Non Disclosure Agreements, what is your opinion on the US government having some of it's troops sign non disclosure agreements? Have you ever signed one?
Absolutely essential. Some people may have the best of intentions going in, but later on, decide to crusade against their government.
I don't recall specifically. Over the course of many years of military and government service, I signed quite a few documents. I've never sold either out though.
If you signed one, you would know that you did. The fact remains, you did raise your right hand at one point and I do respect that even if we disagree on just about everything.
Not necessarily. I have signed several NDAs in recent years in the corporate world. I've been out for a little over 17 years. I held a TSSBI and a TS while working for the DOE. I just honestly can't remember specifically if a piece of paper was an NDA or not. Just curious though...what sparked the interest in starting such an odd thread topic? Do you have issues with the government and NDAs?
You are right, this is an odd topic. I was just trying to bring to light something most people don't know about.
its the same as many other jobs...if something were to happen, who speaks to the media...you, or your boss? I think they are necessary, we already have to many "anonymous sources" that help the enemy in to many ways...(if they actually provide credible stuff)
You´re right, and free will + opinion should be dampened - especially when the target is the government.
NDA's are essential especially in the military as some missions, if not most are sesitive in nature, the information from such operations should not ever be disclosed. I've signed & asked people to sign NDA's many times in the business world, it's common sense when a lot of people can't be trusted not to disclose secrets.
I'm almost positive you have to sign one (regardless of civilian/military) to obtain a government security clearance... I believe that they are both good and bad, in different ways... On one hand there should be some legal, binding document informing and warning people not to disclose classified information... On the other hand, they should never prevent a person from speaking his mind on topics like politics (as long as nothing released is classified)...
Upon entering US military service, one knows he will be held accountable to the laws declared in the Uniform Code of Military Justice. These laws place tighter restrictions on the rights of a civilian citizen, including involvement in politics (foreign and domestic) and disclosure of sensitive information.
You have the free will to choose whether to sign the NDA or not. You don't like it, don't sign it and go away. As for opinion, you can express your opinion on military subjects without disclosing valuable information. Signing an NDA doesn't mean you are stripped from your right to express your opinion.
If you're responding to my post... I'm not disputing that a person knows that his rights will be hindered upon enlistment. What I'm saying, is that I don't agree with the way a persons ability to speak out on non-classified political topics is restricted...
@tarponkeith: Sorry, wasn't responding to anyone in particular, just thought it was worth mentioning for anyone without military experience reading the thread.