Draft/National Service
- Feb 17
- 2010
Editor’s Web Note: I am an advocate of mandatory national service with non-military options (see our column of Dec. 31, 2008). I know several young people, including some on this panel, who have dual citizenship in Europe. When they turn 18, they readily return to put in their service. Most young adults are eager to learn new skills, get in shape, and contribute to something larger. Take these twins, for example. If there were more non-military programs in place with equally sexy recruitment efforts as put forth by the military, the lives of young adults and the state of our country would be improved — and parents wouldn’t feel like ripping down the posters. —Lauren
DEAR STRAIGHT TALK: My twin sister and I are very interested in joining the military when we graduate from high school in June. The recruiter said we can be together during training and service which is important as we are close. Our parents are opposed and want us to go to college first.…
- Jan 28
- 2009
DEAR READERS: I recently did a column on reinstating the draft — with non-military options (DEC 31, 2008). I spoke of the apathy, entitlement, and lack of practical skills that define many youth today, and how, through mandatory national service, we could not only repair America’s crumbling…
- Dec 31
- 2008
DEAR READERS: The “draft” is a dirty word for many Americans. But every New Year I like to share what’s on my mind — with hopes that it starts many conversations!
The last year we had a draft was 1973, when the Vietnam War ripped this nation apart. The young of this country went crazy with…
- Nov 12
- 2008
DEAR STRAIGHT TALK: Sure, this election brought youth out to vote, but there is still huge apathy among the young. Most high school and college-age youth are focused on their next mocha, their next text, and looking “hot.” They are barely interested in politics. In the ‘60s and ‘70s, we knew…