Does everyone need something "shiny" to make themselves stick out from other branches/services?

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 04:56:03 -0400

It seems that everyone has something that signifies them as special or different from others such as the color beret, Stetson, buttons. How did this all start and why? Is it good to have or does it divide us between us and them....legs vs. Airborne?

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Apr 3 at 2017 5:01 AM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 05:01:53 -0400

http://uniform-reference.net/insignia/usn/usn_ratings_1886.html

usn_ratings_1886.html

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Apr 3 at 2017 5:47 AM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 05:47:03 -0400

Had to started before the Civil War to denote what you were in, whether an Artillery Man, Cavalry , or Infantry, each group wanted to stand out from the others.

Response by 1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2017 6:05 AM

1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 06:05:20 -0400

Is there an Army in the world that doesn't do that?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2017 7:27 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 07:27:37 -0400

The corporate world is exactly like this, I have worked crappy jobs in fast food and in a engineering firm. And some people have the desire to be recognized, otherwise their morale slips or they become complacent, uninterested or just quit for no reason. In a manner similar to the military, many corporations spend countless resources addressing issues of retention, cohesion, morale and individual development/education. Lumping everyone into one big category has its pro/cons, but many corporations are now focusing on a persons uniqueness. My last job created special incentives/allowances for different departments. They also allowed each department to decorate their cubicles differently to distinguish themselves. Some departments issue pins to wear, more than just flair, they add superficial value to a persons self-worth. Does it work? Hell yeah it does. It's all about keeping people happy, and making sure they do their jobs even if you have to give them a "gold star" sticker.

Society is changing and I understand a lot of the older folks just don't get why the new generation needs to feel special. But that's where we are now, people like shiny things!

I will also say that distinction carries a certain expectation and responsibility. If you're comparing a leg vs airborne, people will expect more from the latter. Same with a ranger tab, if you wear one you also have to uphold the legacy too.

Response by SGT David T. made Apr 3 at 2017 8:29 AM

SGT David T. — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 08:29:03 -0400

I guess I am weird about it. I never much cared about uniform flair. For me just having a job was enough. It sure beat living out of my car. All of my shiny trinkets are not so shiny anymore and are collecting dust in a box sitting in my closet. The most shine I get out of them is them being listed on my resume as the government looks at such things for hiring actions.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2017 9:47 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 09:47:38 -0400

If I had shinies.....perhaps I could make an argument for this......but since I don't have any shinies other than my garden salad.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Apr 3 at 2017 9:51 AM

MSG Brad Sand — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 09:51:32 -0400

'Need', no. Want, yes.
It started back when man was tying rocks to sticks to crack skulls better and if one was to ask Freud I think it would be because someone wanted to sleep with their parent...and that might not be too far off?

Response by PO3 Donald Murphy made Apr 3 at 2017 9:58 AM

PO3 Donald Murphy — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 09:58:02 -0400

Submarine Dolphins are mandatory and essential. They show that you know how to fight the sub, save the sub, save your shipmates and save yourself. You know where the firefighting gear is and how to use it. You know how to get the damaged submarine to the surface. You know how to launch torpedos to defend the sub. You know how to stop flooding. You know how to breathe when the atmosphere is contaminated. You know how to drive the sub. And should all else fail, you know how to escape from the sub. Anyone on board a submarine NOT WEARING Dolphins has to be assigned someone to look after them as they do not know everything they need to know to survive.

Dolphins says that they do. So for that reason in the submarine community, Dolphins are essential. Anyone not wearing them is instantly noticed.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Apr 3 at 2017 10:17 AM

Capt Richard I P. — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 10:17:11 -0400

This is an ancient, perhaps ageless phenomenon.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Apr 3 at 2017 11:07 AM

CPT Lawrence Cable — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 11:07:11 -0400

Well, to quote Napoléon Bonaparte " “Give me enough medals and I’ll win you any war”
Recognition for doing a good job or act at is beyond what is normally expected is a pretty cheap way to maintain morale and discipline. Every culture I can think of had distinctive uniforms or headgear, my god, just look at Napoleonic era troops. I think we are pretty subdued and subtle about these days.

Response by GySgt Bill Smith made Apr 3 at 2017 11:28 AM

GySgt Bill Smith — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 11:28:56 -0400

The one thing I liked about the Marine Corps was we didn't have all the badges and patches the Army has.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Apr 3 at 2017 11:33 AM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 11:33:00 -0400

https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/n/napoleonbo108401.html

Napoleon Bonaparte Quotes

"A soldier will fight long and hard for a bit of colored ribbon." - Napoleon Bonaparte quotes from BrainyQuote.com

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Apr 3 at 2017 11:59 AM

LTC Stephen C. — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 11:59:11 -0400

LTC Private RallyPoint Member, I don't know how important it is to have something shiny to be different, but I've always been glad that I was only a dirty leg for the first eight months of my time in the service!

LTC John Mohor, considering our recent conversation about being airborne, I thought you might enjoy this little dialogue I had with a former Marine a few years back. Be sure your read his comments also. They're pretty lame and I thought the entire back and forth was pretty funny! You'll get a kick out of this!
I think he blocked me!
SGT Robert Pryor, read the back and forth all the way down. Pretty funny!

Response by MSG Lance Kelly made Apr 3 at 2017 12:19 PM

MSG Lance Kelly — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 12:19:00 -0400

Do we need something "shiny"? I don't think so but there are branches and traditions that set us apart from others. I don't believe it is to make us seem superior to others as much as to identify us to a particular group. I served in the Calvary and earned my spurs for being in combat. I was proud to wear them during those days, it was an accomplishment I earned. I didn't boast about it or go around thinking I was better than others, even when we wore them on post. Today my spurs hang on a wall and now just represent a time in my military career that I can share with my kids. The military could make us look the same but it is those "shiny" items that give us something to want or simply admire. I remember seeing Soldiers with the green berets and I know they were the best of the best and they deserve that respect. I recently read "Lone Survivor" and "American Sniper". Just reading about the training part made me look at myself and think, "What I have really done?" Not to take away from my accomplishments or even think I am comparing myself but these individuals have been put through things I can't imagine or endure. So, I don't see it being wrong if they get something "shiny" to set them apart. I give them respect for doing something I can't or won't. What I don't like to see is when "shiny" items are used in order to make them feel more superior to others. Just because I'm not infantry or artillery doesn't make me any less of a Soldier or leader. I just do a different job. We are one team within the Army. We are one team within the military. Together we win wars and protect this nation. Just keep it clean and support each other.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Apr 3 at 2017 4:13 PM

CAPT Kevin B. — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 16:13:58 -0400

Had to chuckle because of all the different things I've seen around the world. An oddity is the Thai Special Forces wear spurs. They're ornamental and given their small size, are nonfunctional. But, It'd take more cajones than I have to rip one off them. Another common thing is to have an extreme personal mannerism that is unique. You see that on parade with the South Korean officers all having to have a different way of holding and puffing a cigarette. Seeing them lined up at a table, all performing, reminds me of the zoo.

Response by SPC James Butler made Apr 3 at 2017 6:53 PM

SPC James Butler — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 18:53:47 -0400

The one thing that made sense to me was my red hat. It wasn't really effective for shamming though.

Response by CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2017 9:22 PM

CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 21:22:59 -0400

You know I used to say the same exact thing... Then I had a Commander that said he's been doing this for a long time and he's learned that people care about the little things. The Stetson and Spurs, coins, shirts... This job is rough. It's uncomfortable, stressful, forces you away from everything you love. So if it's a Stetson or a cord that gives Soldiers the motivation to do these jobs, then I say why not celebrate the mutual suck with those that suck the same as you. I believe it helps keep Soldiers coming back. It's human nature. We all want to be in the club. Even if it means we sleep in a Humber for two weeks haha

Response by SGT Matthew S. made Apr 3 at 2017 10:00 PM

SGT Matthew S. — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 22:00:22 -0400

I think it's human nature to want to be a part of something that sets you apart from most "everyone else". Look at Veterans in relation to to the general population; fraternal organizations such as the Freemasons, Knights of Columbus, etc; fraternities & sororities, even trade unions (although that one is perhaps more historical than today).

