this topic arose in another thread... and I'd like to post it as it's own Thread... It's important that the folks bound by these standards are well aware of them....
Myself... Well I'm Retired ;0)~~~
Hog
http://www.au.af.mil/au/awc/awcgate/awc-ethx.htm
"(The Supreme Court of the United States) has long recognized that the military is, by necessity, a specialized society separate from civilian society…(t)he rights of men in the armed forces must perforce be conditioned to meet certain overriding demands of discipline and duty."
Parker v. Levy, 1974
*Freedom of Expression*
Most societies with a republic as a form of government guarantee the right to free expression for their citizens. The right of free expression includes the right to express opinions orally, in writing, and at group meetings. Freedom of expression may differ, however, for military personnel.
*Balancing Test*
1. Support for right to freedom of expression
a. open discussions about important issues are healthy for any democracy. Free debate and free exchange of ideas bring about many good ideas that may be helpful for society.
b. free expression ensures that the leaders of government become aware of the desires of the people, so that they may be responsive to the will of the people.
c. citizens will be more likely to obey the decisions of the government leaders if they believe the government is listening to them.
2. The proper balancing of a service member’s right to express himself and the need for operational readiness will depend largely upon the calm and prudent judgment of the responsible commander.
3. In applying a balancing test, punishment after unlawful speech has taken place is preferred over prior restraint of expression.
*Freedom of Speech*
Service members, like other citizens, have a right to express themselves. However, the right to engage in free speech does not provide an absolute immunity from subsequent punishment if the speech violates a criminal law. In the military, such criminal laws include:
1. Disrespectful speech toward superiors;
2. Use of words or gestures that might provoke a fight;
3. Disclosure of classified information;
4. Discussing official matters outside of the military without proper authorization.
*Grievances*
1. Servicemembers are permitted to present complaints or grievances to their superiors through formal procedures that require responses from superiors.
2. Servicemembers are also given the right to communicate directly with elected civilian officials who represent the Servicemembers.
*Political Activities*
1. Servicemembers may vote for the political candidate of their choice;
2. However, the servicemember is prohibited from becoming a candidate for an elected office or participating directly in an election campaign for a particular candidate.
