PKAM.
Unfortunately it is also true. Soldiers these days serve for about 5 years on average (a drop from 8 years average service of 10 years ago). A significant percentage entering the Inf have a reading age assessed between 7-10 years and a similar percentage are then diagnosed as having SEN. This does not mean they are thick; typically their educational background has let them down. 40% are in common law relationships on leaving the Service (in spite of the problems with pensions for the partner if the SP dies in Service) and many come from disfunctional families (up to 30%). A 17 y o applicant for the Army is also likely to have a history of minor criminality and it is accepted they will have also a history of exposure to recreational drugs (Class B/C).
The Army (in particular) is a great agent for social mobility and the majority leaving the Service get steady employment. However, unless they go down the PMC/PSC route, or have managed to qualify in a trade, most are in low-paid jobs and need, inter alia, social housing. Frequent moves during their Service career makes it difficult to gain traction on Council waiting lists (being addressed by the Military Covenant) so many return to their home towns to get support from family and friends. This, unfortunately, does not always end happily. A quick view of the overlay of recruiting patterns and social deprivation with see a very high degree of congruency, regretfully (and has been ever thus). Factor 'access' to other social services - especially health care - and you can see the scope of the problem.
It is glib to blame the CoC for these shortfalls and failings...