What does Article 15 of the UCMJ refer to?

Article 15 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) specifically pertains to Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP). This provision allows commanding officers to impose disciplinary actions for minor offenses without resorting to a court-martial. The focus of Article 15 is to address less serious infractions in a more straightforward and expeditious manner, while still maintaining military discipline and order.

Through NJP, service members can receive various sanctions, such as extra duties, restriction to certain areas, reduction in rank, or forfeiture of pay, depending on the situation. The process is designed to provide a form of discipline that is less formal than a court-martial but still allows for accountability within the ranks. Overall, Article 15 is a vital part of military justice that helps maintain discipline and order while also allowing for swift corrective measures.