Fort Bliss, the massive Army post on the outskirts of El Paso, Texas, has earned the Army’s highest recruiting accolade, being named the top recruiting installation worldwide. The honor reflects the post’s long‑standing partnership with the city and its ability to offer a wide range of career opportunities to local youth.
Leadership credits community partnership
Colonel Michael Soyka, the garrison commander, said the award is a testament to the “great bond” between Fort Bliss and El Paso. \”Having a great installation helps, but it’s the outreach that makes the difference,\” Soyka explained. He highlighted joint events, school visits and open‑house days that let residents see the Army’s work up close.
Recruiting message resonates with local families
According to Soyka, bringing young men and women onto the base to experience military life helps them view service as an attainable and rewarding path. \”When they see, touch, and understand what the military does, the idea of joining becomes real,\” he said.
The post’s recruiting strategy emphasizes a broad spectrum of occupations. \”If you’re interested in engineering, we have paths for that. We have doctors, lawyers, infantrymen, tankers – I’m a tank officer myself – and that variety means almost every kid can find a fit,\” Soyka noted.
Economic and cultural impact on El Paso
Fort Bliss contributes significantly to the local economy, providing jobs for civilians and supporting businesses that serve soldiers and their families. The installation’s presence also enriches the cultural fabric of the city, with service members participating in community festivals, school programs and charitable events.
Local leaders have praised the base’s role in fostering civic pride. El Paso Mayor Oscar Leeser remarked that the award underscores how the military and the city work hand‑in‑hand to build a stronger, safer community.
Looking ahead
Colonel Soyka said Fort Bliss will continue to build on this success, expanding outreach and ensuring that recruitment efforts align with the values of faith, family and liberty that both the Army and the El Paso community hold dear. \”Our commitment to the city and to the men and women who serve is unwavering,\” he affirmed.
The recognition positions Fort Bliss as a model for other installations seeking to deepen ties with their host communities while meeting the nation’s recruiting goals.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
