Mejia said any Soldiers who are considering trying out for any of the U.S. Army Recruiting Command’s Marketing and Engagement Brigade’s teams should keep an eye out for the all calls and apply.

According to Col. Eric Lopez, 3rd Recruiting Brigade commander, the Women's Leadership Forum falls in line with the U.S. Army's progressive stance to lean forward on matters of social change.

In 2022, the Army fell short of its goal by 25 percent, recruiting 45,000 out of a desired 60,000. In 2023, the Army recruited 54,000 soldiers, short of the 65,000 it wanted.

Buoyed by an increase in recruiting, the Army will expand its basic combat training in what its leaders hope reflects a turning point as it prepares to meet the challenges of future wars. The ...