SHOUT OUT - U.S. soldiers and airmen give a shout out to U.S. Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates as he met with them during a trip to Mosul, Iraq, April 8, 2011. Gates also held discussions with the troops while taking photos and giving coins to them. The troops are assigned to the 4th Battalion, 1st Advise and Assist Brigade. DOD photo by U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Jerry MorrisonQuality Of U.S. Military Recruits Rises -- USA Today
The quality of military recruits has increased to its highest level in almost two decades partly because of a tough civilian job market and a more stable Iraq.
Last year, 99% of recruits had a high school diploma before entering the service, up from 91% in 2006, when fighting in Iraq was near its peak and the economy was stronger.
The increased interest in the armed forces means recruiters can be choosier about whom they let into the military.
"We turn away a lot more people than we have in years past," said Army Staff Sgt. David Harris, a recruiter in Roswell, Ga.
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My Comment: While reading this story, I also came across this story which gives a different picture of what some of our soldiers are doing.