Differing viewpoints on the socioeconomic status of accessions have been the basis for serious debates regarding the viability of the All Volunteer Force.  While the concern that the volunteer military would recruit primarily from the lower economic and social levels has not been borne out, it is important to understand the socioeconomic composition of the military.  This chapter reviews issues surrounding these aspects of the military and provides data on the social background of FY 1999 recruits.