Delila Nonymous

Navy Personnel Command
5720 Integrity Drive
Millington, TN 38055

To Whom It May Concern,

I am a student of Government at George Mason University in Fairfax, VA, and an avid follower of Daniel Lakemacher’s blog, “For the Convenience of the Government”. I happened upon his blog after my boyfriend resigned his position as a Warrant Officer in the Army. Having very limited knowledge of military culture, I was curious how enlisted personnel accomplished the equivalent of a resignation, given the contractual nature of their obligation to the military.

After having read a military recruitment website, I began looking for clarification as to what constituted “the convenience of the government”, which is what led me to Daniel’s website. He offers a very cogent argument for his ideological belief that war is immoral, indicative of his sincere conviction that he has become ill-suited for any position within the military.

I can trust the opinion of a Navy chaplain that Daniel’s decision is his own, and clearly authentic. I am convinced by the evaluation of a Navy psychologist that his request to be classified as a conscientious objector is sincere. While the independent assessments of various Navy personnel as to the depth of authenticity of Daniel’s claims are compelling, I also value my personal judgment.

While many with deeply held values often silently acquiesce to societal pressure, leadership or the difficulty which would present itself by being contrary, Daniel has chosen to make his voice count. Those without a specific and obvious belief in the moral correctness of their opinion do not develop websites, report daily and enumerate their principles by engaging in healthy, constructive debate. These are the actions of someone who, using his intellect and passionate belief in his personal values, has utilized his position and experience to enlighten and energize others.

It is necessary for inter-governmental organizations to respect the convictions, diversity and personal constitutions of their constituents, being they in line with, “liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” While it is my personal belief that the necessity of a military cannot be denied, it is also my contention that it should be left to the individual to decide whether or not to be part of such an institution, and to freely change one’s mind.

Choice and self-determination are core principles of the democratic process that frame America’s history and character. I submit that Daniel’s clear and deeply held beliefs are both a product and a facet of what makes this country a bastion of freedom.

Respectfully,


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