7/28 update: Benderman found guilty of one charge, sentenced to 15 months

After serving in the military for eight years, including a tour of duty in Iraq, Kevin Benderman decided he could not participate in the Iraq war and occupation. He filed for conscientious objector status in December 2004. His application was denied, and on the weekend of Jan. 7th, 2005 Benderman refused to re-deploy to Iraq with his unit. He was charged with Desertion and Missing Movement by Design. On May 10th, 30 cities held public support events for Kevin Benderman and Navy refuser Pablo Paredes. On May 11th Kevin’s court martial judge overturned his hearing, citing a biased investigation, and ordered a new hearing. On Wednesday May 25th, the military filed a new court martial against Kevin, which was heard on July 28th. Last Friday, a military judge threw out charges of larceny against Benderman in which he had been accused of stealing $2,922 in unearned combat pay after his refusal to deploy to Iraq. Free Speech Radio News Audio Report

Courage to Resist organized protests all over the country on July 28th to support military resistance, including a spoken word/poetry Read Out at the Armed Forces Recruiting Center in Oakland. Photos | Report

Indybay Coverage of May 10th, 2005 National Day of Action for GI Resisters | More about Kevin Benderman's Case | Courage to Resist