Airmen receive Article 15 punishments

  • Published
  • 28th Bomb Wing Legal Office
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --   During the month of May, several Ellsworth Airmen received Article 15 nonjudicial punishments for their actions.

A staff sergeant from the 28th Communications Squadron received an Article 15 for one specification of AWOL, and for one specification of failure to go. Punishment consisted of suspended reduction to senior airman, forfeiture of $250 pay per month for two months, and a reprimand.

A senior airman from the 28th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron received an Article 15 for conduct prejudicial to good order and discipline, making disparaging comments toward female Airmen.  Punishment consisted of reduction to airman first class, suspended forfeiture of $1,027 pay, and a reprimand.

An airman first class from the 28th Maintenance Squadron received an Article 15 for one specification of dereliction of duty, negligently failing to properly store classified materials. Punishment consisted of suspended reduction to airman, 15 days extra duty, and a reprimand.

A staff sergeant from the 28th Operation Support Squadron received an Article 15 for one specification of dereliction of duty, negligently failing to properly inspect a survival kit. Punishment consisted of suspended reduction to senior airman, forfeiture of $200 pay per month for two months, and a reprimand.

Under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, Article 15 provides commanders the authority to impose nonjudicial punishment. NJP provides commanders with an essential and prompt means to maintain good order, morale and discipline. It also promotes positive behavior changes in servicemembers without the stigma of a court-martial conviction. NJP is considered when other nonpunitive disciplinary measures - such as counseling, letters of reprimand, and administrative withholding of privileges - are not effective. By imposing NJP fairly, swiftly and efficiently, the commander promotes good order and discipline within the unit. As a rehabilitative tool, portions of an NJP can be suspended, and will not take effect unless the member engages in further misconduct. The rules and procedures for NJP administration are governed by Air Force Instruction 51-202, "Nonjudicial Punishment."