Duties of a Soldier: What They Are Not Allowed to Do

The duties and constraints placed on soldiers while on duty are extensive, often exceeding what the layperson might assume. The primary reference for these regulations is the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), a comprehensive set of guidelines that outline the do's and don'ts of military life.

Understanding the UCMJ

The UCMJ is the law that governs the behavior of service members within the U.S. Armed Forces. It is a detailed legal framework, comprised of hundreds of articles, each addressing a specific conduct or behavior. Essential sections of the UCMJ include Articles 90-134, which cover a wide array of behaviors, ranging from serious offenses like murder and desertion to more minor infractions like being fashionably late.

Despite the comprehensive nature of the UCMJ, the most frequently referenced articles for everyday soldiers are often Article 90, which covers conduct prejudicial to good order and discipline, and Article 134, the catch-all article.

Article 134 - The Catch-All Article

Article 134 is the most flexible and comprehensive section of the UCMJ. This article covers conduct that is prejudicial to good order and discipline, meaning anything that threatens the values and ethical standards that the military upholds. This can include a range of behaviors, from minor infractions to serious violations. It is designed to allow commanders and military police to address any behavior that undermines the trust and cohesion necessary for a functioning military organization.

Specific Behavioral Restrictions

Some of the more specific behaviors that soldiers are not allowed to perform while on duty include:

Disobeying lawful orders: Soldiers are expected to follow all orders from their superiors, from minor instructions to major commands. Abusing substances: The consumption of drugs is strictly prohibited in the military. Soldiers are expected to adhere to these rules, which are rigorously enforced. Committing criminal acts: Soldiers are not allowed to engage in any form of criminal activity, whether minor offenses or serious crimes. Indecent behavior: Soldiers are expected to maintain a level of propriety at all times. Any behavior deemed indecent, such as being fashionably late or being disrespectful to superiors, is prohibited. Personal appearance and conduct: Specific regulations govern everything from which clothes a soldier can wear to how they present themselves. For example, soldiers are not allowed to have dirty shoes or to sleep in during designated wake-up hours.

Deployment Regulatory Effects

Deployment adds an additional layer of restrictions to ensure the safety and organization of troops. During deployments, the consumption of alcohol is often restricted to specific times and locations. Freedom of movement is also limited to ensure the safety of soldiers. Many bases have curfews, mandating that soldiers return to their barracks at designated times, typically around 22:00, unless on a mission or performing an authorized activity.

Conclusion

Life as a soldier is heavily regulated to maintain discipline, order, and readiness. The UCMJ and its specific articles are crucial tools for ensuring that all service members adhere to a strict set of norms and behaviors. While the rules can seem daunting, they are essential for the functioning of a military organization and the protection of all those involved.