Desertion carries a maximum punishment of dishonorable discharge, loss of all pay, and confinement of five years. For desertion during a war, however, the death penalty may be applied (at the discretion of the court-martial). Desertion is the most serious of the absentee offenses.

How long do you go to jail for deserting the army?

Desertion carries a maximum punishment of dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of all pay, and confinement of five years. For desertion during a time of war, however, the death penalty may be applied (at the discretion of the court-martial).

Can you go to jail for deserting the army?

Punishment for Going AWOL

Besides, the maximum punishment according to the law is death or life in prison if desertion is carried out to avoid war. In fact, the vast majority of AWOL and desertion cases are disposed of with an administrative discharge.