Posted on Nov 19, 2014
SGT Team Leader
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Is there a AR that covers when a soldier is not in uniform if they must go to parade rest or attention?
Posted in these groups: Respect  logo RespectAr Army Regulations
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1SG First Sergeant
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PFC Brown

it is not an AR that covers this; it is an FM. FM 7-21.13 is called the Soldier guide. My advice get it, read it and you will always be golden. It reads as follows.

OTHER COURTESIES 4-16.
Military courtesy shows respect and reflects self-discipline. Consistent and proper military courtesy is an indicator of unit discipline, as well. Soldiers demonstrate courtesy in the way we address officers or NCOs of superior rank. Some other simple but visible signs of respect and self- discipline are as follows:

When speaking to or being addressed a noncommissioned officer of superior rank, stand at parade rest until ordered otherwise.

When I walk up to a soldier he should go to parade rest. Not because I’m better than he is, but because he respects who he is and who I am based on what we both do. It’s professionalism. SMA Jack L. Tilley

It does not state anything about the uniform you wear. Why? Because you are a Soldier 24/7 if an NCO comes up in uniform or in civilians and identifies themselves as out ranking you stand at parade rest. To easy.
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SPC Steven Depuy
SPC Steven Depuy
>1 y
SGT Jason Thompson - Well said.
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SFC Aircraft Maintenance Technician
SFC (Join to see)
4 y
SSG Jason T. - The only thing I disagree with is standing at parade rest in the airport as there is a reason we often travel in civilian clothes, that is OPSEC. I would think that rendering the proper courtesies in these situations could be a potential breach of OPSEC being as you are more easily identifying yourself as a Soldier when the enemy could be watching.
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1px xxx
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4 y
SFC (Join to see) With experience and hindsight I absolutely agree with you, especially now that I have reclassed into the MI branch and am much more OPSEC sensitive than I was as a young MP. Traveling in civilian attire serves a force protection function and displaying military customs and courtesies has the effect of defeating those measures. The point is, every situation is different and Soldiers should use their judgement based on conditions. Conversely, leaders should also be aware and understanding of those same factors and not blow up a you g Soldier for trying to exercise good judgement.
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SSG Training Sergeant
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I ran into my regimental commander at a restaurant. We were both with our families; in civilian clothes and the place was packed. I acknowledged him and we had a pleasant short conversation before we were each taken to different tables. I did not stand at attention or parade rest. I wasn't being disrespectful - the setting was inappropriate for the traditional customs and courtesies. Back at the regiment and in uniform - a totally different ball game. Setting, atmosphere, circumstances. They all come into play.
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SGT Hector Rojas, AIGA, SHA
SGT Hector Rojas, AIGA, SHA
10 y
Something similar happened to me shortly after I had arrived to Fort Drum fresh from AIT, I had met my new CSM so I was familiar with what he looked like. Of course he didn't know who I was.

So my wife and myself are shopping at the commisary on a Sunday, I spotted the CSM down the aisle, he is in uniform as I am in civvies, as we walk next to each other I stand at parade rest and greeted him. He of course acknowledged me and my wife and immediately pulled me close and whispered to my ear something to the effect of 'don't go at parade rest in front of your wife'.

From that point on, whenever in civvies AND in a civilian setting, a polite nod or eye contact acknowledgement has been the norm and it is always reciprocated.
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SGT Avenger Crew Member
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10 y
I agree. Circumstances and surroundings should dictate, though I will give respect where it is due.
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SFC Mark Merino
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Edited 10 y ago
What's that fancy latin phrase for "Do whatever your career can handle?"
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SPC Jack Hunt, JR
SPC Jack Hunt, JR
10 y
Good one, I get a kick out of some if the stuff you say. Kinda brings back memories of better days. Thanks for being a bit of a smart alek.
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SSG Intelligence Analyst
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I believe it’s “yolo”
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