A Critical Element of Army Recruiting Strategy. An Affordable G.I. Bill
Abstract
Recognizing the unique nature of military service, the differences among the various services constituting the Armed Forces, the wide variances in jobs within a specific service, the need for quality accessions for the Army, and at least a two-segment youth market (work-oriented versus college-bound), a dual approach to the construction of enlistment incentives was adopted. It was suggested that college-bound youth would respond best to a shorter enlistment commitment with high, post-service educational benefits. On the other hand, work-oriented youth would respond best to pay, bonuses, skill training, and job security. The GI Bill or a similar type of incentive is essential for the execution of a dual market strategy. However, since cost has been the reason for most opposition to past and present GI Bills, a reduced cost, Army-only GI Bill was proposed, that would be targeted to skill demands and applicant human capital. The Army-only nature of the proposed bill stems from the contention, ranging as far back as the Gates Commission, that the Army has the most difficult recruiting mission. Further, such an incentive is not only key to the Army's dual market strategy, but also is designed to lessen interservice competition by opening a new market segment (college-bound) - youth who would not otherwise consider any military service.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA171270
Entities
People
- Robert L. Phillips