Question about becoming a conscientious objector?

Question

I will have to register for the Selective Service soon.  I don't want to register but I hear that I have too since I'm enrolled at a public college.  Therefore I wish to register as a conscientious objector.  I'm gravely sorrowful of American foreign policy, it's bad enough that my tax dollars have to kill people, I will not take part in the bloodshed any further.  I realize the draft is not in effect but following what's going on, it's easy to see how things might get out of hand, like another Vietnam.  I will not fight in a preemptive war of aggression.  What kind of questions will they ask me?  What is required of me to gain conscientious objector status?

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

Register, it isn't like they will ever call you.  Even if they do, tell them you want CO status.

what's going on?  We are out of Iraq (thanks Bush plans)

Moving troops out of Afghanistan.  Just admit you are a pencil neck coward afraid of getting greased.  Thanks for not serving.  How about the peace corps.  Make the world a better place.

tonalc2 · Answer

It doesn't matter that you're in a public college. EVERY man has to register by law when they turn 18.

The Selective Service System will not officially recognize registration as a conscientious objector.

However, here's some info from the Quakers:

Take along a friend or relative to witness all that you are doing.
    Fill out the registration form correctly and write across it: CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTOR.
    Make a photocopy of it and present the original at the counter. If the postal clerk refuses it, go to another post office. They have no authority to refuse registrations. Eventually someone will accept the form.
    Enclose the second copy in an envelope and mail it to yourself. Leave it sealed when delivered.

When and if the draft is reinstated, there will be three criteria for a claim, of conscientious objection:

opposition to all wars
    opposition on religious, moral, or ethical grounds
    sincerity.

The third is the most difficult to establish. Your copy of the original registration, the testimony of your witness and your other friends, family, and teachers will be the basis of your claim.

titania_woodland_fairy_queen · Answer

First you have to not because you are in college, you have to because it is the law. Register with the Selective Service. If there ever is a draft and if you are called up and found to medically fit for service then you apply for Conscientious Objector and Alternative Service status.

You have to  provide a written documentation or include personal appearances by people you know who can verify that they are not only your beliefs but that you lived them and held them long before you called to military service. YOur statement will have to explain why you believe the way you do, what led you to the conclusions convictions you have and how you have demonstrated them in your life.

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Question about becoming a conscientious objector?

3 Answers