U.S. Army Specialist David Beals: Why I went AWOL

[Indie Media Magazine]

Robert S. Finnegan
Managing Editor, Southeast Asia News

01/18/05 -- Georgia: Specialist David Beals of the 2-7 Infantry stationed at Ft. Stewart, Georgia has today decided to turn himself in after going AWOL from the Winn Army Hospital following his attempted suicide. Beals plans to return within 72 hours, after taking the time he said was necessary to ponder the few options available to him.

Beals, 25, has already served a tour in Iraq. After witnessing firsthand the killing of innocent civilians by U.S. forces he has decided to apply for Conscientious Objector status. He also stated that he would accept an honorable discharge from the Army.

U.S. Army Specialist David Beals: Why I went AWOL