Sergeant Kifer Speaks to Rotary about ‘Intelligent Army’

Sergeant Richard Kifer, of the US Army, spoke to the Coudersport Rotary Club members regarding the new and more stringent acceptance standards employed by the Army’s recruitment program.

Sergeant Kifer began his presentation by extending his support to Jason Burtran, upcoming Rotary Foreign Exchange Student who hopes to be traveling to Italy this Summer.  Sergeant Kifer explained that he has traveled to Italy, Turkey, Afganistan, Germany, Holland and France among several other countries since he joined the Army just 10 years ago, and believed Jason would grow from the experience.

Sergeant Kifer went on to explain that only 4% of the American population qualify for the Army and less than 1% actually serve.  The Army is currently 180,000 “over-strength” and its leadership is looking to downsize and the qualifications to be accepted into service have become much more strict with a strong focus on recruiting educated candidates.

The Army accepts applicants from 17 years of age up to 42 years old into its (2) programs available; US Army Active Duty and the US Army Reserves.  However, the Army now requires that candidates have earned a minimum of 12 college credits or have completed at least 5 college courses.  Drug and alcohol tests are performed to screen out those with substance abuse issues and those with past convictions.

Sergeant Kifer specializes, on a fulltime basis, in the Communications field of the Army, however is on temporary assignment as an Army Detailed Recruiter for the Army recruitment office located in Wellsboro, PA., which serves Potter and Tioga Counties.  Those interested in learning more can contact Sergeant Kifer directly at (570)724-2211, or through the local job center.