Rising American casualties in Iraq over the past few months have led many to wonder if the United States would reinstate the military draft. Such a move could definitely affect University of Memphis students.
The idea of a draft, which was abandoned in 1973, seems to be far-fetched, according to many news sources. Both John Kerry and George W. Bush have stated they oppose any form of a draft. E-mails circulating the Internet, however, imply that a draft is in the works and could be started in the spring of 2005.
William Marty, U of M political science professor, said there is no chance for a draft and thinks the idea is more of an urban myth."It's something that definitely needs to be exposed," he said.
Rock the Vote, a program that encourages the youth of America to vote, recently distributed over 600,000 e-mails with "You've been drafted" as the subject. The e-mails urge voters to go to the polls as a result of this issue.
The Rock the Vote Web site contains information about a military draft, such as the recent rejection of a bill in the House of Representatives and warnings that overseas military forces are stretched to the limit.
Marty said the idea of a draft is not necessarily bipartisan.
"It's not a neutral idea," he said. "It's gotten into the public because it has been fostered by Democrats."
Recent reports have confirmed that an overwhelming majority of young Americans believe a military draft is not only possible, but that Bush would install one quickly if re-elected.
U of M students are not necessarily in line with this national thinking.
"There's not going to be one," said Patrick Foley, senior marketing major.
He added that he is completely aware both candidates oppose the draft as well.
Junior civil engineering major Ryan Pickett said that he is not for a draft, but if he were drafted he would definitely go."I'd heard (being against a draft) is their stance, so it wouldn't really affect how I vote," he said.
Miguel Merriweather, sophomore sports management major, said a draft would be bad and the issue could still affect how he votes on Nov. 2. He is also aware both candidates are against a draft.
While these U of M students are aware the military draft appears to be a non-issue between the two Presidential candidates this year, there are still questions that remain. One angle that can be taken from the military point of view is that a draft would result in too many young, inexperienced soldiers.
"The military doesn't want a draft," Marty said. "They would like to maintain a professional military."
Rock the Vote lists a proposed January 2003 bill that would encompass a draft. According to the bill, all males and females between the ages of 18 and 26 would be eligible for military enlistment. Two years of service would be required and few exemptions would exist. High school students would only be ineligible until they had reached the age of 20, graduated or dropped out. Those physically and mentally disabled would be exempt along with any conscientious objectors who could totally prove their beliefs.
