Military Recruitment Hits 15-Year High as New Enlistees Share Their Motivations

Cadet Julius Moore has made history as the first Maricopa High School JROTC cadet from the class of 2025 to sign a military enlistment contract.

He is set to join the U.S. Marine Corps. In the JROTC classroom, retired Air Force Lt. Col. Allen E. Kirksey Jr. fosters an atmosphere unlike any traditional setting, where discipline reigns supreme.

At the time the bell rings for fourth period, students stand at attention, embodying the military ethos encouraged within these walls decorated with military artifacts and flags.

JROTC serves as a foundational experience, equipping students not just for military service but for life beyond high school. “This is my favorite class,” said Moore, dressed casually in a T-shirt, as he prepares for his transition.

In the coming weeks, he will trade civilian clothing for military fatigues, inspired by a commitment to serve his country. “I really love this country,” Moore expressed, noting his aspiration to become a military police officer.

Moore is among approximately two dozen cadets from the Maricopa Unified School District preparing to enlist after completing the JROTC program. Ninety-three cadets are part of the current cohort.

Cadets like Jennifer Gordoa and Colbi McAdams, both recent graduates, share profound experiences that the program instilled in them. Gordoa credits her father’s military background for her decision to enlist, reflecting, “It helped me grow in leadership and responsibility.”

McAdams, the current corps commander, emphasized the family-like atmosphere in the JROTC program. “We look out for each other,” she stated, highlighting the bonds formed within the unit.

The JROTC experience provides a unique entry point into military life, offering exposure to leadership and accountability through drills, workouts, and academic instruction. “These kids aren’t required to join the military, but they are required to show up with purpose,” Kirksey noted.

“We’re not just teaching them how to salute,” he added. “We’re showing them how to lead and communicate effectively.”

Moore initially considered college, thinking of pursuing engineering, but realized he wanted a different path. “I didn’t want to waste money if I wasn’t sure about my studies,” he explained. His thorough research and discussions with recruiters led him to enlist. “When I swore in, I felt it in my chest,” he said, recalling the moment as transformative.

As he anticipates his new journey, Moore looks forward to exploring the world and making meaningful connections. Australia, Germany, and New Zealand rank high on his list of dream destinations.

The program has a proven track record; alumni have excelled in various fields, including the Navy ROTC at the University of Hawaii and military nursing. Some JROTC graduates now serve in combat roles or have gained admission to prestigious military academies.

A notable aspect of the JROTC program includes flight training, where cadets pilot Cessnas through the Civil Air Patrol, often before they even have a driver’s license. Such experiences contribute to significant personal growth.

Instructors actively support students beyond the classroom environment. “If you’re not doing well in class, we’ll help them figure things out,” Kirksey said, emphasizing the importance of each cadet’s journey.

While JROTC encourages military enlistment, not all cadets choose this path. Approximately a quarter proceed to join the armed forces after graduation.

On a national level, military recruitment is witnessing a revival, with enlistment numbers reaching their highest in 15 years. The Army, in particular, surpassed recruitment goals that had been challenging to meet in recent years.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth attributed the surge in enlistment to evolving leadership perceptions and the national environment. This shift provided opportunities for those considering military service.

The Army has been responsive to past recruitment difficulties, implementing strategic changes like the Future Soldier Preparatory Course to better prepare recruits. Such initiatives aim to attract young adults with diverse backgrounds and skill sets.

These strategies reflect the Army’s commitment to adapt to contemporary recruitment obstacles. The recent uptick in enlistment suggests a positive trend for military recruitment efforts.

As graduation approaches, Maricopa High School cadets are actively preparing the next generation of leaders. Seniors are taking the initiative to mentor their successors, ensuring a continuous cycle of growth.

Reflecting on their time in JROTC, cadets express gratitude for the sense of community and purpose they have found. “I just needed one chance,” Moore remarked, “and I got it here.”