Universal National Service
Abstract
As America begins the 21st century, it faces many challenges from the War on Terrorism to Homeland Defense to a potential war with Iraq. These challenges are spurring debate in American on the need for universal national service. This debate is not new; since the days of George Washington many American leaders have believed universal service was vital to the nature of our country This paper will argue for the reinstatement of a national service program which will funnel individuals either into the military or into a national service corps that involves either working in their local community or performing critical tasks associated with the recently created Homeland Defense department. To support this argument the paper will provide background on the challenges the military faces in manning and sustaining the all volunteer force and the resulting growing gap between the military culture and civilian population. The paper will also point out that by not having every socioeconomic class serving in the military, America's ability to sustain military operations even if the nation's national interests are at stake, maybe at risk. In addition, the paper will identify key characteristics of a 21st century national draft and national service program. The conclusion will illustrate that revising a universal service program will allow a new generation of Americans to serve their country either in the military or in a national service corps. More importantly, universal service will restore a sense of national purpose and patriotism to a new generation of Americans.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 07, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA413492
Entities
People
- Scott Crizer
Organizations
- United States Army War College