Understanding Desertion in the Military: Definition, Examples, and Consequences
Desertion is the act of abandoning one's duty, post or position without permission. It is a serious offense in the military and can lead to court-martial and punishment such as imprisonment or dishonorable discharge.
What are some examples of desertion?
Examples of desertion include:
Abandoning one's post or station without permission
Refusing to perform military duties
Leaving one's unit or command without authorization
Deserting one's fellow soldiers or comrades in battle
Absenting oneself from duty without a valid reason or excuse
What is the difference between desertion and AWOL?
Desertion and AWOL (Absent Without Leave) are both forms of absence from duty, but there are some key differences:
Desertion is the act of abandoning one's post or position without permission, while AWOL is simply being absent from duty without permission.
Desertion is a more serious offense than AWOL and can lead to court-martial and punishment such as imprisonment or dishonorable discharge, while AWOL may be punished with less severe penalties such as fines or demotion.
Desertion is often seen as a willful act of abandoning one's duties, while AWOL may be the result of circumstances beyond the individual's control, such as illness or family emergency.
What are the consequences of desertion?
The consequences of desertion can be severe and long-lasting, including:
Court-martial and punishment such as imprisonment or dishonorable discharge
Loss of veterans benefits
Stigma and social ostracism
Legal penalties such as fines or restitution
Difficulty in finding employment or obtaining government services
What is the process for addressing desertion?
If you are facing allegations of desertion, it is important to seek legal counsel and take the following steps:
Consult with a military lawyer or defense attorney who is experienced in court-martial cases.
Gather evidence and witnesses to support your case.
Prepare a defense against the charges.
Appear before a court-martial and present your defense.
Accept any punishment imposed by the court-martial and take steps to appeal if desired.
What are some common defenses against desertion?
Some common defenses against desertion include:
Lack of intent to desert: If you can show that you did not intentionally abandon your post or position, you may be able to avoid a conviction.
Circumstances beyond control: If you can demonstrate that circumstances beyond your control, such as illness or family emergency, prevented you from fulfilling your duties, you may be able to avoid a conviction.
Valid reason for absence: If you can show that you had a valid reason for being absent from duty, such as a medical leave or family emergency, you may be able to avoid a conviction.
What is the difference between desertion and absence without leave (AWOL)?
Desertion and AWOL are both forms of absence from duty, but there are some key differences:
Desertion is the act of abandoning one's post or position without permission, while AWOL is simply being absent from duty without permission.
Desertion is a more serious offense than AWOL and can lead to court-martial and punishment such as imprisonment or dishonorable discharge, while AWOL may be punished with less severe penalties such as fines or demotion.
Desertion is often seen as a willful act of abandoning one's duties, while AWOL may be the result of circumstances beyond the individual's control, such as illness or family emergency.
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