Quote Originally Posted by James MacMillan View Post
This thread has taken an interesting turn.

The current question seems to be heading towards: Would you encourage a young man to join the Armed Forces?

Other political questions also need to be asked. Should the US bring back the draft? Yes! Should there be any draft deferments? NO!

What say you?

I encourage people to do the research on all the branches, and make the best informed decision they can. For people asking about the Marine Corps, i tell them if they have to ask me why they should join it, they probably shouldn't join at all.

If someone is truly looking for direction right out of HS, I might point out that 4 years of military service might be something they should look into, but i wouldn't press the issue beyond that.

As for the draft, my answer is a resounding NO. Unless the country is in need of one, such as in WWII, I absolutely think we should avoid a draft where ever possible. I think we've had resounding success with our all volunteer force, and we should not turn away from that. Being the Plt. Sgt. I was, i'm not so sure i would have wanted draftees under me, especially in places like Ramadi and Fallujah.

I could see requiring some type of non-uniformed service, such as working for a government entity (be it state or federal) for a certain period of time but I think the military needs to be left to those who want to serve, unless dire circumstances require a change.