Selective Service sends thousands of letters in error

WASHINGTON – Notices have gone out to thousands of men in Maryland telling them they need to register with the Selective Service System, even though they did so already.

In a statement, the Selective Service System says the letters were the result of an “automated data processing error.” The agency says the letters in question will have the recipient’s first and last names transposed, and can be disregarded by anyone who is already registered.

The letters are dated April 23, 2014.

A Selective Service spokesman tells WTOP the notices likely went to thousands of men in Maryland who are between the ages of 18 and 25.

An alert is up on the Selective Service System’s website.

Anyone unsure of their registration status can also do a quick check on the site.

Men must register with the service in case a military draft is instituted. Failure to register can result in a fine of up to $250,000 and up to five years in prison.

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