America's upper classes have gone AWOL

bulletandpima
Tue, 15 Jan 2008 23:11:27 +0000

USNA09mom,

My apologies, I never meant to offend those drafted in previous conflicts, or those who served in any capacity, as they served our country honorably. I have the utmost respect for them and for their family for their sacrifices. My opinion was in regards to applying a draft for today’s military. I just believe the volunteer system we have now is the best solution (albeit requiring a few “tweaks”; I like the idea of being exempt from federal taxes!) for our current situation.

World War II was an entirely different situation than what we face today. The threat we faced then required an army (and Navy) numbering in the millions, and sacrifice on a scale back home we haven’t faced since. And as soon as the conflict was over, we could afford to drastically reduce that force. Korea and Vietnam may seem close to the events of today, but ask those who lead today’s military and their number one concern is their desire not to go back to the morale and retention issues they faced with the primarily drafted force we went to war with in the 60s and 70s. The vast majority in this position served their country proudly and honorably, with only a few exemptions who were there for the wrong reasons and who mostly caused the most trouble.

But today’s military leaders are looking for those who will perhaps stay beyond their commitment (training today’s force is an expensive requirement, we want to get the best return on our taxpayers investment). We have a better retention rate with the volunteer force. Ask the leaders; most would prefer a “professional” service of volunteers who are not just counting the days until their enlistment is up. (perhaps “professional” is not the best word, but it is the word most used to describe today’s armed forces).