Bear arms n-400 yes, but change mind later

[workonnet1]

If one is willing to bear arms for US on the n-400 application (q37 yes), can one change their mind after becoming citizen? In other words, if one is called to bear arms as a us citizen after indicating that they are willing to do on on their oath and citizenship application, can they change mind and refuse to bear arms?

 

[Jackolantern]

Even if you say that you're not willing to bear arms on the N-400 and get a modified oath, that won't automatically exempt you if they start drafting people again. You'll have to demonstrate to them again that you're a conscientious objector. That part of the oath is really meaningless if they start forcing people into the military.

 

[natur08]

The modified oath itself does not guarantee Conscientious Objector status in the unlikely event that the draft is reinstated. However, it might be an additional argument in the proceedings. On the other hand, if you swore the full oath and then claim CO status, the bar would be significantly higher.

 

[workonnet1]

n the other hand, if you swore the full oath and then claim CO status, the bar would be significantly higher.

But, it can be usually done, No? How high is the bar?

Since a US citizen can claim CO status, it stands to reason that once one becomes a naturalized US citizen even with the full oath, they have the freedom to be CO later.

 

[WBH]

But, it can be usually done, No? How high is the bar?

Since a US citizen can claim CO status, it stands to reason that once one becomes a naturalized US citizen even with the full oath, they have the freedom to be CO later.

A difference is that a natural born citizen never took such oath. He can claim that his US citizenship is not his choice but simply
imposed on him at his birth by law made by others. A naturalized citizen, on the other hand, choose to be a US citizen
with previlegde and responsibilities required.

AT practical level, I think no one need to worry. Most likely you are way past the draft age and no branch of US armed forces even
let you bear arms in uniform if you eagerly want to. You can ask the army if any commanding position is available above the rank of a 3 star general and tell them you are a military genius