This letter is directed to the writer of the letter ”Democrats’ video urging insurrection is treasonous” (Nov. 21, TribLive). You, sir, have no understanding of history or the Universal Code of Military Justice.
Following World War II, Nazis accused of killing innocent civilians were brought before the Nuremberg Court. The Nazis’ defense was they were following orders. The court ruled following orders was not a defense, and it was the duty of a soldier “Not to follow illegal orders.”
The principles established in Nuremberg were later incorporated into the Universal Code of Military Justice. Every member of the military is taught they are not to follow an illegal order, regardless of who gives that order: a sergeant, a captain, a general or the president of the United States. In fact, any member of the military who follows an illegal order is subject to punishment under the UCMJ.
Members of the military are not enslaved people subject to the orders of their masters. The members of Congress who urged members of the military to refuse illegal orders are correct and are the real Americans. I’m sure Hitler would agree with you, but Washington, Adams, Jefferson and the Founding Fathers would not.
Herman N. Spinelli
Greensburg