Is Memorial Day for Constientous Objectors, too?

[elshiva]

My dad was a constientous objector during the Vietnam War. He did NOT cut and run like Dubya! When he was drafted, he told his superior officers that he would never wear a uniform or carry a gun. He DID help wash the ships at port (he was to be in the Navy). He waited and stood trial, stood up for what he believed in.

He and all true constientous objectors are heroes for standing up for what they believe in and trying to end war in their own manner. I respect the soldiers for what noble intentions they have. Will you please have it in your heart to remember the bravery of the constientous objectors on Memorial Day?

Thank you, DU! (I apologize for the bad spelling! Having trouble with spell check tonight.)

[Redstone]

1. No shame in being a CO.

Honesty and bravery counted there as well. Many COs were medics, and others did what their beliefs allowed them to, such as your father.

I'll remember him during the parade tomorrow. Promise.

Redstone

[elshiva]

2. Thank you! So often they are forgotten or misunderstood,

a lot of Freeps class them as deserters! God knows they are wrong! :cry:

[elshiva]

3. Kick for my father!

[uppityperson]

4. Cool father.

Will remember COs tomorrow too. Did he end up on ship-washing duties instead of being drafted? I knew a family who had 2 sons in jail. Father was a preacher, they were CO's who decided on jail time rather than Canada. Seems like they could have been put to better use doing community service.

[elshiva]

5. Thanks!He washed ship until he was put on trial then I think he was

released...

My uncle (my mom's brother, not my father's) resisted the Vietnam war through protest. He was part of the Baltimore Four an offshoot of The Catonsville Nine. Poured duck's blood on draft files. My uncle was jailed!

[NMMNG]

6. Good for your dad!

Don't let anyone tell you different--being a conscientious objector doesn't mean one is a coward or unpatriotic. It simply means one does not believe in war. I myself am that way.

Your father did the right thing. He reported when called and did duty that did not involve going against his beliefs. He then stood trial and endured the results. He didn't use family money, political/personal connections or whatnot to get out of his obligation.

He deserves to be honored like any other military person today. :patriot:

[elshiva]

7. Thank you! Yes, he did fulfill his obligation!

:patriot: