"Semper Fidellus!" The motto of the United States Marine Corps (USMC) is a representation of the dedication that the soldiers show to their country. When translated from the original Latin to English, this saying literally means "Always Faithful". This saying is of utmost importance to any member of the USMC and all other members of the United States Military. It provides a basis for action and servitude while showing love for their country and fellow countrymen. 

In the 1970's, right around the end of the Vietnam War, the Selective Service (SS) was reinstated. To this day people are still confusing Selective Service with the draft.

In a draft, young men don't have the choice to join the armed forces; they have to. According to CHS Guidance Counselor Edd Green the SS is, "a government entity which registers and keeps track of eligible young men for military service, should the need arise." To this day, not one person has been called up. This program has been criticized for years and has advocates for both sides. Some people feel it is their duty as an American and others feel that this is a useless program that accomplishes nothing.

No matter what side you fall on, if you are an 18 year old male you are obligated by law to register, and if you don't there are consequences. You will not be eligible for government financial aid. This includes mortgages, college funds, etc. This can affect many high school seniors who have never heard of the SS. Lucky for CHS senior guys the guidance staff at CHS does a good job making sure that the students are aware of their obligation with the SS.

Just ask senior Matt McCannon. Matt recently turned 18 on December 11. He is aware he is required by law to register with the SS, although he has not registered yet. He said, "I am fine with this law, especially with the odds of me being chosen in a time of need being 1 out of 365."

To select who will join active duty if the draft is ever reinstated, a number is drawn from a random lottery that represents one day out of the year. This may not seem right, but it is fair. Senior Michael Cox feels that the SS is a necessary part of our country. Michael explained, "It's definately essential. If there was a war and we didn't have enough personel to man the front, especially on our own ground, we would have to use the info from the SS, otherwise our country would fall. It's a basis of our system of government."

As our country progresses into the future we should hope that the SS is never needed, but should the time come, it will serve it's purpose.

Whether you agree or not, it is mandatory that you register. No matter how much you disagree with war and violence, the fact of the matter is that mankind is fighting and is going to continue fighting. Because of this you have an obligation to your friends, family, and your country to be willing and ready to fight for your freedom. You can register online, at the post office, or in conjunction with your FAFSA application. If you don't, you could end up in jail and/or pay a fine of up to $250,000. So guys, keep this in mind when you're celebrating your 18th birthday or you will suffer the consequences.