In article questions of military service in the period of the republic and the empire, the period of formation of armed forces and their disintegration are considered. Questions of discipline, encouragement and punishment of the military personnel are considered. Questions of resignation, material remuneration, a length of service and other issues were resolved in the Roman right. Troops had the right to appropriate a part of the taken production, however the priority belonged to commanders here. The emperor’s title could be appropriated to the commanders who especially caused a stir in campaigns. The troops which caused a stir in fights had the right for solemn pass to Rome, triumph. For solemn passing of troops the triumphal arch well familiar to us on our cities were erected. They found reflection in our recent history. Still some of them decorate our cities in honor of glory of the Russian weapon. Behind respect for draft discipline strict control was exercised and to deviators expected severe punishment from an appeal. Originally deviators could be sent to slavery, but in a consequence this measure of punishment was replaced with softer. Began to impose a fine and confiscation of property on guilty persons. Desertion from the battlefield was considered as dangerous crime and was punished by the death penalty. The army was gradually reconstructed not only with territorial changes, but also with change of the power.