Jocko Podcast 315: Draft Dodgers. And Low IQ Men Being Used as Cannon Fodder. McNamara's Folly
Jan 5, 2022
The discussion tackles the controversial Project 100,000, revealing the tragic fate of low-IQ recruits in the Vietnam War. Personal stories highlight the struggles faced by these individuals, often disparagingly called 'McNamara's morons.' There’s an exploration of the inequities in the draft system, illustrating how privilege impacted enlistment. Unconventional draft dodging tactics are scrutinized, casting a light on societal disparities. The conversation emphasizes the moral implications of military recruitment practices that exploited vulnerable populations.
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McNamara's Morons
- Hamilton Gregory recounts meeting Johnny Gupton, a recruit who couldn't read, write, or tie his boots.
- Gupton didn't know his state of origin or that America was at war.
Exploitation and Mockery
- Gupton's inability to understand coin values was exploited by other trainees.
- Officers used Gupton to demonstrate the low intelligence of Project 100,000 recruits.
Lowering Standards
- Lowering standards has unpredictable consequences.
- Jocko Willink expresses concern about lowering standards in any field, emphasizing the risk of the unknown.
