Skip to content

Army Quote by Alan Keyes

“The right response when, in the army, you are given an unlawful order, is to refuse that order. The right response of a chief executive in this state and in this nation, when faced with an order by a court that he conscientiously believes violates the constitution he is sworn to respect, is to…” quote by Alan Keyes
Download Open image
“The right response when, in the army, you are given an unlawful order, is to refuse that order. The right response of a chief executive in this state and in this nation, when faced with an order by a court that he conscientiously believes violates the constitution he is sworn to respect, is to refuse their order!”

Alan Keyes

About This Quote

Source Speech: Political rally, 2005

Refusing unlawful orders is a civic duty for both soldiers and leaders to uphold constitutional principles.

In simple terms: Unlawful orders must be refused to protect the Constitution.

Key Takeaway

Stand up for constitutional rights.

Themes

civic duty law leadership

Mood

serious determined

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • military service
  • executive decision making
  • court challenges
  • public office

Key Concepts

constitutional law ethical obedience

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safeguards protect those who refuse unlawful orders?
  • How should institutions handle dissent?
A Different Perspective

Refusal can lead to personal risk or career loss.

3.7 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Alan Keyes

Explore all 95 Alan Keyes quotes

More Army quotes

Browse all 3,919 Army quotes