MOUNT AIRY, N.C. — The National Guard reports there are more troops leaving than enlisting. Officials say many soldiers are choosing not to re-enlist, and it’s facing shortfalls in recruiting. A Surry County recruiter says he’s seen the opposite in recent months.
What You Need To Know
About 7,500 troops left the National Guard in the last year
National Guard officials cite drops in recruitment and many soldiers opting not to re-enlist
Staff Sgt. William Arnder noticed an increase in interest from prospective recruits compared to years past
Staff Sgt. William Arnder graduated from Forsyth Technical Community College with a dream to work on race cars. However in 2010, the auto industry was crumbling, and Arnder had to find a new career. He joined the Army National Guard, where he served six years in active Army before returning to his hometown of Mount Airy to be a recruiter.
“I was soon to be married, and I needed a job that offered insurance to take care of me and my future wife,” he said.
Arnder visits high schools and community colleges in Alleghany, Surry and Stokes counties, educating young men and women interested in serving the country.
Those in high school and college are largely interested in the long list of benefits the Army National Guard provides, like 100% paid tuition to any public university and paid training in trade. High schoolers who apply have the opportunity to work one weekend a month before heading to training.
“As young adults, they’re more than likely to meet the qualification criteria, and they are also looking to explore our options that we offer the best,” he said.
The National Guard reported a loss of 7,500 service members over the last year, according to The Associated Press. Officials say many soldiers are opting out of re-enlisting as well as drops in recruitment.
Arnder says school closures due to the pandemic impacted recruitment efforts, but he’s seen a rebound in recent months. Arnder visits one to three schools each week to show and tell students about the benefits of serving in the National Guard.
Arnder says the application process is a bit more intensive than a civilian application. Positions within the Army National Guard require a security clearance check.
While younger people are the key market in recruiting for the Army National Guard, Arnder says they hiring up to age 34.
For more information on serving with the Army National Guard, click here. To get in touch with recruiter Arnder, call (336) 469-1438.