Final answer:
Military personnel, civilians, or contractors may face punishment for purchasing sex abroad regardless of local laws, as they are often subject to organizational or military regulations that prohibit such activities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that 'military personnel, civilians, or contractors who purchase sex in a country where prostitution is legal will not face punishment' is false. Although the legality of prostitution varies by country, the mere legality in a given jurisdiction does not exempt military personnel or those affiliated with certain organizations from following the regulations and laws that apply to their conduct. For example, members of the armed forces are subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), which may prohibit such activities, irrespective of local laws. Furthermore, many organizations have policies in place that restrict the actions of their employees, civilians, or contractors when overseas. Whether on or off duty, engaging in activities such as purchasing sex can lead to punishment under these policies or regulations, even if the act is legal within the host country.