U.S. Army Recruitment Crisis 2026: Why Fewer Americans Are Enlisting
America is facing its most serious U.S. Army recruitment crisis since the all-volunteer force began in 1973. Despite meeting recruitment goals in 2024, the military confronts two major threats: a projected 13% drop in Americans turning 18 by 2041 and a steep decline in young people’s willingness to serve—from 16% in 2003 to just 10%…