Introduction to the Vietnam War Draft Policies

The Vietnam War (1955-1975) was a significant period in U.S. history, marked by intense domestic and international conflicts. Among the many contentious issues of the era was the policy of drafting young men, a process that affected the lives of college students as well. This article provides an in-depth exploration of draft policies specifically concerning college students during this time.

Overview of Draft Policies for College Students

During the Vietnam War, the SSS was responsible for drafting men of military age (18-26) for service in the military. College students, who were part of this demographic, were not exempted from the draft. In fact, they were subject to the same draft procedures as other eligible individuals, though with specific provisions to accommodate their academic pursuits.

Initially, college students were granted deferments that allowed them to delay their military service while pursuing their education. This policy was primarily based on the assumption that higher education was a vital public good, and that young people with this opportunity should be allowed to complete their studies. However, as the war escalated and the draft became increasingly controversial, the policies were revised to reflect new social and political realities.

Changes in Draft Policies Towards College Students

By the late 1960s and early 1970s, there was significant public debate about the fairness of the draft, particularly concerning its impact on young men pursuing higher education. As a result, the deferment system for college students evolved, with certain conditions being placed on its availability.

For example, initially, students could receive deferments if they were enrolled in full-time college programs. However, as the demand for deferments grew and the critiques of the draft intensified, new criteria were introduced. These criteria included factors such as credit hours per semester and grades, making the process more stringent and competitive. This shift in policy reflected the changing social and political landscape, where the draft became seen as a more contentious procedure.

International Variations in Draft Policies

The experience of draft policies for college students varied across different countries during the Vietnam War era. For instance, in South Vietnam, university students could receive deferments, often indefinitely, if they paid enough bribes. The system was thus open to corruption and favoritism, with economic and social privileges playing a significant role.

In contrast, other countries like Australia implemented alternative service options. The Citizens Military Forces (CMF) allowed individuals to avoid the draft by enlisting, often for the sake of secondary benefits such as training and improved employment prospects. A friend of mine, for instance, chose to join the CMF, remaining in service voluntarily for a period of eight years before eventually resigning as a sergeant. The CMF has since been renamed the Army Reserve, with a broader range of commitments, reflecting changes in military policy and public attitudes.

Educational Accommodations and Draft Exemptions

While deferments were available for college students, many found ways to circumvent the system due to perceived injustices or personal values. For instance, one acquaintance of mine was intentionally obese to avoid the draft, while another obtained a medical deferment based on hearing and asthma concerns. These instances highlight the diverse strategies employed by individuals to navigate the draft.

Ultimately, college deferments were not absolute, and many students still faced the prospect of being drafted. The transition from undergraduate to graduate studies offered a slight advantage, with graduate students often receiving a higher draft classification. However, the majority of students who were drafted did not end up serving as combat soldiers. Instead, those with post-secondary education were often utilized in technical and administrative roles, contributing to the military's logistical and operational needs.

The End of the Draft and Post-war Employment

The draft ended in 1973, marking the transition to an all-volunteer military force. For many college students who had faced the threat of being drafted, the end of the draft policy brought a sense of relief and security. However, the experiences and lessons learned during this period had a lasting impact on their careers and personal lives.

Examples from my own experience illustrate the varied paths taken by those who were drafted. One served as a mathematician, another as a company clerk in Korea, and yet others in roles such as a bartender and engineer. Moreover, ROTC programs provided an alternative route to avoid the draft, with the promise of officer positions and specialized assignments.

Conscientious objectors, on the other hand, pursued non-military alternatives, such as volunteer civil service positions or medical testing roles. These choices, driven by personal beliefs or principles, underscore the multifaceted nature of the response to draft policies during the Vietnam War era.

In conclusion, the draft policies for college students during the Vietnam War were complex, evolving over time to reflect changing political and social contexts. While deferments and alternate service opportunities were available, many students still faced the challenging prospect of being drafted, with varying outcomes and experiences stemming from this period in history.