Why does the US military advertise?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the need for military advertising in America, despite the assumption that most Americans are aware of the military. The purpose of advertising is to attract more exceptional individuals to join the military, especially during a time when there is talk of a potential draft. The conversation also touches on the decline in popularity of military service and how advertising can help change this. Some arguments for joining the military are the opportunities for education, travel, and character development. The conversation concludes by comparing military advertising to that of popular brands like Coke and McDonalds, emphasizing the importance of advertising even for well-known institutions.
  • #1
ShawnD
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I assume that Americans know what the military is, so why is there a need to advertise? It's not like the US military needs more people in it; many of the Americans I know online are in the military or are going to be. Americans I have associated with have said there are military recruiters at high schools; I mean they have their own office in the school.

Why advertise?
 
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  • #2
Actually, there is talk of another draft due to all the recent activities.

Just thinking in general terms, the more people that you have to choose from, and the more that the military can look like a smart career option, then on the average more exceptional people and people with the "right stuff" can be found. When I allllllmost joined the Navy around 1980, the popularity of military service had been on a real downslide for a long time - really ever since Vietnam. As a result, one argument presented for joining was that given the current competition, a smart person can go very far, very quickly. This is not what the military wants. They want a buyers market; not a sellers market.
 
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  • #3
remember the Simpsons episode? Yvan Eht Nioj...
 
  • #4
Like Ivan said, we're actually dangerously near a shortage of troops in America. When the military advertises, it's not like "We're the military, we use weapons to kill people who want to do bad things to you", they tell you more about the education you can get in the military, places you travel, character you will gain, and try to insight nationalistic feelings about fighting in the military.
 
  • #5
Everyone knows what Coke and McDonalds are, but they still advertise :wink:
 

1. Why does the US military advertise?

The US military advertises for several reasons. One of the main reasons is to recruit new members to join the military. By advertising, the military can reach a larger audience and attract individuals who may not have considered joining otherwise. Advertisements also help to promote the military's mission and values to the general public.

2. How much money does the US military spend on advertising?

The exact amount of money the US military spends on advertising is not publicly disclosed. However, according to a report by the Government Accountability Office, the military spent over $600 million on advertising in 2019. This includes recruitment advertising as well as advertising campaigns to promote the military's brand and image.

3. Do other countries' militaries advertise as much as the US military?

While some other countries do have military advertising, it is not on the same scale as the US military. The US has one of the largest and most well-funded militaries in the world, so it is not surprising that they also have a significant advertising budget. Additionally, the US military has a strong presence in media and popular culture, which may contribute to the perception of high advertising frequency.

4. Does the US military advertise during peacetime?

Yes, the US military does advertise during peacetime. While recruitment may not be as urgent during peacetime, the military still needs to maintain a certain level of personnel. Advertisements during peacetime may focus more on promoting the military's values and missions rather than actively recruiting new members.

5. Is the purpose of US military advertising solely to recruit new members?

No, the purpose of US military advertising is not solely to recruit new members. While recruitment is a significant goal, advertising also serves to promote the military's brand and values, increase public awareness and understanding of the military, and attract potential partners and allies. Additionally, advertisements may also serve to boost morale among current military members and their families.

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