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The Conscientious Objector category in the Yahoo! Directory provides a number of helpful resources about this weighty issue. First, a definition: According to the Selective Service web site, a conscientious objector (CO) is "one who is opposed to serving in the armed forces and/or bearing arms on the grounds of moral or religious principles." The Military Selective Service Act laid the groundwork for an objection on the grounds of belief, stating: Nothing contained in this title shall be construed to require any person to
be subject to combatant training and service in the armed forces of the United States who, by reason of religious training and belief, is conscientiously opposed to participation in war in any form. Originally, only members of certain religious groups could register as COs, but the definition was later broadened to include those who object due to moral or ethical reasons. However, a request for CO status may not be "based on politics, expediency, or self-interest." Federal law recognizes two types of COs -- conscientious objectors and noncombatant conscientious objectors. Conscientious objectors are opposed to any type of military service. If drafted, COs are placed in the Selective Service Alternative Service Program. This could entail working for a local employer in
the health care or education field or other position that makes a "meaningful contribution to the maintenance of the national health, safety, and interest." Noncombatant COs are people whose beliefs allow them to serve in the military, but not in a combatant capacity. If drafted, noncombatant COs are not assigned training or any duties that require a weapon. In addition, the Center on Conscience & War (CCW) identifies four other types of COs: - conscientious objectors to paying for war (those who object to financing war through taxes)
- selective objectors (those who will not participate in what they feel is an "unjust" war)
- nuclear pacifists (those who will not participate
in what is or may become a nuclear war)
- noncooperators with the draft (those who do not register with Selective Service)
Because the law does not recognize the above types of objectors, they risk punishment. Not registering with the Selective Service can carry a penalty of $250,000 in fines and five years in prison. Technically, you can't register as a CO unless you receive an induction notice. If you do receive an induction notice, you would have to appear before a local board to explain your beliefs. You would be asked to provide a written statement and/or personal references that help explain how you arrived at your beliefs and how they affect your life. The local board would make a decision based upon the evidence you present. However, if you are serious about your
beliefs, the CCW recommends getting them on the record when you register with the Selective Service. You might want to take a look at the CCW worksheet for objectors. You can also sign an online affirmation of your beliefs. Hopefully, this is knowledge you will never need.
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