Who can be drafted into the military?

Who Can Be Drafted into the Military?

The United States has a unique system of voluntary military service, where citizens are not required to join the armed forces unless there is a national emergency or war. However, there are still certain circumstances where individuals may be drafted into the military. In this article, we will explore who can be drafted into the military and the current draft process.

Eligibility for Military Service

Not everyone is eligible to join the military, and some individuals may be required to register for the draft if they meet certain criteria. The following are the basic eligibility requirements for military service:

• Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder)
• Be between the ages of 17 and 35 (although some branches may accept older or younger recruits)
• Be physically qualified
• Pass a background check
• Meet the branch’s educational and training requirements
• Be willing to enlist for a specified period

Who May Be Drafted?

Not all individuals who are eligible to join the military are eligible for the draft. The following are individuals who are exempt from military service or may be drafted into the military:

Exempt from Military Service:

• Women with dependents (married women or single women with dependent children)
• Men who are not U.S. citizens but are permanent residents (Green Card holders)
• Individuals with certain medical conditions (e.g. mental or physical disabilities)
• Students who are in their last year of school or are pursuing a medical degree
• Individuals who are actively serving in a government-approved alternative service program
• Individuals who have been previously discharged from the military for medical reasons
• Men who are currently on student deferment or are seeking a deferment

May Be Drafted:

• Men who are between the ages of 18 and 26
• Men who are not exempt from military service and have not already registered with the Selective Service System
• Men who are not in school and do not have a deferment
• Men who are not on active duty or in the military reserves
• Men who have failed to register with the Selective Service System or have not updated their registration

The Selective Service System

The Selective Service System is a database of all male U.S. citizens and immigrants who are between the ages of 18 and 25. The system is responsible for maintaining a list of eligible males and providing that list to the President in the event of a national emergency or war. In 2019, the Selective Service System launched a new online registration system, making it easier for men to register.

How to Register for the Selective Service System

Registration for the Selective Service System is a relatively simple process that can be completed online or by mail. To register, you will need to provide your:

• Name
• Date of birth
• Social Security number
• Address
• Telephone number
• Email address (optional)

You will also need to certify that you are a male U.S. citizen or immigrant, and that you are not currently on active duty in the military or in a military reserve.

The Draft Process

If a national emergency or war were to occur, the President would order the Selective Service System to begin drafting eligible males. The following is the typical draft process:

1. Induction Notice: Eligible males would receive an induction notice from the Selective Service System, requiring them to report for duty within a specified time frame.
2. Physical Exam: Drafted individuals would undergo a physical exam to determine their medical fitness for military service.
3. Assignment: Drafted individuals would be assigned to a branch of the military and receive their initial training.
4. Military Service: Drafted individuals would serve in the military for a specified period, typically 2-3 years.

Conclusion

In conclusion, not everyone is eligible to join the military, and some individuals may be required to register for the draft if they meet certain criteria. The Selective Service System is a database of all male U.S. citizens and immigrants who are between the ages of 18 and 25, and is responsible for maintaining a list of eligible males. If a national emergency or war were to occur, the President would order the Selective Service System to begin drafting eligible males.

Important Dates:

• October 1979: The Selective Service System is established
• 1980: The first registration deadline is set for November 15, 1980
• 2019: The Selective Service System launches a new online registration system

Table: Eligibility for Military Service

Table: Exempt from Military Service

Note: This article is intended to provide general information only and is not a substitute for legal or professional advice.