Do you wear your dog tags?

TSgt Joshua Copeland — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 21:10:37 -0500

This question is for all RallyPoint members, active, reserve, guard, vet and retired!

Do you wear your dog tags daily? Only when your deployed? Only since you got out?

In my own service it is unusual for SM's to wear their's daily. Often they are kept in the mobility folder.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 22 at 2014 9:13 PM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 21:13:47 -0500

When I was on active duty, TSgt Joshua Copeland, I wore them all the time. Even when not deployed. Since retiring, though, I have stopped wearing them.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 22 at 2014 9:17 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 21:17:08 -0500

Yes, because the new AR 670-1 says I must.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Nov 22 at 2014 9:20 PM

LTC Stephen C. — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 21:20:59 -0500

TSgt Joshua Copeland, the answer is no. However, I still have the original dog tags that I was issued after I reported to the reception station at Fort Jackson on 28OCT69!
SFC William Farrell, in other correspondence, we talked about liking old things. I keep everything!

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Nov 22 at 2014 9:32 PM

TSgt Joshua Copeland — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 21:32:49 -0500

As a motorcycle rider, I wear them everyday. They are just one more way to be ID'd.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 22 at 2014 9:49 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 21:49:22 -0500

I wear my ID Tags everyday!

Response by PO2 Corey Ferretti made Nov 22 at 2014 9:50 PM

PO2 Corey Ferretti — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 21:50:26 -0500

I don't even know where they are now. If i did i would not wear them they served a purpose while i was on active duty. When i find them i will put them in my shadow box.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 22 at 2014 9:57 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 21:57:47 -0500

Yes even being retired I wear them daily. But I only wear one tag now.

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made Nov 22 at 2014 10:23 PM

SPC(P) Jay Heenan — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 22:23:04 -0500

I wore my daily when I was deployed. I don't wear them daily back in garrison.

Response by SFC Melker Johansson made Nov 22 at 2014 10:40 PM

SFC Melker Johansson — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 22:40:33 -0500

I haven't worn dog tags on a daily basis for more than ten years despite being on Active Duty. I did not even wear them while deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq. I just don't like the way they feel against my skin.

Response by SGT George Smith made Nov 22 at 2014 10:43 PM

SGT George Smith — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 22:43:00 -0500

I don't now as a vet and I didn't wear them according to reg when I was in. I wore them on my belt loop tucked into my pocket because I was allergic to the nickle they are made out of.

Response by SSG Keven Lahde made Nov 23 at 2014 2:15 AM

SSG Keven Lahde — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 02:15:55 -0500

I only wear mine when I am drilling, AT, or deployed. And honestly I probably should wear them but I don't.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2014 3:44 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 03:44:46 -0500

Only in uniform

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2014 7:24 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 07:24:06 -0500

We keep them with us but are rarely worn due to daily duties.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2014 7:54 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 07:54:18 -0500

I have worn my dog tags everyday since I was issued them.

Response by SFC Vernon McNabb made Nov 23 at 2014 8:01 AM

SFC Vernon McNabb — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 08:01:45 -0500

I keep a set in the truck in case of surprise PAI, but other than that, no I don't wear them daily.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2014 9:16 AM

2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 09:16:26 -0500

Only in uniform

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2014 10:07 AM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 10:07:00 -0500

I have one on my keychain. When OCONUS I always wear them.

Response by SPC Ryan Su made Nov 23 at 2014 10:09 AM

SPC Ryan Su — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 10:09:07 -0500

Yes it's my lucky tags

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2014 10:35 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 10:35:54 -0500

I wear it any time I'm in uniform. Since I'm in the Guard that's not usually daily.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Nov 23 at 2014 10:49 AM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 10:49:03 -0500

I had my dog tags on my person every day while I was active duty. Now that I am a vet, I have not worn them once. They are stored away.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2014 10:53 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 10:53:52 -0500

I wear mine during duty hours. When I'm not actively engaged in military related business I leave them on my dresser.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2014 11:00 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 11:00:48 -0500

No, never did. Never deployed to a situation that required them.

Response by 1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2014 11:23 AM

1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 11:23:18 -0500

I had my dog tags on from the day I was given them to the day I was discharged. When I enlisted again years later, I started wearing them again at all times. I do this so that if I am in an accident my blood type is shown as well as my name/identification.

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Nov 23 at 2014 11:24 AM

SGM Matthew Quick — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 11:24:07 -0500

I not only wear mine everyday (not just because of "new" rules), I spot check my Soldiers...professionalism begins with NCOs doing what's right.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2014 12:04 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 12:04:54 -0500

I only wear them on drill weekends, activations or training but in order to not violate safety standards I have to live in the gray on this one. The MOS I am in, I cannot wear them in the electronics shop. I put them in a plastic baggie and keep them in my left chest pocket at all times. I don't allow my Soldiers to wear them on the belt loop or places like that. They are worn correctly around the neck or in the chest pocket. (for safety)

Response by SSgt B Mac made Nov 23 at 2014 12:07 PM

SSgt B Mac — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 12:07:27 -0500

I wear them on deployments but sometimes I wear them when I travel abroad.

Response by PO1 James Maynard made Nov 23 at 2014 12:29 PM

PO1 James Maynard — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 12:29:00 -0500

i wear mine all the time. they serve multiple purposes for me. I have a medical tag on mine so if something happens to me they have my allergies on them.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Nov 23 at 2014 12:28 PM

SFC William Swartz Jr — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 12:28:51 -0500

Wore them when in the field and deployed...when in garrison kept them in my back pocket, attached to a belt loop, couldn't stand them snagging/pulling chest hairs, even with the 550 cord cover on them. Now they hang on the wall with my other stuff.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2014 12:33 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 12:33:39 -0500

Only when ordered, or when in school, or transit, or on a combat patrol. I miss the ole days where we laced them into our boots, that made the most sense, we would tape them to subdue them. Not sure why they made so noisy and shiny. Probably many a dog tag that foiled an ambush.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2014 12:49 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 12:49:58 -0500

The only time that I do not wear mine is when it is a safety hazard.

Response by PO2 Steven Erickson made Nov 23 at 2014 2:04 PM

PO2 Steven Erickson — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 14:04:08 -0500

Wore them every day until I got to the boat. Then, only for formal inspections (our COB considered them part of the uniform). I still have one of the original two, but have it stored in a box with my other "I Love Me Wall" stuff.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Nov 23 at 2014 3:33 PM

Capt Richard I P. — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 15:33:26 -0500

No, what's the point?

