Iraq War Objector May Face Court-Martial
- Share via
An Army hearing officer has recommended a court-martial for a soldier charged with desertion after he refused to deploy to Iraq.
In a Feb. 16 report just released, Lt. Col. Linda Taylor recommended that Sgt. Kevin Benderman face a general court-martial, the most serious type. The procedure requires approval from Ft. Stewart’s General Court-Martial Convening Authority.
Benderman, 40, an Army mechanic, refused to accompany his unit Jan. 7 for a second tour in Iraq, 10 days after he gave notice that he was seeking a discharge as a conscientious objector. He said he became opposed to war after serving in 2003. He is charged with desertion and missing movement.
Sign up for Essential California
The most important California stories and recommendations in your inbox every morning.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
