Deserter

A deserter is a person who abandons a post or duty, especially a member of an armed force who leaves without official permission with the intent to avoid further service or punishment. The term is most often applied to military personnel, but can also describe others bound by a duty to remain in a specific location or role. The word derives from the French deserter, from Old French des- “away” and sire “to let be,” reflecting the act of leaving one’s station.

Desertion is distinct from absence without leave (AWOL), which denotes an unauthorized absence without the intent to abandon the post permanently. It is also distinct from defection, which involves abandoning allegiance to a country or government, typically for political asylum or ideological reasons.

Legal consequences for desertion are determined by the applicable military or civilian law. In many countries, desertion is a crime and may be punishable by court-martial, imprisonment, or other penalties. In wartime, penalties have varied historically, and modern systems emphasize due process and proportional sanctions within military justice frameworks.

Desertion has affected many conflicts throughout history, often peaking during protracted or unpopular wars, periods of conscription, or when soldiers face harsh conditions or perceived lack of alternatives. In public discourse, deserters are sometimes discussed in terms of morale, discipline, and the treatment of service members who leave their units under pressure or duress.

See also: AWOL, defection, military justice, deserter in history.