Dictionary definition of “backdoor draft”

backdoor draft

n. extension of military enlistments through stop-loss orders, which force personnel to involuntarily extend their tours of duty. Subjects: English, United States, Military, Politics

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Citations: 1999 [Lee Knoper] Usenet: alt.military (Apr. 5) “Re: Recalls Occurring; Seeking More Info”: One individual advised that he is being involuntarily recalled for placement in the Army Reserve, despite having been out of the Army for over two years. Apparently the referenced action is being taken because of the Army’s ongoing manning problems. I’m aware of the continuing liability for recall after separation, but among some of my correspondents the news that this “back door draft” is actually occurring was understandably greeted with surprise and concern. 2003 Carol Lin (CNN Sunday) (Nov. 9) “New Poll Shows Half Of Americans Disapprove Of Bush’s Handling Of Iraq”: [Arnold] Garcia:…‘“The use of the increaseing dependence on the reserve and guard components amounts to, as one of the editorial writers said in a meeting yesterday, a back door draft."…[Carol] Lin: “That’s interesting. A back door draft. In a sense even though it’s a volunteer army, but these guys didn’t sign up with the idea of spending their Christmas in the desert, I [sic] sure, certainly under these battle conditions.” 2004 Bettijane Levine Orlando Sentinel (Florida) (Nov. 5) “Uncle Sam still wants them”: That’s a draft…a backdoor draft. That’s compulsory military service…against the individual’s will.

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Reader comments:

im a back door draft soldier stuck in iraq i was stop-lossed around july 28 06 my contract ended 2 aug 06 i am now way past my contract date and still have 6 months left to go here in iraq

by josh connell 09 Mar 07, 1028 GMT