Question

Imagine it is 1965 and you are 18 years old and about to graduate from high school. Some of your friends are planning to enlist in the military. They may or may not be sent to Vietnam. Other friends have decided not to enlist, but if they are drafted they will serve willingly. Several young men you know are going to college and will get deferments from military service. For some, the deferment is the only reason they are enrolling in school. A neighbor who received his draft notice has gone to Canada rather than report for military duty because he believes the war in Vietnam is wrong. What about you? What will you do? Why?

Answer 1

Entering the military is an act of patriotism and one of high honor. It is not only a source of pride for the citizen who is enlisting but also to his or her family. If the country finds in its best interest to engage in conflict with a foreign nation, it must not be questioned but rather accepted and supported by all citizens of the country. Particularly those who are eligible to be drafted.

Deferments for educational reasons are valid because they are another way these citizens serve their country. Providing it with the knowledge that will assure the well being of the country for the next generations to come.