[Bruce Campbells Chin]

For the vast majority of our history, universal service wasn't required, so the failure to have that can't be the cause of our decline.

Further, universal service would either require the expansion of the military far beyond the size necessary to do it's mission, or a dramatic shortening of enlistments. The latter would be terrible in terms of troops quality, training, etc..

And finally, I don't think the state has the right to take a couple year of your life absent a true national emergency. The idea that we all inherently owe something to the government is very distateful to me.

I served in the Marine Corps, and am extremely happy that the Marines I commanded were all volunteers.

[iopscusa]

I tend to agree with no universal service nor conscription except for the offspring of all Presidents, their Cabinets, all members of Congress and all senior DOD officers.

[jagusafr]

“I don’t think the state has the right to take a couple year of your life absent a true national emergency. The idea that we all inherently owe something to the government is very distateful to me.”

First, thanks for your service and Semper Fi.

Second, I want to be clear that my feeling is that every citizen owes fealty and service (if required) to his NATION, not to his government. I see a distinct difference.