What is a legal order?
A lawful Order is any order issued by a superior-non-commissioned officer or commission officer in accordance with a regulation. These orders should be useful in assisting in the successful execution of the mission. According to United States in vs. Deisher (the court case), a lawful command must be issued and communicated by an authorized authority or person under applicable law. These statements can be rescinded by any order or mandate. You can challenge any order you feel is unlawful. But, if the order is actually found to be legal, you must follow it. Otherwise, you could be punished.
You can be penalized under the Uniform Code of Military Justice Punitive Articles if your conduct is not in accordance with law. Article ninety covers the assault or willful disobeying an officer commissioned. If a person strikes or pulls up a weapon or threatens his superior commissioned officers while he’s performing his duties, this is considered assault. Any person who is disobedient to a superior officer is punished. Article ninety-one refers to insubordinate conduct towards any warrant officer, non-commissioned officer, or private officer. The term is further defined as any warrant officers or enlisted members who strike or assault a warrant office, non-commissioned or petty Officer, while that officer’s office is being executed. The failure to comply with an order, regulation or rule is article ninety two. This refers to anyone who violates, fails, or refuses to obey any lawful rule or regulation.
The military lifestyle is based on lawful orders. All military personnel must follow the law and comply with orders as required by the circumstances. Disobeying a lawful order is not only disrespectful, but it also makes one look unprofessional to others. You can face a court marshal or even death for not following lawful orders. All military personnel should carefully consider their options before they disobey any lawful orders. It is in everyone’s best interests to obey any lawful order. This will make everyone’s lives easier.