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2014 3:45 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 15:45:34 -0500

Since I am in the Guards I wear them while in uniform. But I wear them hanging off my belt loop tucked into one of my pockets. I do this because it seems like if I wear them around my neck they were always breaking.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2014 7:58 PM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 19:58:35 -0500

I wear my dog tags anytime I am on duty, but do not wear them when off duty or on my day job.

Edit: I still wear my tags from basic 18 years ago. I have a new set that I will start wearing when I hit my 20 and I will give each of my kids one of my original tags.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2014 8:27 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 20:27:20 -0500

Always wear them.. Still have the Army Values tag with them. Keeps me reminded of my promise and morals to uphold... Hoooah

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2014 8:29 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 20:29:30 -0500

With my uniform I sure do...what kind of PSG would I be if I didn't?!

...a crappy one

Response by TSgt Kristin Parsons made Nov 23 at 2014 8:37 PM

TSgt Kristin Parsons — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 20:37:44 -0500

I only wear mine when deployed or OCONUS, never stateside.

Response by CPL Rick Stasny made Nov 23 at 2014 9:55 PM

CPL Rick Stasny — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 21:55:28 -0500

While I was active, I wore them daily. At CENTCOM, I helped make tags for some that were going to the AOR. I took the opportunity to make a phony allergy tag that indicated that I was allergic to heat, sand, NBC gear, and Iraqis. When I went over I got chewed out when a dog tag check was made and they didn't see the humor in it.

Response by BG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2014 11:38 PM

BG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 23:38:29 -0500

34 yrs. 4 months no break.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2014 10:15 AM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 10:15:39 -0500

I wore them while active but have since put them away in my shoe box of Navy stuff for safe keeping.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2014 10:16 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 10:16:32 -0500

I wear mine.

The set I wear were my initial issue from Basic Training 18 years ago. Here soon, I will likely put them away and wear a different set for keepsake purposes.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2014 10:16 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 10:16:57 -0500

I haven't worn them since "A" school.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2014 10:21 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 10:21:09 -0500

You can't lose something you're always wearing. Well, it's a lot HARDER to lose something you're always wearing. Unless my 3 year old wants to play "daddy" then he puts them on and runs around the house with my tags and Camelbak.

Response by SA Harold Hansmann made Nov 24 at 2014 10:43 AM

SA Harold Hansmann — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 10:43:06 -0500

I have one on my key chain next to my P38 and one on my hunting boots.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2014 11:22 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 11:22:11 -0500

I never call them DOG TAGS but yes I wear my ID tags everyday. while at home i wear one of my wife's tag on my chain and she does the same (she is also enlisted)

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2014 11:26 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 11:26:46 -0500

I wear mine everyday. According to regulation, when stationed overseas you are suppose to always have your dog tags on as is in my case being in Germany.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2014 11:45 AM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 11:45:57 -0500

i keep them in my drawer back at the dorms. i was given a specific order to wear them only on a deployed setting. it is currently sitting next to my air force coins

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2014 12:29 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 12:29:52 -0500

Does it count if they are looped around a belt loop and stuck into my pocket?

1. I dont like my skin turning green
2. Never fails they break when doing the most silly things. Like, sitting. How that works, IDK.
3. The clinking gets on my nerves.

So, into the pocket they go.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2014 1:20 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 13:20:27 -0500

While I'm still in I wear them daily, even when I get out I may still wear them just out of habit.

Response by MSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2014 1:23 PM

MSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 13:23:17 -0500

Yes. All day, Every Day without fail.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2014 1:52 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 13:52:50 -0500

It was odd to me when I came over to the AF to see that they were kept in a mobility folder... As a Marine, we wore them all the time in uniform. I still wear mine all the time in uniform, but I do not wear them in civilian status or clothing.

Response by SSG John Erny made Nov 24 at 2014 1:53 PM

SSG John Erny — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 13:53:45 -0500

Not since I took off my uniform for the last time. That was hard by the way.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2014 1:57 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 13:57:56 -0500

Every day except during PT

Response by SPC Christopher Smith made Nov 24 at 2014 2:04 PM

SPC Christopher Smith — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 14:04:09 -0500

I only wear my tags while in the work uniform, excluding the pt uniform. I wear them around a belt loop and in my pocket. I do not like them around my neck because they can easily become a choking hazard. In civilian attire they are an automatic target for questioning, or just for identification. Should you lose them in public as well, it is all too easy to steal someones identity.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2014 2:11 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 14:11:43 -0500

I wear Identification Tags. Not trying to be sarcastic, just a big believer in identifying things by their actual name.

Response by SPC David S. made Nov 24 at 2014 2:14 PM

SPC David S. — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 14:14:07 -0500

I should as it shows blood type which the Illinois driver's license does not. It could speed up the process in the ER if needed, but then again I would bet they test blood type even when known.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2014 2:23 PM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 14:23:28 -0500

Pretty much only when I'm directed to. Deployed, I had one laced into my boot.

Response by CPL Michael Klein made Nov 24 at 2014 2:51 PM

CPL Michael Klein — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 14:51:54 -0500

I haven't gone a day without wearing my dog tags since the day they were given to me and I've been out for 3 yrs now

Response by PO1 Donald Kennelly made Nov 24 at 2014 3:51 PM

PO1 Donald Kennelly — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 15:51:39 -0500

Yes, I wear them everyday. I only take them off at night because they tend to choke while sleeping. I always wore them in the Nav for the obvious reason that you can't talk while unconscious or dead. Even as an electronics tech they didn't dangle because they were in my t-shirt. The last 5 years in the green we didn't always wear uniforms, have IDs or tags. I wear them now (15 years retired) because they're close to my heart where my brothers in arms are. I have actually worn out a few chains.

Response by CW5 Sam R. Baker made Nov 24 at 2014 4:43 PM

CW5 Sam R. Baker — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 16:43:49 -0500

Yes I do wear them, in fact everyday, however they bother me when I wear body armor, especially since I have the ARMY VALUES tag on there and one other from HH06, so I total (4) four dog tags on the two chains.

Response by SMSgt Jacob Verhoeff made Nov 24 at 2014 5:25 PM

SMSgt Jacob Verhoeff — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 17:25:11 -0500

First wore my dogtags in 04 (20 years into my career) when i was deployed, wore them in 05 for my second deployment, then they were lost when i de-mobed.

