" when Uncle Sam came calling.

Response by Sgt David Branham made Apr 9 at 2023 1:37 PM

Sgt David Branham — Sun, 09 Apr 2023 13:37:42 -0400

Chinese blockading Taiwan

Response by SGT Ruben Lozada made Apr 11 at 2023 4:01 PM

SGT Ruben Lozada — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 16:01:14 -0400

Good afternoon. Excellent post. Thank You for sharing this. The greatest challenge this year for the Military I would have to say is recruitment and retention. All of the branches of the Military are struggling to recruitment qualified personnel and retaim them as well. Also, the numbers keep havr been decreasing since the Navy came out with the High Year Tenure system, and the Army with its Retention Control Point. I've witnessed in both active duty and Navy Reserves a lot of Sailors who involuntarily separated because He or She didn't fall under a certain criteria. The same went for Active duty and Army Reserves. Ironically, the Navy and Army didn't have enough manpower to function properly since it came out with those two programs.

Response by Amn Dale Preisach made Apr 11 at 2023 5:08 PM

Amn Dale Preisach — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 17:08:33 -0400

Keeping current Reenlistments and Recruiting quotas up and meeting or exceeding them.

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Apr 12 at 2023 10:17 AM

SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 10:17:21 -0400

thanks for sharing

Response by SFC Robert Devincenzo made Apr 12 at 2023 5:50 PM

SFC Robert Devincenzo — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 17:50:44 -0400

Politics

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2023 5:54 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 17:54:09 -0400

Attracting younger people to join. There are many good opportunities for someone with just a high school diploma now that they have many other choices.

Response by PO2 Sarah Moore made Apr 12 at 2023 5:55 PM

PO2 Sarah Moore — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 17:55:02 -0400

Biggest challenge is bringing the message across to young men and women that the fight for our freedoms and those of others is still real. It's a worthy cause to join the military and fight. If we don't stand up and protect, we are not honoring those who came before us, gave their lives, saved millions of innocent lives. It's a challenge but I think we can do it.

Response by 1LT David Johnson made Apr 12 at 2023 5:59 PM

1LT David Johnson — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 17:59:12 -0400

The US must simultaneously support Ukraine while also insuring we have adequate military resources to protect our own global interests.

Response by SP5 Cedric Robinson made Apr 12 at 2023 6:00 PM

SP5 Cedric Robinson — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 18:00:55 -0400

Mature individuals with high levels of training. Not enough quality ammo.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2023 6:02 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 18:02:55 -0400

One of the the greatest challenges of 2023 will be CERNER. CERNER may be okay for the military side but it’s not working so well for the VA. We need a program that truly unit both the military and the VA. It needs to be seamless and easy to navigate. It should not NOT cause more work or more clicks. We need a program that is easy to understand and that people get, and when I say people, I mean both the people of the civilian side, the military side and the VA side.

Response by TSgt Terri Williams made Apr 12 at 2023 6:03 PM

TSgt Terri Williams — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 18:03:40 -0400

Recruitment.
I believe our young have been brainwashed to the point that very few of them have a patriotic heart. Most young persons refuse to serve in the military, and many parents refuse to let them. They have no concept of what JFK meant when he said, "And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country. My fellow citizens of the world: ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man."

Response by PO2 Troy Lockwood made Apr 12 at 2023 6:19 PM

PO2 Troy Lockwood — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 18:19:04 -0400

Recruiting. Hands down, recruiting is going to be the military's biggest challenge in 2023. There is an image problem with all branches of the service. They just don't appeal to this newer generation of potential soldiers and sailors.

Response by SGT Erick Holmes made Apr 12 at 2023 6:22 PM

SGT Erick Holmes — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 18:22:22 -0400

Technology. The not knowing. The advances in everything. Most Soldiers, Airmen/women, Marines and Sailors are having a hard time changing to new things. You can't say this or that. You have to be tech savey in order to turn on or start new military vehicles its crazy. Its hard to keep up. I feel bad for the older military members that may not know what to do in the real world after military life which will be difficult.

Response by Pvt Debby Rusovick made Apr 12 at 2023 6:23 PM

Pvt Debby Rusovick — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 18:23:26 -0400

Russia and China. These two countries are allies with each other and together could cause us some damage if they decide to declare war on the U.S. That and lack of recruitment. Young adults are no longer interested in fighting for our country. Many of them lack principles and discipline. They are lazy and want everything handed to them on a silver platter.

Response by SGT William Purcell made Apr 12 at 2023 6:29 PM

SGT William Purcell — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 18:29:33 -0400

Budget Constraints: The U.S. military budget has been steadily decreasing in recent years, which could limit the military's ability to invest in new equipment, technology, and training necessary to maintain readiness and modernize the force.
Great Power Competition: The U.S. faces increasing competition from great powers such as China and Russia, who are expanding their military capabilities and challenging U.S. dominance in key strategic areas. This competition could lead to increased tensions and potentially even conflict.
Cyber Threats: With the increasing reliance on technology and connectivity, the military is vulnerable to cyberattacks that could disrupt critical systems and compromise sensitive information.
Terrorism: Despite significant progress in the fight against terrorism in recent years, the threat of terrorism remains a persistent challenge for the U.S. military, with groups such as ISIS and al-Qaida continuing to pose a threat to global security.
Geopolitical Instability: Political instability and conflict in regions such as the Middle East, Africa, and Asia could lead to an increased demand for U.S. military intervention, putting a strain on resources and potentially leading to long-term engagements.
Overall, the U.S. military faces a complex and evolving set of challenges in 2023, which will require strategic thinking, innovation, and flexibility to overcome. It will be important to maintain a strong defense posture, invest in modernization and technology, and work with allies and partners to promote global stability and security.

Response by PV2 David Trilety made Apr 12 at 2023 6:31 PM

PV2 David Trilety — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 18:31:16 -0400

We as Veterans, Leaders, and Parents must instill a true sense of pride into our young people, and be the example. Pride in the fact so many lives have been sacrificed, to secure their right to freedom in this country. My dad served during Korea, and several brothers as well. I remember my best friends brother-in-law when he came home from Vietnam as a Marine. The way he wore his uniform, in true solider fasion, no wrikles, and creases in the pants you could shave with. After High School, I enlisted into the United States Army. I could see myself riding in a Helicopter with ARMY painted on the side.

Response by SSgt Louis Petrillo made Apr 12 at 2023 6:37 PM

SSgt Louis Petrillo — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 18:37:10 -0400

China, Russia and definitely “wokism”, While we sit on our asses, China is slowly moving everywhere else, they don’t plan on taking us in war, but with economy. Meanwhile we’re afraid of really helping Ukraine, so we let them limp along as long as we don’t hurt some pride somewhere, and don’t get me started about wokism, now we have to watch everything we do and say so we don’t hurt someone’s little feelings, oh please grow a set.

Response by SP5 Louis Alexander made Apr 12 at 2023 6:46 PM

SP5 Louis Alexander — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 18:46:13 -0400

Our democracy because it is being challenged from the inside and that leads to a rip in democracy fabric

Response by CPL Cecelia Norwid made Apr 12 at 2023 6:46 PM

CPL Cecelia Norwid — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 18:46:50 -0400

I don't think the current problems, of which there are many, will be fixed under this President or his Cabinet members. When General Milley speaks of Diversity being the biggest problem...and that he devotes a great deal of time examining his "white rage"...in my mind, we're done. Do you think any of our adversaries, aside from laughing at the US military as a whole, are devoting even a second to gender studies and all the woke nonsense that goes along with it? You bet they're not. And until we get serious, professional people back in the Pentagon, the downward spiral will continue.

Response by Cpl Ramiro Rodriguez made Apr 12 at 2023 6:47 PM

Cpl Ramiro Rodriguez — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 18:47:20 -0400

Wokeness

Response by PO3 Robert Scroggins made Apr 12 at 2023 6:53 PM

PO3 Robert Scroggins — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 18:53:56 -0400

I was an Aviation Electronics technician VX-9. In my opinion, the military's greatest challenge in 2023 is likely to be adapting to new technologies and global security threats while managing limited resources and competing demands.

Response by PO3 Patrick Clark made Apr 12 at 2023 6:59 PM

PO3 Patrick Clark — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 18:59:27 -0400

As a vet, I feel, if it wasn't for the age restriction, that I'd re-serve my country again and go back through it. For the biggest challenge is, that the military provides too many good things that civilian life will never provide. Plus when getting out you'll have the GI Bill for life and who couldn't ask such a better thing? But to be honest, people are just not willing to give up and serve for their country because they are too scared.

Response by SPC Jacquelynne King made Apr 12 at 2023 7:01 PM

SPC Jacquelynne King — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 19:01:49 -0400

One word…. Wokeness!

Response by Sgt Robert Flitcraft made Apr 12 at 2023 7:10 PM

Sgt Robert Flitcraft — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 19:10:45 -0400

Remembering we are here to protect the country and its interests worldwide and not a proving grounds for social justice and wokeness...

Response by PO3 Richard Volz made Apr 12 at 2023 7:11 PM

PO3 Richard Volz — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 19:11:58 -0400

The biggest challenge IMO is go back to being Men and Women and not so WOKE. You won't get the best by the way it is run now a days.

Response by SP6 Kenny Woodyard made Apr 12 at 2023 7:17 PM

SP6 Kenny Woodyard — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 19:17:19 -0400

Us! We're riddled with Adversity Training, White people are bad training, Don't offend me training, Sexual Assault, Racial Profile Training. The Government has ruin another wonderful Organization Called the Army. Toxic environment thanks to Liberal Democrats who see WHITE as they enemy and People of color still not having a fair chance after 2023 years... We are our own biggest enemy...

Response by PO2 Larry Fullhart made Apr 12 at 2023 7:17 PM

PO2 Larry Fullhart — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 19:17:52 -0400

Transfer VA veterans medical care to civilian doctors.

Response by SPC James Strande made Apr 12 at 2023 7:20 PM

SPC James Strande — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 19:20:20 -0400

Maintaining a strong military to represent our country, and doing it in such a way as to let this be a deterant to other nations who might want to threaten us. Along with this, on a similar"note" we must be tough on those who show a threat to our nations security, like the recent China baloon incident. We can not let this type of thing "pass" as a benign event, with no reaction from our government. Also I think our military, both active and reserve, should be involved in controling the borders of our country, that have been controlled for good reason in the past. We can't afford to have drug dealers and terrorists sneaking in without being captured, and interrogated,and vetted. This is a huge threat to our nations security, and we have plenty of armed forces available that could be helping on the borders. This i a serious threat to our society and our economy. Jim Strande retired Army Viet Nam

Response by SP6 Robert W made Apr 12 at 2023 7:23 PM

SP6 Robert W — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 19:23:40 -0400

Discipline. Any old vet will tell you they see a decline in the code. Allowing personal preference to run the Army, or any other service, will loose the battle. The Military has bent over backwards accomodating individuals. Its time to enforce code, and give the benefits that are earned, acknowledge the awarded. The Military isn't meant to codle people, but build soldiers.

Response by SGT Lisa Mayne made Apr 12 at 2023 7:28 PM

SGT Lisa Mayne — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 19:28:10 -0400

It is imperative that our military root out and punish those involved in white supremacist and other hate groups. We as a nation and those who represent and defend us cannot allow this blight on our honor to stand.

Response by CAPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2023 7:31 PM

CAPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 19:31:14 -0400

State legalization of THC - while it continues to be prohibited per federal law/the military

Response by MSgt Brenda Miller made Apr 12 at 2023 7:32 PM

MSgt Brenda Miller — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 19:32:47 -0400

The greatest challenge for me was PCSing to a new assignment. Being a female in a male dominante career field, I had to prove myself. Upon becoming a supervisor, the men outranked did not respect my rank.

Response by PVT Michael Renville made Apr 12 at 2023 7:39 PM

PVT Michael Renville — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 19:39:29 -0400

I see the greatest military challenge of 2023 unfortunately is the US Government itself. I know this will probably tick some people off but, it is my opinion. First, with all of the sensitivities, feelings, & emotional issues, Aside from protecting our Country and guardsmen protecting states as needed and all of them under constant scrutiny and recording, They have to watch what they say, they have to be sure not to offend anyone, they have to consider people's pronouns and what people identify as and I personally think that these issues are a huge distraction and they won't be able to give 109% of their efforts. Soldier's in today's military can't give it their all because along with all of these distractions, they're also constantly worried about dishonorable discharges, getting into legal trouble, etc. We've all been paying attention to the news and just one negative accusation can now literally end someone's career and change a person's life forever. Second, With the war in Ukraine and the inevitable war about to happen with Taiwan, our Government leader's are giving away our countries personal offensive and defensive weapons along with billions of dollars. Our country it seems according to the news stories around the world is provoking Iran, North Korea, China and Russia. The world knows what the United States is capable of and yet we're spending millions/billions of dollars in constant live war games, launching missiles, continuous wear and tear on all Naval vessels and equipment. We won't be prepared for a large scale war. I understand and sympathize with Ukraine and Taiwan but we have to also take in effect that all of the weapons, Defense equipment, Tanks, Jets, Patriot Missile Defenses, ammunition, weapons, nuclear deterrents.. That is all taking away from our own military. We have record numbers of illegal immigrants constantly coming to the border, hundreds/thousands of them are serious criminals and threats to our general population. Drug cartels, drug mules, Human trafficking, rapers, murderers, assaults, thefts all of which is also costing the United States millions of dollars and is a huge safety issue plus the constant lawsuits from American organizations who want to just let everyone in and our Government leader's seem to be doing nothing. They provided food to a very large number of illegal immigrants and they let all of that food rot and go bad in protest for better food. I am a Disabled Veteran and I'm unable to work. I have to go to the local food shelf for help but they're only allowed to provide 2-3 days worth of food once every 30 days. I go without food many days and illegal immigrants are wasting food out of greed? I feel so bad for what our soldier's have to put up with in today's military and with our current government leadership. I think we should use our military to defend our borders and fix our country for rom within. We need to stop giving everything away, stop unnecessary government spending and invest in our country. Rebuild our defenses, build back our military arsenal. Provide our soldier's with better equipment and protections. Once we've fixed our own countries issues and supplies, then we can start to help others countries. I know some of this got off topic but, I think the government is our militaries greatest challenge of 2023.

Response by PFC Sandy Cleary made Apr 12 at 2023 7:42 PM

PFC Sandy Cleary — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 19:42:32 -0400

The biggest challenge is to reduce suicides by having veterans go to civilian mental health facilities and get the help that they need.

Response by Sgt Roel DeLaGarza made Apr 12 at 2023 7:43 PM

Sgt Roel DeLaGarza — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 19:43:08 -0400

Our military wanted to down size and did so. Now we are more vulnerable to our enemies. We need troop and military strength.

Response by LCpl Beazer B Pitiger made Apr 12 at 2023 7:47 PM

LCpl Beazer B Pitiger — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 19:47:09 -0400

Preparedness, Quick response, and sustainability albeit nuclear or conventional.

Response by SPC Desmond Moore made Apr 12 at 2023 7:47 PM

SPC Desmond Moore — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 19:47:40 -0400

The erosion of patriotism and the wave of cancel culture entering the military it's hurting preparedness and combat effectiveness

Response by MSgt John Niespodziani made Apr 12 at 2023 7:54 PM

MSgt John Niespodziani — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 19:54:44 -0400

Keeping China contained and budgetary control.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2023 8:01 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 20:01:30 -0400

Recruiting is one of the biggest challenges in 2023. The American ideology has shifted its focus. Not a lot of folks want to join the military. The pay is low, you have to go through bootcamp, and the treatment throughout can vary from degrading to somewhat alright.

The farther we come with technology the less people are apt to doing things themselves. Our society relies on pleasantries of life without wanting to work for them. Every generation has worked harder to make life easier for the future generations and their children. This is an extremely wonderful idea, but without the proper thought process, can hinder us and future generations going into the military.

Everyone is connected, but everyone at the same time lives in their own bubble in America. Very rare will you find hard working logical thinking individuals. We are not taught to think that way anymore. Society and the media have given us different ideas to embrace. I may be extremely wrong for saying this, but in my opinion these ideas have helped to keep individuals inside a shell that help them to believe it is ok to be self centered and to not want to get out of their bubble.

I saw an article where more recruits from the south were being injured in basic training. Most of the recruits come from the south the article read. With the way our lives revolve around media and being inside most of the day, our bodies are more prone to getting hurt. In the 1940s and 1910s Americans may have been getting hurt at basic training, but we did not hear much about it to my knowledge. These Americans grew up outside, getting dirty, climbing trees, running bare foot, trying new dangerous things.

Americans these days do not do that, and therefore are more prone to injury. This is because being put through bootcamp is not natural. America is not what it once was in my opinion. We are being told that it is better than ever, but with our mentality of self centeredness, we will crumble. No one wants to go out, put their life on the line, and fight for other people. Especially with the pay rate for the military coming in.

There are jobs that are much less stressful now people can go into where they won't have to go through bootcamp. This is enticing for future generations. Especially when the government helps with so many programs and incentives to stay at home while getting paid to do nothing. This is another big roadblock. Why would someone want to go into the military when the government is already paying them for not working?

The American mindset needs to change, and the military pay rate needs to change. The board in charge of fixing issues needs to be prior military, who came from small and large communities with a variety of backgrounds. Offering associate degrees for a certain amount of years automatically to all enlisted members would be a good start considering Tuition Assistance is taken away until year 3 of service.

The military needs to be able to adapt to the new society better in order to assist in recruitment. With enough thought there are ways to recruit and keep numbers up. Some of the issues come from leadership inside the military itself. Friends of friends getting out tell them how bad it is or how rotten leadership is. The military as a whole almost needs a new restructuring of its own to create better leaders that think about their troops/sailors versus themselves.

Once again the self centered attitudes are hurting the military from within and on the outside. Fixing this is really up to knowing how to sway peoples minds and to get them thinking in different minds.

Please keep in mind, this is all opinion, so take this with a grain of salt. "A strong mind can entertain a thought without excepting it." Aristotle.

Response by SGT Norton Helton made Apr 12 at 2023 8:15 PM

SGT Norton Helton — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 20:15:45 -0400

The military greatest challenge is getting homeless veterans off the street and into a home with mental and physical, and job assistance. Our current soldiers are looking at the way we treat our veterans who have been exposed to combat and now faces mental, physical and employment challenges. We have to do more to convince them that it is ok to ask for help. That we are there for them and will always be there for them in their struggles. Norton Helton

Response by SGT Steve Ferguson made Apr 12 at 2023 8:23 PM

SGT Steve Ferguson — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 20:23:30 -0400

The Military, all Branches and members needs to make sure elected and appointed offficials keep providing funding so that all our troops are the best prepared and best equipped in the world. We need to ensure that each generartion of incoming servicemen and women are never again set up to fail from political bickering over speeding and petty power games. Afghanistan now feels like Vietnam doesn't it? Even a little?

Response by SPC Cherlyn Harris, Cherlyn R made Apr 12 at 2023 8:26 PM

SPC Cherlyn Harris, Cherlyn R — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 20:26:08 -0400

The greatest challenge that the military has in 2023 is recruitment and updating military navy warships and submarines. I believe America should enforce a mandatory 2 year enlistment among all qualified 18 year old females and males to meet our quotas.

Response by SFC Jim Hunter made Apr 12 at 2023 8:30 PM

SFC Jim Hunter — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 20:30:12 -0400

That is an easy question. Joe Biden! He has done more to destroy the military than any adversary we have ever faced. As to recruiting and retention, his woke policies have directly impacted that. As examples; the COVID requirement, intentionally singling out conservative members, the renaming of military forts, and pushing gender issues. A majority of recruits come from the South. They tend to be religious, conservative and proud of their military traditions. As a former Army recruiter, I can tell you for sure in the area I had, it would be very hard indeed to recruit. Leftists tend not to be patriotic. They don't join the military generally, that is if they could even qualify. The debacle in Afghanistan drastically cost moral for the currently serving troops. That information comes from my two active duty sons.
As to the defense budget, spending millions to address global warming instead of spending money on training, equipment, and readiness. We have lost face on the world stage and we are seen as a weak nation and weak military.

Response by GySgt Sarah Klimm made Apr 12 at 2023 8:30 PM

GySgt Sarah Klimm — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 20:30:45 -0400

Recruiting

Response by SPC Gary Jackson made Apr 12 at 2023 8:40 PM

SPC Gary Jackson — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 20:40:25 -0400

If you have a degree 4 years and up to Ph.D. and you join the Military. After basic you're still an E-1 pay grade. That's one of the reasons. There are no taps and lights out anymore or Revele. It's Drugs and alcohol, and a loser mentality. IQ level. 50. Gangs everywhere, you can't even walk the streets at night. Now you know why there are so many suicides.

Response by SrA James Handley made Apr 12 at 2023 8:40 PM

SrA James Handley — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 20:40:33 -0400

Pay equity versus civil sector.

Response by MSgt Joseph Green made Apr 12 at 2023 8:44 PM

MSgt Joseph Green — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 20:44:04 -0400

The DOD's totally corrupt, woke, & incompetent leadership. Obama got rid of all the good Field & Flag-rank officers and Biden got rid of all the good, competent enlisted personnel. Bad, woke policies are the real reason for the problems in recruiting & retention. I served honorably and well (3 years USMC, 12 years USNR-R, 16 years USAFR) for almost 31 years but today I cannot recommend the military as a good option to any young person. I retired as a Master Sergeant in the Air Force Reserves Civil Engineers. I love my country and it hurts me to see the evil that has taken over.

Response by MAJ Gary Goodsell made Apr 12 at 2023 8:44 PM

MAJ Gary Goodsell — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 20:44:08 -0400

Counterproductive leadership

Response by SPC Timothy Powers made Apr 12 at 2023 8:45 PM

SPC Timothy Powers — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 20:45:04 -0400

The biggest challenge that will over see all challenges is recruiting and retention due to the current affairs and accountability of the current administration that controls the white house. It's going to be super difficult to maintain the amount of soldiers needed to maintain an top shape military force. The second biggest challenge is going to be morale! Keeping the individuals that are currently serving upbeat and optimistic about what lies ahead not only for them but for their units and as a military as a whole to ensure and allow them to serve with dignity and with selfless service, honor, integrity, without personal objective

Response by PO2 John Drillock made Apr 12 at 2023 8:48 PM

PO2 John Drillock — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 20:48:32 -0400

Too many challenges to list them all.

Response by SSG James Zelonis made Apr 12 at 2023 8:53 PM

SSG James Zelonis — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 20:53:59 -0400

What is "Woke" is broke. It is destroying our military and our country. Putting unqualified people in positions of authority just because they are freaks is not conducive to sustainability.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2023 8:55 PM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 20:55:13 -0400

Forget the strick tattoo rules this is another Generation or Soldiers. Art/ expression freedom of ink should not hold you back. We are in 2023 and going to war with two countries possible its a dead rule. Grow up America

Response by SrA Tron Yang made Apr 12 at 2023 8:59 PM

SrA Tron Yang — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 20:59:31 -0400

I see that the military's greatest challenge in 2023 is the Russian war and the recovery of Covid-19. Due to those conflicts all nations has suffered. Although it will be an ongoing conflict and slow recovery, we need all the forces from our allies whether it is the Marines, Army, Navy, Airforce, and Spaceforce, and we must unite to have a better world for everyone.

