Evening Republican, Volume 21, Number 188, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 19 August 1918 — DRAFT MEASURE SURE TO PASS [ARTICLE]

DRAFT MEASURE SURE TO PASS

CONGRESSMEN ARE RECEIVING PROTESTS AGAINST INCLUSION OF BOYS. Washington, Aug. 18.—The following developments should be of unusual interest to the citizens of Indiana : 1. From present indications, the administration’s man power bill to extend the draft ages from 18 to 45 years will pass without change, notwithstanding many protests against the 18-year-old limit. 2. Enlistments, which have been completely v discontinued, probably will be resumed when the new draft act is passed. » 3. It seems definitely determined that excess profits rates and every conceivable kind of luxury will bear the taxation burden under the new revenue law.

4. Preparations have been completed for their immediate installation of an extensive system of vocational education for our wounded troops as they are brought back from France. 5. Leaders in both military and civilian circles here, while thoroughly appreciating the excellent progress made by the allies on the western front, are sounding a note of warning to the country against overoptimism. It seems that the administration’s “man power bill,” extending the ages for draft from 18 to 45 years, will pass both houses of congress without change of a material nature. Secretary Baker and Gen. March, chief of staff, have both testified to the Senate military committee that a measure making available all suitable men between these ages is absolutely necessary as a part of this nation’s war program for thenext year. ~ These ages were fixed after a most thorough study of the entire subject and the administration will insist upon its passage with these ages incorporated. Members of Congress are receiving a heavy mail from their constituents against drafting the young men for fighting service until they reach their twenty-first year, many citizens expressing the opinion that the young men should not be drafted until they lave exercised, or are at least entitled to, the right to vote. It is not expected, however, that this argument will control with Congress. The members are more inclined to the view that all of the people of this country receive its privileges and opportunities and that, therefore, all should be ready and willing to give stich service to the country as they are relatively best qualified for.