SC National Guard program works to keep recruits

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The South Carolina National Guard is using a mentoring program to help young recruits get ready for the rigors of military life.

The Guard’s top recruiter, Lt. Col. Matthew Fryman, says the “Recruit Sustainment Program” helps give young trainees a leg up before they get into the basic combat training run by the active duty Army.

Many of the nation’s youth aren’t physically fit enough to even enter basic training, let alone last through its nine weeks. Others might have trouble adjusting to following orders.

Fryman says the program pairs recruiters with new soldiers and coaches them through weekend drills before they go to basic training. He says it helps ensure they will be successful in military life and Guard service.