How did the Vietnam Draft work before 1969?
The Vietnam Draft, also known as the Selective Service System, was a crucial component of the United States’ military recruitment during the Vietnam War. Before 1969, the draft operated under a system that aimed to provide a fair and equitable way to conscript young men into military service. This article will delve into the intricacies of the Vietnam Draft system, highlighting its structure, selection process, and the societal impact it had on the United States before the introduction of the all-volunteer force in 1973.
The Selective Service System was established in 1940 as a means to prepare for potential conflicts and ensure a steady supply of military personnel. The draft was activated for the first time during World War II, and it continued to be used for various conflicts, including the Korean War. Before 1969, the draft was mandatory for all American males between the ages of 18 and 26, with some exceptions for those who were married, had children, or were enrolled in college.
Structure of the Vietnam Draft
The Vietnam Draft was structured into three main categories: first, second, and third priority. First-priority draft calls were issued to men who were most likely to be drafted, while second-priority calls were sent to those who were less likely to be drafted. Men who were in the third priority category were generally not subject to conscription.
The draft lottery system was used to determine the order in which individuals were called for induction. Each birth year was assigned a number, and the numbers were drawn randomly. The lower the number, the higher the priority, and the greater the likelihood of being drafted. This system was designed to ensure that conscription was as fair as possible, though it was not without its critics.
Selection Process and Induction
Once a man was drafted, he was required to report to a local induction center for processing. There, he would undergo a physical examination and receive basic training. The length of basic training varied depending on the branch of service he was assigned to, but it typically lasted between eight and twelve weeks.
Men who were drafted faced a range of reactions from fear and resentment to a sense of duty and patriotism. The draft had a significant impact on the lives of those who were called to serve, as well as their families and friends. The draft also led to protests and opposition to the war, as many believed that the system was unfair and that the war was unjust.
Societal Impact and the All-Volunteer Force
The Vietnam Draft had a profound impact on American society, sparking debates about the fairness of the system, the morality of the war, and the role of the military in a democratic society. The draft led to increased social tensions, as young men from different backgrounds were forced to serve together under often difficult conditions.
In 1973, the United States transitioned to an all-volunteer force, ending the draft. This change was largely influenced by the growing opposition to the draft and the Vietnam War itself. The all-volunteer force has since been the primary source of military personnel in the United States, and the Selective Service System remains in place as a contingency measure.
In conclusion, the Vietnam Draft before 1969 was a complex and contentious system that played a significant role in shaping the United States’ military and societal landscape during the Vietnam War. The draft’s structure, selection process, and societal impact provide valuable insights into the challenges of conscription and the debate over the role of the military in a democratic society.
