"Few probably recall the name Dwight Elliott Stone. But even if his name has faded from the national memory, the man remains historically significant. That's because on June 30, 1973, the 24-year-old plumber's apprentice became the last American forced into the armed services before the military draft expired."

Any idea of a return to military conscription will be met with shock and derision by many people of all political persuasions, and for good reason. Having been a victim of the draft, I felt justice was done when it was abolished. No more, and for reasons I would have never imagined in 1973. I no longer believe that a free people can govern themselves under the shadow of a professional military.

http://inthesetimes.com/article/14976/the_militarys_40_year_experiment/