Would you support a military coup in the United States?

2015-09-10T20:05:22-04:00

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/military-coup-u-surprising-number-195400272.html

A Military Coup in the U.S.? A Surprising Number of Americans Might Support One

Suddenly a breaking news alert flashes across the screen: “Military Coup Overthrows the Government.” What would be your reaction? In a new survey by YouGov, 29 percent of respondents said they can imagine a situation in which they would support the military taking control of the federal government – that translates into over 70 million American adults. Republicans (43 percent) were more likely to say they can envision a scenario in which they...

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2015 8:07 PM

2015-09-10T20:07:59-04:00

No. End of discussion.

Response by MAJ Bryan Zeski made Sep 10 at 2015 8:09 PM

2015-09-10T20:09:00-04:00

Not a chance. If I were in Command, I would consider it my duty to oppose such a coup with whatever forces I had available. I may not always agree with the government, and I may look to change the government (perhaps even the Constitution to some extent), but I would actively resist a military coup (and I suspect that most Servicemembers would as well).

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Sep 10 at 2015 8:21 PM

2015-09-10T20:21:04-04:00

It's not feasible.

However. I could however see the Military (CJCS) taking charge to re-establish order in the event of a catastrophic "political coup," or until we can swear in the next in the order of succession:

http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0101032.html

The major issue with the premise is that every Officer, and every enlisted is sworn to the Constitution itself, not to the military. Our loyalty is to the Nation. Therefor the second we find out that it is a coup, it we have each man "below" gunning to restore order.

The first thing that came to mind for me was the "Business Plot" and Gen. Smedley Butler.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Business_Plot

Order of Presidential Succession

Order of Presidential succession from the Vice President to Secretary of Homeland Security.

Response by SGT Christopher Churilla made Sep 10 at 2015 8:21 PM

2015-09-10T20:21:33-04:00

Oath of Enlistment:

"I, (state name of enlistee), do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God."

Our first duty is to the Constitution, not an elected official. If we had a government that was trampling all over it, I believe it would be our moral duty to take action against them.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2015 8:44 PM

2015-09-10T20:44:25-04:00

Not at all. We have elections. We may not always like those elected. But we have a duty, which requires those opinions to be irrelevant in this situation.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2015 8:49 PM

2015-09-10T20:49:33-04:00

Fck no, are you kidding me?

Response by Sgt Kelli Mays made Sep 10 at 2015 11:14 PM

2015-09-10T23:14:09-04:00

When you have an administration making up the rules as they go along...having the supreme court make laws....that I feel are clearly a violation and not constitutional.....not defending the borders as they should be.....putting a wedge and dividing the country.......if you have a government not following the Constitution, then perhaps this may be a good idea...

It's either this or enforce the laws....stand up.....congressmen and senators and those who are running the country should act like they care...stop bickering with one another...and work together...and for pete sakes...when people break the law or do unlawful things like Hilary or others...no matter who they are or how much money they have or how powerful they are...do the right FREAKING thing and prosecute them...stop letting so many in higher positions get away with the crap they do and think they are above the law.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2015 11:19 PM

2015-09-10T23:19:21-04:00

That's pretty open-ended. There may be a situation where a coup would be considered proper, although it is hard to imagine.

For the most part, if it ever comes to a point where we are seriously asking ourselves these questions, then something has probably happened that will make the choice obvious.

Of course, there could be things like insurrections, secession, or civil war, which don't necessarily need an actual coup. But those are different questions with differing levels of escalation. A lot would depend on what the issues are.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Sep 10 at 2015 11:42 PM

2015-09-10T23:42:26-04:00

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Sep 10 at 2015 11:48 PM

2015-09-10T23:48:26-04:00

Absolutely NOT!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2015 11:49 PM

2015-09-10T23:49:23-04:00

I cannot imagine myself supporting a military coup. I took an oath of allegiance, it means something to me. I hope it has the same meaning to each of those who took it.

Response by Cpl James Waycasie made Sep 11 at 2015 1:46 AM

2015-09-11T01:46:31-04:00

Lol, I think Vets should just plead the 5th to this question. :-)

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Sep 11 at 2015 1:56 AM

2015-09-11T01:56:03-04:00

While no Right Wing Oathkeeper Nut Job, I did swear to uphold the Constitution and support the Civilian Leadership of this country and I damn sure would not support a Banana Republic Fascist Overthrow by some Military Tin Horn Dictator. While I love the Military it has no business running our Country. Seen how that has turned out in way too many countries.

Response by SrA Tommy F. Moon made Sep 11 at 2015 3:07 AM

2015-09-11T03:07:37-04:00

I could support a military coup if the right generals and admirals are in charge not the hand picked by Oboma !!! And they would go by the Constitution that was the founding fathers wrote with the Bill Of Rights !!!

