Could the Draft Return? Amarillo Residents Are Asking
It's something that Amarillo residents have recently been buzzing about, especially the younger generation.
The only reason it's currently a topic is because of the recent bombing of Iran that the U.S. levied on them, but because of it, the topic has found its way to the forefront.
Is The U.S. Going To War
This is a touchy subject when it comes to Amarillo residents because of Pantex being right in our back yard. I mean, the bombing of Iran's nuclear weaponry immediately raises concerns of Pantex being bombed.
While any sort of act like this can trigger a war, it doesn't appear likely that we're headed down that road. I caution, though, that anything is possible.
Read More: Amarillo Could Be At Risk If A War Broke Out On American Soil
Could The U.S. Institute A Draft
This is what has been buzzing around Amarillo, and the short answer is yes, but not without passing through several channels.
It's something that was done back in the day, but hasn't happened in the U.S. since 1972, longer than I've been alive. So the concern of a draft should be low.
What Would Need To Happen In Order For A Draft To Happen
There would have to be some sort of legislation passed through Congress in order to reinstate a draft. They would have to amend the Military Selective Service Act with that legislation.
Back in 2015, a representative out of New York, Rep. Charles Rangel, did indeed introduce a piece of legislation not only to reinstate the draft, but to create a war tax. It didn't end up passing through.
Who Would Be Eligible For A Draft
Amarillo male residents between the ages of 18 and 25 are already required to register with the Selective Service System. This would represent the draft pool.
Should it come down to that, the first ones to receive orders to serve would be those turning 20 the year of the draft. Then, they'd move to the men aged 21-25 before getting to the younger men aged 18 and 19.
For right now, however, it's not something we need to worry about.
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Gallery Credit: Andrew Lisa