Overcoming the Fear of Being Drafted: Understanding the Modern U.S. Military

Concerns about being drafted are a significant issue for many individuals. This is especially true in light of personal views and political stances towards various governments and conflicts around the world. The United States, being an all-voluntary force, does not currently implement a draft, but the Selective Service System still holds important registration requirements for all males aged 18-25.

The Reality of the U.S. Military

Unlike many other nations, the United States relies overwhelmingly on a volunteer military. Nevertheless, the legal requirement to register with the Selective Service System remains in place.

Under the current law, all male U.S. citizens and male aliens living in the U.S. between the ages of 18 and 25 are mandated to register with the Selective Service. This is a critical step in ensuring that all able-bodied men are prepared to fulfill their military obligations should a draft be reintroduced.

Personal Experiences and Stories

A surprising number of individuals, even those with strong reasons for not wanting to fight in certain conflicts, have found ways to avoid the draft. One such individual, who goes by the pseudonym “draft dodger”, shares his unique journey with us.

This person joined the Air Force in the 1970s, a time when the draft was still in effect, but found themselves exempt from the draft due to being in the military. His story illustrates the complexity of the issue and how different circumstances can lead to varying outcomes.

“I went into the Air Force when they were still drafting people. I joined the Air Force when I was 16… Ya I know it was different in the 70’s I had to have my mother sign for me. I went in on a delayed enlistment As it was I turned 17 several months after I reached my first assignment. McGuire AFB, New Jersey,”

The individual never considered that he still needed to register for the draft, and embarked on his military service without realizing the importance of the registration. Eventually, federal authorities were looking for him, but he was found to not be a draft dodger as he was already in the military.

Conscientious Objection and Civic Duty

While the U.S. military operates on a voluntary basis, individuals who are mandate to register but oppose military service for moral or religious reasons can file a conscientious objection. However, this process is complex and can vary from one individual to another.

For those like the author, whose opposition is rooted in a deep love for the government of certain nations, they may feel a strong need to avoid military service. This can lead to significant emotional and psychological stress.

“If the USA drafted people like me it is going to be defeated quickly as I am very likely to lay my arms down and surrender rather than fight for the USA,”

Given such sentiments, many individuals consider other options, such as obtaining citizenship in a country whose military aligns more closely with their personal values. This can be a challenging process, but for some, it may be worth the effort.

How to Avoid the Draft

While the U.S. has not implemented a draft since the Vietnam War, there are still individuals who want to avoid registering. The Selective Service System outlines specific ways to avoid the draft:

Enlist in the military voluntarily File for a conscientious objection to military service Avoid the age for registration (if possible)

It is important to note that escapes from the draft can have serious legal ramifications. For those who have already enlisted, the process is straightforward. However, for those in the younger age range, the stakes can be higher.

Conclusion

While the concept of being drafted is often associated with conflict and tension, the reality is significantly different in the United States. The voluntary nature of the military has led to a shift in how individuals approach military service. Yet, for those with strong opinions and beliefs, the issue remains complex and personal.

For anyone concerned about being drafted, it is essential to understand the legal requirements and potential strategies for avoiding military service. Whether through enlistment, conscientious objection, or other means, the key is to be informed and aware of the options available.

FAQ: U.S. Military Service and Draft

Are there still legal requirements to register for the draft? Yes, all males aged 18-25 must register with the Selective Service, even though the current U.S. military operates on a voluntary basis. Can I still be drafted if I don’t register? Yes, failure to register can lead to fines or other legal consequences, and can also affect future opportunities, such as student loans and federal jobs. What are my options if I don’t want to register? You can file a conscientious objection, but the process is complex and not all individuals will be successful in this endeavor.

Personal Story: A Draft Dodger's Journey

At the age of 16, I joined the Air Force when they were still drafting individuals. I signed up for a delayed enlistment, meaning I would not officially begin my Air Force career until I turned 18. Since I was already in the service, I was not considered a draft dodger.

While in New Jersey at McGuire Air Force Base, federal authorities were looking for individuals who had not registered. Initially, the base commander thought it was unnecessary to find me since I was in the Air Force. In the end, it turned out that I was technically a draft dodger, but my involvement in the military meant that I was not subject to the same scrutiny as those who had avoided registration.

Since then, I have focused on building a life away from potential military conscription. My ultimate goal is to obtain citizenship in Vietnam or Cambodia and never again fear the prospect of being drafted by the U.S. military.

Avoiding the Draft

To avoid the draft, you can:

Join the military voluntarily (as I did) File for conscientious objection (though this process can be challenging) Emigrate to another country to avoid registration (as I am planning to do)