Do leaders monitor unit members social network activity?

2014-05-25T19:57:56-04:00

Do active duty service members feel that their 1st amendment rights are limited or that personal comments could negatively impact their career? Does anyone limit their posts so that their unit will not become aware of political opinions, firearm ownership, or to conceal their personal life?

Response by CPT Richard Riley made May 25 at 2014 8:09 PM

2014-05-25T20:09:54-04:00

I would hope that posts are a general reflection of the legitimate person rather than having an "on-line" life and a real life. That said, provided you're not making comments or blogs that directly conflict with the military regulations and laws you are serving under, you should be within your personal rights to post them.
Sometimes just because you CAN do something, doesn't mean you should. By this I mean use your common sense and if it doesn't seem right, you'd probably be better off not doing it. Does that restrict your 1st amendment right - I don't believe it does.
There have been numerous threads on RallyPoint and other venues that discuss political opinions, firearm issues, and religion just to name a few. You will always have the right to your personal opinion - yet there will be times that some subject matter is best kept close to the vest .....

Response by 1SG Robert Branch made May 26 at 2014 8:10 AM

2014-05-26T08:10:14-04:00

Mitch, times sure must have change, for these questions even to be asked is so far out to me, I retired in 1970, went in back in the 40s. I may not could serve this day and time. Thanks for your service.