There's a certain camaraderie, pride, and sense of belonging with others who share a past experience or "earned" membership. As as extension of that, traditions and "things" arise as easily recognizable symbols of that exclusive membership - to whatever degree that may actually be.

People will even make stuff up to develop something that sets them apart. For example, in one of my units, the members in my Company felt that we were the "black sheep" of the Battalion, and those in my Platoon felt we were the black sheep of the Company.

Later on, with how some events fell in to place and things turned out (Murphy's Law included), the crew of my vehicle began joking that we were the black sheep of the whole Platoon. It grew from there, and eventually became part of our group identity and we even took a bit of pride in that distinction.

We didn't have any "things" to go along with it - other than a goat skull we found along the road one day that spent a while tied to the grille of our vehicle - but over a long period of time, I can see how larger traditions can get their start from even simple things like that.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2017 10:38 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 22:38:16 -0400

I am personally not familiar with legs vs. airborne but every soldier needs to distinguish himself somehow from the lot to be looked at differently for promotion. The fact is that it is more competitive than ever. We hope that the most deserving are the ones rising. To make yourself stand out you'll need to do things others might not. In the JAG branch I see few airborne, air assault qualified folks which make them "shinier" than others. I myself see them in a different light. I'm proud for them as they have been brave to do something I myself haven't. Anyway, my point being that you need to stand out as an expert in your MOS and wherever you can (broadening assignments, badges, overseas assignments, etc.) to separate yourself from the rest. Do some soldiers come across such opportunities easier? Maybe? But taking advantage of those opportunities will be key for future assignments and promotion capability.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2017 11:14 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 23:14:14 -0400

Unit pride, esprit de corps, healthy competition.

On top of that I'm JAG so no shiny things for me. Unless I get lucky and a request to go Airborne or Air Assault somehow happens.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Apr 4 at 2017 12:07 AM

COL Charles Williams — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 00:07:23 -0400

No... But we in the Army love doodads.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2017 8:36 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 08:36:57 -0400

I view it as sponsoring healthy competition between and within branches of the military. You see someone with a blue cord and know they are a pipe hitter. You see a pipe hitter with wings and know they are a bit crazy. You see a JM and just step off the sidewalk. Naval officers are great because no one in any other service can figure out their rank. It's also fun to bring up old traditions like saying "by your leave, Sir" when passing a Naval officer from behind. Confuses the heck out of newbies. The Air Force simply suffers in silence while wearing their bus driver's uniform. Marines - well, nice hats. Perhaps the reason Marine uniforms have so few accoutrements is because they were originally supposed to climb the rigging and this prevented things catching?

Response by MSgt George Cater made Apr 4 at 2017 10:05 AM

MSgt George Cater — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 10:05:05 -0400

Isn't that covered during the pickup and welcome in-briefing in Army basic?

(Hey, at least I capitalized Army.)

Response by SFC Terry Murphy made Apr 5 at 2017 5:30 PM

SFC Terry Murphy — Wed, 05 Apr 2017 17:30:40 -0400

Those that do not know history, are doomed to repeat it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2017 10:43 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 06 Apr 2017 10:43:36 -0400

Its a plain and simple manipulation of the human Reward System. Militaries conduct the toughest tasks a society requires of its citizens, and our human reward systems require continuous incentive to elevate morale and motivation. Id imagine that at one point, when Infantry and Navy were the only assets militaries had to worry about keeping motivated, it was an easier task to control with fewer awards. However, as military tactics and strategy continued to progress, and non-combat fields were introduced (and forced into combat situations), which increased success rates of battles and wars, that began to require more reward systems to be appeased.

I'd imagine that pride and ego play a large role in human motivation. Everyone is a Soldier, but we also want to be better than the next Soldier in some regard, be it competence, physical appearance, strength, courage, intelligence, elitesness, etc. Militaries understand this, and use it to their advantage to create pockets of ultra-motivated Soldiers who will fight harder, because they feel their status requires them to, whatever that status may be. This status perception exists between the Departments as well, Army/Marines, everyone else. Its a natural human issue, so we might as well use it to our advantage to win.

It does create a divide to a small degree, when individuals forget that we are all human, and die the same way as they do. I don't mind friendly ribbing, but some folks take it too far and too seriously, which is when it starts to create real issues. My brother is a leg, and I'm totally embarrassed about it, but he knows i'm only kidding, and throws the ribbing right back at me.

Response by SPC Ann T. made Apr 10 at 2017 12:59 AM

SPC Ann T. — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 00:59:28 -0400

Camaraderie, morale, team cohesiveness.....All improved with shiny stuff. Also, initiative, discipline, pride in self and service are advanced. If you have to look good to keep up the reputation of something larger than yourself, you take pride in it and bust your butt. I like shiny stuff even if I only got a few scraps. Always proud to be able to spell "PARATROOPER" in jumps.

Response by LtCol John Murphy made Apr 21 at 2017 10:28 AM

LtCol John Murphy — Fri, 21 Apr 2017 10:28:00 -0400

"Dress Blues, Tennis shoes, and a lite coat of oil"

Response by CH (LTC) Robert Leroe made Apr 23 at 2017 6:16 PM

CH (LTC) Robert Leroe — Sun, 23 Apr 2017 18:16:28 -0400

Every individual in the military needs something unique to set them apart. In my case, I was one of very few Chaplains to take the Public Affairs Officer Course (DINFOS), which enormously helped my ministry. Have something others don't have on your ORB.

Response by CPL Glynnda White made Apr 25 at 2017 8:46 AM

CPL Glynnda White — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 08:46:19 -0400

Is it good to have a friendly competition and pride in ones' duty point? YES! Those who go through the intensive training, go in with 200 people and graduate with the 20 who are left have earned those shiny things, those special berets, extra ropes and ribbons, and those intentionally make them stick out. We punish those who achieve through many avenues, how about we continue celebrating those who achieve? If you are a Ranger, Special Forces or a SEAL, you have to EARN that status. I'll grant that there are many who go into the military just for a career and really don't give a crap about the US, but most soldiers love their nation. So now we just tell the troops who are willing to spill their blood for their nation that they are nothing special, take away the feeling from them that they are special, remove their pride for the service and duty they have chosen? That is beyond foolish and frankly I'm surprised to see this question come from an officer in the US military. Those who are willing to go through the training and intense rigors of such training deserve special recognition and they should have it. ANYONE who is will to risk life and limb in service and defense of millions upon millions of ungrateful or uncaring people, deal with crappy pay, crappy healthcare as veterans deserves to have a serious pride in the branch in which they serve

Response by SGT Randall Smith made Apr 25 at 2017 4:04 PM

SGT Randall Smith — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 16:04:46 -0400

There should be something to show " almost airborne" . I could not jump off the tower. But I was almost airborne.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Apr 25 at 2017 4:53 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 16:53:44 -0400

Yes, I've seen this before. As a Captain and copilot, we were expected to work the back of the C-130 with an instructor loadmaster during each type of airdrop as part of our training to be an Aircraft Commander. My personnel drop was over Sicily DZ at Bragg. Everything went as planned and both sticks of troops departed the aircraft without incident. I helped retrieve the static lines and closed one of the doors. I guess I'm stall a leg. I'm proud that my number of takeoffs equals my number of landings.

The Air Force borrowed a lot of its uniform culture from the Army. It was probably 1950 before the Air Force personnel all got into blue uniforms. They started off fairly plain. No unit patches on the shoulder. Only two types of US on collar (officer or enlisted). Service stripes on sleeves weren't used. Officers had a single braid on the cuff. Ribbons on left side only. For a long time, the big difference in AF service uniforms was simply whether or not you wore wings. Pilots, Navigators, Bombardiers, Flight Engineers, Loadmasters, Flight Surgeons and Nurses, and some other enlisted aircrew wore wings. Parachutists and EOD had a qualification badge. Everybody else didn't have anything above the ribbons. Sometime in the 1990s, I think, every specialty got their own badge.

The Air Force hasn't gotten as far as the Service we came from (Army), but I think they are on the way.

