The Pursuit and Treatment of Draft Dodgers During the Vietnam War

The Vietnam War, one of the most divisive conflicts in American history, elicited a complex response from various segments of society. One significant aspect of this conflict was the issue of draft dodgers. Draft dodgers, or those who evaded military service through various means, faced a mixed reception from the public, law enforcement, and governmental entities. This article explores the pursuit, prosecution, and societal treatment of draft dodgers during the Vietnam War, highlighting the varying degrees of attention and response they received.

Introduction to Draft Dodgers

Draft dodgers, individuals who avoided military service during the Vietnam War, made up a significant portion of the anti-war movement. This group was diverse, ranging from conscientious objectors and draft resisters to individuals who found ways to avoid the draft altogether. The willingness of some to evade military service for moral or personal reasons often placed them at odds with both law enforcement and societal expectations. This conflict between the individuals and the authorities resulted in a range of responses, from active pursuit to almost total neglect.

Active Pursuit by Law Enforcement

While the majority of draft dodgers were not actively sought out, there were instances where they were pursued by authorities. The intensity of this pursuit varied depending on the region and the time period. In urban areas, particularly during the height of the anti-war movement, local law enforcement often kept an eye on potential draft dodgers, especially those involved in demonstrations or riots. However, this level of scrutiny was not consistently applied across the country.

During periods of heightened national sentiment against the war, law enforcement agencies, such as the U.S. Marshals Service, took a more aggressive stance. For example, in 1969, the U.S. Marshals Service initiated a widespread manhunt for draft dodgers. This effort was part of a broader strategy toimidate potential draft evaders into compliance with the draft laws. Despite these efforts, the vast majority of draft dodgers remained undetected or were able to escape the net of law enforcement.

Societal and Political Responses

The treatment of draft dodgers varied significantly depending on the individual's political affiliation and their level of involvement in the anti-war movement. The radicals, anti-war activists, and some Democrats viewed draft dodgers as heroes, often celebrating their actions as a form of resistance against an immoral war. Many anti-war organizations actively sought to protect and assist draft dodgers, providing them with legal and financial support. Their heroic status within these communities was a stark contrast to the largely negative perception held by the general public and many politicians.

In stark contrast, many in the broader society and among political leaders viewed draft dodgers as traitors or disloyal citizens. The public's reaction to draft dodgers was generally one of disdain and condemnation. Anti-war protests often turned violent, and perpetrators were often met with anger and hostility from onlookers. This attitude was not confined to everyday citizens; it was also present among many members of the government, including high-ranking politicians who saw draft dodging as an act of defiance against the draft laws.

Society and Government Responses to Draft Dodging

The most significant turning point in the treatment of draft dodgers came with the change in administration following the Watergate scandal. President Gerald Ford, who succeeded President Richard Nixon, was initially more willing to enforce the draft laws, leading to a conditional pardon for draft dodgers who had fled the country. However, his commitment to this issue was short-lived. After taking office, President Jimmy Carter, in a more lenient approach, issued a blanket pardon for all draft evaders, essentially absolving them of any legal consequences.

These responses by the government reflected a trend of gradually easing enforcement of draft laws and a recognition of the wider cultural shifts occurring in America. The pardon issued by Carter marked a significant shift in the treatment of draft dodgers, moving towards a more forgiving stance and acknowledging the growing public sentiment against the war. This leniency by the government helped to normalize the actions of those who had evaded the draft.

Conclusion

The pursuit and treatment of draft dodgers during the Vietnam War highlight the complex and often contradictory nature of American society during this period. While some draft dodgers faced active pursuit and prosecution, many were largely ignored or even celebrated by their peers within the anti-war movement. The leniency shown to draft dodgers by President Carter in the 1970s reflects the broader cultural changes and the desire to reunite the nation following the divisive war.

Keywords

draft dodgers, Vietnam War, societal response