Experience in American Military Prison vs Civilian Prison: A Comparative Analysis
A mixed experience lies in the nature of American military prisons and civilian prisons. While both are designed to punish and reform offenders, they differ significantly in their approach, living conditions, and the overall prison time experience.
The Brig: A Unique Model of Incarceration
My experience in the Navy brig at Treasure Island offers a unique perspective. The `brig` is a military correctional facility, typically for short-term confinement. The brig differs greatly from civilian prisons not just in terms of `administration`, but also in the quality of living conditions and food provided.
Administration and Management
Contrary to civilian prisons, which are run by state or federal correctional authorities, the military brig is administered by the Marine Corps. This distinction extends beyond just administrative oversight. The Marine presence ensures a specific, disciplined environment. The combination of military protocols and the direct involvement of Marines contribute to creating a more highly regulated and swift operational environment compared to civilian prisons.
Quality of Living Conditions
The quality of living conditions in the Naval brig is also significantly higher. For instance, the food in the Marine barracks is often of a much higher quality and variety than in civilian prisons. A memorable incident involved an unboxing of boxes labeled 'lobsters,' which offered a rare and luxurious meal. Additionally, inmates in the military brig are provided with `much better quality sundries and clothes.` This reflects the overall commitment to maintaining a minimum standard of inmate welfare and comfort that is often unmatched in civilian prisons.
Exercise and Physical Conditioning
A key difference lies in the daily physical activities and exercise routines. The brig requires `forced workouts daily.` This not only serves as a method of punishment but also as a form of rehabilitation, promoting physical health and well-being. In contrast, civilian prisons might have more lenient exercise requirements, with inmates often facing `confinement to their cells` or `limited access to exercise facilities`.
Freedom and Contact
Both military and civilian prisons restrict freedom and contact with friends and loved ones. However, the `level of restriction` can vary widely. In the military brig, there is still active engagement with the broader military community, albeit limited. In civilian prisons, these contacts are often severely restricted, with `visits and phone calls limited to a set schedule`.
The Case of Motivational Platoon for Disciplinary Issues
A memorable incident at Camp Pendleton provided insight into `recurrent discipline problems.` An instructor mentioned a `motivational platoon` that involved inmates being `digging holes and breaking rocks` throughout the day. This grueling routine was described as a method to "settle out most saveable cases."
This experience highlights the `harsh reality` of military disciplinary actions, where `punishment is severe but short-lived`. This is indicative of the `military approach to discipline`, which emphasizes immediate and decisive measures within a structured environment. The pipelining of disciplined soldiers back into the broader military community is a critical aspect of military rehabilitation, contrasting with the `long-term incarceration` in civilian prisons.
Aftermath and Discharge
The period between discipline and discharge in a military context is marked by significant changes. Although offenses might lead to a `dishonorable discharge`, this often comes at the `end of the disciplinary process`. During this interim period, the `quality of life` might not be what one would find in civilian prisons. Unlike the comfort and routine in the military brig, civilian prisons often offer limited activities, making life in prison a `monotonous and confined experience`.
In conclusion, while both military and civilian prisons have their unique features, the `experience` in a military prison offers a different approach to reform and rehabilitation, often focusing on discipline and the eventual integration back into military service.