ABSTRACT

This entry provides an overview of enlistment limited to the U.S. military, though events surrounding enlistment are similar among many countries. In the first part of the entry, an overview of how the United States has staffed its armed forces is described—from compulsory, conscripted (draft) military service during World War II and thereafter to voluntary military service with the adoption of the All-Volunteer Force during the 1980s through the present day. The second part of the entry provides a general description of activities through which an interested, prospective recruit must undergo in order to enlist, such as physical health and fitness, and aptitude assessments, military occupational specialty selection and corresponding training, determination of a final duty assignment location, and commitment to a service obligation associated with each of the former.