If I got a drafted, could I choose to serve in the navy instead?

Question

Let's say the Vietnam War was going on and I just got my draft letter. Could I choose to serve in the navy instead? It seems like a much better alternative to being a soldier on foot.

Answer 1

I graduated from college and enlisted in the Navy. At the time, as I understand it, and this was in 1959-1960, the draft letter was notification of your enlistment in the Army. Before you were drafted you had an option. After you were drafted you were Army.

There was a question by some kid worrying about not getting both his enlistment bonus and choice of duty station. I told him I only got an enlistment bonus... the assurance that they wouldn't try to kill me in boot camp.

Some soldiers worry about the draft. They're afraid of the quality of personnel they'll have backing them up. To them I reference the following post and selected answer.

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AkmubF9FKBPob51ne1Jf7iLsy6IX;_ylv=3?qid=20071201124428AAqnp3k&show=7#profile-info-c602c03545450b50af3d2a0633a2481aaa

There are a couple of "volunteers" I wouldn't want in my outfit.

Answer 2

No draft unless China attacks.

If there was a draft they will pick your adventure training for you...very simple...no decision...just show up for the interview and turn your head to left and cough.

SSG US Army 73-82

Answer 3

Well, when John Kerry was refused another extension of exemption from the draft to study in Paris, he volunteered into the Naval Reserve to keep from going to war. In his case, it didn't work.

Answer 4

There is no draft in effect now but if there was you could enlist in any branch before being sworn in.

Answer 5

After you get drafted, your only option other than Army is Marine Corps.

Answer 6

if you had a notice then yes you could join whatever service you wanted, as long as you joined