The Importance of Accountability in the Marine Corps

Importance of Accountability in the Marine Corps
Unauthorized Absence (UA) from an appointed place of duty at a prescribed time by a member of the armed forces violates Article 86 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Conversely, adherence to the provisions of this article promotes accountability and ensures unit effectiveness. In the marine corps, accountability means that a marine is always at their appointed place of duty at their prescribed time and playing their part. Therefore duty and responsibility are significant components of accountability. A member of the armed forces can be accountable to their superiors, team members, and subordinates.
As a shared responsibility between unit commanders and individual marines, the benefits of accountability are extensive. First, accountability is essential in planning. When unit commanders can account for everyone under their leadership, they can determine the exact number of personnel available to execute specific tasks and adequately allocate the resources available at all times. Second, accountability is a vital component of operational effectiveness. While other factors such as communication, leadership, etc., are essential in field operations, a mission is likely to succeed if all unit members are at their designated places of duty at the right time, playing their part.
Third, accountability helps coordinate rescue efforts in case of a catastrophic event, an attack, or when a member is “left behind” in a mission. Often when disaster strikes or in case of an ambush, tracking the whereabouts of all personnel can be overwhelming for unit commanders. Accountability is ...