What Prevents You From Getting Drafted?

In the United States, the Selective Service System is responsible for maintaining a database of eligible men who could potentially be drafted into military service in the event of a national emergency. However, there are several factors that can prevent someone from being drafted, including age, health, education, and conscientious objection.

1. Age: In the United States, men are required to register with the Selective Service System within 30 days of their 18th birthday. However, the draft only applies to men between the ages of 18 and 25. Once a man turns 26, he is no longer eligible for the draft, and is removed from the Selective Service System’s database.
2. Health: The military has strict health requirements for its personnel, and anyone with certain medical conditions or disabilities may be deemed ineligible for military service. These conditions can include asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and certain mental health conditions.
3. Education: The military also places a premium on education, and individuals with certain levels of education may be exempt from the draft. For example, college students who are enrolled full-time and in good academic standing may be eligible for a deferment, which would postpone their military service until they complete their education.
4. Conscientious objection: Some individuals may have moral or religious objections to military service, and may apply for conscientious objector status. To be granted this status, an individual must demonstrate a sincere and deeply held belief that precludes them from participating in war, and must be willing to perform alternative service in lieu of military service.
5. Other factors: There are also a number of other factors that can impact draft eligibility, such as citizenship status, criminal history, and family status. For example, non-citizens are generally not eligible for military service, and men with dependents may be given a deferment or exemption.

It is important to note that the United States has not instituted a military draft since the Vietnam War, and the likelihood of a draft being reinstated is considered relatively low. However, it is still important for eligible men to register with the Selective Service System in order to maintain their eligibility for federal student loans, job training programs, and other government benefits.