Drunken Diplomacy: The Pattaya Incident and the Limits of US Military Discipline

A recent incident involving two US sailors sent back to their warship, the Abraham Lincoln, after a drunken altercation in Pattaya has raised questions about the military’s ability to discipline its personnel. On the surface, it appears to be a minor matter – an off-duty spat between American servicemen that got out of hand.

However, scratch beneath the surface and you’ll find a more complex narrative. The US Navy’s decision to send the sailors back on board without charges reflects not only Thai law but also a broader issue within the military: balancing discipline with the realities of modern warfare. Soldiers are increasingly deployed for extended periods in hostile environments that can be physically and mentally exhausting.

The Abraham Lincoln, which has been at sea for over 280 days, is a prime example of this issue. Living conditions on board have reportedly deteriorated, leading some sailors to let their hair down when they get the chance. However, does this justify their behavior? The answer is complicated. On one hand, the incident can be seen as a small price to pay for the freedoms and privileges that come with military service – the ability to travel, experience new cultures, and have some fun.

On the other hand, sending the sailors back on board without charges raises questions about accountability within the military. If they had been arrested or charged by Thai authorities, their commanding officers would likely have faced pressure to take disciplinary action. By being released without penalty, the two sailors may be able to avoid consequences for this incident – and potentially others like it.

This issue speaks to a larger problem with military culture. The US Navy has struggled with issues of discipline and accountability in the past, from the Tailhook scandal in 1991 to more recent incidents involving hazing and sexual assault. It’s time for the brass to examine how they’re training personnel – not just in combat skills but also in basic human decency.

The Pattaya incident is part of a larger pattern of misbehavior reported from various US military bases around the world. From drunkenness and disorderly conduct to more serious allegations, it’s clear that the military has its work cut out for it when it comes to maintaining discipline among its personnel.

With over 280 days at sea, the USS Abraham Lincoln and its crew face unique challenges – from living conditions to mental health. Providing sailors with a comfortable place to sleep or eat is not enough; the Navy needs to create an environment where they can thrive, both on and off duty.

The US Navy must take a hard look at its policies and procedures for dealing with incidents like this one. This means more than just sending sailors back on board without charges – it requires taking concrete steps to address the root causes of misbehavior through increased training, improved living conditions, or holding personnel accountable for their actions.

The stakes are high: not just for individual sailors but also for the reputation of the US military as a whole. If we can’t police our own ranks, how can we expect others to respect us? The answer is clear: it’s time for the brass to get serious about discipline and accountability – before another incident like this one blows up in their faces.

The world will be watching.