Throughout U.S. history, young men have been called for military service. From colonial times through the Vietnam War, eligible males over eighteen have been drafted. In 1973, the government ended the draft, replacing it with a “stand-by draft” for men and voluntary service for men and women. All males, within thirty days of their eighteenth birthday and continuing up to age twenty-six, are required to register with the Selective Service System. This rule doesn′t apply to women. Registration provides the government with a list of men to call up for service in the event of a national emergency. Failure to register is a crime with a penalty of five years in prison or a $250,000 fine.
Men and women may join the army, navy, air force, marines, national guard, or coast guard. If you′re interested, contact your local recruiter. He or she will give you complete information about enlisting, including benefits, length of service, and education and travel opportunities. If you′re thinking of a career in the military as an officer, contact the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado; or the Army′s U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York, for information.
You may not be eligible to join the armed services because of your age. Not all branches will take you if you′re under eighteen, unless you have your parents′ consent or you′re emancipated.You may also need your high school diploma or GED certificate to enlist. Some branches won′t take you if you′re on probation or parole, or if you have a juvenile record.You may need to ask the court to destroy your record, which will clear the way for your enlistment. These are all questions to discuss with your recruiter.
If, by reason of religious training or belief, you object to military training and service, you may be excused from active duty. A conscientious objector is protected by the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. You must still register with the Selective Service System, but you may be permitted to serve through noncombat civilian service. Discuss this with your parents before deciding what to do.
For more information about the armed forces and registering with the Selective Service System, go to www.sss.gov.
“Those who expect to reap the blessings of liberty must undergo the fatigues of supporting it.” –Thomas Paine
