MEDAL: To be sure, getting sent to the brig for three days of bread and water sucks. So for that reason alone, it’s probably an effective disciplinary measure. But it’s time to let this antiquated and arcane punishment fade into history along with rum rations and the lash. For now, bread and water remains on the books as an option for dealing with unruly sailors. Yet in today’s highly professional Navy, there are better ways for commanders to dole out discipline aboard a ship. That’s why Congress deserves a (rare) medal for voting to officially end the practice. Now the follow-on question is whether President Trump will warrant the same medal for signing off on the removal, as the law requires. He has until December to make the decision. We’ll let you know what he decides.

Medals & Misfires is a new opinion feature from the Military Times editorial staff. Medals signify a job well done. Misfires signify a major blunder.

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