Interest in military service is reportedly on the rise, according to new figures shared by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who credits President Donald Trump’s leadership.
Key Facts:
- The Army had its strongest recruitment totals in 12 years in December 2024.
- January 2025, the month Trump officially took office, saw the highest recruiting numbers in 15 years.
- The Army plans to add 10 more basic training units in April, split between Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and Fort Sill, Oklahoma.
- Trump issued an order allowing service members discharged over COVID vaccine refusal to rejoin with full rank and back pay.
- The shift from former President Joe Biden’s policies has included fewer “woke” ads and a greater focus on a warrior ethos.
The Rest of The Story:
Secretary Hegseth announced that young Americans are once again enthusiastic about serving their country.
Under President Trump, the administration is promoting a more traditional, strength-based approach to military culture.
After years of uncertain recruitment numbers, the Army’s new data suggests that Trump’s “America First” message resonates with potential enlistees.
During the Biden administration, several issues, such as the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal and requirements that forced some service members out due to COVID vaccine objections, lowered morale.
Additionally, many conservative recruits felt alienated by certain policies, including programs connected to critical race theory.
Now, with a shift in leadership, the Army is doubling down on a more direct message of readiness and national defense.
The decision to restore back pay for those discharged over vaccination status also appears to have eased past tensions.
In January 2025, the strength of the new administration’s vision was evident.
.@USArmy is back! Growing future lethal warriors prepared to fight and win our nations wars!https://t.co/C9i1nZ4ivI
— Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth (@SecDef) February 4, 2025
Military.com reported that training capacity is expanding, and fresh advertising highlights core combat activities.
Hegseth, a combat veteran himself, has been vocal about bringing back a warrior mindset to recruiting and retention efforts.
Commentary:
These figures show how strong leadership at the top can drastically influence military enrollment.
By removing DEI policies as official doctrine, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has set a tone that many believe aligns with traditional military values.
Troops gain confidence when they see their commander-in-chief and defense secretary backing them without hesitation, and high morale is often the key to successful recruitment.
For the past 4 years Democrats tried to say that DEI, woke policies, trans troops and drag queen recruiters (yes, that really happened) weren’t responsible for our military recruiting crisis but wouldn’t ya know it, after all the woke crap was axed, NOW we have record recruiting! pic.twitter.com/FUcD7whKcR
— Robby Starbuck (@robbystarbuck) February 4, 2025
The Bottom Line:
Recruitment levels are bouncing back under Trump’s leadership, signaling renewed trust in the armed forces.
Many credit this surge to a clearer mission and policies that favor traditional military values.
Hegseth’s own background may further inspire confidence among incoming troops.
Leadership, in this case, appears to be a decisive factor in encouraging service.
Read Next
– Kristi Noem Removes Deportation Shield For 350,000 Venezuelan Illegal Immigrants
– Trump to Stop All UNRWA Funding, Withdraw from HRC on Day of Netanyahu Meeting
– Acting FBI Director Refuses Direct Order From The DOJ, Trump