Response by SGT Steve Ferguson made Apr 12 at 2023 9:01 PM

SGT Steve Ferguson — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 21:01:26 -0400

Our military, all branches and members need the continued support of elected and appointed officials, all decision makers to keep our funding such that we are the best equipped and best trained in the world. Period. We cannot let the process be derailed by petty political bickering and power struggles. We need to make sue pour current and successive generations of servicemen and women are never again set up to fail. Rather, we need them set up to succeed. I mean doesn't Afghanistan and Iraq look and feel ike Vietnam, even a little?

Response by SGT James Traywick made Apr 12 at 2023 9:07 PM

SGT James Traywick — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 21:07:21 -0400

Joe Biden a weak incompetent leader!

Response by SPC Brenda Barte made Apr 12 at 2023 9:09 PM

SPC Brenda Barte — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 21:09:04 -0400

Overcoming the mental health stigma. Making access to the care one needs without feeling like they will be treated horribly. A lot of military suicides are because people can't access mental health care.

Response by PFC Tiffany Sparks made Apr 12 at 2023 9:12 PM

PFC Tiffany Sparks — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 21:12:04 -0400

Getting new recruits. Unfortunately their isn't the level of national pride in this new generation as before. They do not see it as a duty and honor.

Response by Sgt Ernest Dalkas made Apr 12 at 2023 9:17 PM

Sgt Ernest Dalkas — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 21:17:25 -0400

Freedom, because freedom needs to be protected from our enemies both foreign but especially Domestic and freedom is everything but Free!!!

Simper Fi

Response by LTC John Mosele made Apr 12 at 2023 9:18 PM

LTC John Mosele — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 21:18:34 -0400

The military's greatest challenge is going to be recruiting. Today's public school's do not teach civics or government as required subjects. How will a student relate to what America stands for or gain a sense of what it means to be a citizen ? I remember during the Vietnam Nam era when one slogan was, "What if they gave a war, and nobody came ? ". If our young are not aware of our real history and just bombarded with superficial knowledge what result would you expect as an outcome ? The answer would be complacent, self-centered, narcissistic, and spoiled know-it-all's that know very little except how to use a computer and a smart phone. Schools should immediately initiate required courses on "critical thinking" based on actual history and current events.

Response by SPC Jeff Campbell made Apr 12 at 2023 9:20 PM

SPC Jeff Campbell — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 21:20:02 -0400

Women's rights.

Female service members have earned the right to decide what they do with their own bodies. Forcing them to use, or not use, or be obedient to a political ideology, drives a dagger thru very bedrock of why the Constitution was written in the first place (and our oaths). Not to mention our female service members love, patriotism and sacrifice for our country. We need to honor that.

Our fellow Americans need our support. This is going to be a great challenge for the US military in 2023. Just my opinion.
Original art supporting women's rights included. Use if you want, for personal and commercial use.

Response by CPO Cedric McCoy made Apr 12 at 2023 9:32 PM

CPO Cedric McCoy — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 21:32:58 -0400

The greatest challenge is still navigating all the Covid-19 mandates throughout different countries and keeping our military safe. I’m sure things change constantly from country to country and trying to maintain those demands for operations is an ongoing ordeal, which poses many mission complications and their realization

Response by SPC Mike Thomas made Apr 12 at 2023 9:37 PM

SPC Mike Thomas — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 21:37:19 -0400

I think protecting the NATO alliance in an increasingly diverse world structure will be our greatest challenge in 2023.

Response by PV2 Michael Wurzer made Apr 12 at 2023 9:41 PM

PV2 Michael Wurzer — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 21:41:47 -0400

I feel are biggest issue going forward is our dwindling supply of munitions, and the inability to produce enough munitions to keep our troops fully supplied.

Response by SPC Robert McElreath made Apr 12 at 2023 10:08 PM

SPC Robert McElreath — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:08:59 -0400

The woke counter culture, complicated by the accompanying reluctance of some of command to support us when we try to hold soldiers accountable for their behavior. Remember Sgt. Mack sez, "If it's woke, it's broke and that's no joke." Feel free to use it. It's original. Left active as a Spec 4 and (28 yrs later) left reserve as Msg. trying to uphold the honor of the Service & the NCO Corps.

Response by SPC Samantha Bernal made Apr 12 at 2023 10:10 PM

SPC Samantha Bernal — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:10:26 -0400

Soldier morale : nowadays soldiers don’t feel motivated to be in the army anymore , hopefully leaders can motivate their soldiers

Response by SP5 Steve Rive made Apr 12 at 2023 10:11 PM

SP5 Steve Rive — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:11:17 -0400

I believe that the military’s greatest challenge is recruitment of new soldiers. In the current domestic and international environment of changes in life styles, economic activity, world politics and the post nuclear family, it is extremely difficult for young people to recognize, understand and utilize the benefits of military training and life.
Very few things can provide the development of maturity, education and insight of what life is all about and the advantage of being a part of any branch of our countries military. It is unfortunate that it isn’t until we are older before we truly find out and understand, while serving and afterwards: there is nothing like it and it is second to none.
Soldiers swear an oath to protect and serve, knowing full well they are putting their life on the line for their country, for which, more than anything else, military service provides the knowledge that they are respected by all Americans for that commitment.

Response by SGM Willie Sanderson made Apr 12 at 2023 10:12 PM

SGM Willie Sanderson — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:12:54 -0400

Retention, Recruitment of quality soldiers, and quality training on warfare fighting skills. The Senior Level Officers needs to jump off the WOKE train and jump aboard the Tanks and Fighting Vehicles and make sure our soldiers are being trained and sustained properly to fight and win a two progrong war in two separate countries maybe even 3 countries. I have never seen any statistics or history books that a war was won or lost by White, black or brown privileges. Company Grade officers, Senior NCOs and SOLDIERS fight and win our wars. So stop looking through those plexiglass stomachs and stand tall and straight and provide LEASERSHIP ( positive direction to produce quality outcomes). It seems ever generation of military leaders forgets that great leaders were Soldiers first and after their career was over then they dabbled in the BS of politics.
Soldiers deserve the best of everything. If they are willing to give their live for our Country or the defense of World democracy then damn it make sure they have the best of it all and that's especially true for for the Leaders to never sacrifice for any reason.

Response by SGT Quaker Forfa made Apr 12 at 2023 10:14 PM

SGT Quaker Forfa — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:14:05 -0400

more better personal prayer more better person, more better collective prayer the more the blessings from higher heaven to we here,

also many be we should have a constitution updade and give to ourself and each other the right to be mistaken on occasion

Response by Cpl Frank Birkemeier made Apr 12 at 2023 10:15 PM

Cpl Frank Birkemeier — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:15:44 -0400

Not having ground troops down anywhere for conflicts. After the middle east,it's probably not going to happen any time soon. And with the situation in Russia/Ukraine, and possibly Taiwan /China, depending on our alliance will be even harder as we try to be more country focused.

Response by CA Ryan Cameron made Apr 12 at 2023 10:16 PM

CA Ryan Cameron — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:16:55 -0400

MST full stop!

Response by SP5 Jose Faraon made Apr 12 at 2023 10:26 PM

SP5 Jose Faraon — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:26:58 -0400

prevent a world war with china,russia and korea because it will be the end of the world

Response by COL George Patrin made Apr 12 at 2023 10:30 PM

COL George Patrin — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:30:01 -0400

End suicide as such a common scenario. We just keep providing sick care as we always have, doing mental health as a crisis afterthought once a suicide is more likely, and Veteran's will not tell us they are serious about it when they get that despondent. We must fix our Primary Care processes to put real prevention and care into effect!

Response by PO2 George Robinson made Apr 12 at 2023 10:30 PM

PO2 George Robinson — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:30:49 -0400

Staffing of competent soldiers.

Response by SSG Orlando Hines made Apr 12 at 2023 10:30 PM

SSG Orlando Hines — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:30:53 -0400

I believe the military's biggest threat in 2023 is actually determining what is an actual threat to the security of America. Threats today take on varied and unprecedented forms and it can be difficult to determine what conflicts pose an actual threat and therefore warrant either military support or a response by our American troops.

Response by CPL Jason Blackwood made Apr 12 at 2023 10:32 PM

CPL Jason Blackwood — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:32:18 -0400

Not starting WWIII.

Response by SSgt Shanthenia Griffin made Apr 12 at 2023 10:32 PM

SSgt Shanthenia Griffin — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:32:57 -0400

The military greatest challenge Recruitment, Retention, mentally health, accountability and sexual assaults'. Too many things that are swept under the rug with the suicide rate is insane and over worked military members. In order to fix this issue is to listen to your people. Invest in medical to help ensure we have healthy service member. Medical should take care of the service member first not the mission. We should hold people accountable no matter what the rank is. You still have hate, racisms, sexiest, rapist and etc. in the military. Just saying, it is too many thing to change within the military. Start with taking care of the service member health first.

Response by PFC Janet K made Apr 12 at 2023 10:33 PM

PFC Janet K — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:33:27 -0400

The military is getting more woke than the average person joining wants to be.... and the military is more concerned with being PC than military readiness.

Response by CPL Michael Elmore made Apr 12 at 2023 10:35 PM

CPL Michael Elmore — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:35:17 -0400

There's no sense of purpose nor pride of serving with the constant belittling of the military and their mission

Response by PFC Janet K made Apr 12 at 2023 10:35 PM

PFC Janet K — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:35:41 -0400

They have no desire to wear Ukraine and USA flag? Should be considered treason to force that. We ARE not under the control of Ukraine. No patch but the US flag.
Maybe also, they don't want to go die in Ukraine so Hunter can keep r*ping prostitutes and snorting c*ke.

Response by PO2 John G made Apr 12 at 2023 10:42 PM

PO2 John G — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:42:41 -0400

The politicians politicizing our armed forces. Start the hell away from our service members, with dirty politics, this is national defense. Our nations enemies are helping.

Response by Cpl Stanley Williams made Apr 12 at 2023 10:43 PM

Cpl Stanley Williams — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:43:36 -0400

Remember the Infantry is and should always be the backbone of the military, technology is great until you experience an EMP detonation, then your drones, satellites, and other technology is rendered useless. Invest in bringing back the Marine Corps and Army to their cold war strength. I believe that the next battle could possibly be a 2 front war. We currently do not have the man power to meet that requirement. I have heard that the military is having issues of making it's recruitment quota. This seems to have started when the government and the military weak leadership started mandating wokeism. Get rid of all leadership and start over. If you find a leader to be to brash, and doesn't cave to public beliefs, then you probably have the right person for the job. Remember that the military and civilian world are different. If the military is ran with a bunch of individuals, you won't have any cohesiveness within the force. Individualism is encouraged in civilian life, but a disease in our military. We need to get back to creating teams, but instead today we are only pointing fingers at anything that resembles as masculine. Back in my Marine Corps days we were taught that we were all green, you have light green to dark green and every shade between. The most important thing though was that no matter your color or race, you were still green. Semper Fi.
Stan Williams

Response by PO2 Adrian Rosati made Apr 12 at 2023 10:47 PM

PO2 Adrian Rosati — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:47:29 -0400

Greatest challenge in 2023? Returning to some very basic principles. I had no misconceptions on what my duties and responsibilities we're during my time in service. I believe that was true throughout the grades and disciplines regardless of assignment location. Everything was built on training, personal development and the discipline to perform at the highest level. All could "step up" when called upon. Not a single time in my later life that I didn't look back to the "can do" attitude and I'm truly thankful for the lesson.
EN2 Rosati (USN 1966-70)

Response by CPL Patrick Fasca made Apr 12 at 2023 10:48 PM

CPL Patrick Fasca — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:48:27 -0400

HAVING ENOUGH TROOPS FOR WHATEVER HAPPENS IN THE FUTURE. AND PROPER TRAINING IS VERY IMPORTANT,

Response by PV2 Russell Mccamy made Apr 12 at 2023 10:48 PM

PV2 Russell Mccamy — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:48:34 -0400

To keep our military strong due to Russia and Chinese threats!

Response by SN Frances Speights made Apr 12 at 2023 10:49 PM

SN Frances Speights — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:49:06 -0400

I believe the military will continue to struggle with recruiting young people into the armed forces. This generation is less interested in the benefits the military will provide, such as the GI bill, as an example. Today's young people have learned to make an income online doing things they prefer to do rather than hard labor. Also, with the current political climate, our youth has become more opinionated than previous generations and not in favor of the way our goverment governs.

Response by Cpl Sam Crowther made Apr 12 at 2023 10:49 PM

Cpl Sam Crowther — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 22:49:55 -0400

Making accessibility for barriers of re-entry for veterans. There are many veterans who made great military members who get out of active duty for a multitude of reasons. They then grow and mature and realize where they belong but are many of times barred from re-entry. This type of personal should be welcomed back with open arms considering their experience and dedication to duty.

Response by MSgt Timothy Barbour made Apr 12 at 2023 11:04 PM

MSgt Timothy Barbour — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 23:04:01 -0400

The U.S. Military's fighting ability and strength is being systematically dismantled from within our own government. The woke ethics being force-fed on our troops, as well as the resultant lack of morale and moral standards are destabiliizing and eroding our fighting force. Now, the UN is seeking increased authority in global emergencies. The ability of our own government, and thus our military, to commit to our own preservation is systematically being removed.

Response by CPO Del Arney made Apr 12 at 2023 11:07 PM

CPO Del Arney — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 23:07:47 -0400

Our awesome military is part of a greater power. An entity with the authority to direct, order and engage our outstanding military members, to utilize their training and skill, to maintain our free nation, given to us by the blood and sacrifices of brave soldiers before us. The World is at a pivotal point in our history, for civilians as well as military members. Our US Military members, whether E-1 or O-10, are the only ones standing between our Freedom and Enslavement. The greatest challenge facing our military going forward, is securing True Patriotic Leadership. Not Turncoats or those with personal agendas. True American Patriotic Intelligent Leadership, that understands how volatile Freedom is and that it must be heavily guarded at all cost. Our great military will grow exponentially and thrive if provided with the Leadership in America they desire, deserve and trust. Oorah. Retired US Navy Chief.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2023 11:10 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 23:10:55 -0400

Woke ideology is rampant in this country and what use to be looked to be the top tier of strength is now a sign of being in some alternate-extremist group. Kids are looked at the military as the enemy of the country instead of the protectors of it. All branches have gotten too soft and moved away from what make them great. Millions wasted on a gender neutral ACFT to only make it gender bias is a prime example. There are biological and physical differences between men and women, get over it, stop pushing woke culture on warriors whose primary purpose is to eliminate the enemy to protect the people from of this country.

Second is suicide because the military lacks proper care for soldiers. Everyone knows that anyone reaching out for help will lose their job, lose their clearance and lose career and way of life. When that changes, more service men and women will reach out for help and stop taking their own lives thinking it is the only way. Give help and not make it a career ended.

Response by PO1 Rey Estacion made Apr 12 at 2023 11:12 PM

PO1 Rey Estacion — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 23:12:51 -0400

Housing. There are shortages of inventory in all markets and the BAH is not sufficient to pay for the average rent on its own area.

Response by PO2 John G made Apr 12 at 2023 11:18 PM

PO2 John G — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 23:18:08 -0400

Our education system is entitling and morally corrupting our future generations.

Response by PO2 John G made Apr 12 at 2023 11:18 PM

PO2 John G — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 23:18:57 -0400

Politicians politicizing our armed forces.

Response by LCDR Paul Haddock made Apr 12 at 2023 11:21 PM

LCDR Paul Haddock — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 23:21:36 -0400

A weak Administration with no strategy.

Response by SP6 Shanna Ngha made Apr 12 at 2023 11:38 PM

SP6 Shanna Ngha — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 23:38:49 -0400

The challenges the military faces to just to name as few: Recruitment and retention, and geopolitical tension,

Response by PO3 David Clark made Apr 12 at 2023 11:43 PM

PO3 David Clark — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 23:43:44 -0400

Wining the hearts and minds. There are a few that believe serving our country is an honorable and traditional path. With the many though, who openly mock everything not only everything about the military but America itself, how will you convince them to sign up for a tour, or worse, weed out the ones who want to cause damage from within.

Response by SSgt Corrie Waarum made Apr 12 at 2023 11:44 PM

SSgt Corrie Waarum — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 23:44:52 -0400

I second recruitment - retention is essential to raise up younger talent but sometimes it can be dead weight. Assessments should be personal from each rank level and include the opportunity to receive constructive feedback without retaliation (E-1 through officer ranks). Voices should be heard and guidance influenced based on feedback from everyone wearing the uniform. Once insights are collected in an unbiased and non-retaliatory manner - actions can be taken to recruit and cultivate top talent. There are many broken spokes in the wheel and difficult choices means letting some failed leadership go to make room for those who are fully "in the game".

Response by A1C Mark Caso made Apr 12 at 2023 11:53 PM

A1C Mark Caso — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 23:53:02 -0400

National Security concerns due to leaks, propaganda, misinformation, ideological/political controversy, climate change, law & order (in general), China, DPRK, Iran, Russia/Putin, Syria, Africa to name a few.

Response by PO3 Veronica Saavedra made Apr 12 at 2023 11:58 PM

PO3 Veronica Saavedra — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 23:58:43 -0400

The one thing that I see as a military greatest challenge in 2023 is its staffing of Personnel due to Covid 19. Many people are scared to join the military because they don’t want to leave loved ones or family behind. It is a challenge for the military to retain and provide ongoing incentives when there aren’t many people joining the military.

Response by PO3 Michael Sherk made Apr 13 at 2023 12:07 AM

PO3 Michael Sherk — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 00:07:44 -0400

Another war on two fronts.

Response by SP5 Jack Mabry made Apr 13 at 2023 12:07 AM

SP5 Jack Mabry — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 00:07:53 -0400

Being prepared to meet the great challenge that the Chinese military presents.

Response by PO3 Christina Gonzales made Apr 13 at 2023 12:11 AM

PO3 Christina Gonzales — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 00:11:30 -0400

I would say the military's greatest challenge for 2023 would be directives for soldiers towards the goal of defense of our country and families safety at home. The selfless act of honoring your sworn oath given to defend your country and what it stands for and less focus on personal being more than your countries overall well-being. When it is also important too how a soldiers well being is, it is more the duty to provide the hope for the safety of fellow Americans and defend not only the country but the people back home. The other challenge would be the effects of soldiers coming back home and treating them with proper care and providing any needs necessary to help them healthwise mentally and physically.

Response by LCDR Robert Luckie made Apr 13 at 2023 12:20 AM

LCDR Robert Luckie — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 00:20:21 -0400

Learning how to be effective with a smaller budget. We are not going to be able to continue purchasing big quantities of expensive weapon systems with our ballooning budget deficits. We need to start now planning how we can still be effective as our budget starts to shrink when adjusted for inflation.

Response by A1C Keith VonBernewitz made Apr 13 at 2023 12:24 AM

A1C Keith VonBernewitz — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 00:24:17 -0400

Mental health and morale. I feel like too many troops are sent into a leadership position they aren't ready for.

Response by PV2 George Worley made Apr 13 at 2023 12:27 AM

PV2 George Worley — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 00:27:58 -0400

Retention, retention.

Response by SFC Michael Lockhart made Apr 13 at 2023 12:29 AM

SFC Michael Lockhart — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 00:29:56 -0400

Recruiting the next generation

Response by PO3 James Polichak made Apr 13 at 2023 12:39 AM

PO3 James Polichak — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 00:39:43 -0400

I was stationed at RTC/NTC/ORL/FL (next to Disney World) not long after the draft ended and we still had a presence in Vietnam. I enlisted older than most (24) so I had seen a few years of anti-war demonstrations before I enlisted. Back then my office processed new recruits into the Navy. We were their two-two day - the second day of their second week. For most of the recruits our day was probably their first contact with any regular Navy beyond their company commander and instructors. Some were terrified because they'd been warned we could get the shit-canned if we thought they lied to us in the interview. We couldn't but we could hold them back in training for a day to a week for cause. Most often not their fault.
According to articles in The New York Times and The Washington Post all the services are having trouble fill the ranks with qualified recruits. In my day we dropped several unqualified recruits a week because their recruiters helped them with or even took the entrance exams for them. In my recruit company of 80 men in Great Lakes in 1974 ten of them were functional illiterates.

Response by PO3 Allan Shores made Apr 13 at 2023 12:44 AM

PO3 Allan Shores — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 00:44:28 -0400

We need a strong military as we had in the Regan years. Our best defense is a strong military. China
is growing militarily and will soon be ready to challenge us. We need to go back to the draft and require at least 2 years of service both men and women. The military was a great learning tool for young men as I was 18 when I joined the Navy. You learn to take orders and do your best in whatever situation you find yourself. I saved money and used the GI bill to graduate from college.

Respectfully,
Allan Shores PC3, USN
USS BENJAMIN STODDART DDG-22

Response by SSgt Allen Frechette made Apr 13 at 2023 12:47 AM

SSgt Allen Frechette — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 00:47:16 -0400

"An educated citizenry is a vital requisite for our survival as a free people." (Thomas Jefferson). Our nation is getting blasted with misinformation from foreign and domestic sources with the intention of dividing and weakening us. This is the biggest threat to our nation and the lack of consensus will lead to divisions that will tear our states apart and jeopardize our military strength.

Response by SPC Pat Mahoney made Apr 13 at 2023 12:52 AM

SPC Pat Mahoney — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 00:52:43 -0400

Where to start…. Lowering recruitment qualifications gives you less qualified troops which is a less qualified military in real operations of war. Woke-isms are killing this country, including the one bastion I never would have dreamed, our military. It’s embarrassing on the world stage and sad to see it happen personally. I’m unable to comprehend how this happened in such a short period of time.

Response by PFC Tranesha Fletcher made Apr 13 at 2023 1:31 AM

PFC Tranesha Fletcher — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 01:31:10 -0400

Getting recruits and keeping them, after my one term I was done and knew all I wanted to know about the Army.

Response by PFC Shanyce Tellez made Apr 13 at 2023 1:34 AM

PFC Shanyce Tellez — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 01:34:16 -0400

The military’s greatest challenge as of 2023 is trying to teach this generation to fight for something that matters. Everyone nowadays wants to be seen or heard and voices opinions about gender identity and so forth. They don’t care that people are dying and we are at war. They need to be taught selflessness and that is something the military will struggle to do.

Response by Sgt Beverly Hairston made Apr 13 at 2023 1:37 AM

Sgt Beverly Hairston — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 01:37:18 -0400

I see recruiting and retention being the greatest challenge for the military. Gen Z are looking up transition out of the forces and Millennials are not interested in enlisting. Will our forces be ready for any major conflict?

