Abortion is a highly debated topic in today’s society, with supporters and opponents expressing their views. Some argue for the value of life, while others defend a woman’s right to choose. In the case of a deployed sailor seeking an abortion, it is up to the Commanding Officer to decide whether “emergency leave” should be granted. This decision has significant consequences for the sailor. Personally, I would deny the sailor’s request for “emergency leave” based on the prioritized loyalties established in the Constitutional Paradigm. The Constitutional Paradigm emphasizes loyalty towards the Constitution, Mission, Service, Ship or Command, Shipmate, and Self. However, it should be noted that abortion is legal according to U.S. Supreme Court rulings and governmental laws mandate that this decision should not be influenced.
The decision on this issue should not be in the hands of any government; it should be up to each individual. Additionally, we need to consider the potential risks involved in the mission. Petty Officer Taylor was informed by the commanding officer that her assistance would be highly valuable upon the imminent arrival of a squadron of ships and a wing of B-2 Bombers. If there is an insufficient staff at the base, there is a chance that something could go awry and cause a delay for the Bombers in their crucial mission, resulting in potentially catastrophic consequences.
Also, Petty Officer Taylor was assigned to this remote base for a duration of one year. Her assignment was specifically for the purpose of working towards the mission of the base. Leaving before completing her duty would mean she is not fulfilling her obligations. This is not only because it is the fifth priority of the paradigm, but also because the Commanding Officer has a responsibility to look after his shipmates and maintain respect among all sailors. The Commanding Officer has the authority to grant or deny Petty Officer Taylor’s request to become a mother through signing a document.
When it comes to important decisions in life, such as abortion, the Commanding Officer should consider his personal beliefs and values. As a “deeply religious” person, he opposes abortion due to his own moral convictions which likely stem from Divine Theory. However, it is vital to respect individual autonomy and freedom of religion. Therefore, the Commanding Officer must avoid imposing his personal morals on Petty Officer Taylor. Everyone has the right to hold their own moral beliefs, especially those rooted in religious faith. Prohibiting abortion based on personal morals would violate Americans’ constitutionally protected freedom of religion. In this situation, if the sailor believes that abortion is morally acceptable and legal, then it should be allowed.
Petty Officer Taylor desires to terminate her pregnancy through the utilization of “emergency leave”. Nonetheless, this specific type of leave is solely permitted when either the service member or a close relative faces an imminent threat to their life. Merely being pregnant is not regarded as a life-threatening situation; thus, I would reject the request for “emergency leave” as it fails to comply with the Navy’s criteria for such absence.
In summary, according to the hierarchy of loyalties, I believe it is crucial for the Commanding Officer to decline the “emergency leave” request for an abortion. Approving this request would put the mission at risk, which is the main duty of all service-members who have pledged to prioritize it over their personal concerns. Nonetheless, if her responsibilities at the base can be adjusted or if a suitable replacement can be found, she should be allowed to go home and have the abortion.
