Question:

I joined the army in 1973 and was honorably discharged. My question is: Is there a difference between one who volunteers and one who is drafted?

Jim's Reply:

The draft, or conscription, is a law that ensures in time of need that America has enough troops to fight a war. If there aren't enough people volunteering to serve, the draft can kick in and under any of a number of methods of picking and choosing, folks will be ordered to serve in the military.
 

The big difference that applies in the military service experience would first be the length of time and then who drafts? The draft is only for the Army, the other services don't draft troops. When the draft was last in effect, a draftee served 2 years and a "Regular Army" soldier served 3. I was Regular Army and served 1967-1970. Otherwise, if memory serves me well, there really aren't any differences other than the time one will serve. Of course today the draft isn't in effect and with luck we won't need that any time soon.
 

Otherwise, I can't think of any other differences. If I'm missing something, y'all please let me know.