Response by SPC Destany Jeter made Apr 13 at 2023 1:40 AM

SPC Destany Jeter — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 01:40:35 -0400

One of the hardest challenges the military may face this year is the man power to cover both Europe and the Pacific may not be enough to cover both. The military is large as many other countries but not as large enough to loss anymore soldiers. One way to change this is to increase the number of soldiers coming into the military also allow veterans who are able and willing to fight to join us at war. We will need to help if everyone to insure that our soldiers are safe even if we may be out numbered at times.

Response by PO1 Dino Manfredi made Apr 13 at 2023 1:55 AM

PO1 Dino Manfredi — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 01:55:17 -0400

Helping to keep world peace.
Why: World spinning almost of of control.
We need to boost our military numbers refine our mission.

Response by CW4 Edward Sargent made Apr 13 at 2023 2:10 AM

CW4 Edward Sargent — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 02:10:51 -0400

Attracting individuals that will become a qualified, disciplined and battle ready soldier while operating within a society current standards.
Incentives like installing pride in uniform and purpose of mission along with skill sets that can be transferred to civilian life after service.

Response by SN Martin Zingler made Apr 13 at 2023 2:11 AM

SN Martin Zingler — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 02:11:04 -0400

Continue updating healthcare system

Response by Meredith Mauer made Apr 13 at 2023 2:59 AM

Meredith Mauer — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 02:59:25 -0400

The current generation coming of age lacks coping skills. It's concerning that they may not know how to deal with the pressures of military life or transitioning after war.

Response by PFC Chiara Love made Apr 13 at 2023 2:59 AM

PFC Chiara Love — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 02:59:49 -0400

Being a single female/ parent! Having to compete for federal jobs in the civilian world. Having little to know experience that can carry over to the civilian side. Even with a college degree many military single females end up working jobs they do not like or have to compete with military spouse to gain access and still get passed over. It is hard to gain experience when the job market your going into has actually left you behind because of your military service. Meaning many females get out of service after working in one job field they may go to school but also find it difficult to juggle being a single parent and working. Child care is expensive and jobs that work around your schedule or few and far between plus having to get access to health care for your children if you did not retire from service. It is almost like the military just drop you off after being gone for a while an saying now go find something that fits your lifestyle and use the skill that we gave you. Only to find that those skills are suitable for (men) because they or what the actual jobs are looking for. In the past year many single female veterans who are often uncertain about what the job market looks like end up working jobs that inky pay minimum wage and working two jobs to make ends meet for their family if they are lucky. The challenge is finding health care for single parents they can afford, educating the single female who may only posses the job skill the military has left her with and access to federal jobs that recognized the needs of single parent females when competing for jobs in the federal sector.

Response by Sgt Rachel Brown-Ford made Apr 13 at 2023 3:56 AM

Sgt Rachel Brown-Ford — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 03:56:38 -0400

Supporting our troops. Thousands of enlisted military families are eligible for & receive public assistance: food stamps, WIC, food bank services and more Shame on our government for not paying enlisted members enough to exist - let alone live a productive life. Support for members, vets & dependents with PTSDE - particularly vets or members who are victims of MST & have the courage to report. Victims are forced out of the military, seeing mental health can ruin ones career.

Response by SFC Chaitram Raghu made Apr 13 at 2023 4:53 AM

SFC Chaitram Raghu — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 04:53:51 -0400

Republicans are advocating the cuts of veterans benefit and currently, the Atlanta VA system is not allowing some medical treatments. Some reviewing doctors are blocking the appointments.

Response by Lt Col John Bateman made Apr 13 at 2023 5:05 AM

Lt Col John Bateman — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 05:05:18 -0400

Recruitment and retention. The recent rules and decisions regarding the COVID vaccine has decimated not omly our retention and recruitment numbers, but morale. We’ve got serious problems ahead with many of the policies and decisions being implemented.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2023 5:26 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 05:26:02 -0400

Amongst the various issues facing the military today, mental health is by far the most severe challenge and least resolved challenge the military has.

After serving several years, experiencing toxic leadership, work stress, home and family stress, maintaining good mental health is each members least treated hurdle. We often talk about how mental health matters, but what is the military actually doing to help prevent suicide or any other kind of psychological instability. If enlisted members seek help they are punished by medical for “not being psychologically fit”. If a member gets on any kind of medication, they are place on an MEB to determine if they will get medically discharged with no pension, further adding to stress and the suicidal ideation. As a person that has been in this situation before it seems like they front to care about the problem of mental health and suicide, but when it comes to taking action and supporting those who actively seek help and try to get better, those individuals are punished. My personal opinion is that we are tearing our military apart from within because of egotistical medical admins who “don’t want people in their military to hold everyone back” yes these are things that have been personally said to through my career.

A lot of people talk about retention being an issue. It seems the officer corps doesn’t get it. If we are kicking everyone out for seeking help, or they are killing themselves by blowing their brains out in their car because they are shunned for seeking help, or are being told to suck it up, how do we expect to solve retention issues. I can see why this next generation has no desire to lead the military. I can see why they don’t want any part in this. The military is going to put you in situations that can cause severe mental health problems. Then if you seek help for those problems, they are going to throw me away like yesterday’s waste and just replace me with another person who will go through the same thing. Last time I checked we are all on the same side fighting for the same outcome. We are all serving the same country. So I pose the question, why are we trying to destroy one another?

At the end of the day, we are in the military, which is the most discriminatory organization to exist, and for a good reason. I just think that if we took a different and better approach to helping our current members with their mental health, we could potentially resolve a lot of other issues that our military currently faces.

Response by SGT James Carlton made Apr 13 at 2023 5:29 AM

SGT James Carlton — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 05:29:44 -0400

The new cold/warm war. China is coming.

Response by CPL T.A. Nelson made Apr 13 at 2023 5:32 AM

CPL T.A. Nelson — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 05:32:45 -0400

The greatest challenge for our military in 2023, is getting it right. There has been so many changes in training, equipment, and the world; each of the armed forces will need to adapt, to keep the enlisted and officers necessary to get the work done...

Response by PO3 Charles Mehler made Apr 13 at 2023 5:40 AM

PO3 Charles Mehler — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 05:40:34 -0400

I think recruitment is the biggest challenge which is not being addressed as a priority,
Some recent developments include waiving marjuana convictions, but that change
will not successfully fulfill the recruitment goals needed. I suggest more advertising of
the benefits of paid education and careers within the military. There is plenty of patriotism
to go around but the military needs to emphasize the benefits available and not just rely
on their local recruiters.

Response by A1C James Perkins made Apr 13 at 2023 5:48 AM

A1C James Perkins — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 05:48:38 -0400

A corrupt President Biden, and other politicians, who literally hate the freedoms America was/is founded on and whose determined to take ALL our freedoms away plus intentionally make the United States of America into a Russia, Venezuela, Communist China and/or Cuba

Response by SrA Paul Alegria made Apr 13 at 2023 6:09 AM

SrA Paul Alegria — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 06:09:16 -0400

The readiness of our armed forces when it comes to focusing the task at hand instead of worrying about inclusion and wokeness. Downsizing of our forces as well.

Response by SSgt Michael Vestuto made Apr 13 at 2023 6:24 AM

SSgt Michael Vestuto — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 06:24:36 -0400

Retaining qualified personnel and attracting capable and fit recruits. We need people with potential and intellect that can handle the varied assignments that are essential for our country's dealing with the issues our military has to face.

Response by Sgt Jim Weeder made Apr 13 at 2023 6:28 AM

Sgt Jim Weeder — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 06:28:29 -0400

Recruitment and retention. The pool of new enlistees is getting smaller for many reasons, including drug use, overweight, and out-of-shape teens. Recruiters are attempting to meet these challenges. Since better-paying jobs are available this also hamstrings recruitment. The lack of and in some cases poor housing is another factor. Stricter requirements need to be put on the companies that are providing housing for families and single service members. Newer barracks need to be built at most bases. Housing for sailors, when their ships are in port for long periods, needs to be better. The COLAs need to be raised so service members don't need to rely on food stamps. These are just a few of the items that are weakening our armed forces.

Response by SPC Gary Kellenberger made Apr 13 at 2023 6:43 AM

SPC Gary Kellenberger — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 06:43:04 -0400

DE&I will ruin the military and needs to be eliminated as quickly as possible

Response by CPL Rose Billington made Apr 13 at 2023 6:47 AM

CPL Rose Billington — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 06:47:24 -0400

The greatest challenge in today's military is recruitment and retention. Providing career paths for employees with excellent benefits and job satisfaction is difficult in combat arenas, and the complex demographic, psychological, and political contrasts in our country surrounding recruiting and retention make those two jobs increasingly difficult.

Response by SSgt William Underwood made Apr 13 at 2023 6:48 AM

SSgt William Underwood — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 06:48:26 -0400

I think the “WOKE” agenda the far left Democrats are pushing has infiltrated our military. Military Commanders of today do not seem to have the guts to defer the politicians agenda.

Response by SGT Tamara Edwards made Apr 13 at 2023 6:56 AM

SGT Tamara Edwards — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 06:56:41 -0400

It’s sad to say but the military in general has gotten soft and the soldiers that join are even softer. Now soldiers care more for the title of being able to say oh I’m a soldier but I’m not going to war. I have a cousin who joined the Air Force but he care more about Veterans Day than he do about the military and I just shake my head in disbelief because these are the people that we’re trusting to lead our country in war.

Response by SP5 Samuel Campbell made Apr 13 at 2023 6:59 AM

SP5 Samuel Campbell — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 06:59:41 -0400

Recruiting committed candidates

Response by SPC Cheryl Jacobs made Apr 13 at 2023 7:00 AM

SPC Cheryl Jacobs — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 07:00:51 -0400

Sexual harassment… sexual assault… lack of proper accountability… sexism….wrong people in positions of power!

Response by SGT Jeremy Holste made Apr 13 at 2023 7:06 AM

SGT Jeremy Holste — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 07:06:35 -0400

Patriotism, less and less want to answer the call for their country and take some things for granted!

Response by A1C Molly Hyatt made Apr 13 at 2023 7:15 AM

A1C Molly Hyatt — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 07:15:49 -0400

I think the #1 Challenge is to reach the people who have served and need assistance especially in rural areas. This would specifically be older veterans who may not have access to transportation to attend a VA facility or able to benefit from the VA Services. I think many venues are available now to Veterans but the website isn't easy to navigate, many older veterans hate use computers and yet most services, especially since COVID, have been pushed to on-line. The VA spends millions on a multitude of events, presentations etc. What is really useful? I don't know because most of them seem worthless. What would be awesome would be to start Veteran communities in different states. In Florida there is a widow's home. What the VA needs is a community that would include homes for Veterans who can be independent, assisted living and nursing home care all in one community. There are many Veterans who are homeless and need help. I don't know why that happens, lack of responsibility on their part, life choices, economy, drugs etc. But a supportive community could help many of them. Would it cost a lot? Yes, but if you can afford to buy - you buy ... if you can't you get a room and you have to take care of it or you get kicked out. Nothing should ever be totally FREE. Many of us have no family, friends - yes - but they have their own families and don't want bothered with us who have served and lost so much. A place where there is understanding and compassion. Veteran's helping veterans in a community where the focus would be healthy interactions, VA clinics, rec centers. Sort of like the community at the Villages in Florida -- but you have to be a Veteran. Spouses have other resources but the Veteran needs a village especially as we age.

Response by A1C Molly Hyatt made Apr 13 at 2023 7:20 AM

A1C Molly Hyatt — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 07:20:50 -0400

#1 Challenge is reaching those who need help especially those in rural communities and those who do not use or like computers. Helping those who served has been a goal of the VA and it has come a long way. But we need community. A community like the Villages in Florida. No veteran should be homeless, unless they want to. Help should be available. Especially a community for fellow veterans to live, share and support each other. From individual homes, condo's, to apartments for assisted living and nursing homes all in one community. Rec centers, VA clinics and other resources within the complex. Lets help each other as we age ... let's be there for each other.

Response by CPO Wayne Gibson made Apr 13 at 2023 7:25 AM

CPO Wayne Gibson — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 07:25:26 -0400

The greatest challenge will be recruitment. The military needs to find a balance between "old school" quality and core values while also recognizing the nuances of the next generation work force. However, at the end of the day, a great nation requires warriors! A great nation requires the most qualified candidates, period!

Response by CPO Kristen Raymond made Apr 13 at 2023 7:27 AM

CPO Kristen Raymond — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 07:27:25 -0400

The biggest challenge the military will have is enlistment. With the danger of war, the presidency, and the response to covid our nation's forces have seen great change which may affect the will to join.

Response by CPL Barry Wright made Apr 13 at 2023 7:27 AM

CPL Barry Wright — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 07:27:41 -0400

The new crt BS and relaxed eligibility requirements,both physical and mental, are destroying the esprit de corps that any military unit must have to be an effective fighting force.

Response by Amn Carolyn Mutcherson made Apr 13 at 2023 7:30 AM

Amn Carolyn Mutcherson — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 07:30:30 -0400

The biggest challenge I see is the VA reaching out to finding Vets who are afraid to go to the VA and who need assistance. Why are they afraid? Well, the Vets haven't always been treated with respect and in some places still aren't. There's still a feeling of being locked up because "I have PTSD, shell shocked etc.". We need to do more reaching out to our Vets and letting them know all the many things that are available to them!
Also, educating the public as well as health care, police and others on what our Vets have faced and are still facing.
Thanks for asking for my thoughts and opinions!

Response by PO1 George Head made Apr 13 at 2023 7:32 AM

PO1 George Head — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 07:32:12 -0400

Recruitment, Recruitment, Recruitment, and Retention!
There is a lack of patriotism among our younger generation due to sanctimonious political division in our nation. Wokeism has caused targeted men and women eligible for recruitment to not trust our armed forces leadership to keep its promises and commitment. Just look at the recent forcing out of service due to not getting a Covid injection. Among those affected were young people with leadership skills, self thinkers.
Somehow our youth have to understand that life is more than a handout, but about giving oneself and loyalty.

Response by Sgt Richard Hammett made Apr 13 at 2023 7:32 AM

Sgt Richard Hammett — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 07:32:47 -0400

Discipline and Sense of Purpose to fulfill its mission.

Response by Duane Rennhack made Apr 13 at 2023 7:46 AM

Duane Rennhack — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 07:46:44 -0400

Financing the DoD.

Response by CPO Scott Nickel made Apr 13 at 2023 8:14 AM

CPO Scott Nickel — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 08:14:23 -0400

The same thing the world is dealing with, a lack of putting "us" before "me", which means that when armed forces are more concerned about personalities than the mission, we are doomed to fail.

Response by CDR Steven Cochrum made Apr 13 at 2023 8:15 AM

CDR Steven Cochrum — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 08:15:04 -0400

Finding people willing to join that have the right stuff... honor, courage, integrity... I see a major lack of work ethic and no basic skill in the workforce I recruit from now.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2023 8:17 AM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 08:17:45 -0400

Serving the American people and caring for service members under a government that's taking away rights from women, minorities, and the LGBTQ community.

Response by PO3 Phil duQuesnay made Apr 13 at 2023 8:32 AM

PO3 Phil duQuesnay — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 08:32:54 -0400

Training troops for that which we have a military. Not Social idiocy.

Response by 1LT Wendi Pillars made Apr 13 at 2023 8:34 AM

1LT Wendi Pillars — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 08:34:12 -0400

Arctic security and readiness. With opening sea passages, we are already challenged by progress of other countries, particularly Russia and China—who wants to declare itself an Arctic State. Icebreakers, conversations with indigenous communities and assurance that their sustenance lifestyle is not going away, and other resources all play a role.

Response by CPL Lutreva Gilchrist made Apr 13 at 2023 8:34 AM

CPL Lutreva Gilchrist — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 08:34:51 -0400

The greatest challenge I see for the military is having multiple theaters of operations in which there is a great degree of conflict across political parties that is placing a tremendous drain on our military resources due to delayed decision making.

Response by SPC Tracy Charpentier made Apr 13 at 2023 8:35 AM

SPC Tracy Charpentier — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 08:35:30 -0400

Redirecting the military and government's attention away from "woke-ism(s)" in order to focus on what's important; the soldiers, the safety of our fighting troops and the preservation of our military standards and getting back to the mission of protecting our country's freedoms, liberties and strength as a force to be reckoned with, because right now, the rest of the world does see the United States as a potential threat, much less a partner, and that is dangerous.

Response by Col Paddy Mc made Apr 13 at 2023 8:40 AM

Col Paddy Mc — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 08:40:34 -0400

Recruiting. Military service has to offer better compensation (pay, housing, benefits) and actual better post-service recognition from the civilian and federal sector (not just "Thanks for your service" platitudes).

Response by SSgt Greg Taylor made Apr 13 at 2023 8:45 AM

SSgt Greg Taylor — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 08:45:04 -0400

China. China continues to become more aggressive and ignores the rules. China knows the U.S. needs it for our survival as well. Most everything is made there these days. I wish the military and other government organizations were able to better assist the veterans, expats, who move overseas. It is like, no help for you because you do not live in the States. Sorry. We give these countries millions in aid every year and protect them. Why is it so difficult to set up satellite offices or care centers for we who do not live in the States? Sad.

Response by Cpl Tyler F. made Apr 13 at 2023 8:58 AM

Cpl Tyler F. — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 08:58:41 -0400

I would imagine that the greatest challenge in 2023 for the military will be defending American soil after taking citizens AR-15s and eventually all guns while simultaneously arming our enemies overseas with millions and millions of dollars worth of weapons and vehicles... as well as spending BILLIONS of taxpayer dollars on a war with one of the most corrupt countries in it's hemisphere all while there is a chance they'll just cave in and join their oppressors in invading us to save themselves due to massive political corruption.

Response by SGT Jimmy Moon made Apr 13 at 2023 8:59 AM

SGT Jimmy Moon — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 08:59:25 -0400

the military's greatest problem is getting unwoke recruits who are a bunch of whiners. they have idiot sounding pronouns and think they are another sex, which isn't possible. the military has too many woke in charge nowadays.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2023 9:03 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 09:03:53 -0400

I hate to be the echo chamber, but 100% agree with everyone here that says recruitment and retention.
It is becoming harder to upsell college benefits, retirement, and perhaps the more "patriotic" aspects of service when more Americans are pursuing careers that do not involve college degrees and read about the draining of social security and the dangers of that money "running out". It becomes a lot harder to recruit new servicemembers when the stories of soldiers like Vanessa Guillen are found to be more commonplace than the military wants to admit. I do not envy recruiters' jobs at all.
I will add this on the retention aspect: as a reservist it can be very hard to balance work/home and military obligations, and unfortunately many soldiers get jaded by this reality. You get asked to do work from home, and then getting 1380's approved is sometimes a challenge. You want to go to a school? Good f'ing luck, because the "unit" doesn't get slots for schools and often doesn't care enough to find slots for schools that soldiers reasonably can go to that benefit the unit because the unit spent all their funds on other things. You have a high speed E4 ready for their NCO schooling? Can't tell you how many times I've seen units drag their feet on getting a date assigned for those soldiers because the training NCO is absorbed in some other BS. Or my favorite: we don't go to the range because "money".
I don't think it has much to do with kids these days being "woke", I just think their priorities lie elsewhere and the military as a whole is having a hard time realigning to that. Nor do I think that reservists or active duty members are leaving because they aren't patriotic, they often are just done with not being given at least some career considerations.

Response by Ellen Kuo made Apr 13 at 2023 9:07 AM

Ellen Kuo — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 09:07:40 -0400

Our military's ability to fight two or more major conflicts at the same time.

Response by CMSgt Timothy O'Linn made Apr 13 at 2023 9:38 AM

CMSgt Timothy O'Linn — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 09:38:30 -0400

The military has to stay relevant while still providing good order and discipline. With all of the different opinions and various outside organizations, many people believe in the concept of "what's in it for me" versus the former military service for love of country, pride, discipline, etc. A delicate balance between opposing or contradictory opinions, individualism, and specific rights/privileges coincides with proper military standards and conduct. For all US citizens to be free, a strong military is needed, but as many mentioned, troop strength and dedication to extended military service commitments are dwindling.

Response by CMSgt Timothy O'Linn made Apr 13 at 2023 9:39 AM

CMSgt Timothy O'Linn — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 09:39:59 -0400

Another issue that needs to be addressed immediately is the military-wide suicide rates. Troops need help, which may have to come with coordination with civilian agencies and entities. The stigmatism that you must be tough and never seek help has to stop.

Response by PO2 Robert Carrillo made Apr 13 at 2023 9:41 AM

PO2 Robert Carrillo — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 09:41:46 -0400

Administration and the democrats have no respect and have no idea of the value of the U.S. military, other that the political value, look at the cluster f—k of a withdrawal that happened in Afghan and Vietnam

Response by Sgt Ronald Stearns made Apr 13 at 2023 9:54 AM

Sgt Ronald Stearns — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 09:54:02 -0400

There are several military challenges facing us, including Ukraine and Taiwan. Getting involved with both will severely limit our ability to continue to provide weapons to our friendly nations, and worse, our other adversaries (North Korea, Iran, etc.) are aware of it and might use this moment as their opportunity to attack us.

Response by PO2 Samuel Martinez made Apr 13 at 2023 9:56 AM

PO2 Samuel Martinez — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 09:56:06 -0400

The sum of its parts (challenges) the military faces in 2023 is the danger of insufficient funding by Congress. Inadequate funding severely affects our military's critical programs and operations in maintaining strategic advantages. There are too many vital programs of responsibility that can harm our country, especially now with dictators stirring the pot. A weak link in the chain can escalate across the 360-degree spectrum of national security.
Cybersecurity, with the advancement of Artificial Intelligence, is a menace now and will grow exponentially as government actors and hackers spy, steal, damage, supply misinformation, or create leaks causing imminent crises to our national security.
Insufficient funding is present now, preventing financial budget sabotage of our country. Sometimes, enemies are in and out without notice, planting spyware or extracting sensitive strategic or classified defense information. Military personnel can also steal personal and sensitive information to destroy their character and finances or be recruited. Funding is needed to prevent disruption of critical infrastructure and stop the theft of sensitive information that would compromise military communications and control systems, which impacts the efficiencies of military readiness.
Misinformation contributed to the success of World War II. It is alive and well now in social media, only to escalate when enemy nations see an attack or defense as imminent. Disinformation campaigns that spread false or misleading information about military operations damage the morale of military personnel and the public's trust. Disinformation can also cause a shutdown of military operations, damaging infrastructure and leaving the military and our country vulnerable to attack.
If our critical defense systems, such as missile defense systems, satellite communications, and other critical infrastructure, are compromised, it would harm the ability of the military to defend against incoming threats. In addition, targeting our electrical grid, water, food, and energy supply would lead to widespread disruption damaging our economy and national security.
Martin Luther said, "We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in this nation's great vaults of opportunity." I add, funding the sum of all the vital parts of military duties and operations allows the military an opportunity to anticipate evolving high-tech and imminent global threats. Elected officials unaware of the big picture of national defense need never-ending exposure to the danger of insufficient funding for our military.

