The head of the Army’s Accessions Command told 200 Association of the United States Army chapter leaders that “we’ve made some phenomenal changes” in basic training and advanced individual training by identifying 39 warrior tasks and nine battle drills that new soldiers must master before heading to their first unit.

Lt. Gen. Robert Van Antwerp, speaking Oct. 2 in Washington on the eve of AUSA’s Annual Meeting, said that the addition of 1,000 recruiters is paying dividends. “We had some missed months,” but met mission through the summer and will likely exceed mission in September. “Most are coming from the desert,” referring to the new recruiters’ service either in Afghanistan or Iraq.

He said their technique has changed to one of the “Army interview. You tell them why you love the Army, why it’s important to serve.”

In talking with young people, recruiters are emphasizing how that potential soldier is significant. The recruiters also talk about acceptance of that young person, understanding of who they are, recognizing what they are doing and appreciating what they do.

Van Antwerp said the propensity to serve among young people remains about the same as in the past, but among “influencers” – parents, teachers, coaches – the propensity of them to recommend Army service has fallen from 62 percent to 38 percent. “Influencers are very, very vocal.”

He said that ROTC had “a great year” exceeding its mission of 3,900 by 275. “ROTC next year will be 4,5000. …We’re asking you to help with the officers” and recruiters in meeting mission in the next fiscal year.

In talking with the chapter leaders, he asked that they reach out to young people, stand up and be counted in the media, try to influence the influencers “And appreciate a soldier every day.”

Van Antwerp said retention remains strong. The goal was 64 percent and is running between 67 and 68 percent.