Fml 86

The United States Military is founded on many important values. One such value is found in Article 86 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Article 86 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, which can be abbreviated as UCMJ, states the following: “Any member of the armed forces who, without authority— (1) fails to go to his appointed place of duty at the time prescribed; (2) goes from that place; or (3) absents himself or remains absent from his unit, organization, or place of duty at which he is required to be at the time prescribed; shall be punished as a court-martial may direct.” Punitive Article 86 of the UCMJ is unauthorized absence. It states that any member of the armed forces who, without authority fails to go to his appointed place of duty at the time prescribed, goes from that place or absents himself or remains absent from his unit, organization, or place of duty at the time prescribed; shall be punished as a court-martial may direct. Articles and their consequences, such as this, teach soldiers the importance of such traits as accountability. Accountability, the responsibility bestowed upon each solider, is very vital and helps the military run. I recently let my accountability slip to the wayside. I had placed my own interest above those of the military which resulted in me failing to follow the guidelines of Article 86. Our unique military mission and its fundamental principles of morale, good order, and discipline require that military members be present.

The seven Army values are the backbone of the United States Army. They are broken down to us in the acronym ‘LDRSHIP’. Loyalty, “Bear true faith and allegiance to the U.S. constitution, the Army, and other soldiers.” Duty, “Fulfill your obligations.” Respect, “Treat people as they should be treated.” Selfless Service, “Put the welfare of the nation, the Army and your subordinates above your own.” Honor, “Live up to the army values.” Integrity, “Do what’s right legally and morally.