Army training demands a lot of discipline and restraint, but soldiers and cadets are also allowed to have fun from time to time. Still, they need to be careful and not break any policies or code of conduct. With that in mind, it’s natural that many wonder – is gambling illegal in the military? After all, this is a common hobby, and nowadays it’s easy to play on the phone, or just buy a poker set in a toy shop.
Although online gambling for real money is typically harmless it can still be viewed as problematic. Modern casino online sites have cash and free spins promos along with responsible gambling tools that players can use to manage their budgets. Huf online casino you can find here https://kaszinoworld.com/huf/ all have the aforementioned traits. But that doesn’t mean they will be approved by your superior officers. Additionally, soldiers on duty aren’t usually allowed to carry their phones so it will be difficult to access them.
Historically though, we all know that soldiers gamble, it’s even depicted in ancient art. Service can be stressful and this is a way to alleviate some stress. However, there are some protocols in place that could go against this practice. So, stick around to find more.
Legal Framework Governing Gambling in the Military
The best way to answer the question – can military members gamble is to look at the law. There are domestic laws, unit-specific policies, and international treaties that actually deal with these issues.
International and National Laws And Policies
Active members of the army are subject to the laws of their home country, even if they are stationed abroad. For example, the US has a uniform code of military justice (UCMJ) that controls gambling which may be detrimental to discipline and order. While serving abroad, NATO forces must follow their national legislation as well as the local laws of the host country.
Policies For Civil-Military Relations
So, can you gamble in the military, if both domestic and international laws permit it? Well, it will depend on other policies too. Aside from the state’s laws, military bodies also have their policies for gaming activities. Article 134 of UCMJ on gambling with subordinates focuses on the balance between proper subordination relations and gambling vices. Engaging in such actions without proper authorization incurs sanctions ranging from imprisonment to loss of salary.
Base Vs Overseas Policies
Domestic and overseas bases have set different policies. Some army bases, particularly those outside of the continental US, are permitted to operate slots. However, they are strictly controlled to avoid the probability of problem gambling.
Military Policies on Gambling: On-Base and Off-Duty Regulations
It’s no surprise that the military tries to maintain discipline among their staff. One of the ways they achieve this is through policies that seek to limit excess leisure.
Gambling Within the Military Premises
Different forms of gaming including certain lotteries, quick hit casino online slots, and bingo can be sanctioned within military installations. They act as part of the welfare amenities provided and morale-boosting schemes. That said these are all supervised.
Restrictions on Gambling Online
Using Internet casinos can be a tricky topic. Many branches face issues such as financial instability as well as the potential risk of service members having their sensitive information stolen. For these reasons, members are often briefed on the negative aspects of gaming. This includes mentioning any legal actions they could face if they place bets without authorization.
Effects of Breaking the Policies
Demotions, pay cuts, or even court-martial are seen as effective punishments for those who don’t follow the rules. The army believes that such activities affect the integrity and the cohesion of the unit, which will, in turn, impair operational readiness.
Historical Perspective on Gambling in the Military
Gambling has been popular among soldiers throughout centuries, which shows its cultural significance within the military. Roman legionnaires liked to play dice for fun. The same was practiced during the Napoleonic Wars when the soldiers played card games to pass the time.
In both World Wars, soldiers played blackjack as a distraction from the battles. These activities gave a sense of normal times and provided temporary relief. While fighting in Vietnam, betting was common, and soldiers often organized informal betting pools and card games.
The Role of Gambling in Military Recreation
Gambling has served many purposes in the lives of service members, from providing entertainment to helping with stress.
- Leisure and Rest: Given that the military exercise regime is very strict with many strength activities that tire you out quickly, it’s nice to have some downtime playing games.
- Promotion of Group Cohesion: Group activities are also fairly frequent among active military personnel. The most common examples include unit poker games, and making betting pool predictions.
- Military Controlled Gambling Facilities: These types of facilities serve as a hub for recreational activities in the army.
Risks and Challenges Associated with Gambling in the Military
In the extreme form, gambling can lead to loss of discipline, failure to focus on primary duties, and other important decision-making. Research suggests that the problem gambling rate for individuals in active service is a lot higher when compared to the rest of society. In fact, studies by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and Bowling Green State University have found that problem gambling is 3.5 times higher in active army members than in the civilian population.
Additionally, debts resulting from betting can pose major risks to service members. This can lead to losing one’s security clearance level. Moreover, The National Council on Problem Gambling estimated that around 56,000 active duty troops have around the necessary criteria for gambling disorder.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this answers the question – can military gamble? In essence, some types of regulated betting are allowed, but all other forms are prohibited. Nonetheless, the danger of problem betting warrants the need for far-reaching preventive measures and regulations. Having defined policies in place and having responsible practices within the military community is of the utmost importance to ensure its sustainability.
Born and raised in Bozeman, Montana, he graduated from George State University with an MBA in Actuarial Science. His hobbies include beach volleyball, hiking, fishing, and lifting weights
George is also a certified nutritionist with a passion for health and fitness.