What is the power of a nation based on? Its economy and its military are popular answers. The power of a nation is based on its people, people who are willing to serve. But today the world is changing. Recruiters are facing tougher challenges. Fewer young people are raising their hands and shouting, “Hey, I’m going to be a soldier. The first conclusion that many people reach when asking why this is happening is the rise of what is commonly called a woke culture. This is not necessarily about specific policies in the military. Woke culture has to do with a broader cultural shift, with young people increasingly seeing the world differently or being forced to see it differently.
The Perceived Conflict with Service
This is a perspective that is deeply skeptical of our traditional institutions and acts destructively. While it may make sense in some contexts, this perspective conflicts with the foundations of our military and our security. A perspective that belittles and despises discipline, hierarchy, mission, and comradery drives young people away from military service. It convinces them that these concepts are unsafe. Even though our military has been the symbol of our security to this day.
Because of these poisonous ideas, service does not seem like an honorable duty but rather like complicity in a flawed system.
Woke Culture Dangers for Our Military
So what are the dangers if this dangerous trend continues?
First, for the military itself: Armies may have to shrink. This may be beyond the demands of technology. Smaller forces may have to fulfill more critical roles. It may even force us to select personnel from a smaller pool for these critical tasks. As a result, shortages in recruiting affect readiness. Can our military be effective if it cannot attract enough qualified people?
Risks to the Nation
Second, for the nation: Our security has historically depended on our strong military. If potential enemies see that we are struggling to fill the ranks, it can embolden them. The military has historically been a place where people from all walks of life come together for a common cause. The disconnect created between young citizens and the military undermines that connection and harms the nation. The erosion of a sense of shared responsibility for national defense is a major threat to our security.
Can We Counter the Woke Culture?
Can we fight this trend? It’s complicated. Simply dismissing young people’s concerns isn’t the answer. The military must adapt where necessary while fiercely holding onto its core values of service, sacrifice, and unit cohesion.
But perhaps the bigger battle is cultural. We need to remind ourselves and our youth about the profound honor and purpose of military service. We need to highlight the positive aspects: the incredible skills learned, the unbreakable bonds of camaraderie, the chance to be part of something bigger than yourself, and the fundamental act of defending freedom.
Recruitment efforts need to speak to this generation, acknowledging their values while clearly articulating the unchanging value proposition of service: protecting the nation, building character, and gaining unparalleled experience.
A National Challenge
This isn’t just a military problem; it’s a national challenge. Ensuring a strong future requires citizens willing to serve. If cultural shifts are making that harder, it’s a conversation we all need to have, understanding the stakes for our security and our identity as a nation. The call to serve must remain a vibrant, respected option for America’s youth.
