DawgTalkers.net Forums DawgTalk Palus Politicus U.S. airman faces charges under military justice system for criticizing Trump over Iran war

A U.S. airman says he is facing charges for criticizing President Trump over the Iran war, which his attorneys believe to be among one of the only instances an officer of his rank has been charged under the uniform code of military justice for contemptuous words against officials.

Major Jason Watson has been detained twice in recent weeks. On one occasion, he called for Mr. Trump's impeachment — while in uniform at the U.S. Capitol.

Watson's attorney told CBS News that he is charged with three violations of Article 88 for alleged contemptuous remarks about Mr. Trump. According to Watson's attorneys, he is believed to be among the first officers of his rank in the history of the military to be charged under Article 88.

The 40-year-old is also charged with disobeying orders and conduct unbecoming an officer. The charges were first reported by CNN.

The charges are the rare occurrence of the U.S. military not handling punishment behind closed doors.

Watson was first detained on July 1, while protesting in uniform on the steps of the Capitol. He was holding a sign that said "Impeach. Convict. Remove," referring to Mr. Trump. He was then detained again last week, after he gave an interview to CNN and said Mr. Trump is a "not only a failure as president, he is flagrantly violating the Constitution, breaking the law, engaged in rampant corruption and is killing Americans."

After Watson's arrest in July, Air Force Secretary Troy Meink wrote on social media that he expects every airman to "comply with all laws and policies, government, personal conduct, political participation and the wear of the uniform."

Watson's attorney told CNN on Monday that Watson "stands by the fact that he did this so others wouldn't have to."

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/jason-watson-charged-trump-criticism-air-force-article-88/

He clearly broke the rules of the UCMJ. He knew it and intentionally made the decision. He deserves his punishment.

I suppose if you consider that "deserving of punishment" there should have been hundreds if not thousands of enlisted men and officers that should have been punished when they shared their views on the Vietnam war and the presidents in power during that time period.

I've learned that often times there is a big difference between can be and should be. But when someone is sensitive and gets disturbed every time someone utters a word against them "can be" becomes "should be".

Firstly, what he is being charged with is only for officers. Many during Vietnam were dismissed from the service for what they said. You can speak out to an extent but not while in uniform. I fully expect he will become a former major, as he should. Officers are and should be held to a higher standard. This happened during the Clinton Administration as well. Those who did it were rightfully dismissed.

I consider being kicked out as punishment. Not everyone would agree. If the punishment is more severe I might not agree with it