What do you think about reinstating the draft? Many young men about to graduate from high school will soon be registering with the Selective Service. Almost all male citizens, and male immigrant aliens residing in the United States, are required to register with the Selective Service System if they are at least 18 years old but are not yet 26 years old, according to federal law. While a draft remains an unlikely option for the nation, registering with the Selective Service can still make many young men uneasy, amid reports that the armed services may need more soldiers to maintain ongoing commitments in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere. After falling far short of recruiting goals in 2005, though, the military actually met its targets in 2006; the Army alone signed up more than 80,000 new soldiers. The armed services credit increased cash bonuses for new recruits as being key to their success.

Should the United States have a draft? Is the volunteer military able to handle all of the country’s current needs? If more Americans faced the risk of serving in the military, would the government make different decisions about military actions? Have you registered with the Selective Service? How did it make you feel? Are you willing to serve in the military? What obstacles does the military face in attracting recruits?

Tell us your views on selective service and what you would do if you were in charge of recruitment for the armed forces. You may see your opinion in the next Talk Back!