Help recruit the next generation, major general requests

Maj. Gen. Johnny Davis, who has command over the Army Recruiting Command and Fort Knox, would have never found a successful career in the military if it were not for influential veterans.

When he was around 8 years old, neighbors who were World War II and Korean War veterans pulled Davis aside and “really motivated me to consider service.”

Now, Davis is looking for other veterans to join him in asking young people to consider serving their nation. His address on Aug. 29 at the 104th American Legion National Convention came as all military branches are finding it increasingly challenging to recruit young men and women.

“It’s a challenging market to say the least,” he said. “We are doing better than what we did last year. It’s still tough but we already surpassed what we brought in last year and we still have another five weeks to go. That is good news and we are headed in the right direction.”

Davis encouraged American Legion members to speak with young people, their parents, teachers and others about the value of service.

“We got a big storm brewing and it is going to hit the United States,” he said, referring to Hurricane Idalia. “It may knock over homes, destroy some vehicles, but the very next day or within hours, who are you going to see out on the streets helping out fellow citizens? It’s our men and women in uniform. We need that formation to be full so that when the nation calls we are there. That’s where I need your help. I need your help to visit these young recruiters.”

He said those interested may learn more and use these resources:

• Register for the Partnership Outreach Program.

• Download the U.S. Army Career Navigator app.

After all, you never know who you might motivate to embark on a life of service.

“The nation invests in those who serve. I know the value of service to this nation. Never underestimate the power of our nation’s young adults.”