How long can a soldier be AWOL?

For instance, being AWOL for less than three days can result in a maximum penalty of confinement for one month and forfeiture of two-thirds pay for one month. After 30 days or more, service members face dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of all pay and allowances, and a one-year confinement.

What is it called when you quit the military?

In the U.S. armed forces, separation means that a person is leaving active duty, but not necessarily leaving the service entirely. When a service member completes his or her full military obligation, they are discharged and receive a formal certificate of discharge, usually an Honorable Discharge.

What happens if you go AWOL in the military?

The consequences for going AWOL vary by degree. In the military, AWOL stands for Absent Without Leave and basically means you are not where you are supposed to be at a particular time. After a certain period of time (30-day rule), the AWOL status turns to a desertion status.

What happens if you go AWOL for 30 days?

After a certain period of time (30-day rule), the AWOL status turns to a desertion status. These type of offenses can vary in seriousness from 15 minutes late for formation to being placed on the FBI Most Wanted List. Punishment for Going AWOL

What’s the difference between desertion and AWOL in the military?

The primary difference between AWOL and desertion is the intent to remain away from the military permanently. The punishments vary based on length and intent. If a member deserted but voluntarily returned to military control: dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of all pay and allowances,…

What are the maximum punishments for AWOL and desertion?

In fact, the vast majority of AWOL and desertion cases are disposed of with an administrative discharge. The maximum possible punishments shown below assume the member is tried by general court-martial, which is the most serious type of court-martial .

When does AWOL status turn into desertion status?

What’s the difference between UA and AWOL in the military?

The use of “UA” by the Navy/Marine Corps and “AWOL” by the Army/Air Force has a historical component. Prior to enactment of the Uniform Code of Military Justice in 1951, the services were governed by separate laws. However, its official title under the current UCMJ is “AWOL.”