Conscientious Objector day - May 15th

Comment

Comment by Steve Woodall on May 26, 2014 at 10:03am

Though this day passed w/o comment, I'll say that this is the first time I've even been aware that such a day has been named by someone, somewhere. On Memorial Days and at similar times I'm frequently torn between showing support for veterans, and the need to not blindly fall into lock-step with the patriotic fervor that often slips into a "my country, right or wrong" mentality. Though I did not serve in combat, I did serve in the military. I was also a conscientious objector who was denied a CO discharge during the Vietnam era. I do remember the struggle with conscience during that time quite well, and the struggle with isolation and intimidation at registering my objection.

I believed then, as now, that conscientious objection must be supported and valued in a free society. I believe we protect freedom by insisting that no person be required to violate his/her own conscience and moral values, particularly in something so serious as war.

If a C/O Day can become a means of encouraging a broader understanding of the value of life as well as conscientious living, it could possibly have the effect of encouraging young people to seek alternative means of service to their country. A universal service requirement which allows young people a wide range of options for service as well as benefits might be an alternative to the "all volunteer army" which lures young people into the military for lack of better options.