Dear VCC-email,

Just recently my National Guard Unit has issued an alert for deployment. With increasing concern over the US presence in Iraq, I have spent countless hours on the Internet, searching for my purpose and I can not find one that is unbiased or unmanipulated. I believe strongly in your cause: I am not going to Iraq no matter what the consequences. I do not want to reveal too much about myself, but my parents are wealthy and willing to make sacrifices. They firmly set in stone that they would rather I went to the brig than die in Iraq for misleading and fictitious causes. I do not want any of the negative consequences to trickle on to them. I know what is right, I know must go AWOL. Not so long ago, because of the sleepless nights, nightmares and an inability to function due to this war, I was diagnosed by a civilian psychiatrist with severe to major depressive disorder. Will that ameliorate my cause if go AWOL, or will they just set it aside? What happens if I return in less than thirty days? I know that if I am deployed as a counter intelligence agent, I will not be able to bear an arm. Subconsciously I will be unable to carry it. I feel faint even when I think of handling a pistol, and all of this is due to this insufferable war.

Thanks- Charles

Partial response-You should call the GI rights hotline to learn the best way to go legally and stay in touch with us about what is going on. We found many, many times that political pressure helps at certain points in this process. Stay strong brother, you are very lucky to have your parents support. GI Rights Hotline 1-800-394-9544- VCC

VCC,

Filed for Conscientious Objection in 1991. CO status never granted. Was forced on a plane to the Gulf. MOS was helicopter mechanic but after filing for CO status, MOS was changed by Commanding Officer to front line fuel truck driver.

- T.C.

Hi,

I have a son who is a member of U.S. Army reserve. His unit is now alert for possible deployment to Iraq but our family is opposed to send our son for the unjustified war.

They are facing death in Iraq without reasons. We need some advice.

Are there any ways for my son to get out of Army reserve? He's just finished basic training last month. Even dishonorable discharge is considerable.

Thanks

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