Response by A1C Thomas Leary made Nov 24 at 2014 5:26 PM

A1C Thomas Leary — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 17:26:39 -0500

I will occasionally wear my "dog tags", usually on Veterans Day, the anniversaries of my enlistment/separation, and other significant (to me) dates. Or if I just feel like it...

Response by SGT Patrick McCullough made Nov 24 at 2014 5:41 PM

SGT Patrick McCullough — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 17:41:17 -0500

They've got our DNA, tags were looped on the belt in the back pocket.

Response by SP5 Joel O'Brien made Nov 24 at 2014 5:38 PM

SP5 Joel O'Brien — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 17:38:51 -0500

I carry my dog old tag on my key ring. Several years ago, I lost my keys in a snowbank. Come spring, someone found them, saw the tag, said to themselves, "I know this guy!"(It was a small town) and I got my keys back after going crazy and getting copies of all the keys made. (Hint: Make a copy of your keys and keep them in a safe place at home. I also carried a copy of my car key in my wallet. I used it once in the pre-OnStar days to get me back into my locked-out-of car.)

Response by CPT Michael Moffeit made Nov 24 at 2014 6:23 PM

CPT Michael Moffeit — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 18:23:56 -0500

Yes, everyday. I guess it became a habit and it gets put on along with my watch, POW bracelet, etc. Good thing too, otherwise I'd probably forget them.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2014 6:53 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 18:53:29 -0500

I wear them in ACUs and ASUs.

Response by SPC Zia Haq made Nov 24 at 2014 7:38 PM

SPC Zia Haq — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 19:38:05 -0500

But I still have them. ... they will probably be in my family forever. I was the first family member to serve in the us military

Response by SPC John Decker made Nov 24 at 2014 7:48 PM

SPC John Decker — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 19:48:09 -0500

I lost one of them many years ago. The one I have is on my key ring and has been for almost 25 years now.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2014 8:50 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 20:50:59 -0500

For me its a 50-50 I look at them and say I need to put them on in the morning sometimes it works sometimes it does not.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2014 11:54 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 23:54:15 -0500

I don't wear them, but I still have the originals from basic training. I don't wear them because I am not going into combat, and I don't consider them fashionable, considering current events.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 1:26 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 01:26:27 -0500

I only wear them while in uniform and around a belt loop and tucked in my pocket.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 1:31 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 01:31:28 -0500

Usually around my neck while deployed and on my righthand beltloop while home.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 1:52 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 01:52:47 -0500

Sadly I do not. But it's mostly due to the nature of being a Cable Dawg and AFI 91-203.

Can't wear them in a manhole

Can't wear them while climbing a tower or pole

Can't wear them by energized equipment

Can't wear them by machinery with moving parts that they could get caught in

So that pretty much leaves wearing them at other times and taking them off to do actual work, which just presents the chance to forget to take them off and get messed up.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 3:02 AM

GySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 03:02:07 -0500

One in my left boot and two around my neck. BN policy...

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made Nov 25 at 2014 4:16 AM

1SG Michael Blount — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 04:16:19 -0500

And I have my Drill Sergeants show me theirs. If Privates are required to wear them, so does cadre. Real simple.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 7:43 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 07:43:37 -0500

My pocket count?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 8:52 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 08:52:30 -0500

Not because I don't want to, or because I don't care about regulation, but because the chain we wear them with lasts about a week before it breaks and is too small to get around my neck. They are in the cup holder of my car for the random inspections and PII.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 9:58 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 09:58:39 -0500

I used to wear them daily and I eventually got tired of them slipping into my armpits when I went to sleep. So now I keep them hanging in my car and put them on when I have my weekend drills.

Response by SSG Tim Everett made Nov 25 at 2014 10:04 AM

SSG Tim Everett — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 10:04:28 -0500

I have my original Basic Training dogtags and I have a set of black dogtags that I picked up after my reenlistment. I don't wear either of them. I do, however, wear a memorial bracelet on my wrist and a bear claw on a leather string around my neck.

Response by 2d Lt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 10:33 AM

2d Lt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 10:33:34 -0500

Air Force- Stays in my mobility folder.

Response by SSG Robin Rushlo made Nov 25 at 2014 10:43 AM

SSG Robin Rushlo — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 10:43:53 -0500

STill wear them even being retired since 1997.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 11:15 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 11:15:30 -0500

I wear mine with pride every day. One around my neck and one in my boot lace. It provides people basic medical and religious information in case something were to incapacitate me. It is still the best way to identify me.

Response by MCPO Robert Kiesel made Nov 25 at 2014 12:16 PM

MCPO Robert Kiesel — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 12:16:34 -0500

Have them in my shadow box.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 12:18 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 12:18:17 -0500

Only when I fly, its required when crewing a UH60.

Response by SA Eugene Breaux made Nov 25 at 2014 1:01 PM

SA Eugene Breaux — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 13:01:41 -0500

Especially when attending veterans events and the VA Center.

Response by SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS made Nov 25 at 2014 1:42 PM

SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 13:42:25 -0500

PO1 Ernie Foster I wore them everyday while on active service. Since retirement, I do not wear them.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 1:46 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 13:46:17 -0500

When in uniform, I have mine in a pocket.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 2:04 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 14:04:51 -0500

Always, is part of your Uniform

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 2:21 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 14:21:55 -0500

I wear mine when in uniform only because I don't work on helicopters as a squad leader. If I have to crawl on the helicopter for something I make sure to take them off for safety reasons.

Response by SSG Maurice P. made Nov 25 at 2014 2:36 PM

SSG Maurice P. — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 14:36:23 -0500

i'm retired so are they..........................

Response by SGT Patrick Abrams made Nov 25 at 2014 2:36 PM

SGT Patrick Abrams — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 14:36:25 -0500

I wear them most days. Defiantly wear them during all high risk sports like snowboarding.

Response by SSG Jason Cherry made Nov 25 at 2014 2:46 PM

SSG Jason Cherry — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 14:46:25 -0500

I wear my dog tags when command directed or when required by regulation. They aren't a fashion statement or anything.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 2:47 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 14:47:10 -0500

yes, I do. Not just because the regulation says that I should, but because I genuinely want to. I have my St. Michael's medallion on my chain and since I'm allergic to penicillin and I like to do adrenaline inducing activities I wear them in case there's a medical emergency.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 3:37 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 15:37:28 -0500

They belong girth hitched to the belt loop and stowed in the rear pocket of the combat uniform. Legs wear identification tags on their neck.

