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In reply to the discussion: Pentagon cuts Sen. Mark Kelly's military retirement pay as punishment over 'illegal orders' video By Zachary Cohen 4 MI [View all]LogDog75
(1,114 posts)The UCMJ and the Bill of Rights are not antithetical. Military service can impose restrictions on one's actions but the military member is still held responsible for their action(s) if they violate regulations or the UCMJ. For example, a military member can take part in a public demonstration against the president if they are out of uniform and do not state or imply its the policy or position of the military.
I don't know when you enlisted but I enlisted in 1975 and it was made clear what type of actions we can take part in that won't violate military standards. As for a court martial, I've been on a court martial panel (jury) and found the process fair. BTW, we found, unanimously, the individual not guilty of the charges. During my career, a defendant could have a civilian represent them, at their expense, or have a lawyer from the Area Defense Council at no expense.