Reply #2: Is disobeying illegal orders illegal?

[gratuitous]

Well, that would be quite the pickle for the military. Imagine a squad of guys lawyering up when they're told they're going clear and hold a neighborhood. "So Sarge, you're saying we have to shoot anyone who runs?" "Someone who doesn't run is just a well-disciplined terrorist, isn't that what you said last week?" "Just aim lower to shoot the kids, those still our orders, Sarge?"

Gee, what might happen if mindless violence gave way to thoughtful consideration of the ramifications and consequences. Why, some wars might never be fought at all! And that's an intolerable possibility for our country's leaders.