Response by LTC Scott O'Neil made Nov 25 at 2014 3:42 PM

LTC Scott O'Neil — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 15:42:50 -0500

They have been and always will be a part of my wardrob

Response by SPC Charles Brown made Nov 25 at 2014 3:45 PM

SPC Charles Brown — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 15:45:45 -0500

TSgt Joshua Copeland, I still wear mine, and proudly I might add. Primarily because they are the most relevant form of ID that I have. No other identification carries my religious preference, ssn, name and blood type, nothing else compares to them.

Response by SPC Jessica Pemberton made Nov 25 at 2014 4:21 PM

SPC Jessica Pemberton — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 16:21:23 -0500

I always wore my ID tags while in Uniform when I was still in the Army. Now that I am no longer in the army I do not wear my ID tags, but I still have them.

Response by 1LT William Clardy made Nov 25 at 2014 4:29 PM

1LT William Clardy — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 16:29:37 -0500

I dug them out for daily wear during my trips to the sandbox, and I have almost always donned them while traveling, but I'm no longer racking up the frequent flier miles now that my days of war-profiteering and post-war profiteering are (mostly) behind me.

On the other hand, I have started keeping a pair in the car with my turnouts so that I've got them on just in case something goes very not-right while I'm doing my volunteer firefighter thing.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 4:28 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 16:28:27 -0500

I don't wear them daily but they are close. Usually in my gym bag.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 4:37 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 16:37:06 -0500

I wear them, but hooked on my belt loop and stored in my back left pocket. It's a habit I picked up from being a technician. We aren't supposed to wear any metal (rings, watches, ID tags, etc.) while working with electronics, and it gets to be a hassle to constantly take them off, if I even remember to. So I followed the advice of my NCOs, and moved then to my pocket. Plus they don't rip out any chest hair there.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 5:04 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 17:04:01 -0500

I still do. Not every day of the month, but most. And definitely for every drill weekend and unit function.

Response by MAJ Ronnie Reams made Nov 25 at 2014 5:45 PM

MAJ Ronnie Reams — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 17:45:16 -0500

Still have my original RA 24 305 860 tags. Do not wear them anymore since I retired. Never got new ones with my other serial numbers. Now the Army has given me a new serial number when I lost my ID card and got another one, but I've never memorized it. Maybe I ought to get a new set of tags with the new number. However, everyone wants my SSAN and I get a blank stare when I say that I have a new SN to replace my SSAN lol

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 6:34 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 18:34:09 -0500

Granted we are supposed to wear them, but I like to wear them mainly because I am AB+

Response by LTC Richard Wasserman made Nov 25 at 2014 9:21 PM

LTC Richard Wasserman — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 21:21:50 -0500

Not since I retired. But everyday on active duty.

Response by TSgt Scott Hurley made Nov 25 at 2014 9:55 PM

TSgt Scott Hurley — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 21:55:06 -0500

They were kept in the Mobility folder when I was in. I was even asked by someone where my dog tags were since I was not wearing them. I told her we were not allowed to wear them in the AF. She was once married to a Navy guy and he wore his all the time.

Another reason why was for us aircraft maintainers not to get strangled since we could not wear jewelry when working on aircraft.

The only time we did wear them was when we were deployed or during phase II exercises.

Response by SPC David Hannaman made Nov 25 at 2014 10:35 PM

SPC David Hannaman — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 22:35:31 -0500

I've had them on my keychain for 20 years

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made Nov 25 at 2014 10:51 PM

SPC(P) Jay Heenan — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 22:51:45 -0500

I see a lot of Soldiers that have them hooked to their belt loops and tucked in their pockets...

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made Nov 26 at 2014 4:57 AM

PO1 Rick Serviss — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 04:57:18 -0500

I still have them but don't put them on.

Response by SGT Suraj Dave made Nov 26 at 2014 6:40 AM

SGT Suraj Dave — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 06:40:59 -0500

When I was in, I wore them every day.

When I got out I took them off, and have not put them on since. I kind of feel like people who wear them after they get out are doing it for attention.

Response by 1SG Eric Rice made Nov 26 at 2014 6:48 AM

1SG Eric Rice — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 06:48:47 -0500

The latest update for the Army in AR 670-1 requires the wear of Identification Tags.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2014 6:57 AM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 06:57:24 -0500

I wear them every day, while in uniform. Or when flying in civilian clothes. I just always have. And here in the 101st it is the Division policy to wear them around their neck while in uniform, unless there is a safety reason not too.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2014 10:35 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 10:35:14 -0500

The Army recently changed the uniform regulation. If I'm in uniform, period, I am wearing my ID tags because I have to.

Response by SFC John Cruzat made Nov 26 at 2014 11:07 AM

SFC John Cruzat — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 11:07:40 -0500

Although I'm now retired I remember the dogtag being a required accessory in the Infantry Units I was assigned to. I inspected troops daily, and on the rare occasion they were absent there were reprisals. It may be that the optempo made it essential daily wear for us but in that culture you think everyone does what you do.

Response by PFC Zanie Young made Nov 26 at 2014 11:11 AM

PFC Zanie Young — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 11:11:35 -0500

I lost mine...

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2014 11:27 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 11:27:16 -0500

I guess I am in the minority in this, but I rarely wear mine.
It started with the fact that when I had to do desk work I tend to lean in against the desk and my dog tags tend to be at that exact spot, which hurt. So I'd take them off and then put them back on when I got up.
Now they sit in my car ready for SRP.

In other ways I break the rules, I still iron and starch my uniform.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2014 11:28 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 11:28:59 -0500

Sometimes I may take them off around the house or for PT but normally wear them all the time.

Response by SSG Ralph Innes made Nov 26 at 2014 12:11 PM

SSG Ralph Innes — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 12:11:28 -0500

I have two sets of dog tags from my time in service. I am saving one for each of my boys to give when the time is right.