Response by CH (LTC) William Manning made Apr 13 at 2023 10:09 AM

CH (LTC) William Manning — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 10:09:50 -0400

WOKENESS AGENDA AND IDEOLOGY!!!!

Response by SP5 James Woods made Apr 13 at 2023 10:33 AM

SP5 James Woods — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 10:33:23 -0400

Control of sensitive information.

Response by PO2 Kyiem Dyson made Apr 13 at 2023 10:35 AM

PO2 Kyiem Dyson — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 10:35:32 -0400

Our Military greatest challenge this year is the leadership of America. Instead of preparing for what's to come we are to busy in other matters in the world and not focus on strengthening our Military. it's been over a decade of qualified and knowledgeable men and women in the service. We need to change how we move , think and present our selves to others and not so much on social media!

Response by SFC Stanley Pierkowski made Apr 13 at 2023 10:38 AM

SFC Stanley Pierkowski — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 10:38:43 -0400

The greatest challenge will be to overcome the attitude of many citizens and government officials towards becoming a socialized country. The military should be used for war fighting and a deterrent against our enemies, rather than being concerned about hurt feelings and using correct gender identifiers.

Response by TSgt Stephen A. Toepel made Apr 13 at 2023 10:44 AM

TSgt Stephen A. Toepel — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 10:44:32 -0400

Our biggest issue, I believe, is our handling of classified material, missions, etc. IF you served in the military or any government company, as well as civilian companies, we need to keep our mouths CLOSED! There are still countries, Russia, China, North Korea, Iran, Syria, etc as well as our allies, that want our information, tech, etc and we need to understand that issue. Bragging about it, showing off, is out of bounds and should have extreme consequences. I signed paperwork that keeps my mouth shut of 99 years and after that, if I am still alive, extends an additional 99 years. We need to understand that our country's survival is at stake!

Response by SFC Stanley Pierkowski made Apr 13 at 2023 10:45 AM

SFC Stanley Pierkowski — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 10:45:38 -0400

the biggest challenge to the Military is to overcome the desire of those citizens and government officials who want us to be a socialist nation. Our military must be concerned with war fighting and being a deterrent to our enemies, rather than concentrating on hurt feelings and proper gender pronouns. the potential for a large war is on the horizon, and it is looking like we are not ready to carry out the mission.

SFC Pierkowski

Response by Omolola Jolaoso made Apr 13 at 2023 10:47 AM

Omolola Jolaoso — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 10:47:55 -0400

Slow Management response to the welfare of our men and women in uniform and their family . I work with the veterans and some of them lack consistency in health care, no one to care for their needs and their family's need. Men and Women in uniform are dying silently due to PTSD, anxiety and depression.

Response by CPT Daniel Helix made Apr 13 at 2023 10:53 AM

CPT Daniel Helix — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 10:53:42 -0400

While the Cold War, as we knew it from post WWII, ended with the breakup of the Warsaw Pact, there is a new Cold War. Same enemies, minus several of the former Warsaw Pact who are now aligned with NATO. There are even 4 star Generals claiming that they believe we will be at war with the Chinese, in particular, within the next 5 years. I believe the state of the world bears that out. I believe that though technology allows for war fighting from a "safe distance" in some cases, the object will always be to take, or take back, ground. My question is how is the military going to run the PR campaign for the country, so they will realize we need to be on guard NOW, we need to build up our military NOW, we need total national support NOW. It is the only way we can prevent another Pearl Harbor/ 9/11 event from occurring on our soil again. Dr. Dan Helix

Response by LTC Leslie Lee made Apr 13 at 2023 10:58 AM

LTC Leslie Lee — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 10:58:18 -0400

Overcoming wokeness. The military is under civilian control, but we swear allegiance to the Constitution and must be committed to the Bill of Rights. New recruits must appropriately challenge unlawful orders that are contrary to the Constitution.

Response by Cpl Abraham Sabchez made Apr 13 at 2023 11:04 AM

Cpl Abraham Sabchez — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 11:04:30 -0400

I feel recruiting is a strong issue the military has. Especially with the new ‘in-depth’ health reporting system. This can potentially make it harder for recruits to join.

Response by PO2 Robert Barbo made Apr 13 at 2023 11:05 AM

PO2 Robert Barbo — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 11:05:56 -0400

I think that as it has long been is recruiting, the adaptation of more technical & mechanical with complicated maintenance & operations has put extra pressure on recruitment. The need for more advanced training seems to be a bottleneck and needs to be addressed.

Response by SPC David Bradshaw made Apr 13 at 2023 11:07 AM

SPC David Bradshaw — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 11:07:48 -0400

Recruiting good enlisted, it’s getting hard to find them

Response by SMSgt Walter Huston made Apr 13 at 2023 11:30 AM

SMSgt Walter Huston — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 11:30:16 -0400

What I see as the greatest challenge is the retention of the right numbers and skills of members. This is a big challenge due to the huge pull of civilian industries that are offering better paying jobs and stability in location away from combat and frequent moves.

Response by PV2 Jennifer Garcia made Apr 13 at 2023 11:34 AM

PV2 Jennifer Garcia — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 11:34:37 -0400

Recruitment not enforcing military education and physical readiness therefore AWOL from boot camps happens.

Response by Cpl Zachary Fine made Apr 13 at 2023 12:14 PM

Cpl Zachary Fine — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 12:14:17 -0400

Recruitment is failing due to woke policies and piss poor leadership. This causes two issues. One upfront is recruitment and then retention as well. Why would people stay for a mismanaged and woke policy military. Majority of the military members come from republican states and the woke policies forced down their throat are a deterrent and a wake up call from staying in.

Response by SSG Scott Kelley made Apr 13 at 2023 12:14 PM

SSG Scott Kelley — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 12:14:58 -0400

As we are not engaged in a major military conflict at this time, the greatest challenge our military faces in 2023 isn't external but internal. We have hundreds of thousands of troops who served heroically in the Middle East fighting engagements involving dozens to a couple hundred "bad guys" at a time. The challenge for our military is training our troops to prepare for nation states like China which would necessitate fighting engagements involving thousands of "bad guys" at a time. This also means the supply and logistics train to equip troops engaged in such large-scale fighting would have to be much more robust than what was required in the 2000s and 2010s.

Response by SSG Sonora Standafer made Apr 13 at 2023 12:14 PM

SSG Sonora Standafer — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 12:14:59 -0400

Definitely the retention and recruitment as others have said. Most of the kids coming in these days are entitled and don’t possess the hard work ethic that the army needs. Retention because we can’t keep the young bloods in if the average Joe who has been in 5-9 years wasn’t treated right and knows there are opportunities elsewhere. They will let the next generation know that the grass may just be greener.

Response by PFC Meagan Berry made Apr 13 at 2023 12:17 PM

PFC Meagan Berry — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 12:17:58 -0400

Recruitment. The current generation has a completely different mindset than all of the previous generations

Response by SP5 Bruce Suhr made Apr 13 at 2023 12:23 PM

SP5 Bruce Suhr — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 12:23:45 -0400

The "woke" new military is no longer a lethal fighting force. God help us when the Chinese decide to attack us. A "woke" military is incapable of being a cohesive and effective fighting force. Compound the fact that the US has not been maintaining the amount of munitions we will need very shortly for offensive operations. Our current "leadership" is entirely focused on maintaining their illicit "look the other way" strategy while the Chinese have built a massive military including new missile capabilities that we can not stop. What is it going to take for the citizens of our country to realize the pathetic status of our readiness ??

Response by PO2 David Morales made Apr 13 at 2023 12:24 PM

PO2 David Morales — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 12:24:12 -0400

recruiting the newer generation.

Response by PO2 Donald Piatek Jr made Apr 13 at 2023 12:33 PM

PO2 Donald Piatek Jr — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 12:33:07 -0400

recruitment, younger generation are looking for non physical and non mentally demanding jobs .

Response by SN William Money made Apr 13 at 2023 12:44 PM

SN William Money — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 12:44:23 -0400

Finding youth that would even fight for this country.

Response by SP5 Greg Howard made Apr 13 at 2023 12:47 PM

SP5 Greg Howard — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 12:47:45 -0400

Finding and recruiting qualified candidates

Response by LCDR Richard Engel made Apr 13 at 2023 12:50 PM

LCDR Richard Engel — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 12:50:46 -0400

The frequency of deployments and the possible of war with China and the ongoing war in the Middle East. The increase of cost to the service member for the benefits that have been earned and entitled to receive.

Response by SGT Nathan Michelson made Apr 13 at 2023 12:56 PM

SGT Nathan Michelson — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 12:56:56 -0400

I have been out for a few years, but if the news is accurate, it seems recruitment is an issue. Like many problems there isn't a single quick an easy fix. Work ethic taught to children and young adults seems to be nonexistent. Lack of trust in the government seems to be more prevalent. Worries over losing your career, and having to walk on eggshells if you easily offend someone of a certain category isn't helpful. And what I believe to be the main issue is what JFK said doesn't seem to apply anymore to any age group today. "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country". Now the patriotic motto seems to be "gimme, gimme, gimme". It's sad times right now.

Response by SrA Rashad Sims made Apr 13 at 2023 1:02 PM

SrA Rashad Sims — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 13:02:40 -0400

The upcoming war is going to divide the northern and southern states. With the rising inflation and other countries trying to rule out the dollar's value, times are fixing to get really hard for many people and we will face difficult challenges.

Response by Alyna Harrall made Apr 13 at 2023 1:30 PM

Alyna Harrall — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 13:30:28 -0400

The biggest challenge is many young people are not equipped to take orders or constructive criticism which restricts the number of young people who can be successful in the military.

Response by Cpl Dennis Albes made Apr 13 at 2023 1:31 PM

Cpl Dennis Albes — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 13:31:39 -0400

Preparation for a war with China is my biggest worry. China is doing a lot of saber rattling along with building up its navy and putting is presence in places all over the world as well with apparently colluding with Russia and Iran. I don't think that any of this is an accident. At the same time, our economy is nose diving and were less able to support our military financially much less finance a war. I don't want a war and I don't think anyone does, but you have to always be prepared for the worse, and i think our military's main objective right now is to prepare for a possible war with China. We don't want another Pearl Harbor on our hands. If it doesn't happen, so much the better and it's less likely to happen if we look totally prepared to China.

Response by LCpl Brandy Faria made Apr 13 at 2023 1:37 PM

LCpl Brandy Faria — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 13:37:32 -0400

I think that recruiting numbers are way down. People these days want drones to protect the country instead of going out and getting boots on the ground.

Response by PO2 T Howard made Apr 13 at 2023 1:39 PM

PO2 T Howard — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 13:39:33 -0400

What do you see as the military's greatest challenge in 2023 and why? RETENTION

Good Afternoon,

Serving in the armed forces is a sacrifice requiring core values and devotion to duty. So why does the government sift out the BEST amongst thousands of recruits just to leave them high and dry? Let's not FORGET to invest in the personnel we already have.

Best Regards,
Veteran

Response by Cpl Morgan Jansson made Apr 13 at 2023 1:41 PM

Cpl Morgan Jansson — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 13:41:54 -0400

Woke agenda

Response by Sgt Les Cottrell made Apr 13 at 2023 1:55 PM

Sgt Les Cottrell — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 13:55:27 -0400

To be able to abide by, obey, live up to the Law of the land which is the U.S. Constitution; even when our supposedly "Commander-in-Chief" does not and dis-regards the Constitution all the time when it comes to the U.S. military. When the President breaks the law of the land while at the very top of the military, any and all those below the "Commander-In-Chief" and I use that phrase very loosely, should be able to refuse to break the law and follow his UN-lawful orders or anyone else's unlawful orders which goes against our great U.S. Constitution, "The Law of the Land" for all of the United States of America! Written by a TRUE PATRIOT. Les Cottrell [login to see]

Response by SPC Priscilla Whitt made Apr 13 at 2023 2:11 PM

SPC Priscilla Whitt — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 14:11:44 -0400

I would think getting people to sign
up. Too many see the military as a joke or a prison sentence. Serving our country doesn't mean what it used to mean.

Response by SSgt Chelsea Romanowiz made Apr 13 at 2023 2:27 PM

SSgt Chelsea Romanowiz — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 14:27:12 -0400

Navigating the geopolitical tensions and conflicts between major powers could be challenging for military operations and international relations.

it requires careful diplomacy and strategic planning. Any military action must be carefully considered to avoid unintended consequences or civilian casualties.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2023 2:28 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 14:28:42 -0400

Adjusting and Adopting to the new generation. Which we shouldn’t. The army should always stays how it was supposed to be.

Response by Cpl David Rowland made Apr 13 at 2023 3:02 PM

Cpl David Rowland — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 15:02:31 -0400

Recruitment. Since the school systems took out the Pledge Of Allegiance and parents not teaching them to be parotic Our youth have no desire to serve.

Response by Cpl Ronald Peters made Apr 13 at 2023 3:06 PM

Cpl Ronald Peters — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 15:06:16 -0400

Wokeness and extreme Liberalism has creates a generation of Victims who are being trained to HATE AMERICA. They are not being taught that this is still the greatest country on the planet that offers the most Freedoms of any country. I truly don't care if you are Republican or Democrat but I sadly have to agree with President Biden that "Thisis not your Father's Democrat Party ".
He is correct my Father was an active duty Marine the day JFK was Assassinated. I wish we had the JFK Democrats today. "Ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country!"
What a breath of fresh air that would be from the Left today!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2023 3:14 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 15:14:07 -0400

Job profiency and training. It's what I see on a daily basis. I think other assigned tasks are prioritized to the extent job training and practice gets sacrificed in some fields.

Response by SPC Parvin Daneshvar made Apr 13 at 2023 3:17 PM

SPC Parvin Daneshvar — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 15:17:06 -0400

Lack of true Primary Care

Response by PO1 Robert Giesenschlag made Apr 13 at 2023 3:18 PM

PO1 Robert Giesenschlag — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 15:18:57 -0400

Maintaining morale and an effective fighting force in the face of woke policies that are decimating the military.

Response by SPC Gunter Wall made Apr 13 at 2023 3:40 PM

SPC Gunter Wall — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 15:40:11 -0400

SPC James Neidig and MSG Thomas Currie summed up the problems very succinctly. I have served many years ago and been in education most of my professional life. I know of only one college that teaches Citizenship and the Constitution as part of the curriculum.
This may be altruistic, but we need to go back to the basics, pride in our country, pride in our Constitution, proud to be a citizen. “United we stand, divided we fall.”

Response by MAJ Thomas Grippo made Apr 13 at 2023 3:52 PM

MAJ Thomas Grippo — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 15:52:24 -0400

I agree with Colonel Randall C: "Recruiting and Retention"
Why: The military services are late in getting the message out to young men and women on the benefits of military service and training to themselves and to America.
Recruiting and retaining motivated, disciplined, and dedicated recruits to take a more active role in making a difference in their own lives and in their communities through service in the U.S. Military. Young men and women are more likely to join and organization when they find out what is in it for them. To take a more active part in the society to which you belong, you must first find out about yourself. You also must find out what training and employment opportunities are available in that society. The ASVAB is a good start for a military occupational speciality. It is also a good start to finding out where you may fit in to employment in America. As a citizen, veteran, and parent I want teachers, and military leaders in my community to motivate young men and women to their highest potential (both academically and ethically). Young men and women are most likely influenced by their peers then they are by their parents or teachers. They want to fit in. They get excited about something they should not do and they get in trouble. The military services should to strive to motivate the unmotivated and uninformed to invest in themselves through service to their country.

Response by LtCol Sidney Eilertson made Apr 13 at 2023 4:26 PM

LtCol Sidney Eilertson — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 16:26:05 -0400

Woke Training and lowering of physical fitness standards are the two issues that make the military a political football and not a challenge for red blooded American men looking for an organization they can be proud of joining.

Response by Lt Col Christopher Farr made Apr 13 at 2023 4:58 PM

Lt Col Christopher Farr — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 16:58:05 -0400

The greatest near and mid term challenge to our military is keeping the divisive politics of our day out of the ranks.

We have no room for right or left identity politics or the resulting "culture wars."

We serve no person or party. We took an oath to support and defend an ideal, a set of principles embodied in the Consitution of the United States of America. This we will defend by the oaths we swore to protect this ideal, which is the guiding document for our democracy, against all enemies, foreign and domestic.

Response by PO3 Joseph Nee made Apr 13 at 2023 5:00 PM

PO3 Joseph Nee — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 17:00:22 -0400

I fee that the biggest problem for the US Military going forward will be Retention and Recruiting. Without new people the ranks will be very thin.

Response by CPT Davey Martinez made Apr 13 at 2023 6:10 PM

CPT Davey Martinez — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 18:10:29 -0400

Finding young talent in progressive areas to fill in the ranks. After 16 years of service I have seen the mindset differentiate between deep rooted traditional communities and progressive ones. By no means am I making a political statement but it is important to understand the why in order to create a what. A what action do we need to take based on the why. If leaders understand what differentiates us, we CAN find what does not to revitalize that common goal. To re-energize why we decide to raise our right hand together and put those combat boots to our feet and hold that weapon at the ready. There's a deep psychological concept that is integrated in all this and too much to talk about in this thread but if anyone that has weight to make these strategic decisions for our larger military recruitment goals, I'd be happy to expand on it privately.

Response by SPC Richard Standal made Apr 13 at 2023 7:05 PM

SPC Richard Standal — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 19:05:48 -0400

Leadership at the top. Lack of a defined mission.

Response by LTJG Charlie Barnes made Apr 13 at 2023 7:47 PM

LTJG Charlie Barnes — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 19:47:55 -0400

World War

Response by SGT Don Newton made Apr 13 at 2023 7:48 PM

SGT Don Newton — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 19:48:31 -0400

The biggest challenge for the military is to get out and stay out of politics. As the numbers show the number of service members are getting concerningly low. No one wants to be forced to make a decision between their career or forced discharged because of a experimental drug that we now know have cost lives.

Response by SSG Kassandra Cockrel made Apr 13 at 2023 8:27 PM

SSG Kassandra Cockrel — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 20:27:39 -0400

Retention. So many National Guard and Reserve soldiers/veterans have been faced with debt (VA comp/drill over payment) and are basically drilling "for free"; or if they are continuously getting paid, it is adding to the debt and will be more they will have to pay back later. This stresses and strains the soldiers and their families. This pushes them to get out early because who wants to stay enlisted when it is causing them money. Then there are so many incentives for new recruits (which it should be) but none for the older soldiers that have 15+ years to stay in because you assume they will stay to get their 20 years. The older soldiers are needed just as much as the young soldiers...if not more. I was a recruiter, I was part of a line unit, and I also was a part of a TTOE. I have seen some of the youngest members of the Armed Forces and from what I have seen over the years the older soldiers are definitely needed to mold and help guide these young soldiers. I believe that they should at least waive the VA/drill overpayment for soldiers as a mean of incentive to improve retention.

Response by PO3 Michael Migel made Apr 13 at 2023 8:38 PM

PO3 Michael Migel — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 20:38:48 -0400

The possibility of Trump/another Republican like him during the 2024 election for the presidency, considering what has already happened in the past with him in the White House!

Response by CPO Moises Salas made Apr 13 at 2023 9:34 PM

CPO Moises Salas — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 21:34:41 -0400

Military discipline is the key to an effective fighting force. The military core values must not be dwindled during this period of low recruitment. Small and effective fleet, battalions, along with our Allie’s must continue to thrive on training to deter any adversaries.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2023 9:36 PM

A1C Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 21:36:32 -0400

What happened today in Massachusetts reminds us how important and challenging this topic is for our military: cyber attacks. They pose a significant challenge for the military due to their remote nature, the potential for substantial damage to infrastructure, difficulty in detection, a wide range of potential attackers, and constantly evolving tactics. Effective cybersecurity measures are crucial to ensuring military operations can continue to operate effectively in the modern digital age.

Response by TSgt Heather Taylor made Apr 13 at 2023 10:44 PM

TSgt Heather Taylor — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 22:44:54 -0400

Trust

Response by TSgt Heather Taylor made Apr 13 at 2023 10:49 PM

TSgt Heather Taylor — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 22:49:55 -0400

Due to misinformation with the media, burn pit aftermath and what happened on the botched exit from Afghanistan, I think trust is the biggest issue

Response by LT Patrick Miles made Apr 13 at 2023 11:22 PM

LT Patrick Miles — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 23:22:50 -0400

There has been a progressive weakening of our military since the completion of the Gulf War. We have become a military of public opinion instead of a force governed by "Good order and discipline." I joined enlisted and retired as an officer and in my 26 tenure I have observed leadership change their core values to align more with politicians and public opinion than with the personnel they govern. I have also seen new personnel enlist or commission who view the military as "just a job" with no commitment or ownership. I am very concerned that our force will not be mentally ready (or dedicated enough) to handle a conflict with a much more disciplined China or North Korean threat or a honed Soviet Threat.

Response by PFC Alan Ferger made Apr 13 at 2023 11:57 PM

PFC Alan Ferger — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 23:57:14 -0400

Woke garbage

Response by PV2 Anna M. Cross made Apr 13 at 2023 11:58 PM

PV2 Anna M. Cross — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 23:58:22 -0400

Today's young adults are physically unfit and could care less about actually working. If it was just simulation games, they'd be all for it. They don't take responsibility seriously, much less have respect for our great nation!! Schools believe in: No child left behind. Well, I believe they are being left behind, when they can't sign their own name and the cash register tells them the correct change because they can't do simple math!!!! You try to give them $21.59, when the total is $11.59, they don't understand you want a $10 bill, instead of more change. I need to go back to teaching reading, writing and arithmetic!! Plus gym!!

Response by SPC Rick Price made Apr 14 at 2023 1:02 AM

SPC Rick Price — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 01:02:15 -0400

Recruitment of QUALITY humans. I feel like the Army in particular has softened with the current generation.

Response by SFC Frances C Torres made Apr 14 at 2023 5:08 AM

SFC Frances C Torres — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 05:08:33 -0400

Finding and keeping potential Recruits interested in joining our Armed Forces. Most are seeing how their Fathers, Mothers, Grandparents, Brothers and Sisters are having to fight to obtain and receive Healthcare, Compensation, Education, and Disability Benefits they were all initially promised. Why is that? After decades of giving and serving to protect the basic fundamental rights afforded to every American Citizen. That is our Freedom! Why now must every Veteran prove that they have a medical debilitating condition that makes them unable to maintain gainfull employment, and perform their daily tasks and take care of their respective Families. Our founding Fathers would not have allowed this happen. If anything more needs to be done, to right this wrong and ensure it never happens again!

Response by MSG Brandon Lloyd made Apr 14 at 2023 5:16 AM

MSG Brandon Lloyd — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 05:16:17 -0400

Our country is seems to focus more on any issue that divides us as a nation these days and it’s only getting worse. I fear that as years pass young people will not view our nation as something worth the extreme sacrifice that military service requires much less being something they are willing to die to protect. I pray I’m wrong. In other words, I think getting average youngsters with few options to join will continue to get more difficult. Getting the high quality, driven, ones to forego college or a good job to join may become nearly impossible.
We are already faced with a situation where recruits are turned away in record numbers because of the inability to pass the PT test and get within the weight standards.

