Commentary: Self-discipline an essential component of military life Published Oct. 5, 2010 By Maj. Julie Rutherford 386th Air Expeditionary Wing Staff Judge Advocate SOUTHWEST ASIA -- Gen. George Washington once remarked, "Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable; procures success to the weak and esteem to all." As it was then, and as it is today, a well disciplined force is vital to successful military operations. Discipline can be distinguished from punishment. Although these terms are often used together, they do not mean the same thing. Discipline is the process of teaching individuals to internalize rules and values so they can make the right decisions on their own. In contrast, punishment can be defined as imposing rules by force on individuals to change their behavior. What we strive for in the military justice system is to assist leaders at all levels in creating and maintaining a self-disciplined force. To illustrate the concept self-discipline it might be helpful to look at a positive example. On Feb. 27, 2006, Army Specialist Brian Sheetz and his crewmen were on routine security patrol in Iraq when their tank was ambushed. "We were at a complete stop, scanning the area, when I turned my attention to another area," Specialist Sheetz recalled. "At that moment, I noticed an object entering the tank through the loader's hatch. I immediately recognized that it was a hand grenade. Without thinking, I reached for the grenade and threw it out of the hatch. As soon as it left my hand, it detonated." Sheetz selflessly positioned himself between the grenade and his crewmen with complete disregard for his own safety. His valiant effort saved the lives of four men that day. "If I hadn't been so alert, the outcome would have been quite different," Specialist Sheetz said. What if he hadn't been paying attention that day? Listening to his iPod? Sleeping? It is easy to think that given a stressful combat situation we will behave differently than during our normal day-to-day routine, but this isn't true. Internalized self-discipline and vigilance, practiced every day, is what prepares us all to do what is right - from the most mundane scenarios to the highest-threat situations. You must be self-disciplined. Do the right thing when you know that no one is watching. Internalize the laws, regulations, rules and values set before you. It is always tough and a shame to see anyone face disciplinary action and/or punishment. Many of us learn self-discipline in basic training, technical school or through a mentor early in our careers. However, this is not always the case. When necessary, the ability to demand accountability and to administer consequences is the key to creating good order and discipline. In a deployed environment, the line between right and wrong can often appear to become blurry. Let me assure you they are not! If you have a question about what conduct is off limits, be self-disciplined and ask for clarification. Consequences and disciplinary action will follow undisciplined/unlawful behavior. The ability to count on the actions of those around you every day is critical in the stressful and dangerous situations you may face. Disciplinary action and punishment may seem harsh and unfair when compared to the civilian world, but they are necessary to ensure an effective fighting force.