Response by PO1 John Miller made Sep 11 at 2015 4:30 AM

2015-09-11T04:30:55-04:00

Hard to say really. Like most people my gut reaction is to say no. But thinking about it for a few minutes I realized that we've had coups in our country before, namely the Revolutionary War.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 11 at 2015 8:45 AM

2015-09-11T08:45:37-04:00

Here is the thing we are the UNITED States of America, we are this way because our forefathers refused to allow states to secede from the Union. Our Unity is what gives us strength. Our size and the nature of our country dictates that a Coup in the United States would not be clean. There would be numerous fighting elements in support of defending the Constitution. There is also the factor of Countries outside of the U.S. sending their forces, airpower... here in support of an Administration that is catering to them. Beyond this there are powers which will send forces not for support of either agenda but because of their own interest. Evil in the world is kept at bay because we are mighty, the fights against the evil remain for the most part off of our soil because we have a strong military presence around the world. There are many who look us in the eye smile and shake our hands who would stab us in the back and carve their own piece of us for themselves. Don't be naive, we may not have exactly what we want, but what we have is much better than what could be and we do have the ability to stage a coup every four years, it's called ELECTIONS in case anyone has forgotten. Let's not become the DIVIDED States of America.

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Sep 11 at 2015 9:01 AM

2015-09-11T09:01:01-04:00

SSgt Alex Robinson - Absolutely not. While I certainly think that the current president and many in his administration should be removed from office before their terms are over, I only support doing so IAW the law of the land. I do not support any unlawful action of any type to remove an elected official from office.

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Sep 11 at 2015 9:22 AM

2015-09-11T09:22:19-04:00

I will plead the fifth. I took an oath for all enemies foreign and domestic!

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 11 at 2015 10:27 AM

2015-09-11T10:27:03-04:00

Obviously no active duty member can DARE to comment on this question, and no veteran can without risking some serious "spot correction". I'll take that risk by answering thus-Not only no, but Heck No! We have our problems to be certain-BIG problems, but to instigate, conduct, or support such an act would be trampling over the sacrifices of every one of our brothers or sisters who fought for the freedoms we currently enjoy and often take for granted.

A military coup would not only destroy our representative government, but open the door to God knows what horrors. In the middle would be a large section of the innocent population trapped between the radical notions driving it...and the "loyal" component charged with stopping it at all costs. Millions of people who simply wanted to live their lives in peace would be thrust into a Civil War with so many factions, the end result could only be darkness...chaos...and blood.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Sep 11 at 2015 11:33 AM

2015-09-11T11:33:09-04:00

It really depends on the ideology and what the purpose of the coup is. But generally, no I would not support a coup.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Sep 11 at 2015 12:04 PM

2015-09-11T12:04:35-04:00

Well at least now I have some Idea where a question like that would even come up.

43% Of Republicans Say They Could Support A Military Overthrow Of The U.S. Government

We live in very strange times.

Response by SN Greg Wright made Sep 11 at 2015 12:30 PM

2015-09-11T12:30:06-04:00

SSgt Alex Robinson Sure. If Obama ordered a nuclear strike against Canada tomorrow. Short of that, no way.

Response by 1SG Patrick Sims made Sep 11 at 2015 6:04 PM

2015-09-11T18:04:06-04:00

Hell no---now way.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 11 at 2015 6:50 PM

2015-09-11T18:50:43-04:00

Only if our military agrees to obey knowingly unlawful orders, would it ever be considered.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 11 at 2015 7:07 PM

2015-09-11T19:07:10-04:00

I will never take arms against the American people or its government. If anything I will be fighting by its side against any group factions, be it military or civilian. We have a Constitution and in it there is a process to remove a tyrannical government.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 11 at 2015 7:46 PM

2015-09-11T19:46:23-04:00

That is a dangerous question.

Response by PO1 Cameron Rhyne made Sep 12 at 2015 2:38 AM

2015-09-12T02:38:50-04:00

Nope. For many reasons, but the big two being that:

1.) We have a republic and some sort of representative government. Does it have issues with corruption? Hell yes it does. Could it be improved? Yep. But it functions, even if not well. Politicians and government officials can be removed from office through constitutional means. Until that ceases to be the case, we need to abide by the Constitution, no matter how much we like or dislike POTUS, Congress and the various courts.

2.)Let's face it, most, if not all revolutions, government overthrows and coups don't end up making things better but rather the opposite. A military government that has overthrown a civilian government rarely gives up their newly acquired power(and reconstitutes any kind of representative government) and when it does, it usually takes decades if not longer. Same with violent revolutions, which often end up with the new leaders acting worse then the ones they overthrew(despite how bad the old government may have been).

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 12 at 2015 4:25 PM

2015-09-12T16:25:37-04:00

To be honest, this sounds like treason.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 12 at 2015 7:44 PM

2015-09-12T19:44:13-04:00

Wow....seems like a real loaded question for a group that half the people will be breaking the law if they say yes.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 12 at 2015 8:14 PM

2015-09-12T20:14:45-04:00

I find it kind of abhorrent that anyone in this country would support a military coup. It's primal, archaic and wholly inefficient. It would take a special and beyond extreme circumstance (i.e. Non-military govt. organizations causing harm to Americans) for something like that to happen and I find that very unlikely. Until then, that's not how we do things here.

