Pay is low. Even among more skilled mid-level ranks, the lure of better paying jobs with more desirable working conditions in the civilian sector is tempting. The services have seen an unprecedented 48 overseas missions since 1990. These operations are in addition to our commitments to NATO and Korea. More of our military people are away from home, and for longer periods of time.
Ships deploy more often and for longer periods with less homeport time between deployments.
The services cannot maintain the equipment they do have. A lack of spare parts means that cannibalization is rampant. Older equipment is not being replaced to ensure that our troops have the finest technology available. The older equipment is wearing out and is becoming more and more difficult to maintain. The average age of fighter and ground attack aircraft is over 20 years.