Can You Refuse Deployment as a Marine or Sailor if You Have Kids at Home?

The decision to serve in the military, particularly as a Marine or sailor, comes with a multitude of responsibilities and expectations. One of these responsibilities is the willingness to deploy when called upon. However, many service members face the difficult decision when their deployment would impact their family, especially if they have children at home. This article explores the legal and practical implications of refusing deployment and the obligations of military service.

The Legal Framework and Consequences of Refusal

Military service, and the obligation to deploy, is governed by the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). This code clearly outlines the duty to follow orders, including deployment. Refusing a deployment order, in the eyes of the military, is a violation of this legal framework and can result in severe consequences. These may include court-martial proceedings, outprocessing (the formal separation from the service), loss of pay and benefits, and an indefinite hold on receiving an honorable discharge.

Refusal as a Path to Removal from Service

Refusing to deploy is a serious matter and will lead to the immediate initiation of Chapter 63 actions, which are part of the formal separation process. This means that the service member will be removed from service, and their separation will not be honorable. The military’s stance is that once you agree to serve, you also agree to meet the needs of both the service and your family. If you cannot balance those needs, the military is likely to consider you unfit to continue serving.

Requests to Stay at Current Assignment

In some cases, service members may request to stay at their current duty station rather than deploy. However, these requests are rarely granted due to the operational requirements of the military. Deployment orders are often non-negotiable and are critical for the overall strategic operations and readiness of the service.

Historically, troops deployed during the 20 years of the War on Terror faced similar challenges, with many having families and children at home. These decisions and sacrifices were part of the overall mission, and service members understood the necessity of meeting their duty obligations.

Family Upbringing and Military Obligations

Being a parent and a service member often present conflicting responsibilities. Some argue that since the military is a part of the American society, each service member is responsible for finding a balance that suits their family. The military, however, expects service members to be fully dedicated to their duties, which sometimes means making difficult sacrifices.

There is an old adage that if the military wanted service members to have families, they would issue them one. This saying underscores the expectation that service members should be able to handle the demands of both their role and family obligations. If the demands of family life are too great, some might suggest that the military may not be the most suitable environment for that individual.

Conclusion

Deployment is an essential part of military service and is required to support national security and strategic goals. Refusal to deploy is a serious offense carrying significant consequences. For service members with families, the challenges are real, but the expectations remain the same. Unless an unexpected emergency arises, service members are expected to fulfill their obligations, including deploying, to support the mission and uphold the values of the service.
YMMV (Your Mileage May Vary)
C.J. Sends.