I don't find that odd, myself. And it's important that everyone realize the idea behind "national service" is much more broad than mandatory conscription into the armed forces. It could mean service as a park ranger. Service for the U.S. Coast Guard or the Army Corps of Engineers. Service for some other area that supports national security or defense or aids the country. Service through AmeriCorps (sort of like our domestic version of the Peace Corps). Even service in teaching programs.

I think it's an idea whose time has come, and I'd love to be among the first people to do one of those jobs, at least if they wouldn't deem me too old.