Why don't more people serve? The US is launching a commission to find out

Time had an article that said 70% (17-24 yo) could not serve because they aren't acceptable. They cited such things as no diploma/GED, overweight, prescription drugs for ADHD, etc. Sounds high, and I'm not sure how they got their data, so I wouldn't put it as fact. Speaking of anecdotal, I do know 3 young men right now who want to join, and can't make the weight requirement. Do you personally believe that will lead us back to a draft, or do you think as a society we could never go back?

Susan Foster - I feel like a centurion who is pretty sure that he was there for Rome's finest days, but knows that Rome' decline (a decline in will and fortitude) has become inevitable.

I don't think we've by an overwhelming consensus decided what is our place in the world. I hate using labels, since they usually come with some unwanted nuance, but I'm going to anyway.

Militarists (of which I am) want a large, powerful, capable of rapid intervention; and if necessary regime change of rogue nations. A military industrial complex whose only acceptable compromise with the enemy is unconditional surrender. And a population that has the will to support such interventions.

Diplomats (of which I am not) want a kinder gentler, humanitarian aid, "go to your neutral corners and can we PLEASE please talk this out" kind of military.

Isolationists (My second choice) want a military strong enough to make bullies look for an easier target, but essentially kept on a chain in our yard. The world can destroy itself and when they are ready to act like adults, give us a call.

Each has different demands from our populace...; and gives the potential recruiting pool a different set of expectations of what "military service" is, and is not.

I favor a universal draft into a "national guard" situation with a six year reserve service requirement. For those who are unfit, for whatever reason, some appropriate community/national service requirement should be mandatory. I think participation and successful completion of this service (military or otherwise) should be celebrated and come with formal and informal rewards from our society. I think failure to complete the service should come with burdensome informal and formal "stink eye" from out society. But because we are on the decline and lack the national will, that isn't even a pipe dream. It is Saturday sunrise wistful fantasy.

Maj John Bell - I like your idea. I remember when the draft actually was a cross-section of every walk of life, economically, socially, etc., and a microcosm of America as a whole. I think we may be lost something, even though I realize volunteering is the way to get those who really want to be there (and may belong in your camp). But having everyone, even those who fail to pass physical requirements, serve in some capacity would give them an appreciation for the value of public service.