imported post
Well, here's the problem with that...
As an active-duty service member, you are essentially no longer a "citizen", and therefore the Constitution and State law doesn't really apply to you anymore. You are property of the US Government, and must abide by a COMPLETELY different set of rules and regulations (Primarily, the CMJ and CFR).
The fact is, there are a LOT of things that "citizens" can lawfully and legally do that your CO's might consider "conduct unbecoming", and for which they could sanction you.
And since the JPD seems to have a major burr in it's saddle for our fine men and women in uniform, the chances of a "non-incident" becoming an "incident" just because you have a military ID are relatively high, unless you have plenty of witnesses, and Law Abiding Citizens standing around you to come to your defense. So asking for "citizens" to go on OC expeditions with you is VERY wise, and should help keep things cool with the local LEO's...
Many LEA's have MAJOR inferiority complexes when it comes to the real military, and the way this often manifests is in harassment, overzealous persecution, and intimidation. The fact that there are always a few knuckleheads in the Armed Forces who actually DO go out with the intent to cause trouble when they are off-base blowing off steam only adds fuel to this situation.
It's a sad state of affairs, but the truth of the matter is that you are not protected by the very laws and documents your oath binds you to uphold...
If I get down that way inthe near future, I'll be sure to let you know, and maybe we could get together. There are a few other folks down that way that might volunteer as well.
Good luck, and keep your eyes open...
