[Cathryn Mataga]

Hmm, I never quite understood how that worked. I thought anyone could join the National Guard if it looked like they were going to be drafted, back in the Vietnam days.

Interesting comments on the draftees. Honestly, I have no real knowledge of this, other than what I read. It's interesting to hear the viewpoint that draftees were just trouble. Sounds almost like the Democrats want draftees so there will be more casualties and therefore more hatred of the Republicans.

[RANGERAIRBORNE]

Good Grief! Are you serious? National Guard slots were guarded like Fort Knox during Vietnam- they were for the sons of the "upper classes", who did, at most, six months "active duty for training", then went back to their REAL lives. (Most did not even have to do that much). It was essentially legalized draft-dodging. You did NOT get a NG appointment without "political influence", which usually meant that your family could buy the spot for you. They were worth more than gold.