Response by SGT(P) Harry Clyde Jr. made Nov 26 at 2014 12:15 PM

SGT(P) Harry Clyde Jr. — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 12:15:55 -0500

Wore them religiously especially on jumps and for about a month after I retired.
My wife got tired of them and told me take them off, im not in the army anymore. She hung them around the rear view mirror of my truck where they now live.
My father still wears his though.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2014 4:54 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 16:54:35 -0500

Given my job (aircrew) I'm not allowed, by AFI, to wear them while performing my duties in the jet. I do, however, have one in my boot laces. I will probably wear them once I leave operational flying for good. (Hopefully though, that's a long way down the pipeline.)

Response by CSM Buddy S. made Nov 26 at 2014 6:08 PM

CSM Buddy S. — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 18:08:20 -0500

I wear them all the time, seems odd when they are not around my neck.

Response by CPL Robby Raetz made Nov 26 at 2014 8:47 PM

CPL Robby Raetz — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 20:47:27 -0500

Yes almost everyday. I'm a deputy and there is always that chance I may need someone to know my blood type if I'm unconscious.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2014 9:28 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 21:28:09 -0500

I don't even know where mine are.

Response by SSG(P) Matthew Bisbee made Nov 26 at 2014 11:38 PM

SSG(P) Matthew Bisbee — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 23:38:36 -0500

I have never worn them around my neck. I always had them looped around a belt loop and in my right pocket. We did that to prevent them from coming in contact with any electrical components while working on the helicopters. When I switched to 11B/11H I continued to follow the same practice because it was more quiet. I have been out since 2008 and still carry them the same way.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 27 at 2014 3:07 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Nov 2014 03:07:54 -0500

I carry them in my back pocket, never around my neck. Regardless if I am deployed or not, if I'm wearing body armor or jumping I am not wearing the tags. They are irritating and I just avoid that issue all together.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 27 at 2014 11:12 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Nov 2014 11:12:54 -0500

Since day one of being in the army I have been told that they are a part of my uniform just like my ID card. Whether they are around my neck or attached to my belt loop I always have them on. Even when in civilians I have gotten called out for being "that guy" that is always showing off he is in the military even though you are off duty. They have become a part of me.

Response by Cpl Peter Martuneac made Nov 27 at 2014 11:36 AM

Cpl Peter Martuneac — Thu, 27 Nov 2014 11:36:00 -0500

I don't wear them, but I have them hanging over my bed, just as a reminder that once a Marine, always a Marine.

Response by SGT Frank Leonardo made Nov 27 at 2014 11:45 AM

SGT Frank Leonardo — Thu, 27 Nov 2014 11:45:31 -0500

The other is my response because my job causes a safety hazzard and I would hate to have 1 and also let them get damaged

Response by Amn Shannan Fonseca made Nov 27 at 2014 12:02 PM

Amn Shannan Fonseca — Thu, 27 Nov 2014 12:02:19 -0500

I am retired but want to wear mine everyday because I am blood type O negative. My only hesitation is that my last name has changed.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 27 at 2014 12:46 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Nov 2014 12:46:44 -0500

I always wore them and still do. I have to now since I have so many red ones. Been to a couple of places that messed me up a little but still rocking.

Response by MSgt Chris Adams made Nov 27 at 2014 5:41 PM

MSgt Chris Adams — Thu, 27 Nov 2014 17:41:22 -0500

I keep them on my key ring.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 27 at 2014 9:43 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Nov 2014 21:43:42 -0500

I'm in an arctic environment. The metal can cause contact frostbite.

Response by Capt Jeff S. made Nov 27 at 2014 10:54 PM

Capt Jeff S. — Thu, 27 Nov 2014 22:54:28 -0500

I wore them on AD, and then usually just those times when it was required (i.e., inspections, deployments, etc.)

Do I wear them now? No. I'm out.

IFF I had some kind of disorder [such as diabetes (where I might fall into a coma), or seizures], where it would be beneficial for people to know something about me (such as medical condition, blood type, known allergies. emergency contact phone #), I might wear dogtags with that info, but they would not have my SSN on them.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 28 at 2014 12:52 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 28 Nov 2014 12:52:54 -0500

I wear dogs tags in memory of all those who died, got wounded, or sick protecting our country.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 28 at 2014 2:18 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 28 Nov 2014 14:18:57 -0500

I wear mine everyday. Uniform or not. Just in case i get involved in some extremely gangsta ish...i want the docs to know my religious preference and blood type if I dont make it. bingo night is dangerous lol

Response by SPC Stephanie Oanes made Nov 28 at 2014 11:29 PM

SPC Stephanie Oanes — Fri, 28 Nov 2014 23:29:30 -0500

I don't wear them anymore since I am no longer in, however I keep them hanging on my rear-view mirror in my car.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 29 at 2014 1:05 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 29 Nov 2014 01:05:10 -0500

I wear my I.D. Tags daily except in PT's. They are part of my uniform, I dont feel right without them on.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 29 at 2014 11:44 AM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 29 Nov 2014 11:44:20 -0500

I use to wear them everyday. But stopped once I broke the chain. I didn't want to worry about loosing my tags

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 29 at 2014 11:56 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 29 Nov 2014 11:56:17 -0500

Wear 'em everyday. Im a mechanic so at times I must take them off but I put them in my pocket. But new AR/DA PAM 670-1 changed so it is required to wear them regardless of what previous reg stated.

Response by SPC Chelsea Fernandez made Nov 29 at 2014 2:20 PM

SPC Chelsea Fernandez — Sat, 29 Nov 2014 14:20:55 -0500

I don't wear my dog tags because the medal irritates my neck

Response by SPC Dean J. Thompson made Nov 29 at 2014 2:28 PM

SPC Dean J. Thompson — Sat, 29 Nov 2014 14:28:33 -0500

I wear one of my old dog tags incase something happens to me. Also have two medical alert tags on same chain. One as a diabetic insulin warning and second as a blood thinner medication warning. It is also in memory of those that are still serving, those that served, our wounded and those that gave it all and didn't return to us alive.

Response by MSgt Lamont Goolsby made Nov 29 at 2014 4:07 PM

MSgt Lamont Goolsby — Sat, 29 Nov 2014 16:07:41 -0500

I used to wear one in my flight boot lace, that's what we were taught in the mid 80's escape and evade class during the SAC era. Besides that I never wore them.

