The history of conscientious objectors in the United
States reaches back to the Revolutionary War. At that time, exemptions varied
by state. During the Civil War conscientious objection was not part of the
draft law for the federal side, but individuals could provide a substitute or
pay $300 to hire one. In the Confederacy there were few options: moving to
northern states, hiding in the mountains, joining the army but refusing to use
a weapon, or being imprisoned. World War I saw little improvement to the
handing of COs. In fact, when imprisoned they were often subjected to short
rations, solitary confinement, and physical abuse.
Fortunately, World War II provided a better solution.
Registrants were sent a questionnaire that included a checkoff to indicate
opposition to military service because of religious training or belief. Anyone
who marked the box then received a more detailed form on which they had to
explain the basis for their objection. The Civilian Public Service provided COs
an alternative to military service, and from 1941 to 1947 nearly 12,000
draftees served in this manner.
Meet Irwin Terrell, the hero in Love’s Allegiance who is a member of one of the Peace Churches, and
as such, a conscientious objector.
LM:
How
did your family and neighbors react to your decision to apply for conscientious
objector status?
Terrell:
My dad is very supportive of my decision. We discussed my choice at length, and
even though he doesn’t fully understand my reasoning or agree with it, he said
that each man is responsible for his own life. He was adamant that I pray about
my decision, which of course, I did. I feel that God led me to make the choice,
however I don’t believe He leads everyone in that direction. Unfortunately, my friends are not so understanding, and I've been shunned by those who are still here. Townspeople with family serving overseas are also angry at me. I am alternate avoided and scorned. I have also received veiled threats.
LM: Tell
us about where your assignment during the war.
Terrell:
I
was assigned through the Civilian Public Service to serve at a mental health
hospital. In addition to chores around the property such as maintenance and
landscaping, I am responsible for attending to the men. I work six days a week
and help the patients with self-care as well as occupation and physical therapy.
We are hoping to help as many as possible to become self-sufficient.
LM: What
are some of the other opportunities for COs to serve, and why didn’t you volunteer
for one of them?
Terrell:
The
U.S. Forest and U.S. Park Services offered positions to help with forest and
park maintenance. Even though I’m used to working outside on the farm, I wanted
to do something different. There are also a number of experiments being
performed in medical schools around the U.S. on men in an effort of discover
cures for diseases such as typhus, infectious hepatitis, and malaria because
our troops are exposed to these terrible ailments.
LM:
Do
you feel that taking up arms is wrong across the board or just for you?
Terrell:
Like my dad, I feel that
each man must make the decision that is right for him. Unfortunately, we live
in a sinful world and sometimes war becomes the only answer to overcoming evil.
LM:
What
is your favorite part of your job?
Terrell: I’m
responsible for the gardens at the hospital. I have a cadre of patients who I
work with. Seeing the joy as well as the understanding on their faces as they
learn how to plant, maintain, and harvest the crops is gratifying. It is a step
toward independence for them.
LM:
What
are your plans for after the war?
Terrell:
My work at the hospital has spurred an interest in continuing to work in the
mental health field. I’m not sure where God will lead me, but I believe it will
be to minister to others in some way.
LM:
I understand there is some possible romance in your life too. What can you tell
us about that?
Terrell:
You’re
talking about Rochelle. My father thinks I have waited too long to marry, so he…uh…decided
to give me some help. He contacted a distant cousin of his and they agreed to
have her come work for him so we could explore a possible marriage. You’ll have
to read how things turn out!
About
Love’s Allegiance:
With most U.S. boys fighting for Uncle Sam in far off
countries, Rochelle Addams has given up hope for a wedding in her future. Then
she receives an intriguing offer from a distant relative to consider a marriage
of convenience.
Conscientious objector Irwin Terrell is looking
forward to his assignment at Shady Hills Mental hospital to minister to the
less fortunate in lieu of bearing arms. At the arrival of the potential bride
his father has selected for him, Irwin’s well-ordered life is turned upside
down. And after being left at the altar two years ago, he has no interest in
risking romance again.
Despite his best efforts to remain aloof to Rochelle,
Irwin is drawn to the enigmatic and beautiful young woman, but will time run
out before his wounded heart can find room for her?
Inspired by the biblical love story of Rebekkah and
Isaac, Love’s Allegiance explores the
struggles and sacrifices of those whose beliefs were at odds with a world at
war.
Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/2ZXb9JQ
About
Linda Shenton Matchett: Linda is an author, speaker, and
history geek. A native of Baltimore, Maryland, she was born a stone’s throw
from Fort McHenry (of Star Spangled Banner fame) and has lived in historic
places all her life. Linda is a member of ACFW, RWA, and Sisters in Crime. She
is a volunteer docent and archivist at the Wright Museum of WWII. Find out more
about Linda and her books at http://www.LindaShentonMatchett.com.
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