Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 5/7/2007

Question
Hello:  I don't know if this is a rumor or a story i heard a long time ago but I was wondering, If a family has two, three, four or more children and only one of them is a male, does he have to join the army, marines etc?  I was under the impression if a family had only one son then that son did not have to go into the service unless it was voluntary?

Thanks,

Paul

Answer
Dear Paul --

When the U.S. Army had a compulsory draft, families could ask for an exception if they had only one living son.  Many families did not take that exception, but some did.

Today it is an entirely volunteer service, so no one has to serve who does not wish to serve.  

I hope this answers your question.