Response by TSgt Jackie Jones made Dec 27 at 2014 1:31 PM

TSgt Jackie Jones — Sat, 27 Dec 2014 13:31:03 -0500

I did when I was deployed, and overseas, but not stateside and I do not now. But my husband wears a specialty one I bought him with our children's photos etched on them and he has his tattooed on his arm. (He was a Marine)

Response by Sgt Cody Dumont made May 27 at 2015 10:09 PM

Sgt Cody Dumont — Wed, 27 May 2015 22:09:03 -0400

Meat Tag !!!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 28 at 2015 3:19 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 28 May 2015 03:19:07 -0400

I never even take them off to shower haha.

Response by SGT Suraj Dave made May 28 at 2015 8:23 PM

SGT Suraj Dave — Thu, 28 May 2015 20:23:55 -0400

haha dog tags... I had such a bad habit of breaking those chains in my sleep.... In the Army, I wore them everyday, except during combatives. Now that I am out of the Army, I do not wear them. I always thought people who wore them after getting out were attention seekers.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 28 at 2015 8:29 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 28 May 2015 20:29:43 -0400

I still wear them

Response by SSG Skylur Britz made May 28 at 2015 8:32 PM

SSG Skylur Britz — Thu, 28 May 2015 20:32:33 -0400

I don't wear them during pt because (chain + chest hair = pain). I wear them the rest of the time though.

Response by PFC Joseph Schneider made May 28 at 2015 8:38 PM

PFC Joseph Schneider — Thu, 28 May 2015 20:38:26 -0400

So I never forget what I gone through to earn them.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2015 6:17 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 May 2015 06:17:21 -0400

I wear mine everyday. I feel like at any time I am subject to an inspection. It is a required component of uniform. I think there are rules and policies for a reason. I mean AR670-1 was publicated for this specific reason. If I always have all my required clothing, gear, etc.. I'll always be squared away and not have to worry at last moment. I feel like the younger soldiers have a problem with military procedures and etiguette as it is. So do the right thing, wear the proper uniform and you will be succesful. I mean it may seem trivial .. You say oh just dog tags... Like everything else starts out small and turns into taking shortcuts in in every aspect.

Response by Cpl Nicholas Coulter made May 29 at 2015 6:28 AM

Cpl Nicholas Coulter — Fri, 29 May 2015 06:28:25 -0400

When I was in I wore mine daily. Now that I'm out they hang above my daughter's bed.

Response by PO3 David Fries made May 29 at 2015 6:37 AM

PO3 David Fries — Fri, 29 May 2015 06:37:59 -0400

I haven't worn my dog tags since I got out. I still have them, and I used to keep one on my key chain, but I haven't even done that in a while.

Response by MSgt Rob Weston made May 29 at 2015 10:36 AM

MSgt Rob Weston — Fri, 29 May 2015 10:36:30 -0400

I keep one laced in my boots I wear while motorcycle riding as a second way to ID my sorry Carcass if something happens to me... Lol

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2015 10:39 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 May 2015 10:39:41 -0400

I wear my dog tags everyday, except when I have been stationed at Commands that specifically have told me not to wear them for OPSEC purposes. The biggest issue that I have is that no one knows how to UPDATE the tags. Mine are from boot camp and still have my maiden name and "no religious preference" even though I am Catholic. This is a big deal religion wise for me. However, I also have a red tag so that is another reason why.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made May 29 at 2015 11:22 AM

SrA Edward Vong — Fri, 29 May 2015 11:22:00 -0400

I'm out, I only wear it on occasion. Not everyday.

Response by TSgt Kenneth Ellis made May 29 at 2015 11:24 AM

TSgt Kenneth Ellis — Fri, 29 May 2015 11:24:39 -0400

I just found mine with my Zippo. I'm not looking at them but I think my social security number on it. My dad kept his on his key chain though.

Response by SGT John Wesley made May 29 at 2015 11:55 AM

SGT John Wesley — Fri, 29 May 2015 11:55:57 -0400

I voted "No". My Son wears them everyday to school. Gotta love Him!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2015 12:07 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 May 2015 12:07:31 -0400

There's not one day that went by after I joined that I was not wearing my dog tags. Was a requirement to wear them in uniform by my units.

After my second (final) discharge, I chucked them in the trash. Not sure why.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2015 12:21 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 May 2015 12:21:19 -0400

Being on active duty and having my first duty station overseas, I became accustomed to wearing them no matter what. After my recent deployment and returning to garrison, I've stopped wearing them outside of work, but I keep a spare set in my car at all times so they are never far.

Response by CMSgt Mike Esser made May 29 at 2015 1:48 PM

CMSgt Mike Esser — Fri, 29 May 2015 13:48:15 -0400

When deployed, official travel or haz training

Response by CPT Ahmed Faried made May 29 at 2015 1:49 PM

CPT Ahmed Faried — Fri, 29 May 2015 13:49:30 -0400

I don't but it is always reason reach. On deployment I had it attached to my boots.

Response by CH (MAJ) William Beaver made May 29 at 2015 2:01 PM

CH (MAJ) William Beaver — Fri, 29 May 2015 14:01:56 -0400

I am active duty. 24-7. Yes, I wear 24-7

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made May 29 at 2015 2:10 PM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Fri, 29 May 2015 14:10:47 -0400

No I keep it on my Key Chain.

Response by SrA Sarah Smith made May 29 at 2015 2:41 PM

SrA Sarah Smith — Fri, 29 May 2015 14:41:45 -0400

I keep mine on my mirror in my car. I put a metal hamsa on the small chain with one of the tags. Sometimes when I'm getting anxious, I will reach up and hold them while I'm driving & rub my fingers over the raised side.

Response by MSgt Matthew Meindl made May 29 at 2015 4:19 PM

MSgt Matthew Meindl — Fri, 29 May 2015 16:19:11 -0400

No. Have them draped over my shadow box.

Response by SSG Richard Reilly made May 29 at 2015 4:50 PM

SSG Richard Reilly — Fri, 29 May 2015 16:50:10 -0400

AR670-1
Chapter 3–11. Identification tags and security identification badges
a. Identification tags. Wearing identification tags is governed by AR 600–8–14.
(1) Soldiers will wear identification tags at all times while on duty in uniform unless otherwise directed by the commander.
(2) Personnel will wear identification tags around the neck, except when safety considerations apply (such as during physical training).

