There’s good news coming from the Army—and it’s something every American who loves this country should be proud of. Secretary of the Army, Dan Driscoll, just announced that this is the best recruiting year in 13 years, already exceeding its 2025 goal while signing on more than 62,000 new soldiers. Even better, it’s entering the new year with more than 22,000 recruits, which is double what it had last year and a quarter of its goal. That means a stronger foundation and an emphasis on readiness for America’s defense.

For too long, we’ve seen stories about missed recruiting goals and the challenges facing our military. But this turnaround shows what happens when America has real leadership focused on restoring pride, discipline, and purpose in service—and when young Americans answer the call to defend their country.

The new Future Soldier Prep Course has also played a significant role in the recruitment process. The course helps prospective soldiers meet academic and fitness standards so they can qualify to serve. The effort has turned thousands of motivated young men and women who once fell short into soldiers now wearing the uniform with pride. Each year, my office proudly hosts a Service Academy Summit for the young people in Florida’s 21st district interested in seeking a nomination to one of America’s great Service Academies. 

As a veteran, I know firsthand what it means to raise your right hand and take the oath to defend this nation. Service changes lives, and it shapes the people who choose it. The bottom line is that when our military succeeds, our nation is both safer and stronger. To every man and woman who stepped forward this year to serve our great nation—thank you.