“Beyond that, we’re guessing the drive to land new enlistees isn’t helped by pointless wars, Covid vaccine mandates or using drag queens as recruiters.”
bingo.
the manly men that were attracted to the military and its concepts of discipline, athleticism, courage, and male bonding (in the right way, ie. band of brothers) are now repelled.
Another reason, IMHO, recruitment is low, Biden doesn’t exactly inspire confidence that he won’t get you killed if you join up.
Ditto that!