Experiencing the Stigma and Reality of Military Incarceration: A Personal Account
Introduction to Military Incarceration in the Military System
Military incarceration, often prevalent in the ranks of armed forces around the world, is a stark reality for many service members who find themselves facing disciplinary measures for various violations. This system can vary from basic detention quarters to more extreme forms of confinement such as correctional custody units (CCU) and brigades.
Common Forms of Military Incarceration
For many, the assumption is that military imprisonment is merely a brief stint of incarceration, similar to civilian institutions. However, the reality is often more severe and complex. The Royal Navy Correctional Custody Units (CCU) and Marine brigades are known for their strict discipline and tough routines. Participation in such units can be a significant deterrent for those who might consider breaking the rules.
Day-to-Day Life in Military Incarceration
The daily routines in a military prison are regimented and monotonous. A typical day might start with waking up for breakfast, followed by relaxation, watching TV or a movie, lunch, a work assignment, a break in the yard, dinner, more TV or playing card games, and finally lights out. However, the real challenge lies in the strict discipline and the psychological and physical toll it takes on the inmate. The etiquette and discipline in a military prison can be grueling.
Personal Experience in a Military Prison
When I was 17, I found myself confined in the Royal Navy's Detention Quarters (RNDQ) in 1985. Enforced during a time of strict discipline and harsh training, this period left a lasting impression. It convinced me that the Navy and I were not meant to be together, and it took me away from the path of a military career. However, my aspirations changed, and a few years later, I joined the Foreign Legion, a highly elite military unit renowned for its rigorous training and unwavering standards.
At the Foreign Legion, life was filled with military exercise and camaraderie, but one fateful evening, a bar fight erupted in the town of Cayenne, French Guyania. The Fogey and his comrades engaged in a heated fight with locals, subsequently leading to severe repercussions. One incident that stands out is the arrest of a local police MP. In retaliation, he was subjected to a brutal beating known as the "Danse des Matraques" (Pickaxe Handle Dance). This punishment, designed to degrade and humiliate, left us physically and psychologically scarred.
Following a court-martial, I was sentenced to 60 days of hard labor, a painful and demeaning assignment designed to dehumanize. The tasks included sweeping the parade ground, running with full pack webbing and helmet, and physically demanding assignments like digging holes and cleaning storm drains. The physical and mental torture these tasks entailed left a lasting impression, reminding me of the harsh realities of military incarceration.
Reflections and Lessons Learned
Despite the harsh reality of military incarceration, it provided a valuable lesson on the consequences of actions and the strict adherence to discipline. The experience reinforced the importance of behaving responsibly and respecting the rules. For the Foreign Legion mercenary corps, serving time in a military prison was a stark reminder of the faith and commitment required to serve in such an elite and often volatile environment.
Conclusion
While military incarceration is often seen as a brief period of confinement, the reality is far more complex and challenging. The strict discipline and harsh routines can have profound and lasting impacts on both the individual and their career. Understanding and appreciating the lessons learned from these experiences is crucial for anyone considering a military career.