Response by PV2 Harry Swensen made Sep 13 at 2015 12:16 AM

2015-09-13T00:16:00-04:00

YES.The Army birthed this nation and is the living soul and moral authority in the USA.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Sep 13 at 2015 3:14 AM

2015-09-13T03:14:05-04:00

Do I wan't the country taken over by the minds that brought us Reflective belts and colored patches on camouflage uniforms? No... Not even a little bit...

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Sep 13 at 2015 3:47 AM

2015-09-13T03:47:29-04:00

http://www.politicususa.com/2015/09/12/time-prosecute-remove-republicans-violating-u-s-constitution.html

Response by Cpl Mark McMiller made Sep 13 at 2015 9:34 AM

2015-09-13T09:34:03-04:00

No. However, if a tyrant were to take over the government and all other avenues were exhausted, then I would welcome the military's help in overthrowing the tyrant.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2015 9:53 AM

2015-09-13T09:53:10-04:00

This poll data is garbage. Did you look at the sample and how it was conducted? Less than a 1000 respondents for a country of 320+ million, Poor sampling to time ratio, And questions left way too much for interpretation. Go back to the drawing board YouGov. you clearly missed the mark.

But an interesting topic none the less.

Response by Capt Walter Miller made Sep 13 at 2015 11:17 AM

2015-09-13T11:17:53-04:00

This country is already being run like a banana republic. Surely we need a coup to complete the picture.

I Do NOT NOT NOT support anything but adherence to the laws.

Walt

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2015 12:13 PM

2015-09-13T12:13:20-04:00

That sounds like a loaded question... If I said yes, should I expect a knock on the door or if I say no, do I remain silent while the US Constitution is being trampled? If a CinC declared martial law for no apparent reason, should the oath-taker sit idle? If the congress decided to pass a law confiscating firearms violating the Bill of Rights, would you comply? Is the answer to this question black or white or does it hold several shades of gray?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2015 2:58 PM

2015-09-13T14:58:37-04:00

Some of you sound confuse you may go back before 1775 and read your military history before the continental army and you may understand why we are the guardian of the constitution. and your oath that we all hold so dear to are hearts is to the people of The United States this great nation that who we serve and if any of you still confuse ware your loyalty Should Be let me now to put my boot up your A..

Response by CPT Alan W. made Sep 13 at 2015 4:04 PM

2015-09-13T16:04:33-04:00

Nope

Response by SGT Jeffrey Denning made Sep 13 at 2015 4:24 PM

2015-09-13T16:24:13-04:00

Not a constructive use of bandwidth to even entertain such an idiotic question. Regardless of what the Teabaggers may wish for and fear (Jade Helm 15), the US Military is not a tool for politics, nor are we fools. Hate your Commander-In-Chief? That's a personal choice. Disobey the orders? Different topic altogether.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2015 4:24 PM

2015-09-13T16:24:26-04:00

We are a military of "yes men" the government could say kill all the first born males and light all your household pets on fire and someone would make an OPORD on how their personnel will execute the mission. Opinions don't matter on this subject.

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2015 4:26 PM

2015-09-13T16:26:18-04:00

Depends upon whom the coup is overthrowing. I took an oath to a piece of paper. Against all enemies foreign and domestic. It all just depends.

Response by CPL Jay Strickland made Sep 13 at 2015 4:28 PM

2015-09-13T16:28:44-04:00

Only the most extreme circumstances merits a coup events such as nullifying or cancelling election, a president declaring rule by decree or life tenure. Such circumstances have not presented themselves in this country and I do not see any likelihood of them presenting themselves in the next 100 years.

Response by SPC John Decker made Sep 13 at 2015 4:42 PM

2015-09-13T16:42:30-04:00

The orders of the officers appointed over me. If those orders were in accordance with the Constitution, I would indeed endorse a military coup. The problem with the coup idea, as I see it, has to do with the politicalization of the senior military structure. Hopefully it won't come to that. Maybe we will all come to our senses and elect a president from outside the system.(That last line was not meant as an endorsement).

Response by SFC Nikhil Kumra made Sep 13 at 2015 4:55 PM

2015-09-13T16:55:35-04:00

LMAO Really???? I think the obvious question would be no... no way..

Response by SPC Eric Cunningham made Sep 13 at 2015 4:59 PM

2015-09-13T16:59:26-04:00

No. Besides the fact that the military would be a horrible excuse for a governing body, to support the Constitution is to realize that if radicle change to the government is needed it must be the will of, and initiative of, the people - not the military. There is a reason there is no provision for a large standing army in the document itself.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2015 5:01 PM

2015-09-13T17:01:53-04:00

Hell no I wouldn't support it....my job is to SUPPORT those in charge and if anyone has a problem with that DON'T JOIN THE SERVICE!!!!

Response by Cpl Christopher Bishop made Sep 13 at 2015 5:05 PM

2015-09-13T17:05:04-04:00

I am saddened by just about ALL discussion related to cleaning up the DC mess, only because its mostly all talk and not many seem to be about any action....thus....why talk about it?

