Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael Grinston, beginning a farewell tour of Congress as he nears retirement after 36 years of service, told a House subcommittee that he’s convinced the Army can overcome its recruiting challenges if it takes steps to make service more rewarding.

Testifying Feb. 28 about quality of life in the military, Grinston said, “Young Americans want to be part of something larger than themselves.” 

“We need a national call to public service,” he said, noting that it “only goes so far.” 

To attract recruits, the Army must have “timely, adequate, predictable and sustained funding to invest in barracks, dining facilities and child development centers,” he said.

“America's soldiers are lethal, effective and ready to surge when called upon,” Grinston said. “In times of crisis, standing with every one of these soldiers is a family enduring the stress of a loved one away from home or prepared to leave at a moment's notice. Their sacrifice is not unnoticed.”

“The military, not just the Army, is a great place to serve and is a great place to grow,” Grinston said.

After serving as the Army’s senior enlisted leader for almost four years, Grinston is slated to retire in August. Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Weimer of Army Special Operations Command has been announced as Grinston’s successor.