77% of American youth cannot qualify for Military

A Pentagon study revealed that 77 percent of young Americans do not qualify for military service without a waiver due to being overweight, drug use, or mental or physical problems.

“When considering youth disqualified for one reason alone, the most prevalent disqualification rates are overweight (11 percent), drug and alcohol abuse (8 percent), and medical/physical health (7 percent),” the Pentagon’s 2020 Qualified Military Available Study of Americans between the ages of 17 and 24 read.

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Carla · 61-69, F

So the problems you listed make up 26% of the 77% you mentioned. Out of curiosity...how and whom came up with that 77%? That number of young men certainly aren't trying to enlist.

DogMan · 61-69, M

@Carla This one was from Military.com I believe. I looked at a bunch of different places, since I didn't
believe it. and they all were between 75% and 77%

Carla · 61-69, F

@DogMan so 77% of those trying to enlist are ineligible? That makes sense. I am pleased that the armed forces are being particular in there recruitment.

DogMan · 61-69, M

@Carla Me too, but it is still sad that more couldn't qualify.

Carla · 61-69, F

@DogMan think about it though...selective service requirements are higher than would be a draft. And still, 2.5 out of ten at the ages permitted is probably not a bad number.