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2015 5:12 PM

2015-09-13T17:12:09-04:00

A coup being where the military seizes power is an absolute no. We made an oath to uphold and defend the constitution against all enemies foreign and domestic. That said. We are not sworn to the president or congress or the supreme Court. Our loyalty is to the constitution and the bill of rights and ultimately to the people of the country. If the government and politicians essentially shred the constitution and become a source of tyranny then rebellion becomes duty.

Response by Cpl Chris Rice made Sep 13 at 2015 5:18 PM

2015-09-13T17:18:06-04:00

It doesn’t bother me that these threads pop up on rally point, it bothers me that these threads pop up on rally point so often. So many people on the site pledge themselves the United States Constitution, but lack the fortitude to actually allow the United States Constitution to work. I don't remember in the United States Constitution where it says the United States military holds the trump card, and all actions by the people of the United States, and their government will be subject to the consent of the United States military. A military coup would only serve to destroy the Constitution, if you think otherwise you do not understand the Constitution, nor our form of government.

I think the best assessment of the situation is to consider that if the United States has become such a despotism that it requires a military coup then why in the hell is it not suppressing this discussion? Why is the United States is under such a tyrant does it feel like some new group is capable of holding a rally outside of the capital every week? If you’re sitting in your house preparing your weapons to overthrow the government you don’t need an army, you need a psychiatrist and a padded room.

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Sep 13 at 2015 5:28 PM

2015-09-13T17:28:12-04:00

I like some of the comments made on here because they make actual sense, then again I see others trying to play patriotic and follow suit to what others are saying, ducks in a row so to speak. We all know what "OATH" we took and we all have a perfect knowledge of how far it would have to go before throwing up one's hands and saying "Thats enough". We all know how corrupt this Government has become and how much the current CIC has tried to manipulate many issues to include trying to rape us of constitutional rights. The fact remains... we are brothers and sisters. We may not agree all the time and even not like some of us. I honestly believe that this question was dropped on us to initiate friction or was a brainstorm from higher up to see just where the loyalty lies.What is unclear to me and should be to everyone else is what would it take to accomplish such an act. Hypothetically... thats an pretty indefinite word that could carry a discussion like this on for days/ weeks/months..

Response by PO3 Justin Ware made Sep 13 at 2015 6:00 PM

2015-09-13T18:00:36-04:00

We took an oath first and foremost to the Constitution so if the current government doesn't respect it then it would be time for a coup. It's says all enemies foreign and domestic for a reason.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2015 6:01 PM

2015-09-13T18:01:32-04:00

Like is this for real? Do people know what that means? They would support a war in our front yards in our cities? To me that is terrifying.

Response by SPC Dave Elzinga made Sep 13 at 2015 6:22 PM

2015-09-13T18:22:25-04:00

Shouldn't have too, the way Washington is going almost looks like one would be necessary

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2015 6:44 PM

2015-09-13T18:44:59-04:00

I feel like this is bait, trap?

Response by CPT Glenn Keels made Sep 13 at 2015 6:46 PM

2015-09-13T18:46:37-04:00

NO- Furthermore - This question should be taken down off of rallypoint immediately. It disgraces our services and veterans. It goes against every single thing our military services (since inception commanded by elected civilians) stands for. There is a reason the joint chiefs don't applause during the state of the Union except when the services are thanked. This principle is one of the few things that has kept this nation alive. We all serve(d) at the pleasure of THE president.. take it down.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Sep 13 at 2015 6:53 PM

2015-09-13T18:53:05-04:00

Nope. But I am worried that as a society and the forces charged with protecting it see each other as more and more different both physically, culturally and morally it becomes more and more of a possibility.

Response by SFC Darrell Ingram made Sep 13 at 2015 6:55 PM

2015-09-13T18:55:52-04:00

This is not an option. Just because you do not like a policy or direction that the country is going, our mission is to support the constitution. It will work itself out.

Response by Sgt Kelli Mays made Sep 13 at 2015 6:57 PM

2015-09-13T18:57:26-04:00

To Cpt Glenn Keels of Austin Texas and SFC Darrell Ingrams: INSTEAD OF JUST GIVING A DOWN VOTE...why don't you voice your opinion....if you disagree with what I said and others then state why instead of willy nilly down voting so we can understand why you gave us the DOWN VOTE.

After all I covered both sides of why I may possibly follow a coup or what could be done and therefore I wouldn't follow the coup.....

So PLEASE EXPLAIN yourself. WHAT EXACTLY DID YOU NOT LIKE ABOUT WHAT I SAID!

I read all of the comments made...and there were many others with the same thoughts as my self so I would like to know why you choose to vote me DOWN on what I said.... Help me understand. After all everyone is entitled to their opinions and how they feels...and I would understand that you GAVE EACH AND EVERYONE who Said something remotely as I did, but you did not...so what is it about what I said that you don't like so much???

adding 1SGT Bill Wayne to this list

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2015 7:15 PM

2015-09-13T19:15:11-04:00

Inflammatory even in being asked of a military forum. Fuck no, I wouldn't support a coup. I would, however, support the executions of any who take part.

