We Don't Want YOU, Uncle Sam: Examining the Military Recruiting Crisis with Generation Z

Never did I expect a book at that illustrates a modern American issue, with modern solutions and suggestions, by someone in the very same generation of the issue at hand.As a Marine officer does, Lt. Weiss leads from the front and highlights the contemporary issue of the recruiting crisis going on within the United States military. With his unique experience graduating from the prestigious Wharton Business School, Weiss provides statistical data as well as self reflection as part of generation Z to provide suggestions to the military’s flag officers and civilian leaders to curb the dent in recruiting.To those actively serving of any rank, make no mistake; upon reading this book you might view the the solutions he proposes as an impossible task or straight up blasphemy. At the same time this may also be the point. This is the perspective of someone in generation Z himself. Who understands what it is his generation is going through in regards to their work philosophy, what gives them meaning, physical health, mental health; and a variety of other aspects of this incoming generation that we must take into account if we want to fill in the ranks with citizen-warriors to protect our democracy.This is a great read of whom I would like to recommend to recruiters of the armed forces. As they are in the front line of enlisting the next generation, it seems logical that they should get to understand the rationale of this new generation to adapt their recruiting tools.As Weiss mentions in the introduction, a goal of this book is to reach the eyes and ears of civilian leaders, admirals and generals. As they are the ones with the authority and capabilities to act on these suggestions in a meaningful way. May this book provide the insight needed to understand and recruit the next generation of warrior-citizens so that we can defend our nation when duty calls.

A must read for anyone who teaches, works alongside, leads, mentors and/or parents those who belong to Gen Z. Author Matthew Weiss and his book are the perfect trifecta: Catalytic. Strategic. Concise. Chapters explain a problem and propose solutions. Weiss masterfully outlines the influences that have molded Gen Z’s thinking and offers well-researched and creative strategies to guide them.Officer Weiss is a Gen Z, multifaceted leader. He comes to his readers with a solid foundation of educational excellence, business prowess and military leadership. He calls on each and every one of us to identify our talents and apply them to service our Communities and Country.

Our democracy has always relied on a citizen army to protect our liberties and securities. Each generation has faced different challenges to insure that reliance. Mr. Weiss, through meticulous use of data, provides the important perspective of a GenZer in explaining both problems and solutions to the challenging recruitment of this generation to our armed services. What makes it more appealing is how Mr. Weiss breaks down the issues for easy reading and understanding. This is a must read for not only those interested in our armed services, but also, for those who want to understand the challenges and complexities of modern patriotism.

"We Don't Want You, Uncle Sam” is a groundbreaking and thought-provoking book that challenges conventional notions and offers a fresh outlook on the complex issue of military recruitment. With concise and compelling arguments, it encourages readers to critically examine the recruitment process and its impact on individuals and society. Through its accessible writing style, the book navigates the complex issues surrounding military recruitment. By sparking a broader conversation and advocating for change, it serves as a catalyst for a more inclusive and informed discourse. This book is essential for those seeking a revolutionary understanding of military recruitment dynamics.

Lt. Weiss presents many well thought out and researched ideas on how to reach the current population of Generation Z in ways they consume information. And in ways that appeal to Gen Z's workplace skills and interests. Weiss also suggests ways our business and academic institutions may/can play a broader role in sharing the opportunities offered by military service. Lt. Weiss has a flood of ideas that are a must for thought leaders and influencers interested in a strong U.S. Military to consider.

"We Don't Want You, Uncle Sam" is a thought-provoking read. It offers a unique and critical examination of the relationship between citizens and the government. This is a powerful and eye-opening book that challenges the status quo. It sheds light on the complexities of patriotism and encourages readers to question their relationship with the government. Highly recommended for those seeking a fresh perspective.

Matt Weiss' work is well researched and informed by personal experience. He stepped away from a lucrative career in mergers and acquisitions where he was embedded in a Silicon Valley Unicorn company. Matt walked away from what many perceive as the American dream, after achieving advanced degrees from Wharton, and chose to walk towards a greater purpose through military service. His perspective on how Gen Z does differ while also remaining motivated by a sense of purpose makes this book a worthy read.

Extremely interesting and valuable read. A sober look at the waning US volunteer force and the reasons for it… a thorough study to help build Military awareness of the unique Gen Z recruit perspective and experience, with an aim towards new strategies for building patriotic and cohesive future Forces, ensuring our sacred freedoms.

An overdue, impressive and thorough piece of work that anyone interested in anything bigger than ourselves (community, the environment, global affairs, the list goes on) should read. Weiss astutely diagnoses the military's problems and provides practical, actionable solutions that offer hope, promise, and an applaudable way forward. This is a highly insightful and refreshing book that shies away from nothing!