Response by MSG Ron Radar made Apr 25 at 2017 11:37 PM

MSG Ron Radar — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 23:37:36 -0400

As a former Airborne MSG . I realized you're only airborne till you hit the ground . Then you're a 'Leg' !...LOL

Response by SPC William Weedman made Apr 30 at 2017 3:35 PM

SPC William Weedman — Sun, 30 Apr 2017 15:35:17 -0400

As a "leg" (and proud of it!) medic who never earned a "stretcher badge" (EFMB-Expert Field Medical Badge) or a stretcher badge with a wreath (CMB-Combat Medical Badge) a wise sergeant once told me, doc it don't matter what they're wearing on their uniform, they always bleed red. Since he was a Vietnam veteran, I believe he also meant it matter what side they were on as well.

Response by SFC Robert Wagner made May 4 at 2017 11:34 PM

SFC Robert Wagner — Thu, 04 May 2017 23:34:22 -0400

If you are a military person , you got to go back to where it started ie example the Cav and the hat it was the cavalry, Custers old unit was all voluntary ,as I was drafted and learned about the Cav.
one other thing your unit crest look up the history of it and you will see where these items came from , as I am authorized to wear the Stetson, 5th Bn 7th Cav( 1966-1967 Vietnam) retired 1992.

Response by SSG Johnnie Vaughn made May 15 at 2017 7:56 PM

SSG Johnnie Vaughn — Mon, 15 May 2017 19:56:18 -0400

Well, I have to admit we probably overdid it a long time ago... and it is harder to stop things than it is to never let them get started. If I attend a ball with all of my awarded federal and state ribbons, I have 5 rows, and I never even saw combat. If you take a modern soldier who has deployed several times on active duty, and then gotten out and joined the Guard, they could easily be sporting 8 or 9 rows as a mid-level NCO, and even more if they stay for retirement.

That being said, many decorations serve to identify specific achievements that are recognized by those that share that experience. One of my proudest accomplishments was earning my EIB. When I met other soldiers wearing one, the topic would always turn to, "Where did you get yours?" or "True blue?" [Note: The first time I encountered the latter, I was puzzled. Turns out that they had changed the standards to allow soldiers to retest a certain number of tasks. In the 'old days' your first No-Go got you a, "See ya next year." TRUE BLUE indicated all 1st-time GOs, with no retests.] We shared something in common, and there was a bond.

Rangers discuss their class dates; CIB holders talk about their tours; EOD, Pathfinder, Airborne, Air Assault... all the little shiny badges, whether relatively common or highly restricted, identify something that soldier has experienced and is proud of. Yes, we have all known some that approach it as, "See me? Look what I've got!" But for the vast majority of soldiers and veterans I have encountered over the years, our "shinies" serve to identify us to each other... and encourage us to share experiences and memories.

"Wear 'em if you got 'em."

Response by Jerry Rivas made May 16 at 2017 9:54 PM

Jerry Rivas — Tue, 16 May 2017 21:54:56 -0400

I think everyone who is ever stationed at Fort Polk and doesnt get the clap, deserves an award.

Response by CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2017 11:17 AM

CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 17 May 2017 11:17:05 -0400

Yeah...I like the simplicity of THE uniforms in the corps. Army uniforms=WEBELOS

Response by PO2 Buddy Stewart made May 22 at 2017 1:53 AM

PO2 Buddy Stewart — Mon, 22 May 2017 01:53:09 -0400

I don't know Major, I understand esprit de corps, unit pride. I was a 2nd Class Petty Officer in the Navy, I didn't often find myself in the company of Army, Marines, Air Force or Coast Guard. Even so, I always thought we were on the same team. Personally, to me, that's all that ever mattered. If various units want a badge to feel good, great, do it. The bigger the better. If someone wants to compare units and this is better than that, well, I have no truck with that. I know what I did and why, I never needed a badge to affirm it. But that's just me.

Response by Sgt Gabriel Benavides made May 23 at 2017 10:37 PM

Sgt Gabriel Benavides — Tue, 23 May 2017 22:37:42 -0400

I always hated wearing ribons and devices. It was always about your stack. I got a lot of flack frome my Staff NCO's in my artillery units because I had the very coveted Marine/Navy airborne wings.

Response by CW4 Scott Hyde made May 29 at 2017 2:14 AM

CW4 Scott Hyde — Mon, 29 May 2017 02:14:23 -0400

Why be the same as everyone else? If you do not have what it takes to be Airborne, Air Assault, Cav, a driver or mechanic, infantry, medic, and so on, be happy with what you have and not worry about it. If you have what it takes, wear it with pride because you earned it. If you want to be a Marine, join the Marines. Want more fruit salad, join the Air Force. If you want it but do not have it, get on the phone to your branch manager and see what you can do about it.

Response by Sgt Michael Clifford made Jun 2 at 2017 8:20 PM

Sgt Michael Clifford — Fri, 02 Jun 2017 20:20:22 -0400

I remember reading a letter in the 'Marine Corps Gazette' about 30 or 40 years ago that was written, I think, by a 1st sgt or Msgt. His complaint was that the Marine Corps was quietly moving to providing a ribbon for everything that a Marine did. Complete a tour on the drill field....you got a ribbon. Complete a tour on recruiting......you got a ribbon. Marine Corps uniforms were beginning to look like costumes in a French opera. I don't remember if he made any suggestions but I have to agree that it does seem that there is a medal or ribbon for just about everything.

I served in the early to mid 60's and the only unit designation that I can recall at the time was the pogy rope for the 5th and 6th Marines and the little red square that the engineers wore on their utility trousers. I have to admit that as a member of 1-6 I was very proud of that pogy rope.

The more patches, badges, ribbons and other stuff on the uniform just gives an inspecting officer more to find wrong with your uniform during inspections.

Response by CPT Art Jacobs made Jun 8 at 2017 3:45 PM

CPT Art Jacobs — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 15:45:47 -0400

Yes, the Army may have a lot of badges (airborne, air assault, pathfinder, ranger, special forces, etc.), but they are earned. May I remind the Marines that when they attend the Army's jump school at Fort Benning, they get to wear the same airborne wings. Badges aside, what blows my mind are the number of "left side perfect attendance ribbons" I see on Air Force and Navy folks. I took my sons to see the USS Constitution in Boston. We saw five Navy CPO's walking toward us - all with 5-6 rows of ribbons. That's great, but the highest one any of them had was the Navy Commendation Medal (none of them with a "V Device" for Valor either). Six rows of ribbons, and nothing in combat! Astonishing! But, as Napoleon once said, "A soldier will fight long and hard for a bit of colored ribbon." Don't get me wrong, I am all for (deserved) awards and decorations, but in this modern world of "everyone gets a participation trophy" the sheer number cheapens the significance. My Dad was in World War II (the BIG one) in Europe. He has four ribbons.

Response by LTJG Michael Flores made Jun 9 at 2017 12:28 PM

LTJG Michael Flores — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 12:28:27 -0400

What kind of liberal horsehit question is this?Pay the admission fee,live up to the example and BOOM!!!!! Stand out.......

Response by Sgt Joseph Baker made Jun 13 at 2017 8:15 PM

Sgt Joseph Baker — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 20:15:10 -0400

Once you have the EGAs on your collar or pocket, there's only so much you can add to that. It's like earning a million-dollar paycheck, then getting a coupon for 50%-off a latte.

Response by SGT David Greth made Jun 17 at 2017 11:25 AM

SGT David Greth — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 11:25:06 -0400

I think it all started in WWI with this, keeping in mind the USMC had division patches too. It began as esprit de corps grew from there. -- "The 81st Infantry Division "Wildcat" is generally agreed to have been first U.S. Army unit authorized an SSI. In 1918, during World War I, the 81st Division sailed for France after training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. On their left shoulder the men of the division wore an olive drab felt patch with the silhouette of a wildcat - after Wildcat Creek, a stream that flows through Fort Jackson. When men of the other fighting divisions challenged the right of 81st soldiers to wear the patch, General John J. Pershing ruled that the 81st could keep this distinctive insignia. He also suggested that other divisions adopt shoulder patches of their own. This patch was officially adopted by the U.S. Army on October 19, 1918."