Response by PFC Chris Hemingway made May 29 at 2015 4:55 PM

PFC Chris Hemingway — Fri, 29 May 2015 16:55:57 -0400

Like any smart mechanic in the military though I did not wear them around my neck they were wrapped around me belt loop

Response by SSG Mark Ives made May 29 at 2015 5:04 PM

SSG Mark Ives — Fri, 29 May 2015 17:04:00 -0400

I have mine (red allergy tag included) on my keys. Probably shouldn't do it, identity theft and all, but I do.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2015 5:07 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 May 2015 17:07:17 -0400

Yes, it is part of the uniform.

Response by 1SG Jason Smith made May 29 at 2015 5:38 PM

1SG Jason Smith — Fri, 29 May 2015 17:38:00 -0400

when i was on active duty I wore them all the time..now that I am retired my wife wears them all the time

Response by SSgt Trisha Braga made May 29 at 2015 5:38 PM

SSgt Trisha Braga — Fri, 29 May 2015 17:38:44 -0400

I wear mine only when I fly.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2015 5:45 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 May 2015 17:45:00 -0400

I still do. Just not as often as I used to.

Response by LT Charles Baird made May 29 at 2015 5:48 PM

LT Charles Baird — Fri, 29 May 2015 17:48:45 -0400

As a reservist now I wear them only when on duty.

Response by SrA Matthew Knight made May 29 at 2015 6:53 PM

SrA Matthew Knight — Fri, 29 May 2015 18:53:46 -0400

I periodically wore them in ABUs until I just started getting annoyed by them being too long and me being to lazy to adjust the chain. They stay with mobility now ever since my last squadron told us to bring them in.

Response by MSG Morgan Fiszel, CPCM, CFCM made May 30 at 2015 6:32 AM

MSG Morgan Fiszel, CPCM, CFCM — Sat, 30 May 2015 06:32:25 -0400

I don't own dog tags. I wear ID tags...

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2015 7:02 AM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 30 May 2015 07:02:35 -0400

I do not even know if I still have mine, nor where they are if I do. But, then it has been 40 years since I left active duty (well tomorrow is 40) and nearly 25 since my last reserve duty.

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made May 30 at 2015 9:53 AM

Maj Chris Nelson — Sat, 30 May 2015 09:53:07 -0400

I used to. Not so much anymore.....not sure what changed.

Response by CSM Stuart C. O'Black made May 30 at 2015 12:07 PM

CSM Stuart C. O'Black — Sat, 30 May 2015 12:07:58 -0400

Mostly while deployed or flying

Response by SSG John Bacon made May 30 at 2015 12:09 PM

SSG John Bacon — Sat, 30 May 2015 12:09:45 -0400

I just had one laced up in my boot.

Response by SPC Shellie Pickett made May 30 at 2015 12:28 PM

SPC Shellie Pickett — Sat, 30 May 2015 12:28:25 -0400

When i was active i wore them all the time but have recently noticed that i am unable to locate them

Response by SSG Donald Smith made May 30 at 2015 12:45 PM

SSG Donald Smith — Sat, 30 May 2015 12:45:16 -0400

I ETS'd in 2001. I carry one on my keys. I have one on my primary suitcase. I wear a set when traveling. I have 4 spare sets that I use for various purposes.

Response by SCPO Donald Johnson made Jun 23 at 2015 1:32 PM

SCPO Donald Johnson — Tue, 23 Jun 2015 13:32:16 -0400

During boot camp, tech school and my first shipboard tour I wore my dog tags daily. Then Admiral Zumwalt happened and the culture of the Navy changed. Beards, longer hair, civies on liberty. Some where in there I forgot about my dog tags. Every now and then it would be an issue, they would be re-issued, and a short time later forgotten. I think mine are buried in a shoe box full of odds and ends collected during my career. Don't ask me where the shoe box is.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Jun 23 at 2015 3:16 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Tue, 23 Jun 2015 15:16:26 -0400

I left the military in 2008. In the 1970's during basic combat training, advanced individual training and my unit assignment and during 1980's while assigned to units or in schools I generally wore my dog tags. I didn't wear them much after about 1991.
Last year the local sheriff's deputies confiscated my P-38 can opener which seems to be considered a weapon.
After that I went to my lock box and found a set of my dog tags with the original chain and attached them to my key ring with another P-38 can opener. I carry my dogs tags in my pocket as a general rule now. The dog tags plus my VA Disability ID are useful for connecting me as a veteran.
I am thankful I had two P-38's from the C-ration days. That little tool has been useful as a can opener, flat tip screwdriver, etc.
FYI LTC Bill Koski CW5 Private RallyPoint Member MSG Brad Sand SGM Steve Wettstein SP5 Mark Kuzinski PO1 William "Chip" Nagel PO1 John Miller SP5 Robert Ruck SPC Private RallyPoint Member PO3 Steven Sherrill SN Greg Wright Maj Marty Hogan SCPO Morris Ramsey TSgt Joe C. Cpl Joshua Caldwell SGT Michael Thorin SP5 Dave (Shotgun) Shockley SPC Margaret Higgins LTC Private RallyPoint Member

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made Oct 8 at 2015 4:33 AM

Sgt Tom Cunnally — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 04:33:44 -0400

I carry one of my Dog Tags on my key chain... In case the Marines call me back , cough, cough.. No seriously it has my religion and blood type if it is needed ..

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made Oct 13 at 2015 2:05 PM

Sgt Tom Cunnally — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 14:05:45 -0400

Yes I have mine just in case General Neller calls me back I have it & be ready to go...

Response by SSG Robert Webster made Oct 13 at 2015 2:36 PM

SSG Robert Webster — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 14:36:55 -0400

Every day.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2015 5:36 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 17:36:58 -0400

When I came through basic training, it was pressed into our consciousness that until told otherwise, our dog tags were a part of our bodies. Has that changed?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2015 11:14 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 21 Oct 2015 11:14:25 -0400

I wear mine daily as I travel a lot and I feel at ease to have them on me at all times; however, I haven't found anything on AR 670-1 that mentions wearing them while in civilian clothing. I'm in the ARNG so I'm not on active duty at all times. So my question is, can I wear my ID tags on a daily basis and is there anything in AR 670-1 that would suggest otherwise?

Response by SGT David T. made Dec 8 at 2015 3:52 PM

SGT David T. — Tue, 08 Dec 2015 15:52:22 -0500

Never after I got out. They are around my teddy bear's neck on my bookshelf. I've had that bear since I was a child and it represents my pre-Army life. The dog tags represent my army life. Not sure what to use for my post-army life.