Response by CW4 Guy Butler made Sep 13 at 2015 7:27 PM

2015-09-13T19:27:32-04:00

No, I will not.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2015 7:30 PM

2015-09-13T19:30:29-04:00

As an Officer in the United States Army, I would be duty bound to refuse any order to support a coup.

Response by Brian Marple made Sep 13 at 2015 7:31 PM

2015-09-13T19:31:58-04:00

I'm not a veteran, so don't beat me up on this, but doesn't it say "all enemies foreign and domestic"

Response by SGM Thomas Adderley made Sep 13 at 2015 8:23 PM

2015-09-13T20:23:07-04:00

No No No. I do not support a military coup. BUT, I do support a reeducation of the voters and Congress in order to teach them the manner in which this country is supposed to work; through a duly elected Congress and President who govern by the Constitution which established our Country. Additionally, I would support the obligation that every candidate for office serve a minimum of two years in a service of their choice and one full tour as a ground soldier in a combat zone.
The SGM has spoke

Response by LTC Ed Ross made Sep 13 at 2015 9:00 PM

2015-09-13T21:00:26-04:00

Absolutely not.

Response by LCpl Paul Nino made Sep 13 at 2015 9:26 PM

2015-09-13T21:26:44-04:00

No, but our government is not doing the job and we need to vote and make sure they listen to us the people

Response by SSgt Robert Vaughn made Sep 13 at 2015 9:57 PM

2015-09-13T21:57:04-04:00

Under certain conditions a military coup is far preferable to a corrupted Federal Constitutional Republic. Let's face it, Federalism and the Constitution are dead. The Executive Branch and it's unaccountable mafioso bureaucracy run roughshod. The Chief Executive openly violates the law and makes his own via Executive Order. The Supreme Court makes rulings on the basis of nothing but personal whim. Congress is neutered and refuses to perform their Constitutional duty whether it's the Iranian Nuclear Treaty oops I mean "agreement" or doing something as basic as passing a budget. I'd welcome a coup at this point.

Response by SGT Robert R. made Sep 13 at 2015 10:00 PM

2015-09-13T22:00:23-04:00

What are these 12 years olds answering this?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2015 10:03 PM

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Let's rephrase the question to take out the ridiculous notion of romance and the fetish with rebellion, SSgt Alex Robinson. Would you support the slaughter of American citizens loyal to the government? Would you support the overthrow of the rule of law and the order on which hundreds of millions of Americans depend? Would you sacrifice the future prosperity of unborn billions to slake the twisted thirst for revolutionary "glory" of so many self-proclaimed patriots?

I don't want to assume that you actually support a military coup, but the only reasonable alternative is a shameless ploy for influence points.

A violent overthrow of the American government would hand our enemies the win they have collectively been seeking for 240 years.

Response by SSgt Robert Vaughn made Sep 13 at 2015 10:32 PM

2015-09-13T22:32:28-04:00

In the final years of the Republic the patrician order of "best men" thought that Roman tradition could outlast the changes which Caesar had enacted. That of course proved false as Caesar and his heir Octavian had made changes which could not be undone and which converted the half Republic, half Oligarchy into a full fledged Imperial regime. In a way it is similar to all those honorable military members that believe the old order can fix our current sorry state. It can't. De Toqueville called our fate long ago and you're looking at Balkanization or an imperial tyrant eventually regardless of your fealty to Constitutional means which no longer matter outside Civics class.

Response by CPT Shawn Stewart made Sep 13 at 2015 10:38 PM

2015-09-13T22:38:20-04:00

Fuck no

Response by CPT Charles Creed made Sep 13 at 2015 10:57 PM

2015-09-13T22:57:22-04:00

I'll try to toe that line. I'll open with that currently, nothing the current administration has done anything to warrant a coup in my opinion. But this is worth the professional discussion if only as a what if scenario.
As many already pointed out, the oath of enlistment is decidedly different than the officer's oath and the absence of the President in the officer's oath is worth note.
It concerns me that so many officers flatly say no. The men who wrote all of the founding documents were traitors to the crown, and if they lost the war they surely would have seen execution. The victors would surely use the language they prefer should the armed forces move against the government: traitors or revolutionaries.
So ask yourselves: if the president disbanded the supreme court, is that ok? Would you still fully support the president of he, or she, did such a thing?
As officers we are duty bound to support and defend the constitution. There are conditions that could be met, although extremely unlikely, that would warrant the military to stop the government if they went so renegade, but it should quickly move to re establish the government, holding new elections if necessary.
I do think the government's systems of checks and balances are strong enough that should any branch go that of the deep end the other branches could get it under control long before the military would get involved.

Response by CSM Carl Cunningham made Sep 13 at 2015 11:18 PM

2015-09-13T23:18:50-04:00

It is unconstitutional. No matter how disappointed someone may be with the government, we have enough leaders that realize our purpose and why we serve, that a coup would never happen.