So eventually, the military will lower all the standards so these sub par individuals can join and those same ones before long will be in leadership positions.
We will always have patriots that will join and we will have high quality soldiers, just not enough.

I pray this is not how things go but it is a strong possibility

Response by SSgt Luis Contreras made Apr 14 at 2023 6:50 AM

SSgt Luis Contreras — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 06:50:47 -0400

The greatest challenge in 2023 for the military is my mind is Russia. The power that Russia involves a spiritual power that rest of the world knows little about, but it had been revealed in Fatima in 1917 and is continuing to unfold.

Response by Maj Ernie Albritton made Apr 14 at 2023 7:45 AM

Maj Ernie Albritton — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 07:45:43 -0400

Leadership driven to emphasize Wokeness at the expense of readiness.

Response by SSgt Joy-Anna Barr made Apr 14 at 2023 7:55 AM

SSgt Joy-Anna Barr — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 07:55:22 -0400

Our leadership on high has forgotten what we as veterans and military personnel sworn to protect and defend. The children in today society are being indoctrinated into a society that is not a democracy that our forefathers brought about. This is becoming a country that I am sad to say I come from when we lose respect for our past and not learn from it. The Constitution and the Bill of Rights are more the just pieces of paper it is what people die for to write. We are to defend foreign and domestic. Well we have been seeing the domestic when are we going to start acting with our voices. Our children need to be protected and the woke young adults need to have us old one take them over our knees and give them a good spanking to show them that hard work and pride it is what works in society not this give me attitude. God, Family and Freedom were the very values that made our country great. When we started take that away looks at how far we have fallen. Children not allow to bring their Bible to school in fear of being attacked being told they can choose what sex they are when you are born with one or another. Please prayer for our country.

Response by 1SG Wayne Frideres made Apr 14 at 2023 9:02 AM

1SG Wayne Frideres — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 09:02:28 -0400

Recruiting!

Response by Cpl Tina Adams made Apr 14 at 2023 9:10 AM

Cpl Tina Adams — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 09:10:33 -0400

The military has a few challenges,. Retention, recruiting and Political Agenda. Most of the younger generations are not patriotic, they have no idea what it would be like to lose our freedom. Our politicians are not governing our country, there is no bipartisan agreements, Republicans and democrats are trying to destroy each other.

Response by CPT Edward Samuel made Apr 14 at 2023 10:32 AM

CPT Edward Samuel — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 10:32:07 -0400

CPT Edward Samuel | Army

The military greatest challenge I believe is making it's enlistment quotas year over year. Why, because the leaders (Secretary of Defense and Secretaries of the Services) in today's military have lost their focus of purpose of why they joined the military in the first place. The military's focus should Only be Duty, Honor, Country and push this mindset relentlessly in everything it does. This is what has made our military the greatest fighting force in the world and is respected as such.
Mission First!!!

Response by Sgt Ervin Jones made Apr 14 at 2023 10:50 AM

Sgt Ervin Jones — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 10:50:26 -0400

Recruitment and retention.

Response by CPO Theodore (Ted) Henson made Apr 14 at 2023 11:09 AM

CPO Theodore (Ted) Henson — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 11:09:51 -0400

Greatest challenge: Getting a filed Disability Claim to fruition. Why:It has taken me 4 years of supplying information, placing phone calls, visiting VSO's, and going to claims centers. To this date no firm information has been supplied by the Veterans Administration Claims.
Center., other than "Wait"

Response by SGT Ronald Audas made Apr 14 at 2023 1:10 PM

SGT Ronald Audas — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 13:10:49 -0400

I’m concerned about the upper echelon in all branches of service.Many of our top war brains have been drummed out or replaced.Between politics and the now “woke “approach to manning our military,I fear, if we had to go into conflict.With Defense budget cuts and the giveaway of top equipment I.e.the latest in night vision gear as an example, we may have relegated ourselves to a third most powerful nation.Since we are not currently on a war front,l fear our military has been pushed to a back burner.

Response by PO3 Maurice Lane made Apr 14 at 2023 2:16 PM

PO3 Maurice Lane — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 14:16:19 -0400

The integration of trans into the military.

Response by PO1 Richard Thompson made Apr 14 at 2023 4:14 PM

PO1 Richard Thompson — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 16:14:12 -0400

Recruitment and Retension

Response by Sgt Patricia Moore made Apr 14 at 2023 6:19 PM

Sgt Patricia Moore — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 18:19:43 -0400

Having a force that understands what they are fighting for. Today’s arrest of a uniformed individual (regardless of active duty status or branch) is a perfect example. Without the understanding of our Constitution, how can you honor your oath to protect the values contained therein? Military personnel must have that sense of duty and respect at all levels. It’s hard to maintain a strong force without inner strength of character - up AND down the chain of command.

Response by SP5 George Smith made Apr 14 at 2023 10:07 PM

SP5 George Smith — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 22:07:31 -0400

The challenge begins before that fresh-faced kid raises his hand to take that oath that we veterans never retracted when we left our Call to Duty behind and carried on with the rest of lives. It begins within the home. It begins within the society that raises them. It begins with those little challenges as they grow up and are allowed to work through them on their own. There is wisdom in an over used phrase we take for granted, “it’s the little things that count!” These “little things” are the building blocks for our character. All you guys know what I’m talking about because you’ve been there when you took that plunge and raised that right hand. It may have waned after being exposed to the realities of service and you vowed to make it through to the honorable end of your enlistment…but, you made it through. Somehow, someway, maybe because of someone, you walked into that recruitment office to step up to what our country needs, that character that was willing to put yourself in second place and do the right thing for, not just your country, but everybody’s country. So, every aspect of our society, whether in the home, your workplace, your institution of learning from preschool to a Phd, your belief in your religion, or not, is where we begin to build that character. Final thought to ponder. I have six adult kids and I am proud of each one. They’ve had their own accomplishments through their lives in school, sports, work, and families. I am not proud of those trophy moments. I am proud that they found it within themselves to commit to the greater good and in their own way, raised that right hand.

Response by CPL Michael Propst made Apr 15 at 2023 1:13 AM

CPL Michael Propst — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 01:13:34 -0400

Taking care of veterans when they come home.

Response by Cpl Alecxis Leon made Apr 15 at 2023 1:25 AM

Cpl Alecxis Leon — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 01:25:01 -0400

The military's greatest challenge in 2023 is the polarization of today's politics because it creates division between the American people, government systems etc.

Response by PO2 Samuel Martinez made Apr 15 at 2023 10:08 AM

PO2 Samuel Martinez — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 10:08:27 -0400

The sum of its parts (challenges) the military faces in 2023 is the danger of insufficient funding by Congress. Inadequate funding severely affects our military's critical programs and operations in maintaining strategic advantages. There are too many vital programs of responsibility that can harm our country, especially now with dictators stirring the pot. There is no war in Ukraine; it is a Russian invasion that Ukraine is defending. A weak link in the chain can escalate across the 360-degree spectrum of national security.

Cybersecurity, with the advancement of Artificial Intelligence, is a menace now and will grow exponentially as government actors and hackers spy, steal, damage, supply misinformation, or create leaks causing imminent crises to our national security.

Insufficient funding is present now, preventing financial budget sabotage of our country. Sometimes, enemies are in and out without notice, planting spyware or extracting sensitive strategic or classified defense information. Military personnel can also steal personal and sensitive information to destroy their character and finances or be recruited. Funding is needed to prevent disruption of critical infrastructure and stop the theft of sensitive information that would compromise military communications and control systems, which impacts the efficiencies of military readiness.

The danger of misinformation is at an all-time high! During WWII, it played a significant role in the success of the Allied forces, and now it threatens our modern world through social media, especially during times of crisis. This deception can distort public opinion, damage morale, and even jeopardize military operations, leaving us vulnerable to attack.

Our national defense systems, such as missile defenses and satellites, are at risk of being compromised, severely limiting our military response capabilities. Furthermore, disruptions to essential infrastructure like water, food, and electrical supply could gravely affect our national security and economy. Immediate action is required to combat this growing threat!

Martin Luther said, "We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in this nation's great vaults of opportunity." I add that funding the sum of all the vital parts of military duties and operations allows the military to anticipate evolving high-tech and imminent global threats. Elected officials unaware of the big picture of national defense need never-ending exposure to the danger of insufficient funding for our military.

Response by PFC Gary Vanduinen made Apr 15 at 2023 10:24 AM

PFC Gary Vanduinen — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 10:24:09 -0400

Dealing with memory loss, dementia and trying to get disability for ptsd

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2023 3:30 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 15:30:13 -0400

I believe the military's greatest challenge in 2023 is going to be the efficient utilization of resources through communication. The 5 branches include the Army, Navy, Marine, Air Force, and Coast Guard. Not to mention the National Guard and Reserve Forces. All of these branches have similar, yet vastly different policies, guidelines, programs, etc. not to mention different general outlooks/attitudes. The way each branch is inherently competitive with the others is used as a driving force to progress/optimize the way things are done. However, when one branch CLEARLY has a better program/process/etc. the other branches don't seem to want to acknowledge it and follow suit. I'm not saying each branch should completely drop their current programs and do exactly as the other does. However, there are clearly lessons to be learned from the successes and failures of the our fellow branches. The same successes and failures happen repetitively across each our military branches. This subsequently causes a massive waste of resources through many duplications of effort. It's almost as if each branch is trying to invent the same wheel in a different way, yet refusing to help one another as they learn what works and what doesn't. Pooling resources and collaborating with one another will only further the advancement of our military as a whole.

Response by PO1 Jami Bullock made Apr 15 at 2023 4:26 PM

PO1 Jami Bullock — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 16:26:22 -0400

With a self-entitled, "woke", and gender-bender generation wanting to join the military, it is impossible to please the immature and accomplish the core mission we are designed for. It can't be done without jeopardizing our strength..Stand firm on principals, not cultural whims.

Response by PO1 Jakob Petracco made Apr 15 at 2023 4:42 PM

PO1 Jakob Petracco — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 16:42:44 -0400

Retention is the biggest challenge to the military. The fact that there is no bonus to those that serve. Only certain jobs were considered. There is no bonus for qualification. No bonus for superiority. You get ribbons that matter for points on a test that you can barely get a change to advance. If the military wants to continue to become like a private sector business instead of a fighting force they should match corporate America. Another issue being that we are no longer the most advanced fighting force in the world. We care more about humanitarian missions than actually our own countries issues. All I can say at this point is good luck.

Response by A1C Irma Etchells made Apr 15 at 2023 4:45 PM

A1C Irma Etchells — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 16:45:00 -0400

Airman Glennemeier
As unpopular as it may be, I would like to see a draft set up again to gain our military strength. Not too many of this Me Generation are willing to sacrifice and serve. We need to build up our military might and make it an obligation once again.

Response by SFC Terry Bockes made Apr 15 at 2023 5:50 PM

SFC Terry Bockes — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 17:50:12 -0400

Becoming wokeism and not giving in to equity training. They need to be able to think for themselves and act to defend the U.S. without micromanagement. Military recruitment is already down because of all these things mentioned, we need better management and leaders to bring our forces to what they once were.

Response by PO3 Rodney Sloan made Apr 15 at 2023 6:08 PM

PO3 Rodney Sloan — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 18:08:58 -0400

Recruiting, focusing on the current and next generations

Response by SSgt Angel Negron made Apr 16 at 2023 6:57 AM

SSgt Angel Negron — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 06:57:32 -0400

Trying to maintain a positive attitude and having faith in our country that life must go on regardless of our present situation that we must and will prevail.

Response by CMSgt Elbert E. Clayton made Apr 16 at 2023 7:02 AM

CMSgt Elbert E. Clayton — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 07:02:31 -0400

The news of the past few days of a 21-year-old leaking Top Secret data did not result from "Wokeism", whatever the hell that "ism" tries to evoke, but from the far right nutcaseism (a made up ism). This divisiveness from Officers, Enlisted and Civilian workforce members will be the military's greatest challenge in 2023 and beyond. Trump lost and DeSantis and his ilk only add to the loss of military cohesiveness by using that word (Wokeism). I have never seen a definition of the word. It does not even show up on this website or others as a correctable spelling error (it only alerts to a possible "Spelling" error). From 1965 to 1969, I served in USAF Recruiting in St. Louis, MO and experienced all the alleged problems of "Physical Fitness, Failing the ASVAB test, Liberal Agenda, and some other so-called problems". When the Draft couldn't produce the numbers required, and in the standards dictated the STANDARDS were lowered to produce the necessary numbers needed for "Cannon Fodder". The challenge of 2023 will be getting the numbers needed and I believe the Draft can't be far behind. Hope this does not infuriate anyone, but if it does, then you have my sympathy.

Response by SSgt Michael Bowen made Apr 16 at 2023 8:17 AM

SSgt Michael Bowen — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 08:17:53 -0400

Staying Combat ready and avoiding the politically correct woke agenda .

Response by PO1 James Beasley made Apr 16 at 2023 9:32 AM

PO1 James Beasley — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 09:32:51 -0400

Being able to respond with Naval force to the ongoing threats from Russia,China and a few hidden enemy countries.

Response by SPC Michael Phillips made Apr 16 at 2023 11:15 AM

SPC Michael Phillips — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 11:15:46 -0400

'Casualties' among my brethren from known sources of disinformation is undermining our strengths and cohesiveness of a 'ready' military. Given this frighteningly escalated number of breached 'security' and those 'radicalized' by disinformation, our immediate aim has to be a top down re-evaluation and re-training in recognizing propagandized 'material', outlets, and objectives. After the Jan. 6th insurrection (in which scores of Veterans 'participated' in), as well as recent 'leaks' of intelligence perpetrated by Active military and/or veterans, the dishonor is a weight that I'm personally embarrassed by. As an honorably discharged vet, I'm tired of bearing that load. It doesn't take a PhD to recognize the harm this 'dishonor' has done to the U.S. military on a worldwide stage. 2023 has to be an awakening amongst our military academies, General staff, and cadre at all levels. "The only thing necessary for evil to prevail, is for good men to do nothing." #WokeVet

Response by Sgt Todd Biller made Apr 16 at 2023 7:15 PM

Sgt Todd Biller — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 19:15:50 -0400

I believe that the military's greatest challenge will be getting the number needed of qualified, motivated and physically fit recruits. Unfortunately our society is creating a generation weak minded and unpatriotic teens in the face of the increasing threat from our enemies is a disaster waiting to happen.

Response by 1LT Thomas Rabatin made Apr 16 at 2023 7:23 PM

1LT Thomas Rabatin — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 19:23:26 -0400

Response by 1LT Thomas Rabatin made Apr 16 at 2023 7:25 PM

1LT Thomas Rabatin — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 19:25:46 -0400

Transition to Special Forces Operations from Large Land War Operations. Since large land wars are obsolete and no longer required, the Army and Marines should transition to special operations and reduce enlistment that is not required to support the Army Rangers, Special Forces (Green Berets), Night Stalkers, Psychological Operations, Civil Affairs, Marine Raiders and Force Recon. The Army reserves and Marine reserves would increase to support a possible but not probable land war. The Airforce and Navy force strength would remain. Night Stalkers, Psychological Operations, Civil Affairs, Marine Raiders and Force Recon. The Army reserves and Marine reserves would increase to support a possible but not probable land war. The Airforce and Navy force strength would remain.

Response by MSgt Pam Schwarzkopf made Apr 16 at 2023 9:14 PM

MSgt Pam Schwarzkopf — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 21:14:17 -0400

Hiring of new recruits to protect the USA.

Response by SSgt Dakota Smith made Apr 17 at 2023 7:46 AM

SSgt Dakota Smith — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 07:46:32 -0400

As a former NCO, I can say the issues that were present during my time of service are the same as they are now, and will continue to linger until they are attacked. Not enough young leaders are educated on Social and Emotional Intelligence in leadership. This starts in the household, but should be executed academically, and practically from BMT through most PME in all branches. This may include extending the training process, or prioritizing and "trimming the fat" for some topics covered during training. Most of the lessons I learned about leadership were to be a stoic, level headed, lead from the front with logic. Sacrifice yourself and put the team first. Authoritative leaders trying to transition into the Transformational roles... You can see where this continues. However, it was not until late in my career that I had a supervisor provide me with some literature that I should have received as a young Airman to prepare me for the changes I would be experiencing. In conclusion, everyone who signs that line is a leader, push the FRLM from day one. If you solve this issue, you will see better quality troops, leaders, and it will inevitably have a positive impact on retention at all levels.
Thanks you for this opportunity.
Ssgt Smith USAF

Response by Heidi Bracy made Apr 17 at 2023 9:27 AM

Heidi Bracy — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 09:27:56 -0400

I think recruitment and retention are always going to be an issue. My biggest concerns are our current leadership and the ability to respond/defend against the leaders of the world that are currently at unrest.

Response by 1stLt Ethan Day made Apr 17 at 2023 11:19 AM

1stLt Ethan Day — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 11:19:44 -0400

Transferring to a different kind of war-- politics and economics.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2023 11:51 AM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 11:51:06 -0400

Recruitment, maintenance, funding, and AI. Recruitment is challenging because of a lack of qualified civilians and bad decision making by military leaders (such as the highly publicized mess in the aftermath of the Bonhomme Richard fire, an example and by no means the only one)
Maintenance directly impacts recruiting, as nobody wants to join when ships are rusting through and helicopters are falling out of the sky
Funding is the eternal issue, there will probably never be enough and we need to be good at working with what we have, for instance, maintaining a ship or helicopter is cheaper than replacing it most of the time. (Not always)
AI is a powerful tool already and will keep getting better. If there is not already, we should be looking into how it can be utilized by both us and our enemies and how both uses can be countered or sabotaged. The AI toothpaste cannot be put back in the tube and we need to seize the initiative before our adversaries do

Response by SSgt Barbara Barnett made Apr 17 at 2023 12:40 PM

SSgt Barbara Barnett — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 12:40:29 -0400

I see the greatest challenge, as the mental health of our younger veterans. They seem to be more susceptible to the daily drama in the headline and group talks, than the older generation. So I believe we will start to see more younger veterans and civilian reaching out for mental help, or just taking of their own lives. Thank you.

Response by CW4 Alan Dobrowolski made Apr 17 at 2023 12:47 PM

CW4 Alan Dobrowolski — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 12:47:20 -0400

Keeping soldiers - since the retirement program was decimated by the the former president Obama, maintaing qualified soldiers are no longer staying.

Response by LCpl Sara Rennicke made Apr 18 at 2023 9:31 AM

LCpl Sara Rennicke — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 09:31:24 -0400

I am a former USMC and I was the Family Readiness Officer's Administrator Assistant and the biggest thing I saw others were being mismanaged by senior enlisted. There is a saying that if they don't like you they will make your life a living hell! There is no second chances and I saw first hand good Marines go down a dark hole that the senior enlisted would target them! Bullying needs to stop! Everyone is going through something and it's also our duty to get help for those that need it and for those that don't want it give them a little bit of space to work through it!

Response by SSgt Susan Phipps made Apr 18 at 2023 2:09 PM

SSgt Susan Phipps — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 14:09:28 -0400

At this moment in our countries history we are battling between inner national terrorists and the proper rule of law. Until we become a TEAM (Together Everyone Accomplishes More) and discontinue this angry hate for those who are not like (you) our military forces will always be at odds. Until (we) realize that it is about the service and not the individual our military services will continue to have TEAM issues. If we do not stop looking at each other as different and come together as a whole our military is going to become a circus of attempting to satisfy every little inequality that surfaces. We are not individuals in the military. We are (one) of the (whole). A number, a green box, a service member, nothing more. We voluntarily sign on the dotted line to give our lives to our country be we of another race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or any other thing that makes us different from another. Embrace that and we will be a united, strong military. Once you put that uniform on you are no longer an individual. You are part of something so much bigger. Until we stop thinking individualistically we will ALWAYS be at odds from within. You are not John, Jane, Jack or Dorothy. You are Airman, Private, Seamen or what ever rank you are. PERIOD!

Response by COL Robert Gardner made Apr 18 at 2023 10:12 PM

COL Robert Gardner — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 22:12:57 -0400

Dealing with the current trend of pushing a woke ideology that is more concerned with social engineering than it is with preparing the members of the armed service for their primary duties, which should be the preparation and conducting of military operations in the defence of our national security. Our country's military cannot afford to be dealing with these political controversies while our nation's enemies are properly training and outfitting their military with the latest advancements that they can purchase. Our enemies warriors are not worried what gender they are or what they call themselves. The main concern of our enemies is that if they have to go to war is the military better trained and outfitted than their opponent. With Russia at war currently with the Ukraine, China eyeing Taiwan, rouge countries like N. Korea improving their nuclear capabilities terrorist groups around the world like ISIS planning on their next wave of attacks, the United States can little afford a lag time to properly outfit and train and disciplined and properly prepared fighting force.

Response by COL Robert Gardner made Apr 18 at 2023 10:13 PM

COL Robert Gardner — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 22:13:20 -0400

Dealing with the current trend of pushing a woke ideology that is more concerned with social engineering than it is with preparing the members of the armed service for their primary duties, which should be the preparation and conducting of military operations in the defence of our national security. Our country's military cannot afford to be dealing with these political controversies while our nation's enemies are properly training and outfitting their military with the latest advancements that they can purchase. Our enemies warriors are not worried what gender they are or what they call themselves. The main concern of our enemies is that if they have to go to war with someone is their military units better trained and outfitted than their opponent's military units. With Russia at war currently with the Ukraine, China eyeing Taiwan, rouge countries like N. Korea improving their nuclear capabilities and terrorist groups around the world like ISIS planning their next wave of attacks, the United States can little afford a lag time wherein they would be able to properly outfit and train a disciplined and properly prepared fighting force.

Response by Sgt Bob Bartlett made Apr 19 at 2023 7:56 AM

Sgt Bob Bartlett — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 07:56:53 -0400

Sexual assault. Stop covering up as every other organization in the world does when confronted with this heinous crime. Prosecute to the fullest extent of the law. Do not discharge the offenders and pass the problem on to the civilian world. Admit that men are being assaulted at rates that would shock the U.S. prison system. I thought that you had eliminated “Don’t ask, don’t tell.” Or is this the result of “Don’t ask, don’t tell.”?

Response by PO3 Douglas Dunphy made Apr 19 at 2023 10:28 AM

PO3 Douglas Dunphy — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 10:28:16 -0400

The largest problems that the Vet has today are Depression, and Finances, of course if they have there 20-30 years in the military that should help.

Response by SP5 Delphis Kaczowski made Apr 19 at 2023 6:49 PM

SP5 Delphis Kaczowski — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 18:49:57 -0400

The Pentagon needs to show high school grads that when their enlistment is over there will be a continuation of the military work/job when they are discharged. It is discouraging after 3 or 4 years of service to come home & start civilian life with NO means of earning a paycheck. I personally think the draft should be abolished, especially since it discriminates against lower income minorities. NO American citizen should be forced to defend this country. NOTE: WE have NEVER been attacked yet by anyone because our Constitution allows ordinary citizens to be armed like a militia. Always remember that our Military is very young people & they make mistakes.