Response by MAJ Jim Woods made Dec 8 at 2015 4:23 PM

MAJ Jim Woods — Tue, 08 Dec 2015 16:23:16 -0500

I have one dog tag on the keys to the Harley.........

Response by SSgt Marshall Franklin made Feb 23 at 2016 10:57 AM

SSgt Marshall Franklin — Tue, 23 Feb 2016 10:57:25 -0500

I lost mine right after basic. My ex stole them. That was over 31 years ago.

Response by SGT Matthew S. made Oct 7 at 2016 9:37 PM

SGT Matthew S. — Fri, 07 Oct 2016 21:37:04 -0400

Now that I'm out I don't, and for two reasons. In my mind they are specifically a part of a military uniform, and they also have my SSN on them. Over the years I've toyed with the idea of having a set made with just my last four instead to wear for whatever reason, but never got around to it.

When I was in, though, I wore them every day. Always around my neck up until some point in my second deployment when I started looping them around a belt loop and putting them in my pocket. The reason for that was two-fold: Safety when working on vehicles and (for better or worse) personal comfort as having the chain driven in to my neck by my body armor was rather unpleasant.

Back in garrison, though, I returned to wearing them around my neck except when PMCS'ing vehicles.

Response by PFC Joseph Schneider made Oct 16 at 2016 12:35 AM

PFC Joseph Schneider — Sun, 16 Oct 2016 00:35:45 -0400

Yes I've always worn my dog tags. through basic and deployment, but theirs something strange about them. Mine are black and yes they are the originals, every time i take them off i cant really think or act normally so i guess its like a security thing. but I've found a way to help solve the chain problem. take 550 cord and run the chain through it, i find its more comfortable and its quite though the jingling gets to me ever now and then. but every time i look at them i can hear the sounds of the battlefield, and remember this is me. this is what i fought for and why i still wear them.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2018 11:04 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 11:04:05 -0400

Does a soldier who is deployed an is going on leave. Does he have to turn in his dog tags an military id

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2018 11:06 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 11:06:34 -0400

But do they turn them in while on leave

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2018 11:13 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 11:13:04 -0400

But noone is answering my question. Do u have to turn them in to command while on leave

Response by Matt Moon made Apr 15 at 2018 2:49 PM

Matt Moon — Sun, 15 Apr 2018 14:49:06 -0400

Yes i still ware mine after being involved in a few carwrecks. You realize how important they are . They have your Blood Type on top of the fact that if I'm killed i can be identified wareing them puts me at peace in the remembrance of the people i served with and friends i have lost over the years .

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 23 at 2018 9:52 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 23 Jun 2018 21:52:59 -0400

I do, but only in the pocket of my uniform pants.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Jul 23 at 2018 12:50 PM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 12:50:00 -0400

Every day.

Response by Maj John Bell made Jul 23 at 2018 1:36 PM

Maj John Bell — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 13:36:37 -0400

While I was active duty, If I was outside of my home I had them on. When I left the service, I left then in the OOD duty hut at 2ndMarDiv HQ on the way out the door.

Response by SSG Jose M. Hernandezsanchez made Jul 23 at 2018 1:48 PM

SSG Jose M. Hernandezsanchez — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 13:48:07 -0400

I stopped wearing them when I retired five years ago. But, somehow, someway I was able to keep track of the set that was given to me back in 1992 which were the ones I wore my entire career. I have extras from deployments. Once I went to Airborne School, I started putting them on my right side of the belt loop of my trousers. I had them like that until my last day in the Army.

Response by SGT Christopher Hayden made Jul 23 at 2018 4:32 PM

SGT Christopher Hayden — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 16:32:17 -0400

Haven't worn mine since I got out. And when I was in, I'd loop them through my belt loop and put them in my back pocket.

Response by Sgt Randy Wilber made Jul 23 at 2018 6:34 PM

Sgt Randy Wilber — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 18:34:40 -0400

I wore mine till I got out of the Marine Corps, but I still have them LTC Stephen F.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Jul 23 at 2018 6:36 PM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 18:36:15 -0400

I don't wear my dog tags; simply, because I don't have them. Anyone: How would I go about acquiring dog tags? To what Department of the Army would I write/phone? Thank you!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 23 at 2018 7:16 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 19:16:35 -0400

I wear them when I go to training. I am in the USAR but they always hang on a bed post. I retire in less than 5 years. I missed the P38 era. Congratulations to all who served and don't forget the wounded and the fallen. I lost my 1SG in May, 2009. Rest in Peace 1SG Blue Rowe D. CO ,426th Civil Affairs BN, Upland, Calif- USAR!!

http://projects.latimes.com/wardead/name/blue-c-rowe/

Blue C. Rowe

The Times collects the stories of California servicemembers who died during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 23 at 2018 8:44 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 20:44:11 -0400

Since getting off Active Duty, I haven’t worn my dog tags and I keep them hanging on my rear view mirror in my Jeep.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 23 at 2018 9:00 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 21:00:45 -0400

I don’t wear “dog tags”, I wear identification tags.

Response by LCDR Robert S. made Jul 23 at 2018 9:24 PM

LCDR Robert S. — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 21:24:10 -0400

No, but I keep one of my father's on my keychain. He had the same blood type, so I'm not worried about getting the wrong blood.

Response by Maj Bill Smith, Ph.D. made Jul 23 at 2018 11:39 PM

Maj Bill Smith, Ph.D. — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 23:39:55 -0400

I have them but am retired.

Response by SFC Dennis A. made Oct 29 at 2018 8:36 AM

SFC Dennis A. — Mon, 29 Oct 2018 08:36:08 -0400

I haven't worn them since a few days after I retired. I do still have them.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 10 at 2019 8:57 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 10 Jan 2019 08:57:37 -0500

As National Guard, I wear them when I'm on duty.

Response by CMDCM John F. "Doc" Bradshaw made Mar 16 at 2019 3:11 AM

CMDCM John F. "Doc" Bradshaw — Sat, 16 Mar 2019 03:11:28 -0400

I did while serving!!! Doc Bradshaw

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2019 9:10 PM

2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 16 Mar 2019 21:10:11 -0400

Everyday!!

Response by Maj John Bell made Jan 20 at 2021 12:21 AM

Maj John Bell — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 00:21:25 -0500

While on active duty, If I was not inside my home, I wore my dog tags. During my two Rifle Bn tours and my Marine Barracks tour, every Marine had to show his dog tags, and ID card prior to securing for the day.