Response by MAJ Matthew Arnold made Sep 13 at 2015 11:26 PM

2015-09-13T23:26:18-04:00

Is this a trap? Is someone monitoring this conversation, site? Is someone keeping a list?

Response by COL Charles Williams made Sep 14 at 2015 12:13 AM

2015-09-14T00:13:59-04:00

No... for the second time

Response by PO3 Adam Burke made Sep 14 at 2015 12:31 AM

2015-09-14T00:31:10-04:00

Support and defend the CONSTITUTION, (not the government) against ALL enemies, foreign or DOMESTIC. Our CONSTITUTION is under attack, it's time to fight back.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2015 1:00 AM

2015-09-14T01:00:19-04:00

Being in a democracy, a military coup is not necessary. A single leader who is ethical and charismatic could unite the country driving out Obama, Clinton, Boehner, McConnell, and all their cronies. Stop doing what your TV tells you to do, and get active. Only then can we spread the word and replace career politicians with normal humans.

Response by MSG Jay Jackson made Sep 14 at 2015 1:44 AM

2015-09-14T01:44:16-04:00

Here is my answer,
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to affect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.
This is the founding document to me. The constution defines our rights that already existed when the Constitution was written. It also gives a method to deal with elected officials that break our laws, they call it impeachment!
Now about this coup business. I had a coup one time, it was I think a 67 Pontiac GTO. But seriously though this subject on Rally Point has shown us that there are those who think that this is an option and they are entitled to their opinion. Well when our elected officials ignore, refuse to enforce, fail to comply, lie, and do not faithfully execute their oath of office what do we the people do? Who is the last guardian of the republic when the elected officials will not act, will not do the right thing or will not follow the oath they took? I guess the Armed Forces will just continue to follow orders from what I’ve read on here. Your duty is to the Constitution soldiers!
I think what we really need is to modify the constution through a convention. Most all of the ills we suffer today could be fixed with some tweaks and a few new amendments. We also abolish the bad in government by being informed voters and voting. If well lose our nation it’s our own fault.

A Republic, if you can keep it.”

ATTRIBUTION: The response is attributed to BENJAMIN FRANKLIN—at the close of the Constitutional Convention of 1787, when queried as he left Independence Hall on the final day of deliberation—in the notes of Dr. James McHenry, one of Maryland’s delegates to the Convention.

Response by MSG Jay Jackson made Sep 14 at 2015 1:50 AM

2015-09-14T01:50:18-04:00

Here is my answer,
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to affect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.
This is the founding document to me. The constution defines our rights that already existed when the Constitution was written. It also gives a method to deal with elected officials that break our laws, they call it impeachment!
Now about this coup business. I had a coup one time, it was I think a 67 Pontiac GTO. But seriously though this subject on Rally Point has shown us that there are those who think that this is an option and they are entitled to their opinion. Well when our elected officials ignore, refuse to enforce, fail to comply, lie, and do not faithfully execute their oath of office what do we the people do? Who is the last guardian of the republic when the elected officials will not act, will not do the right thing or will not follow the oath they took? I guess the Armed Forces will just continue to follow orders from what I’ve read on here. Your duty is to the Constitution soldiers!
I think what we really need is to modify the Constitution through a convention. Most all of the ills we suffer today could be fixed with some tweaks and a few new amendments. We also abolish the bad in government by being informed voters and voting. If well lose our nation it’s our own fault.

A Republic, if you can keep it.”

ATTRIBUTION: The response is attributed to BENJAMIN FRANKLIN—at the close of the Constitutional Convention of 1787, when queried as he left Independence Hall on the final day of deliberation—in the notes of Dr. James McHenry, one of Maryland’s delegates to the Convention.

Response by SPC William Biles made Sep 14 at 2015 1:55 AM

2015-09-14T01:55:40-04:00

I trust top military brass as much as I trust the government, both are nil. I wouldn't support a coup.
I would support an Impeachment.
I digress: IMO none of it would matter though. Those impeached or overthrown will only be replaced with another political party or politician with sites on their own agenda and not those of the citizens of the country.
I have gained such distrust for government that I feel my country has been infiltrated at all levels. It doesn't matter who we vote for, and that the powers that be will put into office[s] the person[s] that will best suit their needs. We the People have lost our voice to this government, as much as, the government has lost it's hearing to the Republic.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2015 6:50 AM

2015-09-14T06:50:18-04:00

Scary Question. But given the current state of our military, I don't think the US would be better off - toxic leaders, sexual assaults, If we cant solve these programs internally what make one think the military could run the nation.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2015 8:16 AM

2015-09-14T08:16:23-04:00

Ummm absolutely not. Yes while I am proud to be in the military the vast vast majority of the population is not military and it is our job to defend those people.There have been many military coups in the history of the World and honestly I dont think military Commanders are inclined to lead civilians as they are Service members. In addition a lot of military personnel fail to see the bigger picture when it comes to politics e.g social reforms as well as foreign policy. Yes we may at times disagree with the decisions our policy makers make but this country is a democracy and those poeple our in power because they were elected by the people. If they are doing a bad job than hopefully they wont get reelected.

