Drafting Diplomats

I don't have a news source on the follow up to the clip below, but there is a major revolt going on in D.C. over this. When I find a good source, I'll post the follow-up in this blog.

From Daily Kos - click the link to read more.

For some reason the State Department is having trouble finding volunteers to work in Iraq, so for the first time since the Vietnam War: ...200 to 300 employees will be notified of their selection as "prime candidates" for 50 open positions in Iraq...However, if an insufficient number volunteers by Nov. 12, a department panel will determine which ones will be ordered to report to the Baghdad embassy next summer.

Those who receive the selection letters will have 10 days to file a written notice of objection. The review panel will consider the objections, but Thomas made clear that a serious, documented medical condition is likely to be the only valid excuse. The department has the authority to fire anyone who refuses to accept an assignment.