PERCEPTIONS OF THE U.S. MILITARY  

Abstract
 
 This research project will attempt to create a method by which the U.S. military can measure perceptions from both itself and the general public in order to improve recruiting numbers for the branches of service. Three groups will be surveyed for this project -- senior leadership of the military, the general public, and 18-24 year-old members of the general public. Using the Likert Scale, participants will be asked to demonstrate the degree to which they agree or disagree with statements about the U.S. military, young people in the United States, and methods that could be used to attract young people into military service. 
 The results from the surveys will be used to answer four research questions. From the answers to these questions, it is hoped a better model can be created to improve recruiting in the military. The four questions are: 
1.  What are the attitudes of 18-24 year-old people toward service in the U.S. military? 
2.  What is society's view of the U.S. military? 
3.  Is the U.S. military still a part of society in the United States? 
4.  What would entice young people to enlist in the U.S. military? 
Based on a small pilot study, it can be predicted that there is a wide difference in perceptions between young people in the 18-24 year-old age group and the senior leadership of the U.S. military. The younger generation feels a  
lack of connection to the military, while senior military leaders still view service as a valuable part of society and a good career for young people. 
These predicted results provide a mission statement to public affairs practitioners in the U.S. military. Public affairs needs to develop campaigns to educate both those in the military and in society about the value of the military, and its dedication to the United States. Through this type of effort, the gap between the military and young people may be able to be bridged, and recruiting efforts improved. 
 
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