Response by SPC Peter Vollmer made Apr 20 at 2023 2:14 PM

SPC Peter Vollmer — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 14:14:09 -0400

Mental health awareness and family counseling!

Looking back at my time in service, I can remember the incidents that contributed to my PTSD. I don't remember much, if any training about mental health during my time in the mid 1990's. I believe had I started treatment sooner, that I may have made a career in the Army. I've met many veterans with mental health and/or family problems since I got out in 1996. I volunteered with the American Legion from 1997 to 2002. I knew many veterans that struggled with addiction trying to cope with the extreme experiences they had during their times in service. I've personally known a few veterans to attempt or complete suicide. It seems to me that addressing mental health should also be part of the overall medical treatment during service. The whole "drink some water and walk it off or take 2 of these and get some rest" was a poor way to handle things back then. I believe having a regular mental health screening for service members could help identify and reduce the effects of some conditions. I think that by helping current service members with mental health problems could increase retention thereby keeping experienced soldiers longer.

I know my mental illness has impacted my relationships. I also know that getting support from family and friends increases my chances for recovery. However, my poor mental health has made it difficult to maintain the close relationships that could improve my recovery outcome. I understand that my poor mental health contributed towards my inappropriate behavior towards my closest relationships and pushed the people I needed to help me get better away from me. I remember there being relationship problems with many of the people I served with back during the 1990's. I hope that the military understands how vital a stable home life contributes to a soldier's overall health and that a soldier's mental health is an important part in maintaining a good social network of support for each service member. I hope the military could institute some training for all our service men and women on how to build and maintain healthy social connections.

Plus, I wish more veterans would volunteer within their communities to show by example that our love for our nation did not end with our service. I strongly believe that all veterans either active duty, reservist, or retired should get involved publicly to lead the way for others to follow in lifting up The United States of America as The Greatest country in the world. The satisfaction, pride, and social connections I've gained from volunteering has helped me in my road to recovery from mental illness. Knowing I served our nation with honor and helping my local community with humility has given me a peace in my heart that carries me thru hard times. Knowing that I have done good things locally and national helps me with the negative thinking that comes with my mental illness. I cant be "all bad" if I've done "some good".

I've never been good a writing but I hope in my rambling sort of way that I got my point across. Mental health is a serious issue for retention and for having a high quality life after service.

Response by Cpl John R made Apr 20 at 2023 3:46 PM

Cpl John R — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 15:46:47 -0400

The U.S. Military's greatest challenge in 2023 and in the years to come is not Woke-ism, it's not recruiting better members, it is better educating our service members through Transition Assistance and taking care of our veterans AFTER their military service that better prepares them for the civilian population. This is an ongoing and underrepresented problem that no one is talking about.

For example, we all know and have heard for years now that 20 veterans kill themselves everyday due to suicide, but do we know why? I do. It is because there are underlying/internal issues that veterans need help in addressing coupled with the abuse of drugs and alcohol which all lead to suicide. 20 per day CLEARLY indicates that there is a problem that our government is not touching base with. Fun fact, more veterans have died by suicide than have died in most of our wars COMBINED. If you want numbers here they are; 6,000 military members died overseas in the Iraq and Afghanistan conflict. If we do the math, this means that veterans die by suicide everyday more than they did in this recent war.

Another example is the 2/3 of military service members DO NOT go through the Transition Assistance program like they should, for whatever reason, leaving them s.o.l. at the end of their service. If we do our research, the VA DoD report 100% attendance rate for Transition Assistance classes, however, this is only due to the people who showed up. Meaning, it doesn't count for the rest of the military personnel who did not attend.

These are just a few concrete, researchable examples. I have more. The military's problem in 2023 is that there has not been a significant solution to the problems stated above and military service members are some of the most important people that we need to be taking care of. Lack of representation for our military members is another issue. Service members should be informed that they need to be preparing to leave the military as soon as they get in the military.

My name is John. Contact me if you need to. Especially for my prize.

[login to see]

Response by SP5 Colleen MacDonald made Apr 21 at 2023 1:12 PM

SP5 Colleen MacDonald — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 13:12:14 -0400

Duty, Honor, country needs to be infusted back into society. As JKF said "Ask not what your country can to for you, but what you can do for your country"

Response by PO2 Tracie Barthel made Apr 21 at 2023 8:53 PM

PO2 Tracie Barthel — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 20:53:53 -0400

The militaries greatest challenge in 2023 is that recruitment is down because the young adults today have realized they can get paid to stay at home. Why would they want to join the military and risk their lives to defend ours?

Response by Cpl Charles Putegnat made Apr 24 at 2023 11:33 AM

Cpl Charles Putegnat — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 11:33:28 -0400

budget limitations for an evolving Tec world.

Response by PVT George Demos made Apr 26 at 2023 2:54 PM

PVT George Demos — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 14:54:26 -0400

Job market has opened up & offer alternative life options.

Response by LTC Ken Sheets made Apr 26 at 2023 5:57 PM

LTC Ken Sheets — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 17:57:29 -0400

The army’s biggest challenge is preparing for a pacific conflict with extremely stretched lines of communications.

Response by PO2 Michael Patterson made Apr 26 at 2023 6:01 PM

PO2 Michael Patterson — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 18:01:35 -0400

I really can't say. I don't know what things look like on the inside any longer. I'm sure things in the military are different compared to when I was in.

Response by CDR Robert Chavis made Apr 26 at 2023 6:06 PM

CDR Robert Chavis — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 18:06:28 -0400

Keeping military tradition's with the modern day tech flare, the woke item needs to be out of the usa military

Response by SPC Sylather Collins made Apr 26 at 2023 6:09 PM

SPC Sylather Collins — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 18:09:12 -0400

I think the biggest challenge for VA in 2023 is making sure veterans are taken care of and not be discriminated against because they don’t have a disability. I believe every veteran should be respected by the veterans affairs office and the veterans clinic. It is a challenge because many vets do not feel as though they have a voice at the veterans clinic if they are not disabled. These non-disabled vets were there for this country when we needed them so we should be there when they need us.

Response by SSG Russell Brown made Apr 26 at 2023 6:25 PM

SSG Russell Brown — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 18:25:08 -0400

The selection of activities that our soldiers will be participating in. President Biden is being assisted by advisers that are more politically involved than the military personnel. If it is anything like the first two years the military will be put in situations without their leaders having time to decide what the best way to handle the situation. They will also not have time plan the mission that will be overseen by politicians that will not be making decisions that will provide any meaningful outcome except for their interests.

Response by LCpl Michael Dunlap made Apr 26 at 2023 6:31 PM

LCpl Michael Dunlap — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 18:31:30 -0400

Cultural division among society
Should not impact the Military community.

Response by SMSgt Mark S made Apr 26 at 2023 7:04 PM

SMSgt Mark S — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 19:04:09 -0400

Media, Dissemination, Education are the greatest challenge.

Response by SGT Carlos Herrera made Apr 26 at 2023 7:12 PM

SGT Carlos Herrera — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 19:12:38 -0400

COMPLACENCY AND GENDER/RACIAL EQUALITY.

Response by Cpl William Causey made Apr 26 at 2023 7:22 PM

Cpl William Causey — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 19:22:35 -0400

joe biden, he is not commander & chief material

Response by SGT Justin Blevins made Apr 26 at 2023 7:24 PM

SGT Justin Blevins — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 19:24:54 -0400

Wokeness to include indoctrination

Response by SSG Adrian Walker made Apr 26 at 2023 7:45 PM

SSG Adrian Walker — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 19:45:47 -0400

Getting qualified people to commit to the Military, as long as Veterans are being treated like second class citizens and their finances are going to be put in jeopardy by the President and the Government, we will not give anyone who asks if they should join up any kind of glowing report. When the Department Of Veterans Affairs, decides to not pay for the procedure that they requested, or perhaps they sent you a letter saying that you should have driven your self to the hospital when you were having a widow maker heart attack. Or maybe just when you are getting sued by a medical professional because the VA just doesn't care about you and the Government is right there with them, why would you say to that all around jock with the 3.8 GPA that the Military will have his back and his best interests at heart without laughing in his face.

Response by SSG Wayne Kissell made Apr 26 at 2023 7:59 PM

SSG Wayne Kissell — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 19:59:32 -0400

Building advantages in strategic competition to include cyberspace and outer space. Adapting to climate change, which is expected to bring about more frequent and severe natural disasters, which the military must be prepared to respond to.

Response by SGT Kim Michelis made Apr 26 at 2023 8:07 PM

SGT Kim Michelis — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 20:07:56 -0400

VA biggest challenge is actually helping veterans and not passing the buck we dont get our checks or our meds regularlly and nobody cares they gonna get paid whether they help or not and that attitude needs to be fixed

Response by SPC Dick Webster made Apr 26 at 2023 8:08 PM

SPC Dick Webster — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 20:08:18 -0400

Total lack of leadership at the highest levels.

Response by SSgt Ashley Thurston made Apr 26 at 2023 8:28 PM

SSgt Ashley Thurston — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 20:28:04 -0400

Retention of personnel due to leadership failure and extreme difference in pay between officers and enlisted.

Response by SP6 Genevieve Zartman made Apr 26 at 2023 8:30 PM

SP6 Genevieve Zartman — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 20:30:40 -0400

The biggest challenge that I see and have experienced is a lack of provider's, especially in the mental health sector, it's bad enough now but with the PACT ACT being implemented, did anyone think about who's gonna provide health and mental health to the new incoming Veterans, sure it's great the law passed but it wasn't thought out and now people are scrambling, I believe the ulterior motive of passing the Act is because the government is covering their ass not to pay millions like they have in the past (agent orange) and now Camp Leguene. The end result will be a lack of medical, dental and mental health for us Veterans, Thanks to our Administration for opening another can of worms
regarding lack of care for us Veterans, I suggest you implement a plan and make sure all bases are covered, but for now it's a little too late, good luck to us Veterans trying to get an appointment

Response by SA Sacheen Weston made Apr 26 at 2023 8:35 PM

SA Sacheen Weston — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 20:35:11 -0400

I believe it's underestimating our opponents. Our government and younger generations don't realize the importance of the military, in protecting their rights and their lives. Thinking that we can talk out our worldly problems and be peaceful isn't just ignorant, it's downright dangerous. When someone declares war on our country, where will talking and a diminished military force get us? I'd rather not find out.

Response by SGT C Reed made Apr 26 at 2023 8:40 PM

SGT C Reed — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 20:40:33 -0400

Extremism, particularly fundamentalist extremist christianity which violates the constitutional rights of our active duty military personnel and our veterans. As in our daily politics, there are extremist evangelicals who are putting their religion over constitutional law. Whether you look at the FBI stats on hate crimes, the Military Religious Freedom Foundation website, the SPLC's "Hate & Extremism" stats, or any other organization, you can easily see that they all have one thing in common: extremist Christians (not ordinary Christians, but extremists) who try to impose their narrow and often hate-filled version of faith on others. It's bad enough when it happens in civilian life and politics, but when this happens in the ranks, it is not just a violation of constitutional law, but a violation of every Oath of Service for every branch of the military. It is a huge danger to cohesion, trust, and readiness.

Response by AN Dean Phillippi made Apr 26 at 2023 8:43 PM

AN Dean Phillippi — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 20:43:28 -0400

1.) One of the (Greatest challenge in 2023) to me is for the need for a better (VA Healthcare for all Veterans):
WHY: I am a Vietnam War Era Veteran and I belong to a VVA Chapter 1046, and I see a lot of our members constantly fighting to get disability for Agent Orange since they had cancer from it. They are still fighting for it shamefully. Over the past few years, I've seen several die, before they were approved for VA Disability due to Agent Orange.
Also, here in Jacksonville, Florida, there are so many veterans here, however, the VA Medical Center only has a few doctors per specialty, so it takes about 2 to 3 months to get an appointment to see a specialist. This must change. Get more doctors, get more specialists.
Some of the VA Doctors are not qualified to be a specialist and/or a doctor. You have to see your main VA doctor, in order to see a VA specialist, so this takes time, even if you have Community Care.
There is not enough VA doctors and VA specialists which many veterans may be challenged with a major disease, illness, or medical treatment condition that needs urgent care.
2.) Another of the (Greatest challenge in 2023) is today's military recruitment and retention. Providing career paths for employees with excellent benefits and job satisfaction is difficult in combat arenas, and the complex demographic, psychological, and political contrasts in our country surrounding recruiting and retention make those two jobs increasingly difficult.
WHY: Other countries are seeing our country as weak, and USA is getting less powerful with our military!

Response by PO2 Lewis Jenkins made Apr 26 at 2023 8:50 PM

PO2 Lewis Jenkins — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 20:50:27 -0400

Lack of qualified recruits is one. But not number 1. Our school system is dumbing down the young people. The mindset of people fearing to die for anything that matters such as national security. People willing to kill innocent civilians, but won't risk in all for friends and family. Greed and selfishness has set this country on a path to trying to get rich while not realizing that this country is under attack from within. And finance will not solve this. I remember back in the 60's, I think it was in 60 or 61 when Nikita Khrushchev said on Russian state radio that America would fall. And that t would not fall from without, but that it would fall from within. Leadership discissions have weakened us as a nation. And we are too busy pointing our finger at people of different races and cultures. And it is not the races and cultures that are the problem. It is the education and teaching by people in positions of power, people of authority and important leadership making decisions that enrichen people in power while neglecting, "We the people hold these truths to be self evident....." These proclamations were documented in 1776 and approved. But these things have been bartered away for the benefit of the few. Now for a reality check for those of you that think that I am a communist sympathizer, "Think Again!" Straight Record! I was born here in America. I joined the Navy, and did my time. I have strived to be a good citizen. And voted and hoped that my decisions were correct. But, I have learned that what is promised by politicians doesn't seem to be fulfilled. Too many divisions in this country. Instead of coming together to agree to what is best for this country. The fight seems to be, let us fight against this or that because they are voting for that or this. So, the greatest challenge for the military is the greatest challenge for America as well. Quality Citizenship, and quality leadership. Read this or not! Trust this or not! Believe this or not! The truth will show itself. Just watch, like the "Fly on the wall!" It sees everything while not being seen itself.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2023 9:08 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 21:08:53 -0400

Quality recruits. These days, people want a job that is easy and not so demanding.

Response by Sgt Matthew Ota made Apr 26 at 2023 9:18 PM

Sgt Matthew Ota — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 21:18:26 -0400

Recrutment and retention. Military pay scale for enlisted has to be raised to keep soldiers, sailors and airmen off of food stamps

Response by SFC Ritchie Inns made Apr 26 at 2023 9:20 PM

SFC Ritchie Inns — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 21:20:13 -0400

The military’s greatest challenge is to fall under public, media, and social media pressure to make the Armed Forces a “kinder and gentler” force. This has been shoved down our throats since Clinton. Yes, I started serving under Reagan and retired under Obama. We can’t get soft now, or ever! Our country’s security lies with our military strength.

Response by Sgt Lance White made Apr 26 at 2023 9:34 PM

Sgt Lance White — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 21:34:57 -0400

It’s the people who make the machine run smoothly and achieve the mission at hand.

Taking better care of the troops and their dependents financially is always a challenge. However, I believe training for the troops and those who care for them medically regarding mental health is our greatest challenge.

The military needs to improve in taking the stigma out of mental health issues (needing care for anxiety & depression, etc.) through training beginning with boot camp and all throughout the troops career, no matter what rank they may hold. Troops and their leaders must get a better grasp on how serious these issues are. Too many troops and veterans are finding themselves feeling helpless and alone with seemingly nowhere to go and nobody to share with without the risk of humiliation and pushback from their superiors.

Needing help mentally is not weakness, but a medical issue. Knowles and understanding are crucial for the health of our armed forces - for the young men and women serving and sacrificing for our Country and our way of life.

Response by Cpl Antonio Luna made Apr 26 at 2023 9:38 PM

Cpl Antonio Luna — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 21:38:19 -0400

The military's greatest challenge in 2023 is recruiting and retaining a qualified workforce. The military is facing a number of challenges in this area, including:

A shrinking pool of eligible recruits. The number of young people who are eligible to serve in the military has been declining for years. This is due to a number of factors, including the aging of the population, the decline in birth rates, and the increasing number of young people who are ineligible to serve due to health problems or criminal records.
A competitive job market. The military is not the only employer that is looking for qualified workers. The private sector is also facing a shortage of workers, and is offering higher salaries and better benefits to attract and retain employees.
A changing view of the military. The military is no longer seen as the only path to a good job or a successful career. Many young people are now choosing to go to college or pursue other careers instead of joining the military.
The military is taking a number of steps to address these challenges, including:

Investing in marketing and outreach programs to reach more potential recruits.
Offering more educational and training opportunities to attract and retain qualified workers.
Working to improve the military's image and make it more appealing to potential recruits.
The military's ability to recruit and retain a qualified workforce will have a significant impact on its ability to meet its mission in the years to come. The military must address these challenges head-on in order to ensure that it has the workforce it needs to protect the nation.

Response by SPC Jim Griffis made Apr 26 at 2023 10:11 PM

SPC Jim Griffis — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 22:11:18 -0400

The political leadership. It is frankly, frightening.

Response by PV2 Monica Starr made Apr 26 at 2023 10:12 PM

PV2 Monica Starr — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 22:12:58 -0400

Response by SP5 Michael Chapman made Apr 26 at 2023 10:16 PM

SP5 Michael Chapman — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 22:16:41 -0400

Staying on top of China military threat

Response by PO3 Bill Mittler made Apr 26 at 2023 10:20 PM

PO3 Bill Mittler — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 22:20:10 -0400

The greatest challenge is to keep our country free and protect our great nation, but our military need to get better pay for the danger they are in everyday

Response by Sgt Austin James made Apr 26 at 2023 10:20 PM

Sgt Austin James — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 22:20:53 -0400

The never ending wars with people who haven’t actually attacked us and now trying to start a world war with 5+ countries that aren’t our allies but should be. We are losing respect for our leaders and fear their decisions when our lives are at stake.

Response by SrA John Bergen made Apr 26 at 2023 10:44 PM

SrA John Bergen — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 22:44:09 -0400

Internal politics and personnel retention.

Response by PO3 Albert Bears made Apr 26 at 2023 10:53 PM

PO3 Albert Bears — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 22:53:08 -0400

enlistment

Response by CPL Todd Lowrey made Apr 26 at 2023 10:54 PM

CPL Todd Lowrey — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 22:54:18 -0400

Fair DA veteran pay.

Response by SP5 Michael Byrd made Apr 26 at 2023 11:10 PM

SP5 Michael Byrd — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 23:10:56 -0400

China, Russia, Korea, and Ttump

Response by PO3 Christina Gonzales made Apr 26 at 2023 11:18 PM

PO3 Christina Gonzales — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 23:18:04 -0400

Protecting the health and wellness of service members and families, adjusting and adapting to climate change. Assisting veterans with toxic exposure along with possible new claims for active service members.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2023 11:35 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 23:35:55 -0400

Budget funding for training exercises & TOA (Table of allowance ) for each branch of service down to each member . Mission readiness in critical. In order to stay the strongest nation we first and foremost have to find a better way to protect PII! The only way I could think of doing that would be to EMP harden all of our surveillance, satellites an servers.

Response by CPT Tom Hernandez made Apr 26 at 2023 11:42 PM

CPT Tom Hernandez — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 23:42:19 -0400

I think the military's greatest challenges in 2023 will be recruitment as well as continuing to be the patriotic flag bearer for this great country in the face of all the political hostility and decline in the faith and respect our citizens have in the United States government.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2023 12:14 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 00:14:56 -0400

Retention.
While we have made great strides to be a more progressive entity, we have lost focus on mission essential tasks. We are NOT ALLOWED to prepare them with realistic training. If you so much as raise your voice, you get hit with a complaint because it hurts someone's feelings. In a combat situation, I'm not going to ask another Soldier, in a calm and. polite manner, to do something. If a Soldier can't handle yelling and loud noises, this probably isn't the profession for them. Or they should consider a specific MOS that would keep them further from these situations (specific degrees we recruit). We are driving away leadership with combat experience, who can train this new generation and keep them alive in a real world scenario. So while I applaud some of the stride we have made, I also disagree with some of the decisions made as well. Will I follow the regulations put forth, absolutely. Will I train my people to the best of my ability, while following those rules, absolutely. But it's a disservice and setting them up for failure, with unrealistic expectations. It us frustrating for not only myself, but for leadership who have been in for over 15 years and have seen some of the "rules" change.

Response by CPL Harry Wilson made Apr 27 at 2023 12:29 AM

CPL Harry Wilson — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 00:29:44 -0400

The greatest challenge is maintaining the necessary recruiting levels in a time of almost full employment among the young men and women today who do not seem to be military minded. In fact, most young people do not seem to care about our national defense or even think about it. If they do think about military service it is mostly in negative terms.

Response by CWO4 Stephen Jones made Apr 27 at 2023 12:54 AM

CWO4 Stephen Jones — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 00:54:57 -0400

The military has many challenges, but none have ever been as great as the need for more men and women to sign-up, as recruitment is way down across the board. There is less trust in the U.S. leadership, government institutions and overall this effects part of the reason so many are not joining.
Another major problem is that of national security and on the homefront especially keeping our data secure and ensuring our IT specialists and security officials are constantly watching and aware of cyber crimes. Unfortunately, one of the biggest challenges yet is the Iranian, Russsia, and Chinese governments tactics, lies, threats and constant detrement to our country as an entirety, as it steals and aims to control the US. We need our leaders in power to step up and be BOLD, BRAVE and let all enemies know that the United States of America will not tolerate any misuse of power or threats and will prevail. We need to let men and women know what an honor it is to have them serve and to also serve them, reward them and ensure they have a sense of pride and loyalty to our country.

Response by PO2 Diane Walters-Rodefer made Apr 27 at 2023 12:56 AM

PO2 Diane Walters-Rodefer — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 00:56:05 -0400

I agree that some of the challenges include the military's inability to meet recruitment requirements and maintain the retention of their personnel. I also believe that the military faces challenge when they have lousy leadership under the guidance of a weak government. And the military needs to focus on their readiness and address the threats to our nation and stop worrying about hurting someone's feelings, and stop focusing on meeting a Woke agenda.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2023 12:56 AM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 00:56:32 -0400

The post pandemic remote options that civilian employers offer is one the most current challenges the military is facing in 2023.

Response by SPC Peter Pinto made Apr 27 at 2023 1:28 AM

SPC Peter Pinto — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 01:28:04 -0400

As we enter the year 2023, the military is faced with several challenges that must be addressed in order to maintain national security and effectively carry out its mission. Among these challenges, the greatest one facing the military in 2023 is the constantly evolving nature of conflict and the threat of emerging technologies.

