Reply #29: EdwardM - I hope you are investing time & money building a CO file -- [View All]

[IndyOp]

You are most likely to get "Conscientious Objector" status if you have thorough documentation of your anti-war activities and beliefs going back as far into the past as possible.

If you are over 18, then you've already signed up with Selective Service. You should start a conscientious objector file immediately if you haven't begun one already.

http://www.pjcvt.org/co.htm

Q: What is a Conscientious Objector?
A Conscientious Objector (CO) is a person who objects to war in any form and whose belief is based on an ethical, moral or religious training or belief system.

Q: What if I am a Conscientious Objector? How do I tell the military?
To apply for CO status you must write, “I am a Conscientious Objector. I am opposed to all wars.” There is no check off box to write down any reason why you should not serve, so write it down on the bottom of the form, and any other free space. This might mean that you have written that you are a CO several times. Then make 2 photocopies: keep one and mail the other to yourself, but do not open it once it arrives. It is also a good idea to notarize your letter before mailing it. Making these copies is very important because the documents sent to the government will be destroyed, but at least now you will have a copy that has been post-marked with the same date.

Q: What should I do after I submit my registration form? How do I establish a CO file?
After you submit your form, it is a very good idea to start a "CO file" to document that your life reflects your believes. The file may contain letters from friends, teachers, employers or others stating why they believe you are opposed to all wars. These letters will help you later if you ever need to build a case for yourself. In addition to this, write papers in school or letters to the local newspaper regarding your anti-war beliefs. If these letters get published, cut them out, and save them. They will improve your case for not being a good soldier. If you receive military recruiting flyers, write on them that you are a Conscientious Objector, make a photocopy, and send them back. And finally, write a statement of your beliefs regarding your opposition to all wars. This draft can be one page or thirty; it doesn’t really matter, so long as it clearly outlines your stance on war. For more information: Learn more about how to establish a CO file.

How to File a CO Claim
http://www.objector.org/coclaim.html