NYT/AP: Marine Seeking Conscientious Objector Discharge Sent to Iraq

[DeepModem Mom]

Marine Seeking Discharge Sent to Iraq
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Published: November 24, 2006

PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- A Marine from New Jersey was deployed to Iraq this month despite being recommended for a military discharge by a hearing officer who agreed that he should receive conscientious objector status.

Marine Lance Cpl. John Rogowskyj Jr., of Pennsauken, is one of a handful of conscientious objectors trying to get out of the military. He has taken his case to federal court in Washington, where he is pressing for an immediate separation.

''I believe that God has given man free will,'' he said in legal documents. ''By surrendering my will to the military, I realize that I have willfully propagated violence.''

Rogowskyj, now 22, joined the Marine Corps Reserve in 2002. He was ordered to active duty the next year and submitted a request for a conscientious objector discharge this year. He described himself as a religious humanist who does not belong to any organized religion.

''I see now that I must separate from the military with all due haste, or suffer without the forgiveness of grace, for defying the truth that I see plainly before me, that violence as a means or end cannot be tolerated,'' said Rogowskyj....

http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/us/AP-Conscientious-Objector.html

[Trillo]

1. And they have the nerve to call it a

Volunteer Military Force.

Such liars.

[uppityperson]

2. ''theologically confused and does not reflect any officially recognized faith group.''

So the only way you can be a CO is to be a member of an officially recognized group? Give me a break. Many people are religious and/or COs who do not belong to an officially named, recognized as such for tax purposes, church or group. Poor guy, wonder what he will do now? Hope he gets out.

[atreides1]

3. There is no "officially recognized faith group"

Someone better tell the general that there are no officially recognized faith groups.


'Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.'

So unless Congress has passed a law changing this Amendmment, someone better educate the general!

[lanlady]

4. why did he join the Marines in the first place??

n/t