Is
it a case of economy woes fueling military recruiting or was the month of February just an oddball because all the active and reserve components made at least 100 percent of their respective goals for the month? The Air National Guard fell somewhat short of its goals for December and January, but surpassed its February goal by some 60 recruits. Both the Air Force and Air Force Reserve Command reached 100 percent of their goals. According to DOD, retention remains “exceptionally strong” in the Army and Marine Corps, but late last month, the Air Staff personnel chief, Lt. Gen. Richard Newton, told lawmakers that the Air Force’s enlisted retention in 2007 fell short of its goal by about eight percent. No word on its current retention picture. Officials from all the services have said they expect to face a tough recruiting year.
Congress Passes $839 Billion Budget for Defense
Feb. 3, 2026
Congress officially passed the fiscal 2026 defense spending bill Feb. 3 after a House of Representatives vote, approving $839 billion in Pentagon funding and sending the package to President Donald Trump for his signature.
