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Selective Service

Debate over America's involvement in World War II came to a head in July 1941 as the Senate argued over a draft-extension bill. The decision would have profound consequences for the nation.

On July 19, 1941, when General George Catlett Marshall, the Army chief of staff, stepped before the Senate Committee on Military Affairs, his gray civilian suit could not disguise the proud bearing of a soldier and commander of men.

Historically, conscription has had real virtues.

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