WASHINGTON - Americans would have to sign up for a new military draft after turning 18 under a bill the incoming chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee says he will introduce next year. Charles Rangel D-N.Y., said Sunday he sees his idea as a way to deter politicians from launching wars.
"There's no question in my mind that this president and this administration would never have invaded Iraq, especially on the flimsy evidence that was presented to the Congress, if indeed we had a draft and members of Congress and the administration thought that their kids from their communities would be placed in harm's way," Rangel said
Guess he didn't get the memo about Prince Harry or the one regarding the half a dozen members of Congress who have had kids serving in Iraq.
Here we go again, Charlie is proposing legislation to reinstate a military draft. Don't forget that Charlie introduced this publicity stunt before, in 2004, and voted AGAINST his own bill when it came to the floor.
A military draft for 18 year olds is a one-size fits no one idea. How effective is a fighting force composed of teenagers who really aren't interested in a military career and are there because they had no choice in the matter?
Some have argued that a compulsory two year conscription along the lines of a 'peace corp' roster of activities will instill a sense of camaraderie and pride amongst these young citizens. I whole- heartedly disagree; the military has the primary responsibility of fashioning highly trained and motivated soldiers. No small task by any metric, and not everyone is called to this service. The military is not a nanny service for moody teenagers who are only there because it is compulsory - this is not what the military does best, and this will only drive the best out of our military.
I get that there are many young adults that lack direction in their lives, a common trait of youth. Is the preferable solution that a government institution should dictate the direction of their lives for a given period of time? How about encouraging them to join, of their own free will, organizations such as these:
Peace Corp
World Teach
City Year
Pueblo Ingles
Philadelphia Cares
Mayor's Commission on Literacy
Global Volunteers
Child Family Health Intitiative
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