ASU and Class A's

My Opinion (disclaimer for those that wait to pounce),

I purchased my ASUs as soon as they hit clothing sales. I would encourage anyone that is going to take a DA photo to do the same. I believe that your board file makes or breaks your promotion chances. Board members get into a mindset of what a Soldier that wants to get promoted looks like.  I sat on a digital E-7 promotion board, and the difference in the photos with greens and ASUs was like night and day. I do feel that leaders should take into account the rank of the Soldier. Junior enlisted Soldiers and junior NCOs should be given some latitude.

If I was set to retire before the wear out date, ok got it. If you have any years left, my recommendation is to get them to be competitive with your peers. I watched a MSG in a previous unit wear BDUs until the day she PCSd. It was a two star command. When we were together collectively, for any reason, she stood out like a sore thumb. I was a SFC at the time, and made the mistake of wearing BDUs in the first week of being assigned to the unit. My boss at the time was a LTC and he called me into his office for a conversation about my highly pressed BDUs and polished boots. Needless to say, the thrift shop on base was on the list of places to visit that week.

Again, just my opinion. If my peers decide to wear greens in their DA photo, I am good with that. Board members form their own perception of what today's Soldier should look like. Look out for your career.

I think this is a good thread for those we are trying to get to join can see the substance of some things we discuss between us as current and former military, soft spoken as well as informational and mentoring types of postings.

We also have fun at times while remaining professional.