Provision 72 refers to a broadly interpreted statute within the Averian Unified Code of Military Conduct (AUCMC) regarding “Disrespect to a Superior Officer.”
Originally drafted to uphold order during the post-Kelvintide campaigns, the provision has become a notorious catch-all charge, often used to enforce obedience, exact petty revenge, or eliminate rising threats to command prestige.
Language of the Statute
“Any willful act, gesture, speech, implication, or omission which can be reasonably interpreted as diminishing the standing, command authority, or dignity of a superior officer—regardless of rank, context, or factual basis—shall constitute a violation of Provision 72.”
The clause “reasonably interpreted” is intentionally undefined, giving officers wide discretionary power in its enforcement.
Common Applications
- Vocal criticism or sarcasm toward an officer
- Failure to salute or obey ceremonial norms
- Romantic or sexual involvement with a superior’s family
- Outshining a superior during public operations
- Political inconvenience or disruption of chain-of-command optics
Consequences
Penalties are variable and often political. Typical punishments include:
- Demotion or rank suspension
- Physical lashing (symbolic or punitive)
- Remote reassignment or duty exile
- Temporary removal of honor insignia
Cultural Reputation
Among soldiers, Provision 72 is infamous as “the fish-net of discipline.” It’s used to silence, punish, or reposition without requiring proof of criminal wrongdoing. Most view it as an unavoidable hazard of service—one that says more about who you offended than what you did.