Sustain the Force
This November MOAA hosts a professional symposium addressing the question, “Can we sustain the all-volunteer force (AVF) in an extended war?” It’s a question vital to the future of our nation. The health of the AVF rests with recruiting and retention - fac= tors that rely firmly on national support.
I recently told a national magazine reporter that if I were passing out grades, the AVF - “America’s Team” - would receive an A+ for its worldwide performancel would give the elected leaders of both political parties a C for their support of the AVF - and I would give our citizens a B- for their support and loyalty.
By nature, military people are dedicated, mission-oriented, and self-effacing. They do their jobs without bragging or seeking praise. It’s time this nation’s leaders and ordinary citizens alike show their proper appreciation of these men and women - and by appreciation I mean deeds, not lip service and bumper stickers.
Both political parties talk a good game, but when it comes to proactive efforts to ensure the AVF has the training, equipment, personnel, and benefits it needs, the military and its people often come second to other priorities. Examples include Congress passing Defense bills several months late and robbing Defense dollars for billions to spend on pork projects - unacceptable actions during a time of war.
These grades - B’s and C’s - won’t sustain the AVF. We should start with two pivotal steps. First, in their speeches and public pronouncements, our elected and appointed leaders should ask all citizens to consider serving their nation in uniform. We need leaders and influencers (educators, coaches, and parents) to say that serving the country in the military is a good, noble thing to do.
Second, we should always treat America’s Team as the role models and heroes they are - and that includes their families as Well as those who have served in the past. We must keep our commitments and promises to those who serve and have served by enacting programs and benefits that attract and retain the best and brightest people into the military and reward them for serving for a career.
During this challenging period in our history, I am grateful for everything each of you does to send a loud and consistent message to service personnel and their families that their sacrifice and service are truly valued; your leadership has made a real difference. Now our leaders and fellow citizens need to follow your example and step up to the challenge.
- Vice Adm. Norb Ryan Jr., USN-Ret.

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