Adultery in US Military

I put this topic in US domestic because I don't know how the UK, Oz and other military codes of conduct are.

I know that adultery is a punishable offense in the US military, and it can harm a person's career, and even cause a serviceman/women to lose their retirement benefits, in certain cases.

Ignorant but serious question: how do you prove an affair has happened?

What is the definition of an "affair?" Even a platonic relationship with a married civilian causes one women to not be able to re-enlist, after her contract expired.

One women was dismissed without any benefits/retirement after 19 years in the Navy. She testified at her court martial, as did the man, that the man lied to her and told her he was single, but he was actually married. She committed suicide soon after her dismissal w/out any benefits.

(No link for the above, but I read these in the newspaper.)

In other cases, people are just reprimanded.

Is a sexual encounter (one night stand) considered a punishable offense?

What about married sailors visiting a port half-way around the world? Do superiors just turn their heads, like don't ask, don't tell?


Serious questions? Comments and opinions by those members here that were in the military?

TIA - thanks in advance.

Adultery charges are brought when it is determined the act was either directly prejudicial to good order and discipline or service discrediting. Generally, commissioned officers are held to a higher standard than enlisted and the rank of both parties is taken into consideration. In my experience, adultery charges are rarely pursued in the military unless the act is very indiscreet.

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Originally Posted by Milkman

What about married sailors visiting a port half-way around the world? Do superiors just turn their heads, like don't ask, don't tell?

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During the time I was in the navy, not only did superiors turn their heads, they actively participated! Many ship's parties were held at some of the most notorious knock shops and bars in Asia. Being in the pre HIV era, condom usage was rare so many cases of gonorrhea were common after a port visit. The ship doctor would always diagnose as nonspecific urethritis (NSU) and treat with antibiotics. An entry of gonorrhea in ones record was a no no but NSU was never a problem as it could be contracted under non sexual circumstances.

If they don't want to push adultery, because it's messy and difficult, there are several other violations they can persue. If they want you, and you're a fool, they'll get you.

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Originally Posted by Texpat

If they don't want to push adultery, because it's messy and difficult, there are several other violations they can persue.

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Yes. The catch all "conduct unbecoming" comes to mind if they have it out for you.;)

Adultery within the ranks was punishable in the Oz Navy, outside of the ranks (e.g in some typical port town) you were probably thought strange if you didn't indulge.

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