Response by MAJ John Douglas made Jun 19 at 2017 8:19 AM

MAJ John Douglas — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 08:19:14 -0400

I recall seeing Marines wearing Ranger tabs, Airborne wings, etc. Badges aren't just "shiny" items but let everyone know you have excelled in your chosen field and strive to overcome and rise to the top. Why wear anything other than the basic uniform if you don't like additions. That includes medals, ribbons, and anything else.

Response by Cpl Lawrence Lavictoire made Jun 25 at 2017 1:37 PM

Cpl Lawrence Lavictoire — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 13:37:24 -0400

There should be no divisions! All casket handles are, "shiny" in the end!

Response by SFC Chris Horvath made Jun 25 at 2017 8:04 PM

SFC Chris Horvath — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 20:04:15 -0400

We are all one but there will always be interservice interbranch rivalry. The Stetson show the origins of the cavalry scout or those in the squadron but I will be the first to say only those that hold the MOS should be allowed to wear them. Even though I have been army 15 years I will say the marines got it right not a whole lot on their uniforms. Their dress uniforms don't change, no patches stuff like that. With that said I know plenty that have all kinds of bling but never wear it, they went cause they were sent that is all. A lot of it though goes back to origins and tradition and a little shit talking rivalry is good.

Response by Cpl Ryan Berry made Jun 26 at 2017 9:55 AM

Cpl Ryan Berry — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 09:55:10 -0400

Not for Marines...no way....we just need cammy paint and we can remember what unit we are in so we sure as hell don't need patches. Except for maybe FSSG who needs their little red square on their cover. Semper FI

Response by SSG John Karr made Jun 26 at 2017 5:25 PM

SSG John Karr — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 17:25:12 -0400

I remember back in the late '70s when hats, tanker jackets, stetsons, etc. were banned. They were banned because soldiers were being forced to buy their own junk. Bringing it back (if the soldiers have to pay for it) is a bad idea. If it is issue... who cares?

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 27 at 2017 4:35 PM

Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 16:35:53 -0400

I wanna know what you blanked out now.

Response by CW2 Chris Wilson made Jun 29 at 2017 11:55 AM

CW2 Chris Wilson — Thu, 29 Jun 2017 11:55:23 -0400

Gentlemen, it projects authority. Nothing says that guy must know a lot of shit than a bunch of flare on his threads. Embrace it.

Response by SGT Michael Cardin made Jun 29 at 2017 9:39 PM

SGT Michael Cardin — Thu, 29 Jun 2017 21:39:24 -0400

Yes, those who do not aspire to be something other than normal or average, can choose to be a normal soldier. Those of us who wanted to be more, and choose to be something other than the average soldier should have something to show that designation. It's true we are an all volunteer military. But all you have to do is either watch or read "Band of Brothers", too know that there are volunteers, and volunteers that do so to put out front into the thick of things.

Response by SFC Mark Biggs made Jun 30 at 2017 1:42 PM

SFC Mark Biggs — Fri, 30 Jun 2017 13:42:01 -0400

In prior decades some warriors wore their slain enemies' ears or scalps to prove their bravery in battle. Since that is no longer politically correct. We wear accouterments that signify our qualified level of bad-assery : cross-rifles, blue cords, EIB, CIB, Airborne wings, Ranger tabs, SF tabs. These are never just given out like candy, they are earned.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 2 at 2017 9:37 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 21:37:43 -0400

yes we all need something shiny. That shiny stuff lands you awards and promotions and you get respected and people look up to you more. Think about it who would you the respect the NCO with ribbons covering his uniform, or the other guy with nothing on his uniform but a nameplate,unit patch and rank?

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 5 at 2017 6:19 PM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 18:19:19 -0400

I think this becomes particularly noticeable with general officers and SNCOs who have been around longer and collect more "stuff" along the way. Some of its important but there's so much sometimes that it just looks like some banana republic dictator's uniform.

Response by SFC Manuel Sandino made Jul 6 at 2017 8:48 PM

SFC Manuel Sandino — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 20:48:04 -0400

No "SAPPER" rocker?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 6 at 2017 9:02 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 21:02:24 -0400

If you wear them then live up to them ie EFMB. If you earned it, then hold that standard rather than become the dirtbag medic who thinks he's better than everyone else.

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Jul 7 at 2017 10:09 AM

SGM Erik Marquez — Fri, 07 Jul 2017 10:09:25 -0400

Consider the Phrase Esprit De Corps

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 7 at 2017 3:25 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 07 Jul 2017 15:25:14 -0400

I think the shiny stuff is important in the sense that it allows you to quickly assess someone's capabilities. Does it mean that the soldier is better or worse than others? Not necessarily but it's a place to start. When you walk into a doctor's office do you feel better if he has 15 diplomas on the wall behind his desk? Do you feel even better if some of them say Harvard, Yale, Whatever? Still, it doesn't mean he's a good doctor but if I'm picking between him and a guy with no diplomas, the choice is clear. Same goes with badges. Even if you're a terrible soldier, I can at least tell that you have some experience.

Response by SSgt Bruce Locke made Jul 9 at 2017 10:37 AM

SSgt Bruce Locke — Sun, 09 Jul 2017 10:37:08 -0400

There is no greater honor to wear the uniform of any branch of the United States Military. We all have our missions in the great scheme of things in the defense of our nation. I think that the rivalries between the services and units within those services are a good thing. Being a Marine, I feel that I am part of the finest military branch in the world. We, as Marines, are very proud of our heritage and the roll we have played in our great nations history. "Semper Fi" isn't just a buzz phrase; It has deep meaning to Marines. I have many friends from the various military branches that believe they are part of the best units in the world...as they should. My father-in-law served in Vietnam and was a member of the 5th of the 7th Cavalry (Gary Owen!). Every two years his unit has a reunion in various parts of the country. I have attended 8 of those reunions. As 1 of only 2 Marines at the reunion, I catch a lot of shit (I instigate a bunch of it)...and love every minute of it. I love those old solders and am proud to be a part of their reunion. They feel, and with good reason, that they are the best unit in the U.S. Army...they lived and died in some pretty bad ass battles. My children have grown up with them and we stay in contact throughout the year. Marines talk a whole lot of trash about sailors...always have, always will (they give as good as they take too). I have a total of 1 year sea duty, we went on liberty with our sailors and they were always taken care of by us at all times. There is no squid more respected than the "Doc"...a Navy Corpsman. I like military people...all military people. At one time in there lives they took an oath to do a job and take responsibility for the safety and well being for our nation. They all deserve respect...even "sailors named Lawrence".

Response by PFC David Gettman made Jul 12 at 2017 11:16 AM

PFC David Gettman — Wed, 12 Jul 2017 11:16:06 -0400

Back in the day, the border Cav units in Europe (2ACR, 11ACR....) wore the black beret. Now everybody in the Army is wearing them. We thought we were pretty bad-ass and we caught a lot of flack for it from other units, higher echelon, and the like. 40+ years later I still have that feeling of pride for having worn it.

Response by PFC David Gettman made Jul 12 at 2017 3:32 PM

PFC David Gettman — Wed, 12 Jul 2017 15:32:58 -0400

Should I just give up and move on? One piece of "shiny" I would like to display is the Soldiers Medal. I was recommended for it in 1974 by my platoon leader, 1LT Andrew Stilley, but the recommendation never went through. No idea how far up the chain it went but it was denied for lack of witnesses.

Late July 1974 my unit, C Trp, 1/2ACR, was taking part in a large exercise near the Czechoslovakian border. Might have been a REFORGER, I don't recall. At the time of the exercise my troop had been manning the two border camps in the sector as the forward reaction force in case of attack by the communists, so our vehicles were fully combat loaded with live ammunition. Our main vehicle in the troop was the M551 Sheridan Armored Reconnaissance/Airborne Assault Vehicle, a 17 ton aluminum and steel tracked vehicle with a 152mm main gun.

The Sheridan's main gun was capable of firing conventional type tank rounds, and the Shillelagh infra-red guided missile. Each missile had a warhead containing a 15lb shaped charge of Octol, an extremely high explosive. There were eight missiles stored horizontally in racks in the driver compartment of the vehicle.

