High Cost of Military Attrition Can Be Reduced

GAO made a study to determine the total costs associated with first-term attrition (those military members separated before completing their initial enlistments). Attrition is not only costly in terms of recruiting and training new personnel, but also for benefits available to servicemen after discharge. Attrition of those who entered military service during fiscal year 1974 to 1977 cost the Goverment an estimated $5.2 billion including veterans' benefits available to servicemen after discharge.