A Message from the Commanding General, U.S. Army Recruiting Command

Soldier for Life Family,

2024 was a great year in Army Recruiting as we crushed our goal of enlisting more than 55,000 active-duty Soldiers into our great Army! 2025 is going to be a bigger year for recruiting with new initiatives and the celebration of the Army’s 250th Birthday!

In 2025, our goal is to enlist and ship 61,000 Soldiers to Basic Combat Training. We are off to a great start and have a lot of exciting changes coming to recruiting this year.

Transformation of the recruiting enterprise continues with the announcement of two new one-star headquarters: Atlanta and Los Angeles. Each of these new headquarters will be led by a Deputy Commanding General who will oversee the six Recruiting Brigades. These new locations will maximize awareness of the Army to attract new talent and retain a strong workforce. They will better enable us to stay connected to the communities in which our recruiters live and serve.

In addition to these new locations, the current Recruiting Headquarters at Fort Knox, Ky., recently transitioned to a three-star Direct Reporting Unit (DRU), to Army senior leaders, which should be fully operational by 2026.

The redesign of the recruiting workforce has produced two cohorts of our new 420T, Talent Acquisition Technician Warrant Officers, and two cohorts of 42T, Talent Acquisition Specialists, to the recruiting field. The transformation of our Talent Acquisition workforce marks the first fundamental change to how the Army recruits in more than 80 years.

We are moving the recruiting force forward in reaching Generation Z and beyond. The Army helps create a sense of purpose through personal growth and professional development. With over 200 job choices available, the Army has opportunities for future generations.

We expanded initiatives this year to attract qualified candidates and to stay competitive with the employment market. Our recruiters have continued to do what they do best, I’m so proud of their hard work. They continue to share their Army stories and tell the public why they serve and why others should too.

With the new initiatives, transformational command changes, and the recruiters’ perseverance we still could not have accomplished this mission without the support of our Soldier for Life family! Thank you for your continued support.

As we celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States Army this year, we reflect on the rich history and legacy of service, sacrifice and dedication. From the Revolutionary War to present-day missions, our Soldiers have consistently demonstrated their resolve to defend freedom at home and abroad.

There will be celebrations in numerous communities across the country, and I encourage you to stay connected to our great force and participate in this amazing milestone.

Since its establishment in 1775, U.S. Army Soldiers, families and Army civilians have supported our nation, bearing true faith and allegiance to the country, the U.S. Constitution, the Army, their units, and fellow team members. 

If you are looking to celebrate with us, I urge you to:

Get involved in your community. There are numerous events happening throughout the year to celebrate the Army’s 250th birthday. This is a great opportunity to get involved and show your support to your Army. For ways to celebrate and to learn more about the establishment of our Army, check out events listed here: Army 250th Events.

Visit your local recruiting brigade, battalion, or station. Ask our recruiters how you can support them and support local Army birthday celebrations.

Download the U.S. Army Career Navigator App from the Apple app store or Google play store and use the “Contact Tab” to locate your local recruiting station.

Share your #ArmyStory. Share your story with the next generation of Soldiers! Fifty percent of today’s youth admit they know little to nothing about military service. When you share your Army story, you’re bridging the gap with youth who may have never met someone who’s served. Help us make sure our Army stays ready for the next 250 years!

Together, we can inspire a new generation of Soldiers who will carry forward the legacy of service, sacrifice, and excellence.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our mission and our nation. Soldier for Life!

Your Servant,

Lt. Gen. Johnny Davis

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