In the US, the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) provides the legal framework for prosecuting servicemember offenses like war crimes, prisoner abuse, and the unauthorized release of classified information. In the military justice system, commanders bring charges, military prosecutors argue cases, and courts-martial determine guilt and impose sentences.
Some argue that military courts hold individuals accountable and protect human rights, while others believe the system fails to punish those in positions of power or address broader institutional failures. The cases of Chelsea Manning, Lynndie England, and William Calley provide insight into how the military responds to misconduct and whether its legal processes effectively uphold human rights.
Chelsea Manning
Chelsea Manning, a former US Army intelligence analyst, leaked classified documents that exposed potential human rights abuses. In 2010, Manning provided Wikileaks with hundreds of thousands of files, including videos showing civilian casualties caused by US forces. The government charged Manning under the Espionage Act, leading to a court-martial. The military sentenced her to 35 years in prison, though President Obama later commuted the sentence.
Supporters argued that Manning’s disclosures exposed misconduct and promoted accountability, while critics claimed the leaks endangered national security. Manning’s trial raised questions about whether whistleblowers truly receive fair treatment under military law.
Lynndie England
Lynndie England, a US Army Reserve soldier, became a central figure in the Abu Ghraib prison abuse scandal. Photographs showed England and other soldiers humiliating Iraqi detainees, which sparked international outrage. A military court convicted England of conspiracy, mistreating prisoners, and committing indecent acts. The court-martial sentenced her to three years in prison, but she served less than two.
England claimed she followed orders and did not fully understand the consequences of her actions. Critics argued that military justice focused on low-ranking soldiers while higher-ranking officials avoided significant punishment.
William Calley
William Calley, a US Army officer, played a leading role in the My Lai Massacre during the Vietnam War. His unit killed hundreds of unarmed Vietnamese civilians, including women and children. A court-martial convicted Calley of murder and sentenced him to life in prison, but President Nixon later reduced his sentence. Calley ultimately served only three and a half years under house arrest.
Many viewed the conviction as a rare instance of military justice addressing war crimes, but others criticized the leniency of the punishment. The case raised concerns about command responsibility and whether military justice adequately prosecutes those who order or carry out human rights violations. It remains one of the most significant court-martials in US history.
What We Can Learn from These Infamous Cases
These cases demonstrate that military justice plays a role in prosecuting human rights violations, though the outcomes of these efforts vary. The court-martials of Chelsea Manning, Lynndie England, and William Calley reveal patterns in how the military responds to leaks, detainee abuse, and war crimes. Some cases resulted in strict sentences, but all three ultimately involved reduced punishments or early releases.
Critics argue that military justice sometimes shields higher-ranking officials from accountability while punishing lower-level personnel. Supporters claim it provides a necessary legal framework to enforce discipline. These cases suggest that while military courts address human rights violations, the system does not always ensure consistent accountability.
Contact a Court Martial Defense Attorney
A court-martial can impact your career, freedom, and future. If you are facing a court-martial or need help with an appeal, contact the attorneys at Court Martial Law – A Division of Aviso Law. Our team defends service members in military courts and fights for their rights. We handle cases involving alleged war crimes, misconduct, and other military offenses. Contact us today for a free initial consultation so we can review your case and explain your legal options.
