Servicememebers Calling the Government Out

SSG Jacob Wiley — Mon, 15 Sep 2014 12:02:44 -0400

Though many may not like the individual sitting the the seat currently or in the past, the President is the Commander and Chief. Respect the position, just like if you have someone in the CoC you detest - respect the rank.

That being said...we are Americans and we do have rights. Lot's of people like to quote the 1st, but they do not do so fully. Most simply say "freedom of speech" and leave it at that, at which time someone fires back with a regulation which in short says "you can't say that".

Here's the entire 1st Amendment:

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."

The right to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. While the position of Commander in Chief must be respected, there is absolutely nothing wrong, illegal or immoral about being critical of the policies set forth. Its our jobs as Americans to expect our elected leaders to adhere to the country's best interests, and demand an answer when they do not or fall short. In my opinion if this was not within our rights as servicemembers, then the military wouldn't be allowed to vote. We can vote, and we have a duty to vote. We do have a voice and we can tactfully exercise it.

The Commander in Chief is elected by 'we the people', not born into a position of power. Without this, we have no republic - we have a dictatorship.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2014 12:05 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 15 Sep 2014 12:05:49 -0400

And to add, we as Soldiers do not have all the same rights as every American.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2014 1:38 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 15 Sep 2014 13:38:49 -0400

UCMJ articles 88-92 are frontline example for ensuring we exercise extra caution when speaking out. Of course there's always the catch all 134.

There are many objective, diplomatic channels to speak out when in uniform, and as long as they're followed in a respectful manner, there shouldn't be a problem.

Annually and sometimes quarterly we meet with our CO who let's us 'vent' about any issues were experiencing. Interesting feedback that I'd never expect to hear comes out of juniors and staff mouths