Attrition in the Military--An Issue Needing Management Attention

A review was made that discussed the attrition phenomenon, the Department of Defense's (DOD) activities in this area, and what is needed to be done to better manage attrition. The key issue addressed was the question of whether the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) and the military services could do more to reduce attrition through more effective manpower management without adversely affecting the quality of the output. Also questioned, was whether some attrition resulted from less than fully effective manpower policies and programs used to recruit, train, and maintain a motivated and effective military force. Though the recruitment and selection systems can never be perfect, some mistakes must be weeded out. Already positive measures to manage attrition more effectively have been undertaken, however, further improvements are needed.