AWOL American soldier applies for German asylum

FRANKFURT – An AWOL (Absent Without Leave) American soldier will file his application for German asylum Thursday (27 Nov. 2008) in the Frankfurt area. He is the first American veteran of the war in Iraq to pursue refugee status in Europe. A press conference will take place at 10:00 the same day at Presseclub in Frankfurt.

His application cites a European Union regulation providing refugee status to a soldier who is in danger of being prosecuted if military service “would include crimes or acts,” which violate international law. The application references the Nuremberg Trials, stating “It is established that a person cannot defend his or her actions by explaining that they had simply been following orders.”
In his own words: “We should not be forced to fight an illegal war, nor should we be persecuted for refusing to do so. During the past five years we have waged a preemptive, internationally condemned war that was shown to be founded on a series of lies. After learning the truth about the nature of my military’s endeavors, I refuse to continue to be a part of this.”

The soldier will make a statement and be accompanied by his legal representation, Frankfurt-based asylum lawyer Dr. Reinhard Marx, who will be available for questions.

10:00 – 27. November, 2008
Presseclub, Saalgasse 30 in Frankfurt/Main

For more information:
Tim Huber, Military Counseling Network, +49 622347506
Rudi Friedrich, Connection e.V., +49 6982375534