CO = Conscientious Objector
There are 2 types of CO:
-- Class 1-O ("No way,
Jose."
Most Molokan COs choose this)
-- 1-A-O
(Non-Combatant.
You join, but don't fight.)
The Selective Service web site states:
A conscientious objector is one who is opposed to serving in the armed
forces and/or bearing arms on the grounds of moral or religious
principles.
The Law states:
Nothing contained in this title shall be construed to require any
person
to he 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.
. . the term "religious training and belief" does not include
essentially
political, sociological, or philosophical views, or a merely personal
moral
code. Any person. . . whose claim is sustained by the local board
shall,
if he is inducted into the armed forces. . . be assigned to
noncombatant
service. . . or shall, if he is found to be conscientiously opposed to
participation in such noncombatant service. . .perform ... civilian
work
contributing to the maintenance of the national health, safety, or
interest.
. . -- Section 6(j) of the Military
Selective Service
Act.
Read the S.S.
web site
CO Fact Sheet
After registering and passing the tests (physical, mental), you can
apply for a CO. Only the local draft board can decide if you
get
the CO, which you can appeal if denied. You can even check your status
online.
Excellent links
for CO
study:
Biblical/Christian reasons, how to fill out the form, codes and
proceedures
for all 4 military branches, FAQs about contradictory questions, links
to organizations and the Quakers.
After you study the above:
Go register for the draft at The
Selective
Service web site.
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