Article 118 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice deals with murder and manslaughter. It states "When a enlisted member kills a human being unlawfully, without excuse or justification if: 1. The design to kill was premeditated. 2. He intended to kill the person or to inflict great bodily harm upon him. 3. He was involved in a dangerous act, envisioning a wanton disregard for life. 4. He kills a human being as he was perpetuating a burglary, sexual assault, aggravated sexual contact, rape (including rape or sexual abuse of a child), aggravated arson or robbery or if he was attempting to perpetuate these acts. He is then guilty of the crime of murder."
The maximum punishment upon a serviceman for premeditated murder (1) and murder in furtherance of a serious felony (4) is death. The mandatory minimum sentence of life in prison, without the possibility of reprieve or parole. The punishment for murder under the circumstances of 118 (2) and 118 (3) is any punishment, other than death, determined by the court marshal. The punishment, besides being dishonorably discharged, is typically the same as the sentence for second degree murder in civilian courts: life in prison with the possibility of parole after 15-20 years.