What do you think about the US following in Israels foot steps and making it mandatory to serve two years at the age of 18?

It sounds good, but I don't think it's practical, in terms of financially and by the sheer number. Israel has to do it, since they have just over 8 million people, and surrounded by enemies, constant cycle of violence, etc.... More justifiable, needed and feasible for them.

There could be an alternative plan, to perhaps have more troops on some sort of standby, but I think anyway we come about it, it would be a fiscal and practical issue.

Without any grave/larger threat, I don't think we really need mandatory conscription, since not everyone is for the military, and the potential backlash you would have from recruits/pooles trying to get out of it, criminal/medical/mental issues, drama, etc... I mean, we have enough of that in the current service, in my opinion - too many people getting separated at all levels for, predominantly trivial crap, thus costing DoD to process those people out needlessly..

Note, this doesn't include people with real problems that the best course for them is to get out..

I feel like it should be a mandatory thing, but as a wider requirement, and not just military. Police work, firefighter, hospital intern, etc.

Sgt Kelli Mays Got a little disagreement from me - ALL after 18yrs of age, regardless of college and disability would have to really be extreme, because it shouldn't be limited to military service, community service will count as well, like working at a care center, hospital, road work, etc, I think you get my meaning. Anything that will support the local community. This would also cut some fat out of the budges as well (but some would bitch about this). There's a lot disabled people can still do for their country. NO IFS, ANDS or BUTS!! Everyone needs to give something back, then maybe more would open their eyes.