Five Airmen receive Article 15s, reduction in rank Published Jan. 25, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Shafiyquca Gause 71st Flying Training Wing Legal Office VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Five military members at Vance Air Force Base received nonjudicial punishment during the third and fourth quarter of calendar year 2012. An airman was given nonjudicial punishment for making a false official statement. The member received a reduction to airman basic and a reprimand. A senior airman was given nonjudicial punishment for dereliction of duty. The member received a suspended reduction to the rank of airman first class, 15 days extra duty and a reprimand. A senior airman was given nonjudicial punishment for wrongful use of marijuana. The member received a reduction to the rank of airman first class, a reprimand and was subsequently discharged. A senior airman was given nonjudicial punishment for wrongful use of an intoxicating substance, commonly referred to as Spice. The member received a reduction to the rank of airman first class, a reprimand and was subsequently discharged. A staff sergeant was given nonjudicial punishment for failure to go. The member received a suspended reduction to senior airman, forfeiture of $250 pay per month for two months and a reprimand. Article 15 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice provides commanders with an essential and prompt means of maintaining good order and discipline and also promotes positive behavior changes in service members without the stigma of a court-martial conviction. These actions are considered to be nonjudicial punishment. These actions are appropriate for violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice or violations of state or federal laws. Punishment under Article 15 can affect promotions, assignments and re-enlistment opportunities. Commanders normally consider administrative actions, such as counseling, reprimands and withholding of privileges before resorting to nonjudicial punishment, but such measures are not a required first step. Commanders tailor decisions on each punishment to the circumstances and seriousness of offenses committed and the members past disciplinary history.