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Proposed Military Draft
During the 2004 election campaign, the President stated he had no intention of imposing a military draft. At the same time he has quietly been reactivating Selective Service Boards around the country. Military analysts have cited a growing need for more troops in Iraq while the administration continues its verbal assault against countries such as Iran, Syria, and North Korea. It is not difficult to conclude, therefore, that troop levels will surely be increased in the near future.
Conversely, military recruiting levels have been dropping precipitously as many young people who might have found reason in the past to sign up now find that the risk/benefit ratio of military service has changed dramatically. If, indeed, this country is going to expand its military adventures, a more reliable supply of fresh young bodies to replace those wasted on the battlefields is essential.
It is unlikely that a draft can be instituted without the approval of the President, yet, since 2003, four bills establishing a draft have been introduced in Congress. They differ in certain ways: some will draft both women and men, some offer no deferments, some offer alternative service. What the ultimate program, if any, will be is difficult to establish at this time. VFP follows this issue closely and through its VEOP committee can provide up to date information for members of the community.