The Economic Draft

While America has no formal draft, many of the nation's poorer young and rural young people are being corraled into joining the military. To many young people from small rural towns with few jobs and a patriotic streak, the military appears attractive.

Many rural young people, as well as Blacks and Hispanics see the military as the only way to afford college, and to garner signing bonus and veterans benefits. Statisically 40% of the military now comes from small towns. And the military makes heavy use of the patriotism of small towns. This is the center of "Red State" values of "God & Country".

But in a time of war, there are real risks to young people joining the military. One small town, San Diego, Texas has many young Hispanic people. Many join the military right straight from high school, expecting adventure and bonuses not available in their small town. But when two young people men came back from Iraq in coffins, a heavy dose of reality hit this town and the number of young people joining the military quickly dried right up.

Young people believe they are invulnerable to risks. They think that speeding, drinking, sex, smoking, drug use or joining the military may not have any consequences. But often these things do indeed have consequences. Every decision needs rational thought and much discussion with parents and others. An "economic draft" is no reason to make a life ending decision.