Conscientious Objectors: Number of Applications Remained Small During the Persian Gulf War
Abstract
There is no statutory entitlement to claim conscientious objector status. This provision derives from DOD'S recognition of a need for policy in this area under DOD Directive 1300.6. The directive defines a conscientious objector as an individual who opposes war in any form. Although recruits are asked on entrance applications if they oppose war, many of these recruits are young, and their beliefs may not be completely formed when they enter the military. To obtain status as a conscientious objector, military service members must establish by clear and convincing evidence that (1) they are opposed to participation in any form of war; (2) their opposition is based on religious training, moral, or ethical beliefs; and (3) their beliefs are sincere and deeply held. DOD and service regulations do not recognize selective conscientious objection, that is, opposition to a specific war or conflict. Two categories of conscientious objectors are recognized by DOD regulations. A class 1-0 applicant objects to all participation in any form of war, and is discharged when the application is approved. A class 1-A-0 applicant is an individual who sincerely objects to participating as a combatant in any form of war, but whose convictions permit military service as a noncombatant. On approval, an applicant for class 1-A-0 status can be either assigned noncombatant duties or discharged. In this report we use the term conscientious objector to include both 1-0 and 1-A-0 status and the term noncombatant when discussing issues unique to l-A-0 Status.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 09, 1993
- Accession Number
- AD1172968
Entities
People
- Foy Wicker
- Jack Perrigo
- Mark E. Gebicke
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office