Oldham Historical Research Group

'THE GREAT WAR', 'THE WAR TO END WAR', 'WORLD WAR 1'
'What passing-bells for these who die as cattle?
- Only the monstrous anger of the guns.'
from 'Anthem for Doomed Youth' by Wilfred Owen

CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTION IN WW1

Example from the Military Service Local and Appeal Tribunals in Middlesex, from the National Archives

Thomas Arthur Brown Applied for 'absolute exemption' from military service 1916

Thomas Arthur Brown

MILITARY SERVICE ACT, 1916
APPLICATION FOR EXEMPTION [continued]

Reasons to support application:
Because I hold a firm and deep conviction that human life is sacred under all circumstances, therefore my conscience would not permit me to kill, or assist others in the destroying of human life, which Military Service would compel me to do.

As a Christian it is my solemn belief, that to inflict death upon a fellow man is acting contrary to the teachings of Christ.

For years my interest and sympathy has been with the movement for promoting the international Brotherhood of Man, with the Fatherhood of God over all. A movement which strongly repudiates war amongst the human race.

It is my definite conviction that to condemn me to take part in destroying human life regardless of the moral convictions which are deeply rooted within me would be to inflict the greatest humiliation it is possible to subject a human being to.

Two witnesses will be present when the claim is heard who will be willing to give evidence in support.

Signed: Thomas Arthur Brown [signature]

Date of application: February 23rd 1916

___________________________

FOR LOCAL TRIBUNAL

Decision:
Exempted from combatant service only.

Return to Examples from the Military Service Local and Appeal Tribunals in Middlesex Page

If you have Oldham and District items that we can include on our website, PLEASE visit the information page to find out how you can help.