Is the Military Draft Happening?
The threat of a military draft has been looming over the United States for decades, leaving many people wondering if it will actually happen. The fear is not unfounded, given the country’s current involvement in overseas conflicts and the potential for a large-scale emergency to require the mobilization of its citizenry.
In this article, we’ll explore the possibility of the military draft happening in the United States, discuss its history, and outline the current state of the All-Volunteer Force.
Is the Military Draft Happening? Yes
Despite the fears, a military draft is very likely to happen if necessary. In 1940, the United States last activated a draft, requiring able-bodied men to enlist or face conscription into the military. The last conscription draft was canceled in 1973 when the United States switched to an All-Volunteer Force (AVF). The current situation remains: if the US enters into a major conflict that threatens national security, President Joe Biden or subsequent leaders could activate the military draft to fill critical roles.
Why was the Military Draft Created?
The draft was instituted to ensure the United States has a sufficient number of fighting forces to defend itself, particularly during times of crisis. The Selective Service System (SSS), also known as the United States Selective Service System, is responsible for organizing and conducting the country’s draft.
Military History of the Draft
- World War II (1941-1945): As Germany and Japan continued their expansion, the United States turned to conscription to maintain its military strength. With millions of soldiers abroad, the draft was needed to keep up with manpower shortages.
- Korean War (1950-1953): After the Soviet Union broke the Potsdam agreement and invaded South Korea, the United States felt obligated to send troops, once again requiring the military draft.
- Vietnam War (1959-1975): As the war heated up, the US became desperate for more troops to reinforce its efforts. Unfortunately, this led to increasing civilian protests against the conflict.
- Ending of the Draft (1973): Following public opinion polls indicating strong disfavor with the draft, US policymakers opted for an all-volunteer military system instead.
Current Military Context
United States Troop Strength: Over 1.3 million active-duty personnel make up the US military.
- All-Volunteer Force (AVF): Since 1973, the AVF relies on willing participants and paid recruitment methods.
Overseas Commitments: The US maintains various ongoing military engagements: - Afghanistan
- Iraq ( residual presence)
- Syrian War ( limited support mission)
Challenges Confronting the All-Volunteer Force
While many consider the AVF beneficial, some experts stress several ongoing issues:
• Aging Workforce: Without mandatory conscription, average ages have risen as those serving voluntarily have done their service.
• Staffing Shortages: Hard-to-fill roles continue plaguing various branches and fields.
• Bereavement Leave Changes: Reduced leave periods increase concerns about soldier burnout and well-being.
- Global Events: Wars like the Russian invasion in Ukraine or conflicts in Somalia/Mali highlight the nation’s readiness concerns.
Are There Plans for an Activated Draft?
Presently, there is no immediate plan for mandatory conscription. Defense Budget Requests focus on boosting retention and recruiting, without actively considering the draft:
• Recruiting Initiatives: Additional measures, such as tax relief and bonuses, promote personnel retention.
• Personnel Training Initiatives: Investments in improved readiness and morale, training infrastructure, and professional growth incentives.
• Congressional Support: Committee recommendations focus on supporting a quality force rather than planning an emergency draft.
Alternatives to a Military Draft
Several options allow governments to manage personnel recruitment needs without implementing a conscription system:
• Temporary Draft: Activate specific pools of service members on loan or on call if short-staffed critical specialties.
• Retreat from Combat Zones: End military operations, removing US forces from theaters that fail to align with foreign policies.
• Redployment: Adjust the pace, size, or mix of deployed troops based on priorities, budget, or foreign situation changes.
- Foreign Aid Assistance: Collaborate with NATO member countries to strengthen existing defensive alliances and rely more heavily on coalition support, in place of self-led troop deployment.
• Robotics and Cyber-Support: Enhance capacity in unmanned warfare units or invest in cybersecurity systems.- Education and Civil Society: Invest in mental wellness, career transition aid for returning service members and active duty, while educating young adults on military needs.
- Reserves Mobilization: Swift and adequate activation of the Military Reserves and National Guard ensures flexibility for future responses, as the situation unfolds, while reducing pressure on primary operational strength forces.