The modern battlefield has changed significantly over the past few years, and the military must adapt to these changes to remain effective. The emergence of cyber warfare and the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and drones are among the new threats that military leaders must confront. These technologies have enabled non-state actors and other adversaries to conduct attacks that are more efficient and harder to counter.

The proliferation of these new technologies has left the military with an enormous challenge, as traditional methods of warfare are no longer sufficient. The military must now rely on a combination of new strategies, cutting-edge technologies, and well-trained soldiers to combat these threats.

Moreover, the military also faces challenges in terms of recruiting and retaining high-quality soldiers. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, as well as growing competition from the private sector, has made it increasingly difficult to attract and retain qualified personnel. Additionally, issues such as sexual harassment and assault within the military have contributed to a negative image, which could frighten away potential recruits.

In conclusion, the military's greatest challenge in 2023 is the ability to adapt to the rapidly evolving nature of conflict and the threat of emerging technologies. While the military has always been at the forefront of innovation and technological advancement, the threats that face us today are new and complex. Military leaders must continue to prioritize the development of cutting-edge technologies and training opportunities while also addressing the ongoing challenges of recruitment and retention. By doing so, we can ensure that our armed forces remain strong and effective, ready to defend our nation against any and all threats.

Mahalo
Peter Paul Pinto

Response by SPC Byron Busch made Apr 27 at 2023 1:29 AM

SPC Byron Busch — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 01:29:58 -0400

North Korea. That have nuclear power and are mentally unbalanced enough to try and use it.

Response by CWO4 Todd Wardwell made Apr 27 at 2023 1:38 AM

CWO4 Todd Wardwell — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 01:38:11 -0400

Recruitment and Arbitrary Medical Disqualification:

Getting young people to commit to anything for more than 2 months is a brutal challenge. The GI Bill is not the enchanting academic savior it once was as a whole generation has become disenfranchised by a brutally capitalist college landscape that can no longer promise the paychecks and prestige they used to guarantee. The dropping of the guaranteed retirement system simply means that retention and turn over has become chaotic with little incentive to stay past one or 2 enlistments.

The military MEPS intake docs seems to have full access to a digital health care filing system (Genisys?) that will literally give the DOD access to every medical note taken on a candidate since birth. MEPS Docs already had plenty of ways to disqualify potential future enlistees. With this new system they can see that a kid may have had a sleep walking diagnosis when they were 5 or had ADHD meds thrown at them when they were 10. I feel this data combined with the scatter-shot way doctors prescribe meds or make diagnosis especially in early child hood has led to a much higher "wash out" rate at MEPS because of the sheer amount of personal history a candidate will need to overcome and get a clearance note from a present physician (at their own cost...) that many perfectly good candidates are being shown the door never to return.

Response by SPC Melissa Magana made Apr 27 at 2023 2:06 AM

SPC Melissa Magana — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 02:06:17 -0400

The militaries greatest challenges is losing our service members while on your own soil. Too many of our own are being hurt from within, this isn’t right. There’s too much favoritism to the point where people are being prosecuted the legal way and a lot gets swept under the rug. We and I say we as a former soldier, need to stand up and prosecute properly no matter what the time and grade is on that service members chest. There needs To be a better system in place for our service members, an outside source.

Response by Theresa Montoya made Apr 27 at 2023 2:17 AM

Theresa Montoya — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 02:17:46 -0400

Modernization coupled with RESEARCH and DEVELOPMENT of nuanced weapons/war tactics

Response by SSgt Jackie Mansueto made Apr 27 at 2023 2:37 AM

SSgt Jackie Mansueto — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 02:37:35 -0400

Managing Budget: with a financial debt that looms over the country, and also remaining operationally ready, managing the defence budget will be one of the greatest challenges.

Response by Cpl John Fitzpatrick made Apr 27 at 2023 2:38 AM

Cpl John Fitzpatrick — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 02:38:13 -0400

To promote leaders who love God, Love the Country and do not cower to politicians.

Response by Cpl Arthur Lopez made Apr 27 at 2023 2:44 AM

Cpl Arthur Lopez — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 02:44:16 -0400

The Marine Corps.lack of amphibious ships and vehicles.

Response by Cpl Mark Penrod made Apr 27 at 2023 3:09 AM

Cpl Mark Penrod — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 03:09:26 -0400

The biggest issue facing the future of the US military can be summed up in one word: recruitment. While this oversimplifies the issue, it is true that low recruitment numbers raise questions about why fewer people are interested in serving. The answer is two-fold: marketing and the nation's culture.

As a Gen Xer, I remember that recruitment commercials that worked well featured Marines fighting dragons. Additionally, as a kid, I had G.I. Joe toys and watched the animated TV show, so I knew all about the war on terror before there was ever a war on terror. However, when I joined up, it was two months after 9/11, which was a huge event similar to Pearl Harbor.

Now contrast that with the recent Army commercials featuring a girl with two moms who proved her strength in ways other than doing pull-ups. The changing nature of recruitment messaging highlights the need for a deeper examination of how marketing and cultural barriers can be addressed. This plays a huge role in increasing recruitment and strengthening our military.

Unlike my generation, these kids had to deal with the George Floyd riots. Compare that to the flag-waving patriots in the days that followed the towers coming down. There is no way these kids today can even imagine seeing the American flag in every yard on every street. Even saying that seems like I am talking about an episode of Star Trek. But that was what was going on when I joined up.

The formula being used today in order to chase after the target market has changed a lot, and new buzzwords and fears of not being seen as inclusive enough have taken over. However, replacing the American flag with the rainbow flag is not going to make anybody want to join. At least not compared to some of the previous generations of recruits. It reminds me of some bad marketing decisions that were made back in the '80s with New Coke or more recent Bud Light. Both of these campaigns were a huge failure all because the marketing team was out of touch with the consumer base.

The culture and marketing strategies have shifted, and being in the military is no longer glamorized in the way it was before. It's not surprising to see recruitment advertising failing, almost like my first year of college - oh, those were good times. Anyway, it's important to consider changing the messaging to portray joining the military as something that can make you look and feel like a rock star. By doing so, we may see an increase in recruitment numbers at the MEP's station

Response by A1C Mark Wilsford made Apr 27 at 2023 3:40 AM

A1C Mark Wilsford — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 03:40:54 -0400

Retention is by far the biggest issue in the military today and it will likely always be the foremost concern. Bad leaders will burn out their troops and wonder why no one chooses to reenlist. I certainly understand that the military has a specific purpose and sacrifices have to be made in order to achieve that purpose, but there is no need to constantly beat your troops morale down especially in peacetime.

Response by Sgt Michael Valgos made Apr 27 at 2023 4:01 AM

Sgt Michael Valgos — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 04:01:50 -0400

The first and most important is a shortage of manpower I am mainly talking about the Army and also the Air Force The Army was down by a great number of new enlistments You might say oh they can make it up This is not realizing that it takes time to train these people for their individual jobs while serving There are schools that are more than 2 years and this is after their basic training The Army must find a better way for retention Think about 300000 people get out of the Army and that is for various reasons retirement medical and end of enlistment The top 2 they have no control however the third spot they are going to have to offer better incentives The Air Force is even in bigger trouble for pilots This is a problem because they have not addressed it until now Look at the time and money to train these pilots I would say that the retirement or medical reasons and the third is retention We as a country have a lot invested in our military and we need to stop all this money going to green horse shit and start taking care of the people that take care of us

Response by Pvt Alejandro Orozco Fernandez made Apr 27 at 2023 4:18 AM

Pvt Alejandro Orozco Fernandez — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 04:18:03 -0400

The biggest problem within the military is the internal enemy; those who inflict intentional harm on enlisted personnel because of race, ethnicity, or national origin even US Citizenship. Furthermore, the covert tactics used to inflict intentional harm or injury such as through the use of hypnosis through nonverbal communication. Being targeted by a predator who is military trained is significantly more dangerous than a civilian predator.

The media and public have finally taken a stand against this and hopefully, the military can identify the internal enemy to protect those who serve to protect this country and recognize when an enlisted person has been affected by or is an intended victim.

Response by PFC Tony Gagliano made Apr 27 at 2023 5:04 AM

PFC Tony Gagliano — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 05:04:48 -0400

The number one issue i believe that the armed forces are facing today is the lack of young men and women wanting to join the services. Low recruitment rates are only getting lower and lower every year which ultimately if it keeps going at that rate then we wont have any volunteers to willfully join. In my own opinion this is due to several reasons that I would like to bring to the front of our attention in this response:
The first is due to the astronomical amount of misinformation and propaganda being spread to our youth by individuals and organizations who do not have the country’s best interest at heart. Instead it is being fed lies about how the armed forces are in a sense their enemy and not their leaders. By doing this we are telling our youth that allowing open borders is a necessary decision and that immigrants shouldn’t have to Follow the guidelines to become citizens correctly and we should overwhelm our community resources and safety instead of protecting our communities like we should. This isn’t an anti-immigrant speech by any means my great grandparents both immigrated to America the legal way and both my grand fathers ended up serving honorably in the Navy and Army respectfully during their time. This instilled into me a sense of National pride and a mindset that lead me to join and serve my time and two tours in Iraq (2007-2009) where i was ultimately injured from a chemical gas intake which lead to my medical discharge earlier then I wanted but it happens for reasons sometime we don't know until I later in life. I offered my service because of an urge i had since i was young to serve in the Army and I always feel it was what i I had to do during my life time,. Now i know not every young man is a warrior at heart that’s why there are service and assistance jobs that help oil a well built machine for the past 200 years which makes our military what it is today.
By having our youth serve just a few years in a military branch i Believe we can get out of the state of decay we have been goin through the past several years. The reason is because of the vast array of images that the internet and social media sites portray as admirable and honorable which really are the opposite. We praise the criminal and drug dealers who poison our youth and shun the veterans who openly want to help raise their communities to higher levels not watch them be destroyed from the inside. From a system that preaches get rich quick schemes off the backs of our fellow community members just to show off in front of those same members that are being preyed upon in the sense of personal gain.
We need to be raising leaders that are capable of selfless service and pillars of our respected communities that are willing to stand for what is right and help push out what is destructive to our society as a whole. We need leaders who are socially responsible, mentally, physically and spiritually right that can lead the way for the younger generations to come in order for our society to truly evolve and succeed. Not just economically, but socially and spiritually as well. By weeding out the ones who prey on their fellow neighbors to make a few dollars we create young men and women’ who will help raise their communities up and set examples for others to follow. To have the great leaders of today teach the youth how to become pillars and great leaders and set examples of how to be, what type of morals to have and to show, what it means to be great and what it means to be just in times where the unjust rule and are praised.
I speak passionately about this subject because i truly believe that we need to come together and take care of our fellow neighbors and uplift our communities to greater heights, and the path we are currently heading down is one of vanity and falsities that are the only thing we are shown. I believe that it’s our currently serving members and our veterans who are prime examples of what socially and spiritually just members of our society look like. Individuals ready to stand up against adversity and those who wish to corrupt the youth. To not allow our cities and communities to be over ridden with force and brutality when compassion is needed along with understanding that can set examples to our friends, families and neighbors. They set examples for what it means to stand for our country and our rights, to stand for our morals and values that make us the melting pot country we are today and stand for LOVE and UNITY because united we stand and divided we fall. Without the proper encouragement and guidance our youth stands no chance of a greater tomorrow, instead they face a reality of devastation and corruption where the only things that seem to matter to them are their own well being and safety. We can see how that frame of mind will set our communities up for failure. WE can see that the youth are our future and if we don’t do right by them and set fourth good examples of what it means to be an American, then ultimately we failed them and that’s something I can not stand by.
I feel as a Leading source of excellence,the armed force as a whole, need to show what it means to be these things I have discussed and change the mind sets of thousands of youth. To not be afraid and to not just stand by, but to be active and help elevate our country to the greatest country on Earth as we are known to be. Let us set fourth change and make a difference.

Response by SPC Tracy White made Apr 27 at 2023 6:05 AM

SPC Tracy White — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 06:05:44 -0400

I see the military's greatest challenge in 2023 being the ability to get dedicated men and women to join. The current state of our nation does not invoke national pride to make young people want to join and defend what we have. Being an American is both an honor and a privilege, many young people don't see it that way. You have to value what you have in order to want to defend it. So to me, the biggest challenge in 2023 and beyond is making the youth proud of being an American and thus being willing to support and defend the constitution.

Response by SGT Jim Harris made Apr 27 at 2023 6:24 AM

SGT Jim Harris — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 06:24:11 -0400

The reduced standards to enter the military and the failure of major combat systems to perform as they should

Response by SSG Amelia Marshall made Apr 27 at 2023 6:35 AM

SSG Amelia Marshall — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 06:35:15 -0400

I see the challenges retired and Veteran service members will have if congress takes disability pat away. We as veterans depend on that money to live on. If we were to loose that income we would certainly be way below the poverty level if we are not already there.

Response by SGT Erick Holmes made Apr 27 at 2023 6:43 AM

SGT Erick Holmes — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 06:43:04 -0400

At this point in life what isn't a challenge in the military!!!! I work at a Naval Installation and I just can't believe the disrespect that happens on a daily basis. Let me explain, I do not know Navy rank or anything about the Navy. I'm a former Army Guy (Hoahhhhh!!!) I know that the lower enlisted should not be hanging out with higher enlisted. I do know that you should not call anyone Bro or Dude. I could be wrong and maybe it's where I work, but that kind of disrespect and especially in front of your peers is just ridiculous. Again if your in the shop and a few of you are there then I'm ok with that but in front of higher up is a no-go. But I'm sure this is happening in all branches and it's a challenge for me being out the military for years now it just frustrating where you want to slap the shit out of them for saying it and the ones who don't put them in check. It's like we lost military bearing.

Response by SrA Don Oberlies made Apr 27 at 2023 6:48 AM

SrA Don Oberlies — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 06:48:31 -0400

The youth. Because for the most part they are watered down!

Response by SP5 James Rogers made Apr 27 at 2023 6:54 AM

SP5 James Rogers — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 06:54:14 -0400

I believe we need to have more Americans stand behind our military and encourage our young men and women to take advantage of all the education that is available to them.

Response by PO1 Michael Fulgium made Apr 27 at 2023 6:57 AM

PO1 Michael Fulgium — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 06:57:36 -0400

Defending the country. With the decline in recruitment, the government's lack of morals, the disrespect of other countries, "apology tours", failure to protect our borders, etc., I can't see a good future for us. I have served 22 years active duty (not a couple of years in the reserves just to be called a veteran) and traveled to over 20 countries. I believe I have a pretty good idea what other countries think of us. Our country has been going downhill since Viet Nam.

Response by SPC Andy Diaz made Apr 27 at 2023 6:59 AM

SPC Andy Diaz — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 06:59:23 -0400

Based on current global trends and potential threats, our military's greatest challenge in 2023 are addressing the increasing cyber threats and maintaining technological superiority.

In recent years, cyber attacks have become more sophisticated and frequent, and the military must continue to adapt and evolve to protect against these threats. Additionally, there may be challenges in maintaining a competitive edge in emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and hypersonic weapons, as other nations continue to invest heavily in these areas.

Ultimately, the United States government must invest more in advancing the military weaponry, along with recruitment in such a hostile world.

Response by SMSgt Abel Hernandez Jr. made Apr 27 at 2023 7:37 AM

SMSgt Abel Hernandez Jr. — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 07:37:12 -0400

I think it is the challenge of budgets, funding, and aging of equipment. We are also giving equipment to the Ukraine, which is needed there, but it draws down our capability and requires funding to replace. Giving our military the resources and tools to fight and be successful in their continued support of our democracy and freedom.

Response by PO1 Larry Taylor made Apr 27 at 2023 7:55 AM

PO1 Larry Taylor — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 07:55:41 -0400

Jesus. Because He holds the key to all the worlds problems. He is peace.

Response by MSgt Douglas Johnson made Apr 27 at 2023 8:00 AM

MSgt Douglas Johnson — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 08:00:10 -0400

Maintaining a dedicated professional cadre of personnel in the face of an ever morphing culture that would dilute the very concept of service to country.

Response by PFC Barnie Hampton made Apr 27 at 2023 8:05 AM

PFC Barnie Hampton — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 08:05:39 -0400

Health care for veterans

Response by SGT Kelli Riley made Apr 27 at 2023 8:10 AM

SGT Kelli Riley — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 08:10:43 -0400

In My Opinion I see the Military's greatest challenge is to retain members, to try and stop Sexual Assault. The Military is a melting pot of Races and Religions, but finding the harmonious connection between Enlisted and Officer are hard as well. Training helps, but hands on training for Sexual Assault for both Men and Women who could possibly be a victim or helping those who were Sexually Assaulted (Men or Women). Stop stigmatizing Mental Health, Military members are still fearful of being diagnosed with any Mental Health issues. There also has to be a sense of security within each branch and not having to worry what or who they are. The strain between Russia is a big concern for the Military too. But I think most of all it would be the POTUS having military experience (who was not a Officer). Communication is also severely lacking also in the perceptions.

Response by SN Charles Webster made Apr 27 at 2023 8:13 AM

SN Charles Webster — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 08:13:40 -0400

Logistics, multiple global conflicts that are happening now

Response by SPC Roxanna Bly made Apr 27 at 2023 8:19 AM

SPC Roxanna Bly — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 08:19:38 -0400

Supporting our troops and veterans mental health.

Response by SSgt David Samples made Apr 27 at 2023 8:24 AM

SSgt David Samples — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 08:24:01 -0400

China will be the focus of our military particularly round the Phillipines

Response by SSgt Alejandro Afonso made Apr 27 at 2023 8:28 AM

SSgt Alejandro Afonso — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 08:28:41 -0400

One of the greatest military challenges that is going to have to be overcome is recruitment. With such a bad turn in society leaning away from military service it will be harder and harder for the military to sustain its numbers as the numbers of recruitments keeps shrinking. Even though it is one of the greatest honors you can hold as an American, those values are slowly slipping away. We can only pray and hope for a stronger future!

Response by SPC Kyle Echsner made Apr 27 at 2023 8:40 AM

SPC Kyle Echsner — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 08:40:59 -0400

Overall strength and readiness

Response by CPL Chad Laubenthal made Apr 27 at 2023 9:03 AM

CPL Chad Laubenthal — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 09:03:19 -0400

My thoughts are that the greatest challenges are having to make adjustments to gender identification and having to change the ways of "corrective training."

Response by SrA Elena Merriman made Apr 27 at 2023 9:28 AM

SrA Elena Merriman — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 09:28:30 -0400

Lack of emotional intelligence at supervisory levels, in all branches. It may seem insignificant in the face of so many other issues, but people work with people, and people have issues and work challenges. The stress of working under the supervision of an unqualified supervisor is unnecessary, and proper training on how to be a decent human being apparently needs to happen. New recruits should have a class on life skills and acceptable human interaction because there is no common sense anymore. Kids come from families with trauma and no life skills, mental health issues, and an inability to handle differences of opinion. If we don't fix problems at a human level, everything else will just become more complicated. We certainly don't want to breed an entire military of people with no capability for empathy and bratty.
It's about mentoring and guiding the young on the right path, but many supervisors need this training themselves.

Response by Pvt Timothy Mack made Apr 27 at 2023 9:42 AM

Pvt Timothy Mack — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 09:42:00 -0400

In China they have 5 times as many people we need more people

Response by PO1 Richard Thompson made Apr 27 at 2023 9:44 AM

PO1 Richard Thompson — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 09:44:57 -0400

Military's greatest challenge in 2023 is retaning the troops they have now. I dont know the reason why very few re-enlist but the services need to find out why and correct the problem

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2023 9:53 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 09:53:10 -0400

I think it's the fact that we are funding other's military instead of our own because money buys strength.

Response by PO1 Merrill Shaffer made Apr 27 at 2023 9:54 AM

PO1 Merrill Shaffer — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 09:54:13 -0400

The greatest challenge to the military in 2023 is the lack of good, qualified leadership and government support.

Response by SPC T Wells made Apr 27 at 2023 10:13 AM

SPC T Wells — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 10:13:51 -0400

Everyone is so sensitive now! It takes a certain mental toughness to be able to defend your country and the training has drastically changed to accommodate the soldier's feelings. If you can't be yelled at or mentally/physically pushed to your limit, how will you survive battle?

Response by SP5 Brian Kenny made Apr 27 at 2023 10:14 AM

SP5 Brian Kenny — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 10:14:14 -0400

We have very weak minded leadership in the Pentagon, especially Milley! His devotion to the wokeism B S is the Achilles heel of our military! There are too many others like him! I would never serve under him or his ilk nor do I recommend that any others do either! This is why we have such low enlistment rates! Liberalism, progressivism rot, kill and destroy! There are way too many of that warped philosophy in our military fomented by the incompetence and unqualification of biden! It seems that every time there is a democRAT president, we have a war that republicans have to clean up! I know that I will not win this prize nor will anyone else who feels as I do! It will be someone who is willing to kiss up to the powers that be! That's OK, I care a lot more for my country than that!

Response by SGM Roy Smith made Apr 27 at 2023 10:40 AM

SGM Roy Smith — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 10:40:56 -0400

I believe the largest challenge for the military in 2023 is the retention and recruitment of quality members. I have witnessed a large exodus of our combat tested leaders the past few years due to the high OP-TEMPO, funding restraints, and a clash of beliefs (transgender training for example). It is becoming a challenge to continue to provide realistic training for our Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen (especially in the Reserve Components) due to an expanded requirements to conduct social and administrative training. We must remember that our Military's primary function is to fight and win this nation's battles. I feel that we are infringing on their ability to do so by limiting valuable training time with these additional requirements and it is directly impacting the retention of quality leadership.

Response by LtCol Ron Guilliams made Apr 27 at 2023 10:47 AM

LtCol Ron Guilliams — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 10:47:50 -0400

Welcome to the world of social activism not seen since the 1970s. 1stBn, 2ndMar: 450+ IHMA (In Hands Military Authorities (Brig: pending Special Court Martial for desertion). Good of Service (GOS) discharges in 1 year led to a new discharge type: Expeditious. Given our need to focus on War Fighting and not social relativism, the Marine Corps started right with the 1st step by holding Recruiters accountable for their recruits performance (or lack of) for the remainder of their career as Marines. If recruiters failed to focus on quality and not quantity, they were assisted in finding employment elsewhere.

We must live by the code of the Marines" Marine Infantry may secure and defend terrain by repelling an enemy assault by fire, maneuver, and close combat." If we can't do this, we are unneeded.

Response by SGT Ed B made Apr 27 at 2023 10:52 AM

SGT Ed B — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 10:52:37 -0400

When I served, we trained to defend our country, there was no such thing as ESG, CRT "Equity" etc type of training "required", we had leaders who actually had a backbone, who didn't tell the enemy, "oh btw, we're going to be pulling all our troops out on this date/time..." or "I will call you if we decide to come invade your country...", nor did we lose soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines just because they refused to take a shot of something that never worked to protect us anyway. Learning that this great country is "racist" is more of a priority than knowing how to break down your weapon and put it back to together? This CIC and Joint Chiefs are all part of the One Delta Ten Tango group and if this continues, our military will not be prepared to defend our country, imho!