Response by CMSgt James Nolan made Sep 14 at 2015 8:42 AM

2015-09-14T08:42:35-04:00

Treason

Response by CDR Michael Goldschmidt made Sep 14 at 2015 8:50 AM

2015-09-14T08:50:32-04:00

Absolutely NOT!!!!! We're close enough to a Banana Republic already!

Response by 1SG Bill Wayne made Sep 14 at 2015 8:58 AM

2015-09-14T08:58:49-04:00

You also swore this. "I, _____, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God." SO what would you do if the government gave you an order that you felt was not in favor of the people of the U.S.

Response by PFC Al Sethre made Sep 14 at 2015 9:24 AM

2015-09-14T09:24:45-04:00

I'd rather not.

Response by LCDR Jeffery Dixon made Sep 14 at 2015 9:31 AM

2015-09-14T09:31:28-04:00

Silliness.

Response by CSM David Heidke made Sep 14 at 2015 9:31 AM

2015-09-14T09:31:53-04:00

congratulations, you're on a list now.

Response by PO3 Steven Sherrill made Sep 14 at 2015 9:43 AM

2015-09-14T09:43:26-04:00

SSgt Alex Robinson that is a loaded question. It needs more information than provided in the article. What would be the reasoning behind such an event? What would be the objective? How long would the military maintain control? How would it be done while still upholding the constitution?

The only scenario that I can see something like this would be if the Federal Government decided that they were going to remove the constitution, and that our constitutional freedoms were no longer valid. In that scenario, the military would be oath bound to intervene. The first thing that we swear to uphold when enlisting/commissioning is to support and defend the constitution of the United States. It trumps everything else.

A military coup would create huge issues. There would be rioting, there would be looting, there would be open rebellion in the streets. I think it would lead to blood shed. Furthermore, a military coup would weaken our ability to defend our interests. A coup would require all branches of the armed forces working together. This would also mean diverting resources. Worse still, the U.S. Dollar would be so weakened by such an event that we would be economically crippled. This will lead to more unrest. Then the military would need to enforce martial law requiring more resources. Opportunistic enemies might see this as their opportunity to take direct action against us with our military fighting at home.

It would make for great historical fiction, or a great movie. It would not be something that would be great in reality.

Response by 1SG Bill Wayne made Sep 14 at 2015 10:07 AM

2015-09-14T10:07:12-04:00

A sudden appropriation of leadership or power; a takeover. Our military swears an oath to uphold the Constitution of the U.S. The government is a picture of the people that place them there. So if there is an issue vote them out.

Now that being said. If there is an illegal move by the government to the people of the U.S. it is the military's responsibility to stand up for the people. its in the oath you took to join the military and it would not be considered a Coup.

Response by CDR Michael Goldschmidt made Sep 14 at 2015 10:29 AM

2015-09-14T10:29:55-04:00

What I would support is those at the top refusing to give or relay unlawful orders. "Sorry, Mr. President, we would be happy to carry out your orders once the action is given Congressional mandate".

Response by LTJG Paul Wheeler made Sep 14 at 2015 10:48 AM

2015-09-14T10:48:48-04:00

Emphatically no! Are you kidding me? You cannot support a coup and say that you are defending the Constitution of the United States because a coup, by definition, is unconstitutional. I don't care who is elected as President, if you don't like him there are constitutional ways he can be removed from office such as by elections or by conviction in an impeachment trial. That's it. If you are thinking otherwise and you are a US citizen, then you are a domestic enemy.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2015 11:16 AM

2015-09-14T11:16:42-04:00

This is crazy talk! We are not some third world country who allows the military to overthrow the government. We all took an oath, but that doesn't include this kind of crap. Regardless of what we think of our leadership we still must support the fundamental principles that built this nation! The right answer is to VOTE into office those whom will uphold our laws (local - state - federal). And we are not a Democratic its a Republic of Nation States.

Response by 1SG Bill Wayne made Sep 14 at 2015 11:37 AM

2015-09-14T11:37:38-04:00

I think some are confusing the issue. If the Military moves against the government its a Coup (Un expectable) . If it defends the Constitution of the United States and the Laws that Bind us as a country it is not a Coup.

Response by MSgt James Mullis made Sep 14 at 2015 12:02 PM

2015-09-14T12:02:32-04:00

Coup...No. However, If someone ever took over the US government, abolished elections, and appointed themselves King, Emperor, Kaiser, Dear Father, Big Kahuna, Absolute CEO, etc, then it would be the duty of the military to resist and reestablish a constituationally elected government. I guess you would call it a limited Counter Coup similar to what happened in Turkey. Fortunately, that is very unlikely to occur, at least not in my lifetime.

Response by PO1 Glenn Boucher made Sep 14 at 2015 12:14 PM

2015-09-14T12:14:11-04:00

Absolutely not, its not who we are as a people.
Sure we get pissed off at our government and how things work out sometimes. Yeah admittedly we have problems of all levels but we constantly work them out.
A coup is something that is not for the United States, maybe in a Hollywood movie but not in reality.

