Harnessing Fate: A Young Man Becomes a Conscientious Objector

Description

In the year 1969, a young Dennis Bidwell gathers around the tv with his buddies in the basement of his college dorm. But the men aren't watching a sporting event or game show—They are watching the military draft for the Vietnam War. With each of their birthdays on one of 365 ping pong balls, the young men watch as their fate is shuffled, spun, and chosen.

In his story, Dennis Bidwell guides us through his harrowing journey applying for Conscientious Objector (CO) Status during the Vietnam War. Dennis reflect on his coming of age, the culture of the 1960's and 70's, and his experience writing "the most important essay of [his] life"

Participants

• Dennis Bidwell
  
• Savannah Gillis
  
• Gloria DiFulvio
  

Interview By

• Gloria DiFulvio