University of Virginia Library

Military Bureaucracy

What has developed since John
Kennedy became President is a
military bureaucracy which has
continually increased its influence
on civilian life; first through the
channeling function of Selective
Service, and more recently through
the direct approach of inducting as
many people as possible and
recruiting numerous others in their
Reserve Officer programs. The
continued prominence of the
military in this country depends on
their ability to influence and
control the lives of the male
citizens.

Edward Kennedy and his Senate
"Liberals" are presenting the
conscription blueprint deemed
most likely to succeed. An
extended draft that will end
student and ministerial deferments,
make alternative service a more
lengthy and less desirable
alternative, and thus "equalize" the
draft.