Debarment: A Guide for Installation Commanders

This study explores the capability of the commander of a military installation to debar--that is, permanently remove--individuals from the installation under his or her command. Debarment is one of many tools installation commanders can use to maintain good order and discipline on the installation. Often the most extreme of the tools available to commanders, a debarment must be used appropriately. This study gives installation commanders the historical, legal, and practical background concerning debarring individuals from military installations which commanders can readily use to their benefit. The study delineates the important statutes involved in debarments as well as the courts' interpretation of those statutes, and the Air Force's implementation of the laws pertaining to debarment. The information used in this research paper was gathered from a variety of sources including relevant case law, statutes, and other federal laws and regulations, as well as a review of the available opinions of The Judge Advocates General of the United States Armed Forces.