WRAL News visits the Raleigh Main Center; Interviews Lt. Col. Hudson

Lt. Col. Hudson welcomes Candace Sweat to Raleigh Main

Story and Photo by

Shahron L. James

Public Affairs Specialist

Raleigh Recruiting Battalion

WRAL News correspondent Candace Sweat visited the Raleigh Main Recruiting Office.

Lt. Col. Hudson was interviewed by Candace Sweat on Wednesday, August 5 as part of the Raleigh Recruiting Battalion Media Outreach and Community Relations. 

The commander answered a series of questions to include inquiries about recruitment shortages and the Chattanooga Shootings. 

“The recruiting mission does not change. We are looking for qualified individuals to give them the opportunity of a lifetime,” said Lt. Col. Hudson

He stated that the Raleigh Recruiting Battalion is looking for that “target audience” and people with a propensity to serve. 

“North Carolina has always been a major contributor to recruiting,” he said. 

The Recruiting Commander continued to answer questions and spoke about the effect of economic improvement on recruiting. 

“I know that Raleigh, N.C. has recently been ranked as the #2 place to live within the United States.  I don’t feel the economic improvement is necessarily hurting recruiting, but is an opportunity to add more benefits by what the Army has to offer,” said Lt. Col. Hudson.

In speaking about the 150 jobs and financial opportunities available through the Army the Battalion Commander said that some people just aren’t aware of what the Army has to offer.

“It is an investment, recruits can learn technology, plus other skills, and come out of the Army with the ability to contribute and invest in the community.  There is the G.I. Bill and the V.A. Housing Loans, among other programs, which will allow the Soldier to contribute to the economy, both while in the Army and upon leaving,” he said. 

Lt. Col. Hudson spoke briefly about the Chattanooga Shooting stating that he deals with what is within the footprint or influence.    

“We look to our relationship with local police for security. We want people to be comfortable when they come into our centers,” he said.

The interview was conducted at Raleigh Main Recruiting Center. This was the first time that a reporter or news crew had been inside a recruiting station in North Carolina since the Chattanooga Shootings. 

As a result, Candace Sweat went through a mock interview for entry into the Army. She had the opportunity to experience a portion of the professionalism and dedication it takes to enlist someone in the Army.