My number was 325. I was planning on going to medical school, but that deferment extended eligibility so the army could draft you as a physician until age 36. Although the high number provided safety, it also inspired me. I applied for and was granted I-O conscientious objector deferment. I believe what really convinced the Richmond VA draft board was the letter of support from my father, who had left the seminary to serve in WWII as an infantry captain. During my career, I have been proud to care for Vietnam veterans in the Baltimore VA hospital. One summer, my son volunteered with the US Park Service at the Vietnam Memorial in Washington DC. I recently visited Vietnam, where the tour guide put the American War in perspective.
