Post pandemic, the public’s understanding of, and propensity to serve in, the military declined dramatically. Those interested in serving were disqualified medically, physically, and academically at an unprecedented rate. Legacies of families in service, and citizens’ direct connections to service members, declined. And here in Wisconsin, the Guard was not on anyone’s mind.
During our recruitment crisis, your Wisconsin Army National Guard asked for help. We asked you to help us highlight events, share soldiers’ stories and educate the public on who we are and what we do. You responded with INCREDIBLE ENTHUSIASM! You put us on the air and in people’s living rooms. You helped us take back our household name. We are back in the hearts and minds of our local citizens.
Want more proof? It’s also in the data: your Army National Guard’s Recruiting Force has increased enlistments by 40 percent since we asked for your help in 2022! We have more work to do and are working tirelessly to fill our ranks with qualified soldiers to preserve our state and nation’s freedoms.
You have answered our call, and I want you to know how grateful we are. Through our partnership with the WBA and reciprocated efforts by your stations, our collaborative approach to strategic communications helped move the needle for your local Guard. Together, we move FORWARD!
LTC Shannon Hellenbrand
Commander, Recruiting & Retention BN
Wisconsin Army National Guard
