One thing I find funny is that I said the same thing when I was a TI about the youngers troops, and years prior to that when I was a new troop, my TI said the same about us. When my father was a TI he said (back in the 70's) that the troops were too soft, then he in turn he said when he was in basic in the 60's, his TI's thought they were too soft. The attitude is the same, just the time has changed. Basic training is what it is, they aren't going to make combat ready soldiers, its the first line units like Jamie said that is getting it done where they need it. People need to remember that basic trainings entire purpose is to teach the new recruits the ability to pay attention to detail, (GI parties and the like) work as a team (through drill and ceremonies) and follow instructions. That lays the foundation for the line units to build upon. In reality has basic gotten softer? No, it hasnt, the intensity has changed, yes, but the outcome is the same. If anyone actually doubts that, look at what our men and women are doing everyday overseas. That is proof enough.