Some interesting discussion that has gone on these past few pages (yes, I read all before choosing to reply):
First off, I will preface by saying I don't believe there ought to be a draft for either men OR women, but will state that should there continue to be one, yes, women should be included.
Somewhere way back (maybe page 2, they've kind of rolled together) in this thread, I believe our "Devil's Advocate" referred to a constant need for our nation to defend its citizenry with a strong standing military force, with mention of 9/11 and Iraq. There is no connection between those two events, and although this is off-topic, I must state that.
Violence as a reaction to violence is sending us in a infinite loop. It isn't helping us here, it isn't helping the people in Iraq and in Afghanistan (who at least had some infrastructure prior to our bombs, unlike they have now for the most part), and all we're doing at the moment is alienating those we should be begging forgiveness from and/or asking for help.
Moving on, I don't believe that the Selective Service registration is really symbolic of anything these days. Yes, it allows you to receive federal financial aid, and allows you to register to vote (yes, you have to register for the selective service prior to or at the same time as you register to vote). However, it's just a piece of paper. Another little piece of paper to carry around. Mostly a symbol of being a male turning 18 (ooh boy), and entirely useless in the last 20 or so years except to identify your continued existance to the military. (Yes, I have registered. Woo Hoo.)
This is somewhat unfinished and probably significantly offtopic, but I just felt the need to say it. Sorry
