Mission: Readiness, the nonpartisan national security organization of over 500 retired admirals, generals, and other retired senior military leaders has articulated the national security case for investments in education. A successful military needs Americans who have graduated from high school, can pass the military entrance exam, are physically prepared for military training and service, and do not have a criminal record. Unfortunately, according to the U.S. Department of Defense, the public education system is failing to adequately prepare youth for military service. This report discusses why investing in education is essential to building a strong and capable military.