The United States Selective Service System was amended in 1973 to require registering without conscription, and was then considered as a “back-up”, in the event it became necessary to fill military positions in a time of war.  This registering was limited as compulsory only for all males.  However, it did not prevent females to voluntary enlist in our military branches without registering for possible compulsory service.

Currently, around the world, there are many variations of compulsory military service for both males and females.  Of those, the rules for males and females are much the same in the following countries:  Armenia, Cape Verde, Chad, China, Eritrea, Israel, Norway, North Korea, and Sweden.  It is interesting to note that compulsory service for all citizens in Sweden was stopped in 2010, and then reinstated in 2018.

Beginning in 1969 in my almost 20 years of military service, I, like many, saw many changes in American domestic culture.  These changes becoming more apparent in 1973 when “The Draft” was stopped and registration with The Selective Service was all that was now required without fear of being drafted.

With new unrest in the Middle East, the year 2020 and a new decade begins with the issue of “The Draft” once again becomes a topic of cultural discussion.  Is military service to be required and compulsory?  Who will serve?  These are all interesting questions being brought forth by those who might be personally affected at a time when American traditions and values are being questioned and challenged almost daily.

My personal opinion is that; I believe ALL Americans, male and female should be held to the same level of service to their country.  Much like those countries mentioned above.

Today in 2020, I have seen an erosion of American traditions and values.  A decaying, if you will, of the fiber that binds us all together as Americans.  There is less comprehensive knowledge of our government being taught in schools with little understanding or respect or belief in what made, and makes America great, are all everyday issues.

The draft with not only military but some other form of compulsory government service for ALL Americans might be a possible answer to two problems:  ONE: To maintain sufficient military strength, and TWO:  as an educational tool.

Mike Holland, Levering, MI