We had stopped for the night and formed a defensive perimeter on the eastern edge of the tiny town of Inzendorf, about 15km ENE of Amberg near the Czech border. Around 0300 on the morning of the 25th I was awakened by a loud "whoosh". Still have asleep and not sure if I had actually heard any thing, I went right back to sleep. Then I heard it again. I stood up in the TC hatch and pulled the poncho back that was covering the open hatch to trap the heat from our heater and stuck my head out. I was horrified to see flames shooting out of all the hatches of the Sheridan in the middle of the field and could see someone struggling to get out of the driver's hatch.

I stuck my head back in the hatch and screamed "FIRE" as loud as I could, then climbed out and jumped off my vehicle and began running towards the one on fire. The person in the driver's compartment had managed to get out and was running in a small circle directly in front of the vehicle, still very much on fire and moaning loudly. I still had the poncho and hit him with a flying tackle, extinguishing his flames. I picked him up and gave him a good shove in the general direction of the road, then started running around the side of the vehicle where the outside handle for the fire suppression was while looking for signs of other crewman. About that time there was another loud "whoosh" and flames shot out of the hatches like jet engines. I did a 90 degree turn and ran as fast as I could toward a low split-rail fence I spotted in a large depression about 25 yard from the vehicle.

Just as I was diving over the fence there was a massive blast and I was sent tumbling. I landed on my back and could see a huge ball of flames going up and pieces of tank flying around. I laid there until the cases of small arms ammo burning in the field stopped cooking off and a couple of the Sheridans turned their searchlights on. When I got back to the road I saw SSG Brow standing in front of a jeep wrapped in a wool blanket, his clothes nearly burned completely off and his skin burned charcoal black. It was him I had tackled. Took awhile to get a helicopter out there because they thought we were simulating an accident as part of the exercise, but he was eventually flown out and I learned about 25 years later from my former platoon leader that SSG Brow was sent to a burn center in Texas and survived his injuries. In 2002 I was urged by my PTSD counselor to file a claim and I did, receiving a 70% rating and classified permanently and totally unemployable.

I recently had this coin made for myself.

Response by CW4 Angel C. made Jul 14 at 2017 1:34 PM

CW4 Angel C. — Fri, 14 Jul 2017 13:34:21 -0400

In the Army YES we do ABSOLUTELY. The Army is too big and too versatile for everyone to be of equal or similar capability. That's what makes the Army awesome. There are so many opportunities to shine, volunteer, and stand out. Most of the time being "all that you can be" also comes with a badge, tab, beret, special pay, etc... Sure why not?

Response by GySgt Duane DaVein made Jul 18 at 2017 1:42 PM

GySgt Duane DaVein — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 13:42:04 -0400

Sir, I don't think it's a matter of out doing other branches/services. Military science is based on thousands of years of experience at war. All the pretty stuff is designed to encourage unity and a sense of pride within the ranks. No one on the battlefield fights for god, king, and country. It's our brothers that keep us on the field when common sense and our survival instinct says we should be anywhere except there.

Response by SSG Robert Perrotto made Jul 18 at 2017 2:00 PM

SSG Robert Perrotto — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 14:00:21 -0400

Absolutely - EIB, CIB, Air Assault wings, Airborne wings, Ranger Tab, these things separate you from your peers, and are earned by you, these are the few instances where individual achievement is allowed to be openly displayed. as such they are important and should be encouraged. This is not high school, where everyone is the same, where no child is left behind and everyone is a winner.

Response by Lt Col Walter Green made Jul 21 at 2017 2:18 PM

Lt Col Walter Green — Fri, 21 Jul 2017 14:18:54 -0400

When I joined the Air Force the constellation of badges (in those days not shiny - the shiny stuff means the same thing, but it looks cheap, in my opinion) was the various aviator wings and badges for two specialties who qualified as combat jobs, the pocket rocket of the missileers (ICBMs and BOMARCs) and the badge of weapons controllers (now air battle managers) - if you were on a combat crew you wore the combat crew member badge for the duration of your assignment and qualification as operationally ready. I was very proud of being a weapons controller and being charged with employing tactical aircraft, air defense missiles, and nuclear weapons in the defense of my country. The badge was distinctive and meant that I was a war fighter. Then the Air Force decided that the badge would improve morale by indicating your career field. With all due respect (and it is a lot of respect) to maintainers, security police, air traffic controllers, fuels folk, chaplain's assistants, etc., I think we lost something - if everyone has a badge, wearing a badge that looks like all the other badges unless you are up close, makes the badge just another piece of the uniform. Rather than making you stick out, the universality means no one is distinctive.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 23 at 2017 4:44 AM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Jul 2017 04:44:40 -0400

No not at all. Maybe a USMC Tattoo on your forehead will do. What do you think? The military as K-Mark or Disneyland?

Response by CPO Michael Hatten made Jul 24 at 2017 10:18 AM

CPO Michael Hatten — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 10:18:34 -0400

A soldier will fight long and hard for a bit of colored ribbon.
-Napoleon Bonaparte

Response by SN Shawn Wilson made Jul 30 at 2017 11:23 PM

SN Shawn Wilson — Sun, 30 Jul 2017 23:23:11 -0400

nope

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 2 at 2017 2:49 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 02 Aug 2017 14:49:51 -0400

I think it is good. A patch, badge or pin lets me know what you do. In aircraft maintenance, we have our badge, dirty boots. If I see a guy with greasy, stained steel toe boots, I know he is a flightline hero. I remember seeing the 1st CAV guys install their Stetsons one afternoon. I was like " fuck yeah". Then I was disappointed to learn they don't wear it into combat. What a sight that would be.

Response by PO1 Kevin Dougherty made Aug 6 at 2017 11:58 PM

PO1 Kevin Dougherty — Sun, 06 Aug 2017 23:58:31 -0400

I was USCG, and at least in the 70s and 80s when I was in there was not a lot of flash or differences. Pretty much brown shoe/black shoe the only pin other than aircrew wings I can recall from then was heavy weather coxn. You had to go to the National Lifeboat School to get it, and anyone who survived Cape Disappointment earned it as far as I was concerned. Now they have pins for Cutterman, and I suppose some others.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 10 at 2017 8:28 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 08:28:21 -0400

Uh the load master has seen this and he ain't no leg.

Response by SSgt Dan Montague made Aug 10 at 2017 8:46 AM

SSgt Dan Montague — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 08:46:24 -0400

That is why the Marines got rid of patches on our uniforms.

Response by PO2 Rev. Frederick C. Mullis, AFI, CFM made Aug 12 at 2017 11:15 AM

PO2 Rev. Frederick C. Mullis, AFI, CFM — Sat, 12 Aug 2017 11:15:44 -0400

iOh come now Major, 17 Shiney brass buttons polished to the 10th degree, A latge brass Belt buckle with the Anchor and globe, plus the two collar devices once again polished phen the three buttons on each sleeve polished to a mirror finish. Oh and lets not forget the shoes always a mirror finish and the megals perfectly spaced. Major the Marine Class A's are the best looking uniform the US Military has. Except for the NAVY Bells and Dixie Cup. Everything else is second class...

Response by CPT Ian Stewart made Aug 14 at 2017 2:42 PM

CPT Ian Stewart — Mon, 14 Aug 2017 14:42:23 -0400

Sir. If you're implying that the Corps doesn't have shiny things while the other Services do, I think that's being a bit disingenuous especially coming from a member of the branch with the best "girl-catcher" of a dress uniform.
As an outsider (non-Marine), I have differing opinions about the Corps and its uniform policies

For example, I admire that the Corps hasn't substantially changed its dress uniforms (both the blues and what we in the Army call "Class As") since WW II. It has changed its field uniforms as new technology comes available, which is good. The Corps has a much stronger sense of tradition than the other branches. This is evidenced by the fact that it still uses marksmanship badges that were in use in the early 20th Century. It has retained ranks like "Gunnery Sgt" and unit designations like "Motor Transport Bn".

