After 20 years in the USAF and retired, I think all those who enjoy the benefits of the sacrifices our military has made need to make a contribution to their country. I'd prefer it be military service but I understand the realities of contemporary cowardice prevalent in our country today. Having said that, I'd tell all of the able bodied American men who pat service members on the back to step up, serve your country and give our guys currently serving some relief. If you really believe in the WOT, join it. We have enough cheerleaders!
I share your assessment, but I think unit cohesion is one of the reasons for our military forces’ level of professionalism, competence and integrity. Drafting idiots, malcontents and subversives could destroy our military cohesion.
That said, I think the military should increase the maximum age for volunteers for various mission specialties. In the increasingly technical military of today, there are plenty of mission specialties where a 40+ year old guy who is able to pass the entrance physical(s) should be allowed to volunteer and, as you say, relieve some of our people on the front lines.
There are a lot of Americans working to make this country what it is, the largest economy in the world. We need them and they pay for the USAF.
Preach that religion...