People often assume that military members give up many, if not all, of their Constitutional rights upon joining the military. In reality, military members enjoy the same rights that civilians do, if not better.

What are the military rights?

Members of the armed forces have the right to freedom of thought, con- science and religion, including the right to change religion or belief at any time. Specific limitations may be placed on the exercise of this right within the constraints of military life.

Do you have to respect the military?

Some military customs are established by regulation, and you can be punished (even sent to jail) for disregarding them, while others are unwritten, but obeyed just the same. The customs of the military services are their common law. These are a few: Never criticize your service or your leaders in public.

Is the military limited by the First Amendment?

In 1974 the U.S. Supreme Court wrote, “While the members of the military are not excluded from the protection granted by the First Amendment, the different character of the military community and of the military mission requires a different application of those protections.

What is not allowed in the military?

Likewise, for offenses involving the sale of illegal drugs, and most sex offenses are disqualifying. Anyone convicted of a domestic violence misdemeanor is barred from carrying a firearm, which would disqualify the person from serving in the military.

Can you say no in the military?

It’s OK to say you don’t have the time required for that commitment but would love to help out in another way. It’s OK to say “no.”

Do you lose your rights in the military?

People often assume that military members give up many, if not all, of their Constitutional rights upon joining the military. In reality, military members enjoy the same rights that civilians do, if not better.

What happens if a civilian fights a soldier?

18 U.S. Code § 1389 – Prohibition on attacks on United States servicemen on account of service. in the case of a battery, or an assault resulting in bodily injury, be fined under this title in an amount not less than $2500 and imprisoned not less than 6 months nor more than 10 years.

Can military members speak out against the president?

Indicative of the military’s special status, the Uniform Code of Military Justice prohibits military personnel from using “contemptuous speech” against the President and other leaders, from engaging in “conduct prejudicial to good order and discipline in the Armed Forces,” and from “conduct unbecoming an officer and a

Do military members have 5th Amendment rights?

The question is, do you have those same rights as a military member? The answer to that is absolutely. Military members are guaranteed that right under the Fifth Amendment, but are also subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

Do civilians have to obey military?

To clarify, a civilian is not subject to military laws, even if they are on base or in a military-run location. They must still follow all civilian laws as they normally would and may be subject to rules and codes of conduct that are tailored to their location.

Why military should be respected?



Respect in the military is highly regarded because it provides structure and foundation through the chain of command to respect the rank and authority. Without military respect and respect for authority, there will be no structure and the entirety of the United States Army would fail.

What happens if you don’t obey in the military?

The maximum punishment for a violation or failure to obey lawful general order or regulation is dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of all pay and allowances, and confinement for two years.

What happens if you disrespect a military officer?

Maximum punishment. Bad-conduct discharge, forfeiture of all pay and allowances, and confinement for 1 year.

Can a soldier disobey?

So, can a person in the military simply refuse to follow an order if they don’t like it? The answer is yes — if they consider the order itself to be illegal or unconstitutional. It’s generally called a “duty to disobey,” and is empowered by the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

Can military members disobey orders?



Members of the military are required to obey lawful orders and regulations that are issued. Failure to obey a military order can have serious consequences. If you are convicted your future in the military will be over.