U.S. Army leaders are asking recruiters to enlist more people from a shrinking pool of eligible applicants against the backdrop of unpopular wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. It may be the toughest challenge for recruiters tasked with finding quality recruits for the largest branch of the Armed Forces. In fact, the Army has struggled to meet its recruiting goals the last couple of years but has countered by offering large enlistment bonuses and expanding its eligibility requirements to attract more people. The casual observer may think all of the monetary incentives are enough to make recruiting easier. However, these factors result in a recruiting force under intense pressure. Not only do they face increased annual recruiting goals, but they must do so in an unsympathetic environment with leadership focused on making mission. Several issues, including the new recruiting mission, oversaturated markets, leadership practices, and personal pride further contribute to this problem. Recruiters now face an ethical dilemma trying to meet the new recruiting mission in an atmosphere that can make otherwise honest Soldiers commit unethical acts.

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