If Stephanie Atkinson isn’t willing to serve in the Middle East, she should return the government money given to her through the taxpayers on top of accepting her dishonorable discharge.

Although Atkinson now calls herself a “conscientious objector”, she didn’t make such a claim when the military payed for her schooling.

But now that it’s time to pay the piper, Atkinson has reconsidered and is taking a political stance against war in the Middle East.

This country is based on freedom of expression and choice. However, once certain choices are made, you are obligated to stick to them. One such situation, is committing oneself to the Armed Forces.

Anyone who reaps the benefits of military service knows from the start there is a chance they someday might have to fight. Nowhere in a military service agreement does it say “you are expected to serve, but only if you agree with the cause.”

As U.S. citizens, we all have an obligation to our country. There are many ways to protest what the government does, but when it comes down to it, if you enjoy the benefits of a the democracy, you have to be ready to support your country.

And if you volunteer for the military, expect to serve your country—even if you don’t always want to.

Atkinson is spitting in the faces of all those who helped her get where she is.