Well, I served 20 years in the U.S. Army, but mandatory anything sounds like socialism to me. That does not mean that I think service of any sort is bad, I just believe that the backbone of a free society is to freely choose ones path in life. One could argue that the greatest service done in our society are by those who, through pursuing self interest, create wealth and opportunities for others by starting businesses and opening markets.
One suggestion I might make is that any service obligation (not military of course) be part of the requirements for graduation from high school (as it was at the high school my kids graduated from). In that case you are not delaying someone's dreams and aspirations.
One suggestion I might make is that any service obligation (not military of course) be part of the requirements for graduation from high school (as it was at the high school my kids graduated from). In that case you are not delaying someone's dreams and aspirations. Now that is a great idea and could also apply to college. Instead of taking Art appreciation and other classes that I found to be a waste of my time and money, I could volunteer in places that needed my help and still receive credit for it. (Please know that I realize not everyone considers art appreciation to be a waste of time, that is just my opinion.)