On the other hand, I feel the Corps should not have done away with the shoulder patch. I know you'll see the division or other unit patch painted on signs, but I feel it would add to the average Marine's esteem if he/she could wear the patch of their unit, especially if they are members of such great divisions like the 1st or 2nd MarDivs Another, shortcoming (IMHO), there's no way to tell what a Marine does for a job. When I went through the Armor NCO Advance Course, we had six Marine tankers in our class. Nothing on their uniforms distinguished them from Marine Infantry, Supply or any other MOS in the Corps. That may have the Corps' intention, but I feel every Marine ought to be given some sort of insignia to show the world what they do.

I could go on, but I think you get from where I'm coming. Yes, I realize opinions are like anal orifices - everybody has one and I hope that you and the other Marines out there will take what I've written in a positive light.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2017 8:26 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Aug 2017 20:26:09 -0400

The FMF pin for Navy stationed with the Marines. Mostly HM and RP rates. I've seen a few other rates here and there. Used to be optional, but is now mandatory

Response by Sgt Charles Welling made Aug 17 at 2017 12:28 PM

Sgt Charles Welling — Thu, 17 Aug 2017 12:28:32 -0400

Once a Marine, always a .............. You have heard it and it is true. The Marine Corps does not allow a lot of decorative distinctions. The reason is unity, we all are Marines, that is enough and that is significant. Some few years ago the Commandant was petitioned to allow special chevrons for the infantry, his response? Not gonna happen, we ALL are infantry and we aren't going to start the specialty chevron thing. Today, when I meet a Marine or speak to a Marine with a cover on etc., I am speaking to another Marine and it is enough. It happens two, three times a week and young or older, we are Marines.......................... each as special as the other. I know a Major General, I am inclined to call him "General." He insists I call him by his first name, he is a Marine only.

Response by Sgt Terry Bailey made Aug 21 at 2017 6:21 AM

Sgt Terry Bailey — Mon, 21 Aug 2017 06:21:30 -0400

U.S. Marines are the only ones that wear red white and blue. I do believe that is the most shiny thing of all however we are not divided. We are the most unified out of everyone in our beloved country. Wear your shiny objects with pride and continue to defend OUR United States Constitution!

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2017 12:49 PM

WO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 28 Aug 2017 12:49:09 -0400

I think its important to have goals to fuel the drive to be the best you can in your career field, and one way the Army does that is with special skill badges and tabs. It's not the be-all-end-all, though. A good soldier doesn't rest on the laurels of how tough he used to be. These special skills are perishable, and your soldiers will recognize right away if you don't live up to the standards that earned said badge/tab. I've had a few NCOs from Regiment, and they made me a believer in the difference between the schoolhouse and the way of life.

Response by LTC Julian Carnes made Aug 31 at 2017 7:41 PM

LTC Julian Carnes — Thu, 31 Aug 2017 19:41:37 -0400

One question. When you look at a fellow Marine's ribbons, do you look for the Combat Action Ribbon? And, if you do, does it make a different impression whether or not he/she is wearing it? It is special and means the wearer has heard shots fired in anger (usually at him/her).

Response by SPC Sean Martin made Sep 1 at 2017 4:34 PM

SPC Sean Martin — Fri, 01 Sep 2017 16:34:50 -0400

While in the Army, I busted my ass at everything I did. I'm proud of that fact, and honored that other people noticed! If I received ANY kind of accommodation for it, so be it!! I accepted it, and wore with pride!! I was in NO competition with anyone, but myself!

Response by Betsy Madden made Sep 4 at 2017 5:54 PM

Betsy Madden — Mon, 04 Sep 2017 17:54:08 -0400

Marines know they got it. No badge needed. No patch needed. They know they got it. I did, however see my son's eyes flicker when NAM received.

Response by SSgt Robert Bell made Sep 9 at 2017 12:29 AM

SSgt Robert Bell — Sat, 09 Sep 2017 00:29:05 -0400

In the AF in Danang'67 were couldn't wear anything to say what unit/squadron we came from because they didn't want the VC to give that info to the Russians. Most we had, in ordinance, was a flaming piss pot!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2017 3:04 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 09 Sep 2017 03:04:24 -0400

In the Corps, we don't waste our time and money on the numerous decorations the Army puts on their uniforms, and don't even wear a name tag with our service/dress uniforms. All we have are ribbons/medals, and even those are few unless you've been on multiple deployments. We call the Army service alphas (Class As?) Christmas trees because of all of that stuff you guys have on them. Haha

An older photo, for example.

Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made Sep 11 at 2017 11:28 PM

MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan — Mon, 11 Sep 2017 23:28:35 -0400

Each branch has its own way of using carrots to motivate its members to attain the highest level of performance possible. Some things in one branch may seem childish to those in another branch, but when we realize the mission of each branch is different then the need for those enticements and rewards becomes clearer. Even within each branch there are those who don't see the need for the "in-house" games of musical chairs, so they don't participate. Bottom-line, are they necessary? Yes, because being in the line of work we are where at any moment our lives are on the line we need as much competition and recognition as we can get to make the stress "fun" (if that makes sense).

Response by PO1 Gery Bastiani made Sep 22 at 2017 1:06 PM

PO1 Gery Bastiani — Fri, 22 Sep 2017 13:06:06 -0400

the only time that we'd wear anything shining would be on our dress blues, other then that our daily uniforms were utility greens and our hat and collar devices were painted black showing what rank I was PO1, PO2, or PO3.

Response by MSG Robert Lee made Sep 24 at 2017 5:29 PM

MSG Robert Lee — Sun, 24 Sep 2017 17:29:53 -0400

Each branch of our forces have different medals and awards. There is one thing that every one of has, that when we bleed, we all bleed red.

Response by MSG Robert Lee made Sep 24 at 2017 5:51 PM

MSG Robert Lee — Sun, 24 Sep 2017 17:51:11 -0400

I have two shadow boxes hanging om my wall. One hold mt the medals I earned, my chevrons that I wore when I retired, my qualification badges, my lapel brass and my first over seas combat patch. The other hold all the distinguished unit insignia (crest) and each unit patch I wore , while i Was in the Army. What does the do. It tell my history of what I did and was in the ARMY.

Response by SFC Jim Hunter made Sep 25 at 2017 2:49 AM

SFC Jim Hunter — Mon, 25 Sep 2017 02:49:12 -0400

I served in both the Marine Corps and the Army. I was a Recon Marine, there was nothing on my uniform that differentiated from a Cook. Not every Marine is infantry, much less Recon. The reason for uniforms is to show performance. Thank goodness for those shiny things.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 26 at 2017 9:37 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 26 Sep 2017 21:37:48 -0400

I knew I saved this pic for a reason lol.
It is nice to have something to show off that you worked hard to get. But at the same time, there is a lot of 'bling' in the military that you get simply because you were in a specific place or with a unit and didn't really have to work for.

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made Sep 26 at 2017 10:12 PM

SFC Joseph Weber — Tue, 26 Sep 2017 22:12:12 -0400

I always preferred NAP when I was in an airborne unit. My buddies would call me leg but I would point out that by the time they got done falling out of the plane they had to leg it through the woods for 20 miles. I would go meet them in my truck.

Response by Col Phil Yasuhara made Sep 26 at 2017 10:13 PM

Col Phil Yasuhara — Tue, 26 Sep 2017 22:13:38 -0400

They do in NK.

Response by SGT Scott Moreland made Sep 29 at 2017 4:36 PM

SGT Scott Moreland — Fri, 29 Sep 2017 16:36:26 -0400

Yes. Everyone wants to be recognized as someone who is unique and special and even more so within the ranks of military branches. Who hasn't seen someone in the uniform of a specialized branch and ask themselves if they have what it takes to cut it? To have the pride of that accomplishment? If you think about it from a recruitment standpoint it makes more sense to have volunteers wanting to serve than picking from the ranks and forcing them to serve. To me it comes down to inspire the go-getters or crack the whip on forced labor. Which would you want to take into combat and have your back, or want to shoot you in it?

