Posted on Dec 31, 2020
Can I wear my Airborne and Air-Assault badges while in basic training?
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I am going back to basic training as an E-4, after a few years out of the service. I am Airborne and Air Assault qualified...should I wear (if it's allowed of course) my patches...or should I just try to keep a low profile? What would you do?
Posted 5 y ago
Responses: 338
Plain and simple...what you've earned, you wear. Old local unit stuff...nah, that's history, but proudly wear your earned insignia.
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For those going back to basic training I only recommend this... if you earned them you have every right to proudly display them on your uniform. But you better make sure they are positioned EXACTLY where AR670-1 states they should be placed because you can bet you ass that every DS will be not only questioning your qualification but be there with a machinists ruler to measure their placement. My recommendation would be prior to being all "loud and proud" about it talk with your platoon DS about it. If there is literally anyone you need on your side to defend you against the other platoon DS's and/or at least run interference on your behalf it will definitely be them. While you are there you are not only representing your achievements but you will be representing your platoon in all aspects because it's not just training most times it is a competition between each platoon. When in doubt, ask. Lead with Courage. Deeds Not Words!
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Trying to keep a low profile… Do you not think these days that your Drill Sergeants don’t know who is new, recycled and prior service - How do you think they know whom to push and not worry about? If you earned it, it ought to be on that uniform, or don’t put it on at all! Saying to keep a low profile, they expect you to step-up, in fact, why are signing back up if you aren’t planning on stepping-up?!?!? Ask yourself that one… Just saying, you knew what to expect before agreeing to return, why try and skate thru? No wonder this country is going to hell in a hand basket!
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I was Airborne from NROTC prior to Army basic. I waited until we finished the basic training portion (about 6 weeks) then I proudly wore my wings henceforth. One senior drill, who was a master parachutist, questioned me about my wings and I promptly recited my class #. I'm sure he verified that with the Infantry school at Ft. Benning as he never inquired again. I was a squad leader by about week 2 or 3 anyway, and my marine cadence gave me away too. I was singled out for pushups routinely as my senior drill respected me and my leadership as I led by example. Yes, my fellow recruits had questions about jump school, so it was a learning experience for them too.
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When I reclassed as a MP in 2004, we had soldiers who wore their badges and combat patches. Even if you are an insert vs reclass (reclass comprises of PS soldiers); then wear what you earned.
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If you earned them, wear them! Lead from the front. If your DI’s are savy they’ll appreciate you.
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WEAR THEM, BUT DO NOT "BEAT THE NEW GUYS" WITH THEM. WHEN THEY ASK TELL THE STORY.
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Absolutely not, as drill sgt the answer is no you will not wear rank either until family day
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Just dont have the "look at me" mindset. Wear them, don't flaunt it, and simply play the BMT game. Lead by example and help your soldiers when they need. You have experience now and understand the Army.
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