The Draft- Opinions?

[smoochpooch]

I really expected a draft to be initated by this time given the security situation in Iraq since the insurgency began. If military action is initiated in Iran, I cannot imagine our forces could continue without a draft. I have thought occasionally about what I would do if drafted (I'm 28). For me, a soldier is a tool to be used by those at the top who make the decisions. This is not to disparage a soldier's contribution; in order for the military to be effective, the enlisted soldiers must follow orders, even if they disagree with them. There are exceptions of course, (declining to fire on civilians etc..) but for the most part, it is necessary for our troops to obey their superiors. But this administration does not understand the kind of instruments they are in control of. If a soldier is a garden rake, Bush is asking them to paint a house; if a Marine is a hammer, he is asked to dig a hole. When soldiers who are trained to kill and dehumanize the enemy are suddenly asked to guard them in prisons, it should come as no surprise that abuses would occur. Our military should not be a police force, yet that is exactly the role they are being asked to fill. I cannot in good conscience submit to the will of an administration who doesn't understand how are soldiers are be properly utilized. Call me back when our Commander is sane.

[lvx35]

1. Neither can the top generals, that's why they want rummy stepping down! nt

[AndyTiedye]

2. Either After the '06 Election, or After another Reichstag Fire

[Muddy Waters Guitar]

3. Maybe that's why the nuke option is being discussed

Tactical nukes against Iran would supposedly reduce the number of troops needed to fight. Of course, Iran would hardly take that sitting down, probably spill over and hit our troops in Iraq hard while launching missiles at our fleet, which would necessitate an infantry-heavy response. Which means that we'll likely get the worst of both worlds-- first use of nukes against a non-nuclear country, *and* a draft, at least in disguise.

[CPMaz]

4. No guarantees that there *won't* be a draft

but it probably won't happen, for a number of reasons:

1. Right now, a lot of people who are otherwise neutral/apathetic about the war, who, when they hear about American servicemen or women dying, can step back and say that it's a tragedy, but they are volunteers who knew what they were risking. A draft removes that excuse for ignoring what is happening. Our children, friends, neighbors, brothers and sisters and us would be *forced* to fight and die for Bush's War to Enhance Halliburton's Profits.

2. It would be political suicide. A draft instituted by the neo-cons, a group noted for their shameless draft-dodging during Vietnam. Even the Bush spin machine couldn't do anything about to stem the outrage at the hypocrisy.

I'm sure people can come up with many more reasons, as could I, but it's late and it's time for sleep...

Later!!

[Burning Water]

5. Don't worry.

The Democrats are the only ones talking about re-instituting the draft. The Republicans know there is no political percentage to be made in it. They are willing to let Dems talk, but be sure such comments will be replayed in 2006, and 2008.

And right now, The Republicans are in control.

[gulliver]

6. No draft is necessary.

We just need to leave the minimum wage low and keep the southern border porous. The economy will do the rest.