What is awol

Last updated: April 1, 2026

Quick Answer: AWOL is a military and organizational term meaning Absent Without Leave, referring to when a person leaves their post or position without permission and without notifying their supervisor or commanding officer.

Key Facts

Definition and Origin

AWOL stands for Absent Without Leave, a term that originated in military contexts. It describes a situation where a service member leaves their post, unit, or assigned location without authorization and without informing their commanding officer. The term has become widely used beyond the military to describe unauthorized absences in various organizational settings.

Military Context

In military organizations, AWOL is a serious disciplinary matter. Service members are expected to be at their assigned locations and follow orders. When someone goes AWOL, they violate military regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). The consequences can include military discipline, court martial, loss of pay, reduction in rank, and in serious cases, dishonorable discharge from service.

AWOL vs. Desertion

While AWOL and desertion are sometimes confused, they are distinct military offenses. AWOL typically involves temporary absence without permission, while desertion involves the intent to abandon military service permanently. A service member who goes AWOL might return voluntarily or be apprehended, whereas desertion carries the implication of no intent to return. Desertion carries more severe legal consequences than AWOL.

Civilian Use

Beyond military contexts, AWOL has entered civilian vocabulary. In workplaces, an employee who is absent without notifying their supervisor or submitting proper leave requests is sometimes described as going AWOL. This can result in disciplinary action, termination, or legal consequences depending on the employment contract and organizational policies.

Legal and Professional Implications

Going AWOL has serious professional and legal ramifications. In military settings, it can result in criminal charges, jail time, and permanent marks on official records. In civilian employment, unauthorized absences can lead to termination. Understanding leave policies, approval procedures, and proper notification channels is essential for maintaining good standing in any organization.

Related Questions

What is the difference between AWOL and desertion?

AWOL (Absent Without Leave) is temporary unauthorized absence without intent to abandon service, while desertion involves intentionally abandoning military service with no plan to return. Desertion carries more severe legal penalties.

What are military disciplinary procedures?

Military discipline includes non-judicial punishment (NJP), court martial, and discharge procedures. The type of discipline depends on the offense severity and circumstances. Proper due process and legal procedures are followed in military justice.

What happens if you go AWOL from the military?

Going AWOL can result in military discipline, court martial, loss of pay, demotion, restriction, jail time, and dishonorable discharge. The specific consequences depend on the duration and circumstances of the absence.

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Sources

  1. Wikipedia - Desertion CC-BY-SA-4.0
  2. Wikipedia - Uniform Code of Military Justice CC-BY-SA-4.0