Against the Grain aims to spark thought, challenge thinking, and encourages each reader to be the best version of themselves possible. Some discussions may be mildly uncomfortable; some may be enlightening. We’ll approach each with an open mind and willingness to explore what we may not always understand, for it’s in being uncomfortable that we’ll find growth.
By B. Grainne
To Serve or Not to Serve… we recently received a letter from a community member that discussed the need for mandatory military service. Thank you for your kind, yet bold, thoughts.
Given our current political climate, the subject of required military service has once again crossed headlines. Approximately 10 million men and women of the Baby Boomer generation served in the U.S. military, compared to 5–7% of Generation X and just 3–4% of Millennials. Approximately 2.2 million Millennials have served or are currently serving.
Generation Z—the generation currently of recruitment age—favors a leadership style that emphasizes competitiveness, creativity, and the opportunity to learn from their mistakes. Wouldn’t a generation that asks leadership to value them as individuals find the more traditional military structure a bit abrasive? After all, individuality is not always viewed as conducive to an effective and efficient military enterprise.
So what does the next generation of service members look like when traditional methods of recruitment and structure no longer resonate?
According to a current Sergeant and National Guardsman, there is a drastic change in how Gen Z is motivated. Having grown up with greater media exposure to global conflict, they tend to value transparency and demand a deeper understanding of why they are being asked to do something. For leadership, this presents a challenge: finding the right balance of if, when, and how to provide that explanation—while maintaining discipline and cohesion.
Gen Z will undoubtedly shape the future of the military with new perspectives, strong technological skills, and a greater emphasis on diversity. Their influence will help ensure that the military remains effective and relevant in a rapidly evolving world. Still, adapting 250 years of tradition to meet the expectations of a new generation of soldiers, seamen, airmen, and privates will be no small feat.
This dynamic doesn’t stop at military service. How does it apply to our skilled trade professions as well? What can we do, as a society, to provide encouragement, support, and guidance to these future leaders and workers?
My sincerest gratitude to all who have served to protect our great nation.
B. Grainne
Thank you for thinking “against the grain”. Our communities will grow to their fullest potential through thought-provoking discussions, which is why our goal is to stir up thoughts and work through the things that may be limiting us. Please share what may be holding you back from living your life to the fullest. Let’s discuss it in a healthy and positive way.
Have a thought to discuss? Respectful submissions are welcome to: AgainstTheGrain@lostcreeksentinel.com
