Can someone explain to me why our Devil Dogs wear service charlies on duty?

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 12 Nov 2015 08:22:32 -0500

They decided to arm all duties as they perceive a threat to exist. They then decrease our mobility by putting us in charlies and also decrease our combat effectiveness by then being forced to use a holster (duty belt hip holster) in which many have never trained with (must use drop holster on range). Additionally, it decreases morale in that it is both uncomfortable and incomprehensible as to why it is being worn.

Someone enlighten me.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Nov 12 at 2015 8:26 AM

PO1 John Miller — Thu, 12 Nov 2015 08:26:08 -0500

Gunner, I can only offer a sarcastic comment: "Because that's the way it's always been."

Honestly though, I agree with you. If a Marine or Sailor is going to be armed, issue them the same type of holster they qualify with (Navy qualifies with drop leg holster as well), and wear your damn MARPAT or NWU (for Navy) while on armed duty!

Response by Sgt Paul McCarthy made Nov 12 at 2015 8:53 AM

Sgt Paul McCarthy — Thu, 12 Nov 2015 08:53:00 -0500

Chucks have always been the traditional duty uniform. The reasoning is to distinguish you from those NOT on duty. It's now comprehensible-pass it on, ensure your subordinates understand. That is a failure in leadership. Now, if you are uncomfortable in chucks, you need to evaluate how they fit. No different than a suit, it should be no less comfortable than anything else you wear. Granted, it is not optimum for combat duty but shouldn't detract from performance in a significant sense for anticipated events (i.e.-you're not likely to engage in a protracted firefight at the barracks) Before there were utilities, the dress and field uniforms were the same. Also, if you are in the parade holster and you haven't trained at least to some degree in it, then YOU are derelict in your readiness. That is a joint personal and unit responsibility.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 12 at 2015 5:00 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 12 Nov 2015 17:00:33 -0500

Professionalism (look not acting).

It's to make us (the Navy does the same thing quite often with duty) look professional, as the duty/watch are typically those who interface with those outside of the command and even civilians off-base.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Nov 13 at 2015 8:32 AM

SSgt Alex Robinson — Fri, 13 Nov 2015 08:32:30 -0500

It's an overreaction. It's one of those fire from the hip decisions. No pun intended.