Since Trump began his second term, his administration's use of the armed forces has left a growing number in the military unsettled, according to NPR interviews with service members and advocates.
Many Pentagon materials now labeled as "DEI" were a bit more like advertisements — aimed at recruits who have shown a willingness to serve, military experts tell NPR.
Amid those hawking corndogs and cheese curds at the Minnesota State Fair, the Army is trying to sell itself. An effort to entice sign ups is happening as the Army struggles to fill its ranks.
A decade ago, Army recruiters started coaching individuals to help them lose weight so they could enlist. It's not an official Army program, but it has become necessary to recruitment, many say.
