JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
As the 2012 presidential election approaches, Americans are gearing up for a heated contest. More and more people across the nation are becoming politically active, and service members are no exception.
While the DOD encourages its members to be involved in the democratic process, there are several guidelines that military members, DOD civilians and even retirees must follow in order to avoid the potential for misconceptions that the military endorses a particular candidate.
DOD Directive
1344.10 states these guidelines and warns that violations of these directives are punishable under Article 92 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, "Failure to Obey Order or Regulation."
Here in the National Capital Region, there are many opportunities to take part in partisan activities, but Team Andrews members are encouraged to read the directive and become familiar with what activities are and are not allowed for members of the Armed Forces.
*Paragraph 3.1.2 prohibits the wearing of the uniform by members of the Armed Forces (including retired members and members of reserve components) during or in connection with political activities.
*Active duty personnel are prohibited from marching in a partisan political parade regardless of whether they are in uniform or civilian clothes.
*Reservists not on active duty and retirees may not march in uniform (read paragraph 4.1.4).
*Reservists not on active duty and retirees may march in civilian clothes provided that they do not otherwise act in a manner that could reasonably give rise to the inference or appearance of official sponsorship, approval or endorsement.
*Military members are not allowed to speak before a partisan political gathering, including any gathering that promotes a partisan political party, candidate or cause.
*Military members are not allowed to participate in any radio, television or other program or group discussion as an advocate for or against a partisan political party, candidate or cause.
*Military members are not allowed to display a large political sign, banner or poster (as distinguished from a bumper sticker) on a private vehicle.
*Military members are not allowed to display a partisan political sign, poster, banner, or similar device visible to the public at one's residence on a military installation, even if that residence is part of a privatized housing development.
*Military members are not allowed to attend partisan political events as an official representative of the Armed Forces, except as a member of a joint Armed Forces color guard at the opening ceremonies of the national conventions of the Republican, Democratic, or other political parties recognized by the Federal Elections Committee or as otherwise authorized by the Secretary concerned.
The directive is a lawful general regulation that encourages military members to carry out the obligations of citizenship while avoiding the appearance of endorsement of any political candidate or party by the DOD.