Boys in America Might Benefit From Some Conflict

On the Issue of Young Americans and Military Draft

There’s been a considerable amount of discussion about the situation in various countries, particularly where U.S. involvement is debated. Recently, a Congressman proposed automatic registration for draft eligibility for Americans aged 18-26. This move has sparked protests against war and conflict. Many Americans are clearly against sending their children to foreign places like Ukraine or Israel.

And it makes sense, really. We naturally want to protect our kids; they represent our future. Involvement in conflicts in distant lands isn’t something anyone takes lightly. But then again, didn’t many young men in previous generations serve in the military?

Part of the ongoing masculinity crisis in America stems from challenges faced during adolescence. Today, young adults often spend extra years in education and delay family-building and relationships, a trend not seen in previous eras.

As Dean Warmer famously said in *Animal House*, “Fat, drunk, stupid, is not the way to experience life.”

Consider the case of Israel, where there are mandatory service requirements for nearly all citizens. This system not only prepares the population for potential conflict but also fosters a strong sense of unity among its people as they grow up.

While sending our sons to war seems like a terrible idea, perhaps there’s a way for high school graduates to engage in some form of essential service before heading off to college or other pursuits? Such a program could address several societal issues.

This service doesn’t necessarily have to be military. Alternatives could include joining the Peace Corps or working as farmers—thereby reducing our reliance on seasonal migrant labor.