Your Decision

Chances are you have a good idea already whether you can accept noncombatant duty. But if you're still confused, keep a few rules in mind.

• Don't apply for noncombatant status just because you think it's easier to get. Often it isn't. And if you do get it, you may find that you can't accept it. If you want a discharge, apply for a discharge.
• Don't accept noncombatant status as a "compromise" when you've applied for discharge. The military can't legally offer you such a compromise, but it may happen. Stick to your principles.
• If you have any objection at all to military duty, apply for discharge. And when in doubt, apply for discharge. You'll probably be better off in the long run if you do. There are many COs who find that noncombatant duty is what they want and what their consciences will allow. Others find that only a discharge is acceptable. Which are you? Only you can decide.

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