End of a Tradition

For the first time in its history the U.S. Navy this week began seeding drafted men into the ranks of its fighting men. The Marine Corps, which is also inordinately proud of its status as an all-volunteer outfit,* did likewise. Even in the most critical manpower situation the U.S. armed forces had ever faced, the break from tradition was not easily made.

Without slur on the patriotism of selectees, the Navy had long contended that for itself and its sister service the run of the draft would not do. The physical standard for sailors and marines would have to be well above Army standards, because the services afloat often send men far from hospital facilities, must therefore have only the rugged.

Yet as they moved toward a strength of 2,000,000 officers and men, the naval services had exhausted the volunteer pools, could no longer pick & choose. To the suggestion that they skim off the physical cream of the draft, the Army for good reason answered with a resounding "No." The end was a compromise, but it was close to what the Navy asked.

Draft physical standards were upped to something approaching Navy-Marine volunteer standards. Registrants may express preference for any of the three services, are assured their choice will get "the fullest consideration practicable." Of those who pass, 20% will be sent to the seagoing outfits for training. The Army will get the rest. But the draftees who fail the test will not be sent home into Class 4-F. If they can meet the old physical standards they will be inducted, for service in the Army only.

*Late in World War I both enrolled a few draftees.

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