Response by SGT Jeremiah B. made Sep 14 at 2015 12:15 PM

2015-09-14T12:15:31-04:00

A coup would be the death of America. At this juncture, any such event would be one set of people deciding that they can't win at the ballot box, so they'll win by force. That is the anti-thesis of our founding principles.

Response by SGT David T. made Sep 14 at 2015 12:43 PM

2015-09-14T12:43:52-04:00

While there is still methods of changing things peacefully I cannot support this at all. One of our most cherished traditions is civilian control of the military and a coup would go against the very thing that we swore to protect. Agree or disagree with the government, that is fine. We have mechanisms to change how our government acts without resorting to violence. It is not easy to do but it can be done. I think the poll is symptom of the real issue that is people feel powerless to change things and that people feel like Washington is disconnected from the American people.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2015 12:59 PM

2015-09-14T12:59:55-04:00

I would not but I am not surprised at the poll either. There are so many people who are fed up with the government and do not understand how the military works. We have elected leaders who make questionable decisions and constantly change their minds whichever way the wind blow. The American people are fed up to the point that they want a change. The media has built up the military to a hero status so they look at the coup as an option.

Response by CWO2 Joel Bowling made Sep 14 at 2015 1:16 PM

2015-09-14T13:16:01-04:00

depends on the situation... if the federal gvt ordered martial law or some other extreme measure then YES! I'd support secession in lieu of such should NC garner the momentum to do so or move to TX if they did...

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2015 2:07 PM

2015-09-14T14:07:38-04:00

There are only two legal ways to change the government. The first is at the ballot box, and the second is through the impeachment process in congress. There are no exceptions.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Sep 14 at 2015 2:38 PM

2015-09-14T14:38:44-04:00

I swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution against all enemies foreign and domestic. A military coup who be hard to support

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2015 3:01 PM

2015-09-14T15:01:21-04:00

Not only no, but hell no.

Are you TRYING to get folks' security clearances revoked?

Response by LCDR Bruce Cooley made Sep 14 at 2015 3:09 PM

2015-09-14T15:09:14-04:00

In general, everyone is tap dancing around the main issue...... Some people have more faith in the Military's ability to follow the constitution than they do their elected representatives.... Some have reminded us that the laws on the books were put there by the preceding congress's and presidents....but IF the Supreme Court was doing it's job instead of legislating from the bench, a great deal of them would be struck down. The solution is to get political figures that follow the constitution, and are not perpetually trying to 'stay' elected, or be 'bought' by whatever constituency they think will help them 'stay' elected....!

Response by SPC Sheila Lewis made Sep 14 at 2015 5:12 PM

2015-09-14T17:12:04-04:00

so where does that place civilians? Will they support? Or, leave the Military completely responsible?

Response by TSgt Dale Metz made Sep 14 at 2015 9:26 PM

2015-09-14T21:26:48-04:00

No! We're not a 3rd world country. We have protections in place to prevent a military coup.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2015 10:32 PM

2015-09-14T22:32:41-04:00

Nope, swore an oath to defend the Constitution. Even if I didn't agree with how the government was running the country, I wouldn't. It's not like we have a totalitarian government, it's a democracy the last time I checked and we vote for our government officials. It's just not the person I am. I would not fight my own countrymen and women, only protect them. And I thought that's what we in the Armed Forces are trying to do.

Response by SFC Keith Rumsey made Sep 14 at 2015 10:49 PM

2015-09-14T22:49:24-04:00

No - No further discussion needed Support and defend the Constitution unlike our Politicians

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2015 7:20 AM

2015-09-15T07:20:11-04:00

yes

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2015 8:10 AM

2015-09-15T08:10:57-04:00

I took an oath to defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic. Should POTUS do something that blatantly violates the Constitution (IE suspend elections, seize personal weapons and/or property, or give the order to engage the civilian population) then he becomes the enemy. Then it becomes my moral obligation to defend against that enemy to the best of my ability and within my lane.

Having said that, at that point it's not a coup, it's a defense of the Constitution. A military coup suggests that the military would become the governing body. Defense of the Constitution would be the military restoring the government IAW the Constitution.

Response by SGT Rick Ash made Sep 15 at 2015 9:56 AM

2015-09-15T09:56:18-04:00

In a heartbeat, Yes. It may be the only solution for ridding ourselves of O'Dummy. How long are we going to wait as he dismantles the military, demoralizes the remainder and does whatever he wants without seeking the constitutionally mandated approval of Congress? Something has to give and I honestly believe the only answer IS the military.Does "All enemies both domestic and foreign" ring any bells?
Thanks Sgt Aaron Kennedy,
Rick

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2015 1:20 PM

2015-09-15T13:20:08-04:00

No. In all circumstances I serve the President of the United States, whomever that person may be at the time. We have elections and Constitutional government. A coup is not necessary. More to the point, a coup is treason.