AFZS-AV-CAV-T

26 AUG 96

MEMORANDUM FOR RECORD

SUBJECT: Conscientious Objector Interview with CPT Kilgore (26 Aug 96)

1. On 26 August 1996 I conducted an interview with CPT Kilgore (BN Chaplain) to discuss the Conscientious Objector claim made by SPC John R. Goldthwaite. This interview was conducted IAW AR 600-43, and listed below are the results of the interview.

Q. How long have you known SPC Goldthwaite?
A. I first [met] him on 29 May when I conducted my first of three interviews with him.

Q. Has SPC Goldthwaite had any major problems since his arrival at 2-10 AVN BN?
A. None to my knowledge.

Q. Is SPC Goldthwaite under any pressure, is he searching for himself?
A. He is under no pressure that I know of. His views and beliefs are genuine, and [he] does not present himself as an impulsive person. He is very smart, and does have deeply held moral and ethical beliefs.

Q. Do you feel SPC Goldthwaite's beliefs are religious or political?
A. Neither, they are moral and ethical beliefs.

Q. Do [you] think these beliefs have really been formed within the last year?
A. Yes, I believe they were formed in the course of his training at DLI and Goodfellow AFB.

Q. Does SPC Goldthwaite believe in the Constitution of the United States?
A. No.

Q. Do you think that SPC Goldthwaite has been approached/targeted by other groups?
A. He has never mentioned any group, and has been consistent that all his beliefs come from reading only. However, a lot of his books are popular with militia groups.

Q. Do you feel this soldier is willing to participated in any type of war in any form?
A. No, his conscience will no longer allow him to participated in any kind of war.

Q. Did SPC Goldthwaite write these statements?
A. I think, yes, but possibly [they were] taken from his readings.

Q. Is there anything you would like to add about SPC Goldthwaite?
A. Yes, SPC Goldthwaite defines Liberty as "life without restraint." He is sincere in his beliefs, and this is not a trend at 2-10 AVN BN.

2. POC for this interview is CPT Martinez at (extension)

(singed)
Robert A. Martinez
CPT, AV
Investigating Officer