The big political argument this week is rather specious. A bunch of well-meaning Democrats came out with a video that reminds enlisted members of our military that they are not required to obey unlawful orders. That is true, as the oath of enlistment spells out.
“I, ____________________, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice”.
Patriots were outraged. While it is true that our military members can refuse unlawful orders, it is also true what President Trump pointed out, that sedition is punishable by death.
That is also true. Sedition is considered a bad thing in military service. One can be hanged, or shot, for sedition.
Both sides of this argument are telling the truth. No military member is required to follow an unlawful order. And sedition can get you shot.
Both sides are being silly, and I'm glad I could clear that up for you.
I thought the oath said "lawful orders" when I raised my hand way back when. Has the wording changed or am I misremembering this along with many other things?
ReplyDeleteI noticed how 'careful' the Dems were about NOT saying what was an illegal order. And you and I both know that is not a decision any enlisted or officer is going to make willingly...
ReplyDeleteConservatives are too self-deprecating. It doesn't make sense, and it really encourages crazy people to be crazier.
ReplyDeleteIt isn't both sides.
There are millions of white kids who've been taught that their country has a horrible past and is systemically racist. They have no ties to and no love for our everyday American life.
ReplyDeleteAt least some of them ended up in the Services. What we're seeing in the streets today and in the past nine months shows that they'll gladly put their lives on the line for the latest cause.
Is it far-fetched for their commander to remind them of reality? Military justice won't be as kind as district court.
I'm finding it very hard to think of any instance anywhere where 'both sides are to blame'.
As was shown with the CBD vaccine and in other past situations, disobeying an order is a BIG deal and you WILL suffer for it.
ReplyDeleteMilitary personnel know this - Democrats don't seem to. But most of them appear to never have suffered or faced consequences, so it's not surprising they don't understand it.
Jonathan
Every recruit has a class on lawful orders. At least when I went thru basic we did. It was taught by an Lt from the JAG office. Examples of unlawful orders were discussed. And we were told that if we believed that an order was unlawful, that we should talk to a JAG officer; or if a JAG officer was not available, a military chaplain.
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