Response by SSgt Dan Kelley made Sep 30 at 2017 1:54 PM

SSgt Dan Kelley — Sat, 30 Sep 2017 13:54:50 -0400

I only saw badges. It designates the specialty & hard work the individual put in. Markmanship rank, parachutes, dolphins, wings, etc shows you who you a dealing with. I'll take an expert marksman over all others. I'll take combat badge over no badge.

Response by SPC Jesse Ybarra made Oct 5 at 2017 11:16 AM

SPC Jesse Ybarra — Thu, 05 Oct 2017 11:16:13 -0400

At the end of the day. We're all on the same team.

Response by SFC Jeff Roy made Oct 6 at 2017 7:16 PM

SFC Jeff Roy — Fri, 06 Oct 2017 19:16:59 -0400

I believe the Cav stetson should be worn by the scouts in dress uniform.

Response by CPT Wes Marsh made Oct 7 at 2017 4:44 PM

CPT Wes Marsh — Sat, 07 Oct 2017 16:44:56 -0400

When reality and logic dictate you should lose, perhaps a shiny bit or a piece of cloth might change the situation to a favorable outcome.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2017 9:17 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 08 Oct 2017 21:17:58 -0400

Anyone can " fall" out of an Airplane...lol

Response by Chris Sims made Oct 11 at 2017 5:52 AM

Chris Sims — Wed, 11 Oct 2017 05:52:32 -0400

That's just it! The big ol problem with society, country, and our world today... Yes for sure all about rank-levels. To how much we have put in to give back for our country, OUTSTANDING! All as one-{TEAM}! All the higher and highest ranks only mean ONE thing- (To make the WISER more EDUCATED decision or choice for which the situation has withheld. Majority of the different-upper ranks no where in Hell does it make you the more Superior, bigger better person because you aren't! All are equal humans an or individuals with or without the rank. Yes way more respected for what you have accomplished and done to reach them levels! Our military is by far the strongest team there is on this planet, all as one-one is all... Brother to Brother and Sister to Sister!! What about when the page is turned how come our whole Nation, society, community, everyone isn't like that??? All are Brother-Brother, Sister-Sister when them patches/badges/ranks are not worn! Just think if we all as a country could be that strong for one another what we could be!? If I had one wish from our good Lord up above how come we All can't be as strong as our military is for one another like how it is for Soldier to Soldier! Same deal for society when the fellow American wears that badge as an Officer, Deputy Sheriff, or Trooper don't mean the can break the law and fly 100mph down the Hwy for no apparent reason because that's just as bad as the criminal,, MATTER OF FACT_ it's way worse bc they are the ones suppose to be enforcing the law and setting an EXAMPLE!!! but it's not that way nor will it ever be. ALL RESPECT TO THOSE WHO DO THOUGH!!!!! Be the best_be all you can be. I believe every American should serve some kind of term for the military big or small.... One of the choices or decision us as Americans would never ever regret. #military_life!!

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Oct 12 at 2017 5:55 PM

SSgt Daniel d'Errico — Thu, 12 Oct 2017 17:55:04 -0400

What is earned, is earned. You volunteered to attend these courses to improve yourself. They look so shiney on your dress uniform, proves you went the rxtra mile to earn those shiney badges, gain a little more respect for doing so. But earning those shineys comes at a cost, more elbow grease to keep them shiney. Keeping them in the order earned. And spending more of your pay to krep them shiney.

Response by SFC Christopher Taggart made Oct 12 at 2017 6:40 PM

SFC Christopher Taggart — Thu, 12 Oct 2017 18:40:15 -0400

Unfortunately, yes...that's how you're able to pass boards. Because I didn't have shiny badges or wings, my promotions came slow. From Private to Specialist you don't, because it's just the fact if the Commander likes you or not. I wore SGT, SSG, and SFC longer than most soldiers did. I had most Sergeants beat in TIS and TIR.

Response by CW4 Glen Nardin made Oct 24 at 2017 8:40 AM

CW4 Glen Nardin — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 08:40:59 -0400

It’s all about pride—and recruiting.

Response by PO1 Ron Clark made Oct 24 at 2017 3:34 PM

PO1 Ron Clark — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 15:34:29 -0400

If you want and qualify to join the Marines, then join, if you qualify to join the Navy then join, as with all of the other services join. I think that each individual service branch has to have something to let civilians and others that this is a Sailor, Airman, Marine, Soldier, Coast Guardsman is qualified, I think that each individual trinket you earn is for a qualification that you attained/worked hard to get, thereby making you closer to being whatever you signed up for. I know in the Navy you really earn each award/certification and it does make an individual proud when you wearing that uniform that shows that hard work paid off, and someone asks, "Hey what's that for" cause anyone can't legally wear it if they didn't earn it.

Response by PO2 Michael Galey made Oct 24 at 2017 11:05 PM

PO2 Michael Galey — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 23:05:57 -0400

When it comes down to the nitty gritty it doesn't make a tinkers damn what unit you're in or service when a call for help is given I will tell y'all there will be a whole lot of Sailors, Marines, Air Men and Women, Soldiers and Coast Guard folks to give a hand. as for Leg vs Jumper it's been going on for eons due to the espri de corps in the Airborne community. Now as for me I was originally a Brown Water Sailor when I left Vietnam I was a little disappointed in those blue water types which was due to the small crew and comradely found in the Special Boat community. Yes I did serve in both the Navy and Army Nat. guard and with the regular Army dudes they laugh at National Guard troops until Desert Shield when the Guard was activated and served in regimental combat teams. The guard is now on par with the regulars esp. the Armor units (80% N G). In sum the service men and women all have a huge pride and ego in their service and will always be barbs and trash talk in good spirited fun 'n games. Vietnam vet (70-72) SGT (ret) USA

Response by LCpl Stephen Arnold made Nov 2 at 2017 1:53 PM

LCpl Stephen Arnold — Thu, 02 Nov 2017 13:53:14 -0400

This is going to sound petty, childish, and a bit disrespectful; if you had access to my service records you wouldn't be surprised.

After my long and successful career in the Marine Corps, 4 years obtaining the rank of TERMINAL LANCE CORPORAL and the official call sign "SHITBIRD SIX ACTUAL", I joined the Army National Guard where I embarked on a mission of grave importance and significance.

During a deployment to Kosovo, several of us Former Marines started wearing the FLEET MARINE FORCE badge on our cammies (now called BDU's in the Guard, because I needed to learn a second language apparently).

We had a Sergeant Major who wasn't the brightest bulb on the tree (no disrespect intended to that wonderful rank); he would tell me "Sergeant, I don't think you're authorized to wear that badge." AR 670-1 was somewhat vague on the topic, and i kept a copy of it in my pocket.

"I appreciate that, Sergeant Major; when you know for certain can you let me know, please?"

Again, not the most wonderful post on here, and I'll probably catch SOME shit because of it, but it did help get through the deployment.

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Nov 3 at 2017 4:04 PM

CWO2 Shelby DuBois — Fri, 03 Nov 2017 16:04:25 -0400

I was at El Toro back in the middle ages when some fool at HQMC uniform board proposed berets for Marines, so we'd be more' recognizable when serving along side 'U.N.' troops. That went over like a brick. The poor slobs who had to test wear them were ridiculed with , 'Oh, sorry SOLDIER, didn't see you standing there"... or ..."Hey, do you have any Thin Mints left?". Needless to say, it was not, and hopefully never, adopted.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2017 2:07 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 04 Nov 2017 02:07:56 -0400

Never whet to DirtDart School and I'm not a LEG i'm a Wheel as i Drive to combat and back and I pass the legs doing it and wait for them at the crossroads just me and my squad....which by the way got more firepower than the leg platoon following behind us. My fellows secure the drop zone so the 173 can claim they got a combat jump even though it was into Kurdish help area

Response by SPC Dave Loeffler made Nov 11 at 2017 9:00 PM

SPC Dave Loeffler — Sat, 11 Nov 2017 21:00:47 -0500

I think that our uniforms are different enough. I do mot like the beret for regular army units. If it was left up to me I think the army should return to the campaign hat for Class A unifforms

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Nov 19 at 2017 1:28 PM

SSgt Daniel d'Errico — Sun, 19 Nov 2017 13:28:18 -0500

The "shiny" things shows you earned it. Badges, berets, tabs, scrolls, etc. All show that you went the extra step to earn all that "shiny" stuff. Not only that, it shows you don't have to bragg about it.

