Diuretic
Permanently confused
Illegal orders are anything that is illegal. Things like killing unarmed civilians, etc.
Thanks Amanda, I would think that's the biggest one. My Lai came to mind immediately. I'm thinking though that it - not referring to My Lai, just generalising - that for a serving member in the military to refuse an order, unless it was absolutely obviously illegal, would be pretty damn difficult. Apart from the socialisation into a culture of adherence (I won't say "obedience", I don't see military personnel as mindless automatons) to orders (which of course is necessary for any military to function) there's the threat of punishment. It would be easier just to do what you're told and try to plead superior orders later. However I presume that's no defence in the USMCJ or civilian justice system just as it isn't a defence here. Didn't work at Nuremberg either.
That is why I have some respect for the LT. that refused to deploy to Iraq. He claimed, incorrectly, that it was an illegal order. Rather then run off to Canada he refused his orders and demanded a day in Court.
I do not think deserters are worth much and I think the LT was absolutely wrong, BUT he did it the RIGHT way. He refused what he believed to be illegal orders. He did not slink off to another country to avoid his duty.
Personally I think they should have put him in jail for as long as was allowed for the offense. But in the end the First Judge screwed the pouch and he basically got off with just a discharge.
If the Government ever tries to grab our weapons they will have to employ the military and at that point each and every member of said military will have to decide if the Presidents orders are more binding then the US Constitution.
Even if somehow they pass an Amendment to repel the 2nd there will be fighting if the Government tries to seize arms. Editec can pretend it won't happen all he wants. Initially it will be single individuals or families resisting but it will quickly blossom into open rebellion as the rest hastily organize and members of the local and State police refuse to obey the orders. Then the military will be faced with firing on American citizens or refusing.
The example of the Lt who refused to deploy is a good one. That's the sort of situation I was mulling over.