I am a young officer in the U.S. Army who is about to be separated from service b/c of DWI charge. I need some advice. The trial starts in a couple of weeks, should I fight the Army's actions against me or leave with dignity.
2006-08-23 08:37:36 · 14 answers · asked by Joe B 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Military
Leave and run for president, it doesn't seem to matter there....
On the other hand, they are raising the recruiting age to 42, so it seems odd that they would discharge a fully capable soldier when they can't get others to join up.
2006-08-23 09:09:53 · answer #1 · answered by Rick M 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Speaking as a member of the Air Force JAG Corps, if you were driving while impaired you should do the honorable thing and not fight the charge. If they're talking about trial by court-martial, you may be able to submit a resignation of your commission for the good of the service. It would have to be approved by the Secretary of the Army, but it would look a heck of a lot better on your record than a court-martial conviction. Talk to your defense counsel. If you don't have one, and the Army won't appoint a judge advocate to defend you, contact the Area Defense Counsel at your nearest Air Force installation and ask them if they could at least give you some direction. Good luck Sir!
P.S.: A DWI in the Air Force would earn you an Article 15, which may hurt your chances of promotion in the future, but it would not earn you a one-way trip to the civilian sector. Is the Army usually this tough on officers?
2006-08-23 08:48:28 · answer #2 · answered by sarge927 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
well you should be asking yourself; did i drink and get behind the wheel. I am an NCO and a security police officer or MP, and we as NCO's are the enforcers of REG's and leaders of the juniors. When you swore in as an officer, that means allot especially for a young officer. You take a Hugh burden of responsibility and are expected to be a leader. Now by no means sir am i trying to disrespect you, but you were very aware of the consequences before you got behind the wheel, and they will make an example out of you because you are a leader. I have seen several good young officers whom were my good friends go down because of drinking, and i think it stinks, but the military dont give a rats a$s what i think. If i were you i would just get out, cause they will never let you promote above 0-4 with a DWI( that's if you got to stay in). I am sure you have completed your degree and will do fine in the civilian sector. I know that the Army was allowing people with their associates degree to become officers for a time, but had to complete there bachelor before the attained CPT. I hope what i said helps with what your thoughts are.
2006-08-23 11:12:50 · answer #3 · answered by kram_7777 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If I were you I would definetly leave with your dignity. Isn't that what being in the military is all about. Honor and Dignity.
Even if you wanted to fight the Army actions, you"ll never win against the Goverment.Do you self a favor and just hold your head up high and walk away. Maybe this is a blessing , who knows you could end up dead in some middle eastern country.
Count your blessing. Lots of love.
2006-08-23 08:45:12 · answer #4 · answered by GERRI B 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You made a mistake. As an Officer, you are supposed to be leading by example. What does it say to a Soldier who got a DWI and is being seperated when you got to stay? Take your pride, put it away and leave with dignity. Don't drink and drive...
2006-08-23 08:49:26 · answer #5 · answered by Q-burt 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Leave with dignity. You're still probably going to get a dishonrable discharge which you can't get benefits as far as buying a house, etc, but at least you left with your head held high.
2006-08-23 08:43:42 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Have you talked to a JAG officer there yet? If not, I would recommend highly that you do so. Sometimes they've been able to cut deals to get you on a lower charge instead of a dishonorable. Its worth looking into.
2006-08-23 08:45:15 · answer #7 · answered by mistress_piper 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
is there not a way you can rectifiy this and come to some agreement with the army? it sounds like you want to stay in but just made a mistake...i am surprised there isn't counseling or something other way you can make amends without having to leave....have you retained a lawyer? if not do and make sure its someone with military experience...i am surprised they have not provided one for you. good luck...the military needs ppl like you who are dedicated but human, one mistake like this should not end it for you.
2006-08-23 09:11:42 · answer #8 · answered by sammie 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you are guilty of DWI, I would leave with dignity.
2006-08-23 08:42:16 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Leave
2006-08-23 08:43:00 · answer #10 · answered by Kabu 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