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Execution (MILITARY a technical term)

MILITARY, a technical term, signifying the carrying out of the decision of any military court, not necessarily a death sentence. Military laws and their execution, or administration, are quite separate and distinct from the civil laws of the same territory, the former having as their special object the maintenance of military organization and discipline. The offenses covered are, covered are , therefore, of a peculiar nature, such as desertion, absence without leave, disobeorders, neglect dience, or refusal to obey orders, rs, "conduct of duty, and, among officers, unbecoming that of a gentleman." Those subject to the jurisdiction of military law are, first of all, officers and soldiers on the active list, in the pay of the Government, whether of the regular army or the militia; retired officers and soldiers; discharged officers or soldiers who have defrauded the Government; and general prisoners. In time of war certain civilians may be included, such as those suspected of being spies in the pay of the enemy, and camp followers. Punishments range from imprisonment, dishonorable dismissal or discharge, to death. Before the decree of a military court may be executed it must first be what is termed confirmed. In the British army cases.

EXETER COLLEGE this confirmation is done by a special officer representing the King, but in the United States army the highest commanding officer of the department is com- Where a court sentences an offipetent to confirm a sentence in ordinary cer to dismissal from the service, however, the confirmation must be signed by the President of the United States himself, and this rule applies also to death sentences, except in very special cases.