Who has the authority to impose an Article 15?

The authority to impose an Article 15 belongs to any commanding officer. This encompasses commanders at all levels who have the responsibility for maintaining discipline within their unit. The process of imposing non-judicial punishment under Article 15 is designed to be flexible and accessible, allowing commanding officers to address minor offenses promptly and effectively without resorting to more formal legal proceedings.

This authority is critical because it empowers leaders at various ranks to uphold standards and maintain order, fostering a disciplined environment throughout the ranks. Commanding officers are expected to exercise this authority wisely, taking into consideration the nature of the offense and the potential consequences for the service member.

While anyone on duty can be involved in reporting or initiating disciplinary actions, it is specifically the commanding officer's role that equips them with the jurisdiction to impose such punishments. This role is distinct from that of only commissioned officers or high-ranking officers, who may not have direct oversight of day-to-day operations in the same way that a commanding officer does. Thus, the correct answer reflects the essential function of commanding officers in enforcing discipline within the military.