Which entity may impose military punishments?

Military commanders have the authority to impose military punishments based on the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), which governs the conduct of service members. This framework allows commanders to maintain discipline and ensure that military personnel adhere to standards. Commanders have a responsibility to enforce rules and regulations, and they possess the necessary authority to administer various forms of punishment, including non-judicial punishment, Article 15 actions, and court-martial proceedings.

While the President of the United States plays a significant role in the overarching command of the military, the execution of military justice and the imposition of punishments are typically carried out at various levels, primarily by the commanding officers who are directly responsible for their units. Civilian courts do not have jurisdiction over military offenses, and foreign military forces cannot impose military punishments on U.S. personnel. This structure is crucial to maintaining order and discipline within the armed forces.