Article 91, the insubordinate conduct towards Warrant Officer, Noncommissioned Officer, or Petty Officer. This article is put in place as a means to keep subordinates in line. It aims to keep Marines who are of a lesser grade from assaulting, disobeying, or disrespecting those of higher rank. This article is important to help Marines of a higher rank do their jobs accordingly. Without this article subordinate Marines would be much more prone to impede the work of their superiors. They would also be much more prone to disrespectful natures and action towards those appointed over them. The importance of this article goes as deep as to hold together the fabric of the Marine Corps’ professionalism and honor, but more simply put it holds Marines accountable for blatant disregard or disrespect of anyone of a higher rank.
This article is crucial to keep Marines obedient and to discipline Marines who step out of line. In majority of cases NCOs have more combat experience or, at least, more experience in their MOS. In this sense they are better equipped to lead lower enlisted Marines into not only combat situations but situations they may run into in their everyday work. Also to protect their Marines, and to ensure the completion of the mission no matter what it might be. This is why they have earned the position of a Noncommissioned Officer in the first place and should therefore be respected. Even more so for anyone who has earned even more prestigious titles such as Staff Noncommissioned Officer, Commissioned Officer, or Warrant Officer. Regardless of personal beliefs by any Marine it is important to follow this article to keep good order and discipline among his peers, superiors, and subordinates.
There is a multitude of punishments that can occur from breaking article 91. The severity of the punishment can range from a simple explanation as to why the Marine was wrong to a court martial with differing punishments depending on whether the offense was assault,...