The Conscientious Objector

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!

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.

What you will learn in the first minutes is that the Army wanted Desmond Doss out, because of his unwillingness to touch a gun. But he knew he could and would be of service to his country and his fellow men. I think with good intentions his fellow privates and commanding officers, couldn't see what he could possibly contribute. They did their best to get rid of him. He could have taken the easy way out, but he was not to be shaken. Instead he served above and beyond and was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor--probably deserving the award as much as a man can deserve it. The story is incredible. The telling of it is more than competent. I'm recommending this documentary to everyone I know.

After watching the fantastic 'Hacksaw Ridge', I wanted to know more about Desmond Doss. So I bought this documentary - and what can I say? Desmond Doss was a true hero, the film and the documentary both do him justice. Everybody should watch it and be inspired! Fantastic! I wonder why this brave man is not as well known as other American heroes. He was the bravest man I ever heard about.

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.