Eyes Only with Wes O'Donnell

Eyes Only with Wes O'Donnell

Can Servicemembers Really Refuse an Unlawful Order?

Yes. But it can ruin your life if you get it wrong

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Wes O'Donnell
Nov 23, 2025
∙ Paid
Photo by the author. Arlington National Cemetery.

Just a note: I am not an attorney and this is not legal advice. I’m writing based on my experience as a noncommissioned officer who served in two branches of the US military.

Troops swear an oath to the Constitution. Not to a president. Not to a general. Not to the person screaming at you to hurry up becau…

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