In January 2023, the Department of Defense (DoD) rescinded the August 2021 memorandum mandating the COVID-19 vaccination for all military personnel. This marks a significant shift in the military’s approach to managing the dwindling pandemic. The decision has raised numerous questions among service members regarding the implications of the lifted mandate, potential repercussions for those … Read more
Sexual assaults committed by someone in the general population often give rise to criminal prosecutions, which may result in fines, jail time, probation, and sanctions against the offender, if convicted. There are similar repercussions in the military, where sexual assaults are punishable under Article 120 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Sentences may … Read more
Conscientious objection to military service is a firm, fixed, and sincere position taken by someone who refuses to participate in war on the basis of religious, moral, or ethical beliefs. This objection may take many forms, such as a refusal to serve in combat, register for the draft, pay taxes tied to war allocations, or … Read more
Sexual assault has been a hot topic in the military for years. When a service member is convicted of this crime under Article 120 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), they may face punishments such as bad conduct or dishonorable discharge, imprisonment, and forfeiture of all pay, allowances, and veteran benefits. But do … Read more
Non-judicial punishment (NJP) is a form of disciplinary action that a military service member may face when charged with a minor offense. The proceedings allow commanders to resolve minor service member misconduct without resorting to higher forms of discipline. Each branch of service calls non-judicial punishment by a different name, including: Captain’s Mast (Navy and … Read more
Article 120 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) deals with rape, sexual assault, and sexual contact. These offenses cover a range of unlawful, forced sexual actions on another person. Charges involving sexual misconduct involving a child fall under Article 120b, while “other sexual misconduct” is outlined in Article 120c. Sexual assault in the … Read more
Required vaccines are nothing new for the US military. Yet the topic has garnered newfound attention following the COVID-19 vaccination order. Are you considering joining the military, or do you already serve in the Armed Forces? If so, be prepared to adhere to the Department of Defense (DoD) vaccination mandates as part of the requirement … Read more
Sexual assault claims among military service members are alarmingly high. According to the 2018 Department of Defense Annual Report on Sexual Assault in the Military, 20,500 active-duty service members reported experiencing sexual assault or rape, including about 13,000 women and 7,500 men. This indicates that 6.2 percent of female and 0.7 percent of male service … Read more
In general, it is not a crime to lie about serving in the military just to brag or impress others. Doing so may be morally reprehensible, but the deception isn’t enough to fine someone or put them in jail. However, “stolen valor” is a crime, as is impersonating a military member or officer. Learn more … Read more
Social media is everywhere now. Every generation, in some aspect, is affected by it. In August, the Department of Defense released its first guideline for social media use. That release acted as the catalyst for other social media reforms to be put into place. Army Announces New Social Media Policy This month the Army also … Read more