What were the exemptions from the draft I mean were only son's exempt youngest children etc.?

There were GI's in Vietnam that had a brother in the service and/or in Vietnam. These men may have been volunteers. However, once the Army found out about two brothers being in Vietnam at the SAME time, often an effort was made to pull them out of the field immediately; and then send one or both brothers to other duty stations away from Vietnam (Out of the Combat Zone).

Drafted ONLY son's were often deferred if they showed someone dependent on them, such as a child, parent, spouse, etc.

The Army "could" use an "only son", just simply ensure that he was NOT assigned to a combat zone.

Then, "based upon the needs of the service" could use an "only son" in a combat zone, and then simply try and not assign him to a "Combat Unit" (e.g. Infantry, Armor, Artillery).

The term "National Security" is a catch all phrase. During the cold war, practically anything could be done under the cloak of "National Security." The same goes with the Military Services; the term "based upon the needs of the service" is the catch all phrase. Based upon the needs of the service, the military (translation: US Government) can practically do anything, in the name of National Security; to include amending conscription (draft) laws to MEET THE NEEDS OF THE SERVICE.

First answer by ID1282539625. Last edit by ID1282539625. Question popularity: 1 [recommend question]