Do US Army Officials Get Drugged While on Deployment?

There was a great deal of marijuana consumption during the Vietnam War.

#8230; at least, this is the common belief. However, the reality is quite different. Most of us who may be reading this would assume that military personnel, especially those on deployment, would not indulge in drug use, considering the risk of random drug tests and the scrutiny they are under due to suspicious or irresponsible behaviors, which may lead to mandatory testing.

But just to clarify – they do receive routine and special prescriptions of controlled substances as directed by medical supervision through MEDDAC or its counterparts in the other services. This is not an illegal activity and is sanctioned by the military.

Legal Medications and Controlled Substances

While deployed, many US Army officials will either already be taking prescribed medications or will become injured or ill, necessitating the prescription of a medication by an authorized provider to treat their condition. Any use or misuse of any illegal substance or medication, which is illegal under military and U.S. federal law, is subject to prosecution. This can include offenses under Title 18 and Title 21 of the U.S. Code, as well as the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) Articles 112 and 112a.

Military Regulations and Policies

Military and federal laws are strict when it comes to the use and possession of illegal drugs. However, there are also strict guidelines and policies in place to manage the use of legal medications and controlled substances. These policies and procedures are designed to ensure that all personnel are using these medications in a safe, effective, and legal manner.

Illustrative Cases from the Vietnam War

The Vietnam War is a prime example of how drug usage, both legal and illegal, played a significant role in the lives of military personnel during deployment. The consumption of marijuana was a common occurrence but, as mentioned earlier, this does not mean that drug use was sanctioned or legally accepted. In many cases, individuals found to be in possession of illegal substances faced legal consequences, even if they were in combat zones.

Controlled Substances and Prescription Medications

During deployment, personnel may also be prescribed controlled substances such as painkillers, anti-anxiety medications, or other prescribed medications to manage injuries or illnesses. This is a practice sanctioned by the military and aimed at ensuring the well-being of the personnel.

Commander's Authority to Prohibit Drug Use

Besides standing federal and military crimes governing illegal drug use and possession, theater and local commanders may issue additional prohibitions against drug use or abuse based on local circumstances. For example, Central Command General Order 1 prohibits the use of otherwise legal drugs such as alcohol. If a personnel violates this order, they will be charged as a violation of a lawful general order if issued by a general/flag officer-level command, or a violation of a lawful order if issued by a commander below general/flag officer-level.

These measures ensure that military personnel are held accountable for their actions and that the well-being of the force is protected.

It is crucial for all military personnel to understand and abide by these regulations to maintain the integrity and discipline of the armed forces. Misuse of prescribed medications or illegal drug use can have serious legal and disciplinary consequences.