The Selective Service System (SSS)

The Selective Service System (SSS) was reestablished by the Selective Service Act of 1948. The basic mission of the System is to be prepared to supply manpower to the Armed Forces adequate to ensure the security of the United States during a time of national emergency.

Since 1973, the Armed Forces have relied on volunteers to fill military manpower requirements. However the Selective Service System remains the primary vehicle by which men will be brought into the military if Congress and the President should authorize a return to the draft.

In December 1987, Selective Service was tasked by law (Public Law 100-180, sec 715) to develop plans for the post mobilization health care personnel delivery system capable of providing the necessary critically skilled health care personnel to the Armed Forces in time of emergency.

An automated system capable of handling mass registration and inductions in now complete, together with necessary draft legislation, a draft Presidential proclamation, prototype forms and letters, et cetera. These products will be available should the need arise.

The development of supplemental standby products, such as a compliance system for health care personnel, continues using very limited existing resources.

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