Hell No, We Won't Go

[Madspirit]

http://www.objector.org/girights/gettingout/co.html

Conscientious Objection

A conscientious objector (CO) is a person who believes that it is wrong to kill another human being in war. The military defines conscientious objection as a "firm, fixed and sincere objection to war in any form or the bearing of arms" because of deeply-held moral, ethical, or religious beliefs. A lot of people in the military believe it's too late to be a CO now that they have enlisted, but the fact is many people realize they are opposed to participation in war after joining the military, and they are discharged as COs.

What do you think about war? Do you think it is morally wrong? Why? Are there any situations in which you would be willing to fight in a war? These are questions you will have to answer when applying for conscientious objector status.

Applying for CO status can be a long and difficult process. To get a discharge or reassignment as a conscientious objector, you must submit a written application to your commanding officer. In this application you must describe

the nature of your beliefs about participation in war;
how your beliefs changed or developed since you entered the military;
when and why you felt you could no longer continue serving in the military because of your beliefs; and
how your daily lifestyle has changed as a result of your beliefs.
further information required in the application.
After handing in your application, you will have three interviews: with a psychiatrist, a military chaplain, and an investigating officer. At the investigating officer's hearing you have a right to be represented by counsel--this can be a lawyer or a counselor. You may also bring witnesses--friends, family, a clergy member, or fellow military service members who can speak in support of you and your claim. The investigating officer will recommend to your commanding officer whether or not you should receive conscientious objector status.

[LWolf]

1. Good information.

Hopefully, a 47 yo grandmother does not need CO status to avoid military service.

I wonder, though, about those who don't necessarily believe, as I do, that it's wrong to kill another human being in war, but believe that participating in war that doesn't directly defend the nation from attack is wrong. It doesn't look like they would qualify for CO status.

[dave_p]

2. You're correct

DoD Directive 1300.6 stipulates that the objector must be "conscientiously opposed to participation in war in any form".

The terms specify that the objection must be the result of "religious training or belief", but this includes "in the case of deeply held moral or ethical beliefs, a belief held with the strength and devotion of traditional religious conviction.... even though the applicant himself may not characterize these beliefs as 'religious' in the traditional sense, or may expressly characterize them as not religious.

"The term 'religious training and belief' does not include a belief that rests solely upon considerations of policy, pragmatism, expediency, or political views."

So anyone seeking CO status should avoid expressing readiness to fight in different conditions. War is war.