What punishment can a commanding officer (O-4 or above) impose for a non-judicial punishment?

A commanding officer with the rank of O-4 or above has the authority to impose a variety of disciplinary actions as part of non-judicial punishment under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). One of the options available to them is the imposition of up to 60 days of restriction. This type of punishment allows the commanding officer to limit the service member's movements to a specific area, typically the confines of the base or ship, which serves as a disciplinary measure without the need for a court-martial.

Non-judicial punishment is designed to address minor offenses in a more efficient and less formal manner than a court-martial, thus allowing commanders to maintain good order and discipline while providing a fair means of correction. The context of this option is significant because it highlights the balance between maintaining order and providing rehabilitative measures within the disciplined environment of military service.

Other potential options, such as discharge from service, life imprisonment, or removal from post, represent forms of punishment that either exceed the authority of non-judicial punishment or require formal legal proceedings like a court-martial. Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes the specific and limited scope of penalties a commanding officer can impose under non-judicial punishment procedures.