The military is facing significant challenges as it grapples with declining trust among its ranks. Recent surveys reveal a troubling trend among service members regarding their willingness to recommend military service to family and friends. Despite claims of increased recruitment, the reality for those currently serving is different.
In the fall of 2023, an independent survey conducted by J.M. Phelps demonstrated overwhelming disapproval of the COVID-19 vaccination mandate enforced by former Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. Out of 229 respondents, over 98 percent stated they would hesitate to recommend military service to their relatives, with nearly 69 percent attributing their reluctance to the mandate’s stringent enforcement. Additionally, a staggering 79 percent signaled plans to retire within five years, linking their decisions primarily to the mandate.
As Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth took charge, a follow-up survey was conducted in fall 2025, albeit with decreased participation. Only 66 members took part, likely due to those who had been forced out or who chose to resign as a result of ongoing issues. Of those surveyed, an alarming 89 percent expressed that they would not recommend joining the military, with 80 percent specifically citing the lack of accountability for the mandate’s September 2021 implementation.
Much of this discontent points back to leadership accountability. A striking 97 percent of the recent respondents believe Department of Defense leaders should face consequences for their role in enforcing the mandate. Furthermore, 95 percent agree that restoring trust in the military hinges on establishing accountability. Yet, as frustration mounts, no actions have been taken to hold any leaders accountable.
Conversations with participants reveal the depth of the crisis. One service member articulated a loss of faith in military leadership, suggesting their oaths to uphold the Constitution mean little to those who supported the mandate. “Their failure to take responsibility shows that the culture is intrinsically corrupt,” he explained. This sentiment is echoed by another, who emphasized a disconnect between military leaders and their constitutional duties. “They have become the inverse examples of what made our military the envy of the world,” he said, highlighting a loss of confidence in leadership’s ability to prioritize duty over personal ambition.
Another voice pointed out that military officers have prioritized their careers above their oaths, failing to acknowledge what many deemed unlawful actions regarding the mandate. This breach of trust, they argued, has profoundly affected morale. One participant lamented, “Until trust, direction, and Godly morals are restored, I will not recommend my son or loved ones risk their lives.”
The data and comments shed light on a growing disconnect between military leadership and the troops. As the Department of Defense touts recruitment gains, it risks alienating future generations. The evident skepticism stemming from the COVID-19 mandate could have lasting effects, potentially discouraging a new wave of recruits from considering military service.
Military leaders must take heed of this data and the voices of those within their ranks. Accountability appears to be paramount if the disconnect between service members and their leaders is to be repaired. Failure to acknowledge and rectify these issues could result in more harm than good, not just for current personnel but also for the future of military service in America.
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