Robert Neil, England, 1972. No. 358: Seasonal Singalong

Although I have already written a story dated 12 December 2009 about "jumping for joy" I have composed lyrics about celebrating exemption from conscription for the Vietnam War by luck of the draw to the tune of a Christmas Carol called "Joy To The...

Wally, Kentucky, 1969. No 323: The Politics of War

After four years at the U of K (’65 to ’69) I needed one more hour to graduate. I could take that one hour anywhere, and still earn my degree from U of K (which I did). So I decided to take some classes at Murray Stata University, to try another campus. I...

Joey, Kentucky, 1969: 50/50 Chance

I was at Ft. Polk in La. doing basic training at the time of the lottery.  I had joined the US Army reserves in 1967.  My number was low and I would have been drafted had I not joined the USAR. One half of my basic training unit was destined for Vietnam...

Greg, New York, 1969. No. 005: Not Even The Cash

I was at the University of Rochester when the lottery was held, and I knew I would have a student deferment if I had to use it.  A bunch of us guys met in the common room and each put in $1 for a pool. The man with the lowest number, since he would be the biggest...

Philip , NY, 1969. No. 125: A Flag When I Die

I was in the first lottery and given number 125. I went through college and was made I-A within days of graduating. My one year of eligibility began. I had a very difficult time finding a job because employers knew I could be called at any time. One company...