Response by PO1 Michael Gavitt made Apr 27 at 2023 10:56 AM

PO1 Michael Gavitt — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 10:56:25 -0400

Retention & Sustainability

Response by PO3 Sharon White made Apr 27 at 2023 10:56 AM

PO3 Sharon White — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 10:56:31 -0400

The military greatness challenge is mental health for the young recruits and the current military personnel. There should be more of a need to encourage military personnel to reach out to mental health counselors throughout their active duty service. Trying to normalize mental health checkups would give the military personnel an understanding it is normal to talk to someone in the early stages. They can talk about their problems or issues they are having in their job and personal life. Mental health counselors can help or guide them to come up with solutions to handle their problems, issues or just need to talk to someone.

Response by CPT Melinda Ua made Apr 27 at 2023 11:08 AM

CPT Melinda Ua — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 11:08:43 -0400

I think affordable housing is the biggest challenge.

Response by MAJ MIchael Brill made Apr 27 at 2023 11:19 AM

MAJ MIchael Brill — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 11:19:37 -0400

The constant pollicization of the military and the growing belief that Military leaders are trying to weaken the military

Response by PO3 Sharon White made Apr 27 at 2023 11:20 AM

PO3 Sharon White — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 11:20:01 -0400

This is not political, I just want you to understand the origin. Thank you.

Response by SPC Scott Sabo made Apr 27 at 2023 11:21 AM

SPC Scott Sabo — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 11:21:16 -0400

The same problem the military always has—retention. The way promotions and points work it incentivizes those without families who are career driven to get out because they have the least to lose (ie medical care and housing for a family of five, on base housing, etc). When promotion points go higher because the numbers are too high in each MOS, the desired effect is achieved with people getting out. Yet the ones getting out are often the most driven who know they can climb a ladder faster on the outside and have more to contribute which are precisely the service people we should be fighting to keep.

Response by CPL Bill V made Apr 27 at 2023 11:36 AM

CPL Bill V — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 11:36:13 -0400

See that Russia keeps in the own land and not let them try and help China tale over Taiwan or even Hong Kong Putin needs to back down or go away and stop being the bully he is.

Response by CPL Carroll Triplett made Apr 27 at 2023 11:46 AM

CPL Carroll Triplett — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 11:46:58 -0400

Getting people to sign up because of all the "BULL" the Goverment is trying to pull on us.

Response by PFC Francis Dyer made Apr 27 at 2023 11:56 AM

PFC Francis Dyer — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 11:56:44 -0400

Troop recruitment , due to the current administration in disregard of our troops lives , we need to boost troop moral and civilian moral.

Response by PFC Cinnamon Martin made Apr 27 at 2023 12:51 PM

PFC Cinnamon Martin — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 12:51:06 -0400

I feel that the military’s greatest challenge in 2023 is trust. There are many people who serve and put their trust in their peers and superiors and too often are let down.

Response by SP6 Harvey Turner made Apr 27 at 2023 1:22 PM

SP6 Harvey Turner — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 13:22:39 -0400

Retention and elisting soldiers for a career in the service branches.

Response by Sgt John Graczyk made Apr 27 at 2023 1:40 PM

Sgt John Graczyk — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 13:40:34 -0400

The numerous trouble spots across the globe will tend to make troops spread out too thin.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2023 1:51 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 13:51:43 -0400

Troop strength,budget cuts,woke foolishness,transgenderism,homosexual doctrine,basic training is way too soft on our new recruits.We need warriors not coddled adults. Let's fire the Generals who botched leaving Afganistan and leaving Americans behind. Not to mention Billions of $ in equipment for our enemies to use against our allies and our troops.We have abandoned our core beliefs in service to our nation and our citizens here and abroad. Our military is not respected because our leadership is not respected. Our core values have been eroded away due to a tide of anti-american attitudes that flood our upper echelon of leaders that lack a back bone to stand against public opinion. This is what I believe to be a divided house that if goes unchecked will be our fall. We need return to what our forefather's wrote in the founding of this country. Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness through the foundation of Christian Judeo beliefs. We need to return to our knee's and pray for foregiveness and guidence. And then we can stand for what is right, what is Holy and what is true. It is these fundamental truth's that made this country the greatest country that history has ever been recorded. And without them we will be the greatest country that had the greatest fall that history will record.

Response by CW3 Michael Bailey made Apr 27 at 2023 2:25 PM

CW3 Michael Bailey — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 14:25:42 -0400

The military and nation's greatest challenge is the moral decay in leadership/doctrine causing a lack of national respect and honor via indoctrination of a Socialist agenda politically and a rejection of GOD in society. Example: this administration agenda cannot define a Woman and where emphasis on racism is a disgraceful priority. D, E, and I indoctrination attempts to change our culture where the nation's founders wrote the Constitution via prayer! The government agencies no longer support lunch-time Bible Study/Prayer but has forced mandatory gender training on civilians and military personnel. The Bible cites Ps. 33:12, "Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD!" Corruption reigns in the U.S.; Colleges indoctrinate students with an agenda where killing of babies and gender issues are categorized as Human Rights! God made man and woman, and even though this nation supports civil unions as men with men, etc. which is not of GOD.
Why is there a lack of young people wanting to serve this country? We teach racism/sexism to elementary school children resulting in confused and rebellious generation which lack respect of authority. This nation is in a moral/spiritual decline and creates victims via Gov't dependence for free money and college loans hindering individual work ethic. This philosophy is destroying the nuclear family, instituted by GOD as Holy Marriage/family and uses racism to deceive many, such as Black Lives Matter. God made one human race with many ethnicities, and now we are taught via D,E, & I to reject God but identify however one feels. The only name needed in the workplace is your name, not your sexual or gender preference. When you attack children's development division is spread to reject authority so why would young persons want to join the military with strict rules and regulations foundation. God is not pleased with this generation, similar to Sodom and Gomorrah in the Bible. We ever changes, and what He institutes, Life (not abortion), Male/Female (Marriage), 4 Seasons, Government, and the Church belongs for His purpose. JESUS is the only answer for the U.S. and the world for it all belongs to HIM; we are just dominated by our Sin nature of pride, lust, and love of money! In summary, the world is lost and our youth are confused lacking hope via teachings received to destroy statutes and protest anything based of emotion and lack of the Truth! Apart from God we cannot breathe, move, or love self or others and definitely would not want to serve our country which is total division, for it takes sacrifice and respect for all ethnicities for greater good, the United States of America. It is a disgrace to every Veteran to see Coaches/Professional athletes teach youth to kneel on the U.S. Flag where so many relatives dies defending the flag! Our greatest challenge is to find leaders who will love GOD with respect and accountability to all, which can be developed during military service via relationships with all ethnicities supporting one nation under GOD!
Thanks, Michael Bailey

Response by PV2 Charlotte Smith made Apr 27 at 2023 2:50 PM

PV2 Charlotte Smith — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 14:50:24 -0400

Transgender people it's crazy unsafe and are military should not have transgender people in it and I think the don't ask do t tell policy should be put back in place! Nobody cares is a man likes having intercourse with another man

Response by PV2 Gary Nelson made Apr 27 at 2023 4:22 PM

PV2 Gary Nelson — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 16:22:40 -0400

building trust

Response by SFC Steven Melton made Apr 27 at 2023 4:35 PM

SFC Steven Melton — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 16:35:13 -0400

I think that one of our greatest challenges is discipline and honor to the country. With all of the shortest of recruitment, we seem to be lowing our standards and our guard. We have let in the people of country that do not honor or care for the country as a hole. They are trying to use the military as to conquer democracy and spread racism and hate, i.e. the number of military personnel at Jan 6., the latest espionage where all of these top secret documents were placed on line. We must get the military, especially intel back to top notch and feat everyone. Intelligence exposure is more damaging than lack of personnel because it will cause all missions, no matter how large to fail.

Response by SR Denis Inman made Apr 27 at 2023 4:43 PM

SR Denis Inman — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 16:43:34 -0400

In my opinion, it is essential to our security that the US military immediately stop allowing the WOKE philosophy in training and to block senior members of the armed services from using such outlandish theories to weaken our military readiness. Our enemies want to defeat us, we don't need to help them take over our country.

Response by SR Denis Inman made Apr 27 at 2023 5:04 PM

SR Denis Inman — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 17:04:05 -0400

In my opinion, the US military needs to put a halt to any validation of the Woke philosophy and to remove it from all educational materials. Wokeness is weakening our armed forces and destroying our ability to fight. Our enemies want to defeat us and the Woke in our military don't need to do our adversaries mission for them.

Response by SPC Carter Grosfield made Apr 27 at 2023 5:12 PM

SPC Carter Grosfield — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 17:12:12 -0400

Hope this is good

Response by SPC Carter Grosfield made Apr 27 at 2023 5:19 PM

SPC Carter Grosfield — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 17:19:22 -0400

Troop strength is dwindling but its the wusification of men and the attack of masculinity that is the problem and we will fall if we don't face this head on iand have an honest open conversation on what and where it is coming from.. Message to men: ITS OK TO ACT LIKE A MAN THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH IT DESPITE WHAT YOU HEAR! God have mercy on us all.

Response by SrA Ellix Scurry made Apr 27 at 2023 7:08 PM

SrA Ellix Scurry — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 19:08:52 -0400

The biggest challenge would be World War 3. Why? To see which Country has the most power to win.

Response by PO2 Jerry Stankovich made Apr 27 at 2023 9:22 PM

PO2 Jerry Stankovich — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 21:22:47 -0400

Having the best and latest equipment

Response by CPL Readding Carver made Apr 27 at 2023 10:30 PM

CPL Readding Carver — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 22:30:55 -0400

Our current Leaders are WOKE

Response by SPC Michael Logan made Apr 27 at 2023 11:37 PM

SPC Michael Logan — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 23:37:04 -0400

recruitment and retention because of 20 years of Afgan with no real progress and pay and treatment of soliders and veterans

Response by SPC Michael Schumacher made Apr 28 at 2023 12:29 AM

SPC Michael Schumacher — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 00:29:56 -0400

There are many scenarios, not so far fetched, in our countries future months which could present major challenges for our military. Possibly an unexpected domestic terrorist event…increased deployments around the world requiring our presence stretching our troops thin… I’ve been out for a couple decades but recruitment and retention has always been an issue… But I believe a challenge we’ve become used to these past few years is life is different, somehow we’ve all become less everyday people with normal relationships, lives and freedoms and we’ve been made to feel like patients. Careful, cautious patients. It’s a lot to deal with for older soldiers such as myself. I’d say the biggest challenge for our men and women in uniform will be feeling normal, easy, free and human not only for the remainder of 2023 but for many years to come. The job is stressful already, mental fitness could be hard to maintain for all branches. Thank everyone for your service. You are appreciated. Much love!

Response by SGT R Coronado made Apr 28 at 2023 1:33 AM

SGT R Coronado — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 01:33:56 -0400

The biggest challenge is obviously recruitment and retention. It’s not just making the numbers and checking the box. I enlisted after the events of 9/11. Patriotism is at an all time low IMO. Growing up in a military family I was inspired by programs on WWII. Stories of heroism. My father would take me to events at his company. I enjoyed riding in different military vehicles. Nowadays I don’t see that.

Response by TSgt Fr. Gerald Maloney made Apr 28 at 2023 5:30 AM

TSgt Fr. Gerald Maloney — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 05:30:09 -0400

The effectiveness of our military is dependent on the quality of personnel recruited and trained in a fashion which emphasizes honesty and commitment to the missions of each branch of service. Military personnels' recognition of our nation's ethnic, gender and religious diversity must always be secondary to our primary mission to support and defend our nation against foreign and domestic threats to the sovereignty of this great nation. National conscription should be revisited to assurance everyone participates equally in the defense and future of our republic.

Response by SFC Don Bateman made Apr 28 at 2023 7:47 AM

SFC Don Bateman — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 07:47:07 -0400

Poor troop readiness due to lack of good recruits and all branches not equipped to fight any boots on the ground or naval battles.

Response by CPO James Christie made Apr 28 at 2023 9:30 AM

CPO James Christie — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 09:30:49 -0400

Lack of resiliency in today's young people and recruitment. Today's young people seem to lack resilience and cannot or won't come into the military. Hard to blame them when you see how things have changed of the past couple of years. I talk to recruiters monthly and they tell me constantly about the lack of new bodies or the lack of eligible new bodies coming through their doors. It's become a sad state of affairs.

Response by PFC Randel Carlton made Apr 28 at 2023 10:08 AM

PFC Randel Carlton — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 10:08:41 -0400

Can I get your assistance with Aid and Attendance, House Bound, No DL to seizures. I need a CNA 4 times a day to medicate me because I have Dementia and can not remember to medicate!

Response by SP6 Winfried Renken made Apr 28 at 2023 10:52 AM

SP6 Winfried Renken — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 10:52:00 -0400

The weakness

Response by PO2 Ralph Warmack made Apr 28 at 2023 11:36 AM

PO2 Ralph Warmack — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 11:36:41 -0400

Most significant challenge is troop/fleet readiness hindered by DoD mismanagement and wokeism.

Response by SSgt William Chesser made Apr 28 at 2023 3:08 PM

SSgt William Chesser — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 15:08:49 -0400

Recruitment will continue to be the biggest problem. It will restrict preparedness and the ability to react quickly in a crisis. Readiness will also be harmed by lack of equipment and ammunition. Politics is not supposed to drive the military but Patriotism.

Response by SGT Thomas Cornfield made Apr 28 at 2023 4:05 PM

SGT Thomas Cornfield — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 16:05:27 -0400

Response by PFC James Speciale made Apr 28 at 2023 7:19 PM

PFC James Speciale — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 19:19:36 -0400

I've been out of the military for over 3 years now, and have tried to distance myself from it due to a difference in understanding and a lack of faith on my part. And that, I think is going to be a growing issue for the military and the United States in general: a lack of faith and trust that the U.S. Government and it's military is acting in the best interest of itself, it's people, and it's allies. I don't believe this to be a result of any particular administration, but to a change in how millennials and Gen Z perceives the United States and the rest of the world.

Response by SSgt Jose Falero made Apr 29 at 2023 8:52 AM

SSgt Jose Falero — Sat, 29 Apr 2023 08:52:53 -0400

Making sure candidates can be trusted with sensitive information who can and who can't. After this recent top secret leak on the web the military needs to keep a watchful eye on OPSEC.

Response by Sgt Karen Hall made Apr 29 at 2023 2:35 PM

Sgt Karen Hall — Sat, 29 Apr 2023 14:35:00 -0400

Retention of exemplary servicemen and women. Respect for our servicemen and women.

Response by Capt Julie Jackson made Apr 29 at 2023 3:53 PM

Capt Julie Jackson — Sat, 29 Apr 2023 15:53:39 -0400

I can only speak for the Air Force side of the house, but the budgeting process is the military's greatest challenge. I saw first-hand as a contractor all the fraud, waste, and abuse and complete inability by the military to get necessary projects (weapons and cyber) done. There are a lot of reasons for this:

1) Going with the lowest bidder. You get what you pay for.

2) Related to point 1, every 1-5 years a contract is up for bid, and they often go with the lowest bidder, so the contract ends up with another company and everything has to start over.

3) Every 2 years leadership changes in the military. It takes them either 1 year or the whole 2 years to understand all the contracts and projects involved in their mission, then they move. Rinse and repeat.

4) Along with 3 above, I witnessed the worst morale I had ever seen at 16th AF as a contractor. Airmen couldn't do their jobs because of stovepiped information, and their commander was on his way to retirement and couldn't have cared less about them or the mission. You could feel the misery walking into that building. So these Airmen realize they have all these Cyber certs that could make them 6 figures on the outside, so they leave. Why stay when they can get paid more and not have to deal with poor leadership and military BS?

Response by LCpl Keith Donald made Apr 30 at 2023 3:00 PM

LCpl Keith Donald — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 15:00:57 -0400

I think getting the youth of today to want to service their country, I think there is misinformation about this country and its History.

Response by PO3 Joseph Halpin made Apr 30 at 2023 3:27 PM

PO3 Joseph Halpin — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 15:27:35 -0400

Education of the young people. When you fix this everything else falls into line i.e.: Security, recruting and retention, integrity, everything Hence Addressing apathy in the public sector towards patriotism by education as early as possible by people who know what it is to serve our country.
The soldiers of the US and their families understand the cost, as they and their families pay the price on a daily basis. They'd have the drive and have taken the responsibility to serving our country.
I remember the gulf war and when the people that were taking advantage all the benefits that the military had to offer like: Pay, free college tuition, and other administration services all the sudden found themselves being called up to do what they had signed up for were surprised. Many felt that it was appalling that they had to follow thought on what they had to do.
I know that we can't legislate morality, but what the military can do is push the agenda of why patriotism is important to those who have no clue, to those who have no idea as to what it took for this country to exist. so here is my suggestion to fix the issue I believe will help the military and it's challenge.
Education of the Young people that have not yet reached the decision that the country is there for them without compensation.
Experience soldiers with degrees that are veterans should be the only ones that are allowed to teach American or US history in the schools from elementary school up. Their passion and intolerance of people not paying attention to what it took for this country to become a reality will produce people that understand the cost. The cost of freedom, the cost of capitalism, the cost of the sacrifice of those fallen soldiers, and those alive with families that that now protect them.
If you fix the underlying education and understanding, then the best and the brightest will gravitate to the military, they will be respected and seen as important for the soul of America, they will lead the change towards civility, and self sacrifice towards something bigger than an individual.
Hope this helps,
God bless you all for trying to make it better. let me know how I may help be a part of the solution.
Respectfully Submitted.
Joe Halpin

Response by PO1 Mario Del Rosario made Apr 30 at 2023 5:13 PM

PO1 Mario Del Rosario — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 17:13:57 -0400

Recruitment and retention are the biggest challenges for military today. The military must provide good incentives for recruit and their families. Sometimes it is a challenge to put food on the table for servicemen with young children including daycare and family services. Military must be clear when they put forth all the benefits and incentives for recruits and their families. Specify all the programs available that will support their families for the rest of the servicemen's career.

Response by Douglas Rice made Apr 30 at 2023 5:32 PM

Douglas Rice — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 17:32:28 -0400

I'm in Rosenberg Texas77469where do I go?

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2023 7:37 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 19:37:10 -0400

Equipment, training, and subpar leadership
At some point these three issues will converge, consideration the many moving variables it takes to run the military. Much of the equipment used were made by companies which no longer exist which makes repairs, upgrades, replacement, and general maintenance almost impossible. Lack of/ and or inadequate training leads to faster degradation of these components, exponentially faster when there's a limited number of personnel who know these systems. The cost of repairing, maintaining, or replacing components is another huge inhibitor. In my experience leaders were reluctant to send personnel to schools. Now we are left with people who are undertrained, and inexperienced.

Response by Sgt Scott Allen made May 1 at 2023 9:22 AM

Sgt Scott Allen — Mon, 01 May 2023 09:22:57 -0400

I see personnel recruitment and retention as the biggest challenge. The generation of people of target recruitment age are not disciplined nor patriotic enough to make into highly trained troops. They have been raised on so much propaganda that they no longer know what it means to love and serve this great nation.

Response by SPC Rick Price made May 1 at 2023 1:31 PM

SPC Rick Price — Mon, 01 May 2023 13:31:51 -0400

Finding a better quality service member

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made May 1 at 2023 5:14 PM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 01 May 2023 17:14:33 -0400

I read a response by a retired officer, that said our biggest challenge is recruitment and retention. These our enormous problems, especially with the current policies of promoting far-liberal people to high positions of authority in the military.

But our biggest problem, noooo! Our biggest problems are China and Russia!

Russia: The Russians are fighting what qualifies as a proxy war with the United States in Ukraine. When one country, in a limited war gets in trouble and their backs are to the wall, what will they do? Well, you know the old proverb, “desperate people do desperate things”! Plus, Putin may be dying! Who knows what is in his brain if he is dying? And we know Stalinsky will do anything to keep from giving up his country.

Chinese: One thing the Chinese are, is too smart to let two other countries get into a nuclear war. Then the Chi/Coms will have no country to play "Big Brother" with.

It takes just eight, ten megaton ground bursts to create a “nuclear winter”. No matter where those eight bombs go off, in a year we will all be gone. And there is no such thing as a “limited nuclear war”, tactical weapons only lead to escalation.

So, we are down to our militaries biggest challenge. The Chinese have the biggest military by far in the world. Much bigger, well equipped and you know they are well trained. They are well ahead of us on all these issues.

Why don’t we have Hypersonic missiles? Are the Chinese ahead of us? OF course and at this time we are doing nothing to change the dynmaic. At this time, we are no match for them, unfortunately. The events in the last ten years in the US have left the military short handed and under equipped. Not only that but General No-Name wants you to call him, “her”.

Response by RallyPoint News made May 2 at 2023 3:11 PM

RallyPoint News — Tue, 02 May 2023 15:11:37 -0400

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Response by SCPO Jack Carlsen made May 4 at 2023 3:00 PM

SCPO Jack Carlsen — Thu, 04 May 2023 15:00:24 -0400

I believe the greatest challenge for our military in 2023 will be figuring out how exactly the military will be able to meet the possible demands that will be placed on a leaner force. With multiple threats from state and non-state players our forces may be heavily tasked. Additionally, as we restructure and rearm in the post Iraq and Afghanistan years by replacing aging and outright abused equipment and make available/increase training for our troops, our law makers will need to right-size the budget in order to equip the armed forces to do the job with all the tools they need to take the fight to the enemy and serve those that need our help.

Response by SSG Michael Grant made May 30 at 2023 1:59 PM

SSG Michael Grant — Tue, 30 May 2023 13:59:34 -0400

Getting new recruits. Kid today just don’t have the dedication to our country like they used to have due to the quality of parenting , woke teachings, leftist ideology and teachings of the government, church and anticapitalist teachings and so forth. Parents need to get back on track and start teaching them patriotism, family values and about Americas culture and true meaning.

Response by SGT Jerry Hoy made Jul 3 at 2023 1:59 PM

SGT Jerry Hoy — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 13:59:38 -0400

Weak leadership and it's willingness to go down the path of wokeness. So glad I retired when I did.

Response by SGT Peter Anello made Jul 20 at 2023 4:24 PM

SGT Peter Anello — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 16:24:00 -0400

The biggest challenge that the military has is that it is gone woke, when I read today that if you are a transgender in the military, you will not be deployed and you will not be required to pass the physical PT test or the weight requirements. That is a slap in the face to those of us who have served And been deployed and follow the rules. This is the reason why no one wants to enlist we need real men and real woman to enlist.

Response by SSgt Susan Phipps made Oct 12 at 2023 9:59 AM

SSgt Susan Phipps — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 09:59:22 -0400

Tommy Tuberville is our biggest and worst obstacle and vile human being towards Veterans and Active duty.

Response by Amn Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 31 at 2023 10:53 AM

Amn Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 10:53:34 -0400

Enticing young people to consider serving. Our leadership has moved too far away from core values and into forced indoctrination of non-core military values.