TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Freedom of Speech is a right granted to all citizens by the United States Constitution, but as forms of communication expand and evolve, awareness and military regulations must also evolve.
Members of the Armed Forces must keep in mind customs and courtesies, as well as the Uniform Code of Military Justice when posting content to social media sites.
"Simply put any action or speech that an Airman is not allowed to say offline is not justified online," said Capt. Vincent Defabo, 325th Judge Advocate chief of military justice. "Sexually harassing Facebook post or e-mails is an example."
The consequences for posting inappropriate things on social media vary depending on the content.
"Certain misconduct online could result in some form of counseling, such as a Letter of Reprimand or Letter of Admonishment," Defabo said. "If a person is harassing another person online, especially in violation of a no-contact order, then this is a violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice. The result could be an Article 15 or even courts-martial if the conduct is serious enough."
Additionally, military members may not endorse a political candidate or one private company over another. For example: "I am a staff sergeant in the military and I support this congressman for reelection," is not permitted, Defabo added.
Most things posted online are permanent and even if deleted, still exist somewhere in some form of data. Social media sites such as Facebook have comprehensive privacy settings to control who has access to your social media content.
"Imagine your Commander, First Sergeant and entire leadership chain will be reading anything you post," Defabo said. "Most importantly, how the public will view what you are posting. Airmen represent the Air Force at all times, not just while on duty. "
Information on what may or may not be posted can be found in several Air Force instructions; AFI 1-1, para 2.15, Use of Social Media, states:
Airmen interact with individuals through many forms of communication, including face-to-face, telephone, letter, e-mail, text messages, social networking services, and social media. Social networking services include weblogs, message boards, video sharing, and social networking sites, which are web-based services that allow individuals and communities of people to stay in touch. Compliance with the standards discussed in this instruction does not vary, and is not otherwise dependent on the method of communication used. You are personally responsible for what you say and post on social networking services and any other medium. Regardless of the method of communication used Air Force standards must be observed at all times, both on and off-duty.
The information stated in AFIs was echoed by others.
"I would remind all parties involved that compliance with standards does not change even when using social media as a form of communication," said Master Sgt. Sean Gray, 325th Force Support Squadron first sergeant. "Additionally, I would let them know that it is their obligation to maintain appropriate communication and conduct with officer and enlisted personnel. Peers, superiors and subordinates are applicable whether you communicate via a social networking service, email, instant messaging or texting as well."
There is not only one form of guidance on this topic, other forms are available online.
Additional guidance on social media can be found in AFI 31-401, Information Security Program Management; AFI 33-129, Web Management and Internet Use; Air Force Handbook 33-337, Tongue and Quill; AFI 35-101, Public Affairs Policies and Procedures; AFI 35-107, Public Web Communications; AFI 35-113 Internal Information.
For additional legal advice on social media and more, the legal office may be reached at (850)283-4681.