Trump's Military Service: How Many Deferments Did He Receive?

The question surrounding Donald Trump's military service and the number of deferments he received has been a topic of much debate and scrutiny. Understanding the details of Trump's deferments is essential to grasp the broader context of his military obligations during the Vietnam War era. This article will delve into the specifics of Trump's deferments, the reasons behind them, and their implications on his public persona.

In the late 1960s, when the United States was heavily engaged in the Vietnam War, many young men faced the draft. Donald Trump, born in 1946, was of draft age during this tumultuous period. He received multiple deferments, which has led to various discussions about his patriotism, privilege, and the choices he made during a critical time in American history.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Trump's military deferments, examining the circumstances and controversies surrounding them. We will explore the details of each deferment, the political and social climate of the time, and how these factors continue to influence perceptions of Trump today.

Table of Contents

• Overview of Military Deferments
• Donald Trump's Deferments
• Reasons for Trump's Deferments
• Public Reaction to Trump's Deferments
• Comparative Analysis of Deferments
• Impact on Trump's Public Image
• Conclusion
• Sources

Overview of Military Deferments

Military deferments were a common practice during the Vietnam War era, allowing individuals to postpone their military service for various reasons. These reasons could include educational commitments, physical health issues, or family circumstances. The deferment system was often criticized, particularly when it was perceived that wealthier individuals could more easily avoid the draft.

Donald Trump's Deferments

Donald Trump received a total of five deferments during the Vietnam War. Here’s a breakdown of each:

• 1. Educational Deferments: Trump received several deferments while he was attending college. He graduated from Fordham University in 1968.
• 2. Medical Deferment: In 1968, Trump was diagnosed with bone spurs in his heels, which led to a medical deferment.
• 3. Post-Graduate Deferments: After graduating, he continued to receive deferments until he was eventually classified as eligible for service in 1972.
• 4. Final Classification: Trump was ultimately not drafted and received a final classification of 4-F, which indicated he was unfit for military service due to his medical condition.

Trump's Draft Lottery and Final Classification

In December 1969, the U.S. instituted a draft lottery system, assigning numbers to birthdates to determine who would be drafted. Trump's birthdate was drawn in the lottery, but due to his medical deferment, he was not called to serve.

Reasons for Trump's Deferments

Trump’s deferments have been attributed to a combination of educational pursuits and health issues. Here are some of the key reasons:

• Education: Trump's college education provided him with a basis for several deferments. Many individuals at the time pursued higher education to avoid being drafted.
• Medical Condition: The diagnosis of bone spurs has been a focal point of contention. Critics have questioned the legitimacy of this medical issue as a reason for deferment.

Public Reaction to Trump's Deferments

The public reaction to Trump's military deferments has been polarizing. Supporters argue that many young men sought deferments during that time, while critics view his deferments as emblematic of privilege.

• Support from Followers: Many of Trump's supporters believe that his actions were consistent with the norms of his generation.
• Criticism from Opponents: Opponents argue that Trump's deferments reflect a lack of commitment to serving his country, especially in contrast to those who fought in Vietnam.

Comparative Analysis of Deferments

When analyzing Trump's deferments, it is essential to consider them in the broader context of other public figures and draft evaders of the time. Many individuals, including celebrities and politicians, received deferments for various reasons.

• Other Notable Figures: Various public figures have faced similar scrutiny over their deferments, highlighting the complexities of the draft system.
• Socioeconomic Factors: The deferment system often disproportionately affected those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, leading to an ongoing debate about privilege and duty.

Impact on Trump's Public Image

The implications of Trump's deferments on his public persona are significant. They have been used both as a point of attack by adversaries and as a point of defense by supporters.

• Political Campaigns: During his presidential campaigns, Trump's military service record has been a focal point for both sides of the political spectrum.
• Public Perception: For many voters, Trump's deferments have shaped their views on his authenticity and patriotism.

Conclusion

In summary, Donald Trump's military deferments have sparked considerable debate and controversy, reflecting broader societal issues related to duty, privilege, and the Vietnam War. Understanding the details of his deferments provides insight into the complexities of American military service during a challenging period in history. We encourage readers to share their thoughts on Trump's military record in the comments below and engage in discussions about the implications of deferments in today's society.

Sources

• The New York Times
• The Washington Post
• CNN