Is There Anyone in the Military Like Desmond Doss?

Desmond Doss was a unique figure in military history known for being a conscientious objector who served as a medic during World War II, notably in the Battle of Okinawa. He refused to carry a weapon due to his religious beliefs but went on to save numerous soldiers, earning the Medal of Honor for his bravery. While there are others who have served in similar ways, few have achieved the same level of recognition as Doss.

Other Notable Figures

Some notable figures include:

Charles L. McGaha

A conscientious objector during World War II, McGaha served as a medic and received the Medal of Honor for his actions in combat. His story is a testament to the courage and dedication of those who choose to serve in non-combat roles.

Timothy Kudo

A former Marine who became a conscientious objector after his experiences in Iraq, Kudo has since spoken out against war and military violence. His transformation highlights the impact of combat on individuals and their beliefs.

Mennonite and Quaker Medics

Throughout various conflicts, members of these religious communities have served as medics or in non-combat roles, adhering to their beliefs while still contributing to military efforts. They exemplify the principle of serving others and demonstrating courage in non-combat roles.

Personal Reflections on Military Service

When I was hospitalized for 113 days in 1979, my primary nurse Victor was a Vietnam War medic. He was drafted and in boot camp, he refused a weapon. He told the Army he would accompany the unit into danger but without a weapon. The Army made him a medic. Victor saw a lot of action, witnessing death and grave injuries, and eventually passed the California State Nursing Board Exam, becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse. Some of the stories he told me were gut-wrenching and horrific.

Current Perspectives on Conscientious Objectors

Do we have conscientious objectors in modern military service? The answer depends on what you mean by 'like Desmond Doss.' If you mean men and women willing to put themselves in harm's way to save their comrades, then millions of service members fit this description.

Cleaning Up the Concept of Conscientious Objector

However, if you mean individuals who are awarded the Medal of Honor for their bravery, there is a list of such recipients available on Wikipedia. If you mean those who claim conscientious objector status due to fear of deployment, then yes there are some, but most are discharged from the military.

The current military policy defines conscientious objection as a 'firm, fixed, and sincere objection to participation in war in any form or the bearing of arms by reason of religious training and belief.' DOD 1300.6. Therefore, if you do not believe in war, you should not join the military.

So, are there COs currently serving in the military? Not likely true ones. You are questioned repeatedly before signing up. We are fortunate now to have an all-volunteer force, so the Services can be more selective about who they want in. Most of the situations I’ve heard of are either guys who join hoping never to be deployed, then freak out once they get orders, or guys who are really terrorists hiding in shepherd's clothing.

In conclusion, while there may be fewer individuals like Desmond Doss, the principles of service and bravery demonstrated by conscientious objectors continue to inspire and challenge us in the present day.