Whether that's due to fears over the lack of available jobs in the private sector or some other reason, Mitchley couldn't say.

Sgt. Lynn Kinney, a public affairs representative with the Marine Corps, stated in an e-mail, "Since October, the number of non-traditional recruits has increased slightly, but not to the extent expected with respect to the economy. ...

"While more people are asking for information about the Marine Corps to educate themselves on the options they may have available if they qualify, Marine Corps enlisted accessions have not been greatly affected by the economic downturn."

Staff Sgt. Steven Glew, a Marine recruiter at the mall, echoed Kinney's statements, but said he has seen more interest from first-year college students worried about paying for school and getting a job.

"They just know the jobs aren't there, even with a degree," said Glew.

Lt. J.J. Small, enlisted programs officer with the Navy recruiting station in Pittsburgh, said the Navy has seen a "slight increase" in applicants, including individuals in their 30s.

"As a result, there is a slight correlation between the local job markets and the quality of life offered by the military," he said.

The military branches were unable to provide local recruitment numbers for this story.

n E-mail comments to rscott@dailyitem.com.