This is in my Top 3 of all time Movies. I was blown away when I watched it at the theater, during its initial release. I can't tell you how many times I've watched it since. I do have most of the dialogue memorized.
People on here are asking why Dawson and Downey were found guilty of "conduct unbecoming of a Marine" and dishonorably discharged. Even though they "followed an order", they killed one of their own. Their actions caused someone's death. They had to be culpable in some way. This was the entire dilemma that Corporal Dawson wrestles with through most of the movie.
Someone on here had this question as part of an "assignment" for school - and were asking the people posting on here to help answer the questions on their assignment.
Don't cheat yourself out of seeing a GREAT MOVIE by trying to cheat your assignment! Go watch this thing!!