utherdoul wrote: “what happens to people who desert the army anyway? Jail time?”
Prison, usually several years. Keep in mind, these two voluntarily joined. They weren’t drafted. They volunteered then deserted (during wartime). For a desertion charge, it’s important to prove they intended to permanently leave the military. By fighting to stay in Canada, they’ve proven this without a doubt.
The Canadian court record alone, with statements, affidavits and depositions they would have filed, will seal the convictions in the military courts. It’ll be interesting to see who steps forward to defend them in the US.
In addition to jail time they can also receive a punitive discharge (a Dishonorable or Bad Conduct discharge), reduction in grade, and forfeiture of all pay and allowances. Somewhere, about 30 years ago, I read that all the pay and allowances forfeited through punishment were directed to fund the Old Soldier’s Home.