If you witness or suspect a violation of the law of war, to whom should you report it

• A. Your superior, a military lawyer, a chaplain, or provost marshal
• B. The enemy
• C. The civilian population
• D. The press

Answer: (A)

When you witness or suspect a violation of the law of war, use the formal reporting channels built into the military justice system. The most appropriate people to approach are your direct supervisor, a military lawyer (Judge Advocate General’s Corps), a chaplain who can provide confidential guidance, or the provost marshal who oversees military police and investigations. These individuals are trained to handle such reports properly, preserve evidence, initiate a formal investigation, and ensure due process and accountability while protecting your rights as a whistleblower when applicable. Reporting to the enemy would undermine security and isn’t a legitimate way to address abuses, and the civilian population or the press aren’t channels for authentic internal investigations or enforcement within the military.