It seems like your position leaves no room for redemption. "You knew what you signed up for, so get over there with your war-mongering friends. We need these kids, no matter when they see the light and we should fully support them. Not just hand them some kind of "I told you so. I frankly don't think an 18yr.old is able to make the same judgments about the service that an older person with more life experience might be able to make.
What purpose does it serve for those of us on the anti-war side to judge him?
There is a period shortly after you sign up when you can opt out.
Some Qand A from Citizen Soldier:
Q. Since I signed, I've been having second-thoughts about going in. Do I have to report for active duty?
No. Spokespeople for each service branch have told us that it's against official policy to force recruits onto active duty against their will. Down in the trenches, where the recruiters operate, however, it's often a different story.
It's common for people, who ask to be released from their contracts, to be told by recruiters that it cannot be done. Sometimes recruits have been told that they can only apply for discharge during Basic training (!). In some cases, enlistees have been told that the military police will come to their home and drag them away on reporting day.
There have even been instances where recruits have been threatened with physical violence. One example is Cresta Crump, an African American from Queens, New York, who received a phone call from a military policeman after he requested release from his contract. "Do you plan to give us trouble when we come to get you?" the called asked. "I'm 6 foot-6, 270 pounds, and have 18 percent body fat. But I'm not trying to intimidate you," he added.
Despite the threats (which the Army denies making), Cresta stood his ground. Today he remains a civilian.
Q: If I decide I don't want to report, what exactly should I do?
A:You should find out the name and address of the commander of recruiting in your area. Write him or her a letter stating that you have decided that you don't want to go on active duty. You should state that your mind is made up and that nothing will change it. If you wish, you can add other reasons (such as a desire to attend college or trade school), which played a part in your final decision. Send this letter "certified mail, return receipt requested." Also, send a copy to your local Congressperson, attention "military caseworker."
Q: What if my recruiter persists in telling me that he or she will come to my house on reporting day?
A:Tell him or her that your decision is final. If you feel the need for more counseling, contact us or a local organization. Remember: you are not on active-duty unless you return to the MEPS center and take the second oath of duty on your reporting day!
Despite their bluster and threats, eventually the recruiting command will send you a letter which states that you have been given an "entry-level separation" because you "refused to enlist." This will end your association with the US military.
Things You Need to Know About Seeking a Discharge
http://girights.objector.org/gettingout/needtoknow.html#76154Discharge for members in their first 180 days of active duty
http://girights.objector.org/gettingout/entrylevel.htmlHomosexual Conduct or "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"
http://girights.objector.org/gettingout/homosexual.html#40362Helping Out: A Guide to Military Discharges and GI Rights
http://www.objector.org/helpingout/description.html
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