Catholic Buffalo and the Vietnam War Draft: A Story of Resistance

Paul Good was a beloved son and brother, known for his zest for life and exceptional pool skills. His life took a drastic turn when he was drafted into the Vietnam War, a conflict that claimed his life at just 19. His brother Jim, already disillusioned with U.S. foreign policy, was driven to rebellion by this loss. Jim's journey from a seminary student to an antiwar activist is a tale of transformation, marked by his experiences in the Dominican Republic and his eventual involvement in anti-draft activities in Buffalo, New York.

Jim's story intertwines with those of other young Catholics from Buffalo, like Jeremiah Horrigan, Mike Hickey, Ken Mudie, and Maureen "Meaux" Considine. Each of them grappled with the contradictions between their faith and the realities of war. They found themselves drawn to activism, inspired by figures like Father Daniel Berrigan, a radical antiwar priest, and the counterculture movements of the 1960s.

The draft lottery of 1969, a televised event that determined the fate of many young men, was a turning point. For some, like Ken, a high draft number meant safety, while others, like Mike, felt the weight of their deferments as they watched friends being called to war. Jeremiah's college experience at Fordham University, where he encountered professors who encouraged resistance, further fueled his antiwar sentiments.

The antiwar movement in Buffalo was part of a larger network known as the East Coast Conspiracy to Save Lives. This group, inspired by the Berrigan brothers, engaged in raids on draft boards, destroying files to disrupt the draft process. These actions were seen as nonviolent resistance, targeting the tools of war rather than people.

Chuck Darst, another key figure, was drawn into the movement after his brother's involvement in the Catonsville Nine and subsequent death. His relationship with Meaux and their shared commitment to antiwar activism led them to join forces with Mike and others in planning direct actions.

The story captures the spirit of a generation questioning authority, driven by a mix of faith, moral conviction, and the desire for social justice. It highlights the personal and collective struggles of those who dared to challenge the status quo during one of America's most turbulent eras.