Watson faces three Article 88 charges alleging contemptuous remarks about the president, five Article 92 charges alleging violations of orders and regulations, and two Article 133 charges alleging conduct unbecoming an officer.
The allegations relate to a June interview, his July 1 appearance at the U.S. Capitol while in uniform in support of Trump’s impeachment, and an August 17 CNN interview. The Article 92 allegations also include alleged violations involving political activity, uniform wear, leave and an order to wear his uniform which he reportedly refused.
Article 88 prosecutions are uncommon. A review cited by CNN identified only two convictions since the UCMJ was established in 1951, including the 2021 case of former Marine Lt. Col. Stuart Scheller, who criticized the Biden administration’s handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal.
Watson remains presumed innocent. The case will undergo the military justice process, including a potential Article 32 preliminary hearing, after which authorities will determine whether it proceeds to a special or general court-martial.