[Cadaverous Pallor]

I read a book not to long ago written by a conservative and a liberal teaming up to come up with answers on how to reunite blue and red America. Part of the reason they were able to get along (and they really were diametrically opposed on many issues) is that they were both involved in military families.

Part of their idea was to have a requirement of a year or more of community service straight after high school, either in the military, peace corp, local community stuff, etc. They felt that this would help bond people to their country, to their fellow citizens. We would feel we have a stake in our society. We'd meet fellow Americans doing their part and would learn how rewarding service can be.

I'm digging this concept. I can't say I have any clue what the exact guidelines would be, but I think there's something to it. BD, you're right, not everyone will be thrilled to help out but many would learn something from the experience and carry it with them into the rest of their lives.