The Conscientious Objector

I just saw this documentary on PAX satellite channel (programmed for Memorial Day). I had heard about Desmond Doss before, but never realized what he did and how he survived the US Army with his faith intact, and the Japanese Army with life and health intact (mostly).

I felt great pride sharing the same faith with Mr. Doss, and was moved to tears at the testimony of many of Doss' fellow soldiers. I found it very inspiring to remind those of faith what it means to maintain your integrity in the face of opposition, foreign and domestic.

I certainly want to purchase some copies of the DVD to share with many of my friends who would appreciate seeing it. Technically well done along with the inspiring content.

I first saw this film at the 2004 Heartland Film festival in Indianapolis, Indiana. It is a story about Desmond Doss the first conscientious objector to win the Congressional Medal of Honor. His faith and perseverance in the face of overwhelming stresses from both ally and foe, is a lesson to all. It is a must-see for anyone searching for the meaning of faith and love for all mankind.

In these days of hype about war and bravery (or otherwise) it is refreshing to see a story of true heroism; a story that reflects true sacrifice and faith exercised over and over again.

You must see it for yourself and get others to see it! Encourage your bookstores, libraries, and video rental facilities to get copies of this video. Failing that, buy one yourself!!! Many kudos to Terry Benedict for recognizing this great story and bringing it to the screen!

If this film does not fill you with gratitude and hope, there's not much hope for you. One of the most inspiring films ever! This is a testament of not compromising one's faith and beliefs and thereby setting and example. Beautifully filmed. So touching. Ever so relevant especially as more of our WWII vets are passing on daily. I saw this one on TBN and will be ordering a copy for my self. There is something to gain from this film even if you are not a Christian. This should be distributed nationwide. History comes alive and I felt as though I was journeying with the brave men. Our vets truly deserve our gratitude. Some of the scenes are a bit graphic, but this is a documentary, not some cut and dry history film shown in class.

This documentary about the only conscientious objector to ever win the Congressional Medal of Honor is a touching and powerful tale of faith and courage.

While the approach is simple and rough around the edges, the story of Desmond Doss, - at first a hated outcast for his refusal to carry or use a weapon, later a hero among heroes for his saving of over 75 men as a medic in what seemed all but impossible circumstances – is so unique, and almost hard to believe that it pulls you in completely, whatever its budgetary or stylistic limitations.

I was surprised to see a few critics attack it as being an ad for Christianity, or for Seventh Day Adventists in the specific. I'm neither Christian nor religious, yet I never felt I was being preached at. It's simply the case that for this man his faith is what helped give him his courage and convictions. Would I want a documentary about Martin Luther King to not deal with how he drew his inspiration from his faith? Or Gandhi or the Dali Llama from theirs?

Told by the men who were there, including Doss himself, this is a film that speaks of the grace of refusing to conform, and being driven to do good, even at great personal risk and sacrifice. A truly inspiring story of an amazing yet humble individual. It has flaws, but in this case, it doesn't really matter.

Like the reviewer above, I saw "The Conscientious Objector" at the 2004 Heartland Film Festival in Indianapolis. Content such as that included in this fine film is the primary reason for the importance of the documentary medium. As soon as I can obtain a DVD of the film, I will begin sharing it with friends and family, because surely this is a piece of Americana that should have the widest possible audience. This film has a linger effect that makes me recall the courage and integrity and heroism of the protagonist, Desmond Doss, over and over again. This man is a sterling example of what can happen if a person stands for something and refuses to allow his/her resolve to be shaken. The film should find a broad audience among a great variety of groups, from churches to service organizations to grade, high school, and university students, because the human soul is nourished by true accounts such as this. The filmmaker, Terry Benedict, deserves accolades for recognizing in Mr. Doss the stuff that has made our Country great.