Contrary to common belief, being an only child (or an only son) does not automatically exempt you from military service in the u.s. If a draft were to be authorized, the selective service system would conduct a lottery based on birth dates to determine the order of induction. There is some confusion to exemptions of children in the u.s Learn if sons and daughters be excused from the military draft or combat service. It is mandatory for all male u.s Citizens to register for the selective service, also known as the military draft, when they turn 18
However, there are a few exceptions. Yes, an only child can be drafted into the military, assuming they meet all other eligibility requirements Historically, certain exemptions or deferments existed for sole surviving sons or family members. However, if called for draft examination they would be exempted from service.conscientious objectors also are exempt from military training and service, but the law does not necessarily exempt them from being drafted Federal law allows conscientious objectors to be assigned noncombat or civilian service in lieu of military service. The legend of only son being exempt from the draft is one of those stories after world war ii that began with a true story but morphed into something else entirely
