The Results Are In  

BY JACK McMANUS

Last fall, Vietnam Veterans of America conducted a comprehensive survey of our members to gauge their opinions on a proposal for mandatory national service in the United States. We worked with a market research group, Limelight Insights by Shugoll, to conduct an online survey, and the response was remarkable. Between September 16 and November 7 last year, 8,527 VVA members participated—far exceeding our expectations and demonstrating, once again, the deep civic engagement of Vietnam War veterans.

For those unfamiliar with the concept, mandatory national service would require young Americans to either serve in the military or participate in civilian projects such as teaching in low-income areas, infrastructure maintenance, or caring for the elderly. While military service has been voluntary since the end of the draft in 1973, some policymakers believe in a universal national service program that would provide young people with a choice between military and civilian service. Given that Vietnam veterans were the last generation subject to a military draft, it is only fitting and proper that we weigh in on the matter.

The survey results were telling. A strong majority—64 percent—of our members supported VVA publicly endorsing a national service initiative, while only 8 percent strongly opposed it. This indicates clear support for the idea among the membership. However, when we asked members to rank national service along with other pressing issues affecting veterans, a different picture emerged.

While six in ten members support mandatory national service in principle, just 47 percent considered it a high-priority issue for VVA to advocate for. The survey showed that the most urgent concerns for our members are healthcare, Agent Orange and toxic exposures, PTSD and substance abuse treatment, and the POW/MIA issue.

These findings make it clear: While VVA members would likely support a mandatory national service initiative if it were to gain national momentum, VVA should not lead the charge on this issue. Our priority remains on the issues that most directly affect Vietnam War veterans and their families today.

Personally, I am in favor of a universal national service program—if done correctly. But our duty as an organization is to focus on the needs of those we serve. This survey has reinforced that commitment, and we will continue to direct our energy toward the challenges that matter most to Vietnam War veterans and their families.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to participate in this important survey.

2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | 2010