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[MH1]

659. I mostly agree, but disagree with military being the "default".

I think that would make the military bigger than it should be. (I admit I haven't figured out the exact numbers, that's a gut feel.)

I would propose that military and other hazardous duty be paid more than some more "desirable" or less hazardous jobs. There are any number of jobs where relatively unskilled but physically able people could serve their country, without the risk or conscience issues of serving in the military. If enough military could not be recruited by reasonable incentives, then a lottery system could be used, with a conscientious objector process to allow some exclusions from the lottery.

In general, however, I agree that everyone should serve in some capacity for 2 years, between the age of 18 and say, 26 or so. That would allow some to attend college before performing their service, which might make them more valuable for services such as Peace Corps or Vista.