Response by SPC Sean Martin made Nov 24 at 2017 10:58 AM

SPC Sean Martin — Fri, 24 Nov 2017 10:58:44 -0500

Why not!? I want as much attention given to me, for my performance. The more the merrier! It is an Honor to be recognized for my performance, and I enjoy relaying why I received such a reward to anyone who asks! I am proud to show them off! To be called out in front of a company formation, to receive some sort of recognized citation for outstanding performance in something that i have done...Well, that's half the fun!

Response by SGT Steven Jones Sr. made Nov 26 at 2017 12:59 AM

SGT Steven Jones Sr. — Sun, 26 Nov 2017 00:59:51 -0500

Not really just Esprit decor.

Response by PO1 Richard Borowski made Nov 26 at 2017 12:20 PM

PO1 Richard Borowski — Sun, 26 Nov 2017 12:20:52 -0500

I don't understand the need for "shiny" things. A personal thing, I guess, but I always felt that a job well done was all the reward I needed. The "public attention" didn't and still doesn't mean a whole lot to me.

Response by SFC Greg Bruorton made Nov 27 at 2017 11:06 AM

SFC Greg Bruorton — Mon, 27 Nov 2017 11:06:29 -0500

My parachutist's badge is more coveted than any ribbon I wear. The tradition behind it and what it represents is shiny to this day.

Response by Beverly Deloach made Dec 3 at 2017 11:52 PM

Beverly Deloach — Sun, 03 Dec 2017 23:52:39 -0500

Personally I think the coins are a special, personal sort of recognition. I worked in a Warrior Transition Unit during the Afghan/Iraq drawdown. Saw many young guards members, some in pretty rough shape. When they would leave our unit I would discreetly give them a coin that had the Army logo on one side and No one left behind on the other side over the silhouette of a buddy carrying a wounded buddy. I saw many grown men cry.

Response by CPL David Markham made Dec 6 at 2017 9:47 AM

CPL David Markham — Wed, 06 Dec 2017 09:47:29 -0500

I didn't sign up for badges or patches, probably didn't even know about these things. However once I earned my jump wings and was awarded the C.I.B. I was very proud a too be among a group I will always consider some of the best.

Response by SPC David Willis made Dec 6 at 2017 9:51 AM

SPC David Willis — Wed, 06 Dec 2017 09:51:36 -0500

I think its good to a point. Having pride in your title of Airbourne or Ranger or Leg can help you do your job better. It shouldn't go so far as to incite resentment within a force though.

Response by SFC Michael Arabian made Dec 9 at 2017 1:37 PM

SFC Michael Arabian — Sat, 09 Dec 2017 13:37:56 -0500

I may have retired with a bunch of awards or badges, that I could care less about. They weren’t the reason I joined. I joined/ran to the Army to get out of a bad place. I almost didn’t make it through my first term, but one of my NCO’s sat me down for a hart to hart real life taking, not the old if you get your act together, I going to have to recommend a chapter, but the hey, what the heck is going on type, first time I felt that someone really cared about me as a person and not a number. Needless to say I got my act together and the awards started rolling in. Did I really what them nope, half the time I was ordered to stand in formation to receive them.

Response by CDR Michael Goldschmidt made Dec 10 at 2017 5:50 PM

CDR Michael Goldschmidt — Sun, 10 Dec 2017 17:50:30 -0500

A uniform should be a conversation starter, not a conversation ender. It should give basic information: who has authority over whom and something about the limits of that authority, and somebody's expertise. In the Navy, that's primarily what our uniforms do, as do most undress uniforms of the various services. Not every naval officer is eligible for command at sea, something a Navy Officer's uniform tells you. Not all Naval personnel, Army, or Air Force personnel are combatants. Their uniforms should tell you that. Every Marine officer is, however, a combatant, so it's less necessary to show distinguishing specialty insignia, but it would be helpful. Ditto for Army and Air Force officers and enlisted folks in combat uniform. I spent a good portion of my career in Joint Units, where it was very helpful to me to know, at a glance, whom to ask which questions. When the Army adopted ACUs in favor of BDUs, some of that information went away.

Let all the sparklies be to impress the civilians. They're more easily impressed than we servicepeople are, anyway. WE know what's impressive and what's BS. We also know the hearts that beat under our uniforms.

Response by SN James MacKay made Dec 10 at 2017 10:21 PM

SN James MacKay — Sun, 10 Dec 2017 22:21:44 -0500

No. Jumping out of a perfectly good aircraft just doesn't do it for me. No problems with those that do, though. I've known a lot of 'em, both military and civilian that just love it.

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Dec 11 at 2017 1:04 PM

SFC Jim Ruether — Mon, 11 Dec 2017 13:04:09 -0500

I did my job to the best of my ability, was recognized for my accomplishments and retired and needed nothing to call attention to myself while I served. There are a lot of us who didn't grandstand during our career and they are still serving their country quietly and with confidence. Still waters run deep they say and a majority of veterans served this way. I have seen the flamboyant and the reserved confidence of the multitudes that serve out of the spotlight.

Response by MAJ Jim Steven made Dec 12 at 2017 10:03 PM

MAJ Jim Steven — Tue, 12 Dec 2017 22:03:10 -0500

i just responded to a question about removing combat patches because it might offend those that dont have them....and said this....we need to stop dick measuring and judging each other. No more calling people POGs and Legs, not because they might get offended...but to say that we all play on a team. Just because the quaterback doesnt score touchdownds, doesnt make him unimportant....

Response by 1LT John S Moore made Dec 24 at 2017 10:02 PM

1LT John S Moore — Sun, 24 Dec 2017 22:02:27 -0500

I was Army, enlisted and commissioned in Armor. Desert Storm among other tours of duty over a decade. My dad was a career Air Force fighter pilot and retired as a Bird Colonel with Korean and Vietnam War service over 28 years. Oldest brother was USMC Cobra Pilot for 16 years including Beruit in '83. Middle brother was Navy on nuclear Boomers during the height of the Cold War. Yes, the Army uniform has more do-dads than the other services and the Navy is in my opinion the most reserved by far (including individual awards and decorations)! I am biased, but to me, the Army uniform does the best job of telling you the story and background of each soldier. A soldier's life story is in plain view on display for everyone who knows how to read it: what he's accomplished, where she's been, who he was with when he did it, and probably enough clues to let you know who your mutual acquaintances might be.

Response by SGT Walter Lester made Dec 26 at 2017 11:31 AM

SGT Walter Lester — Tue, 26 Dec 2017 11:31:38 -0500

I don't know about you others,but I earned all the patches,ribbons,pins,and medals I wore on my uniform. If the Army says I can wear them, I'll will and did. I think it shows your branch and the others some of what you have accomplished through out your carrier.

Response by Sgt Christopher Rogers made Jan 6 at 2018 8:05 PM

Sgt Christopher Rogers — Sat, 06 Jan 2018 20:05:00 -0500

Nothing looks as good as Marine dress blues.

Response by CPT Jay Goodan made Jan 8 at 2018 11:13 AM

CPT Jay Goodan — Mon, 08 Jan 2018 11:13:35 -0500

I always thought the beret should be the SF item. I was proud to have the CIB but beyond that it is flash. I do notice that a soldier with a couple of years service now seems to have a half dozen rows of ribbons. I had five years and three rows including the bronze star and purple heart.

Response by CPT Paul Weiss made Jan 10 at 2018 9:11 PM

CPT Paul Weiss — Wed, 10 Jan 2018 21:11:59 -0500

In answer to "How did this all start . . ", it was in the Union Army of the Potomac (in 1863) when distinctive cap badges were authorized for each Corps. Furthermore, each Division within the Corps (then designated 1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc) were issued different color badges. For example, the is Division, IV Corps would wear a red triangle, the 2nd, white, the 3rd, blue. Other Corps had stars, crosses, trefoils, crescents, etc.
Why? Morale, of course!

Response by MSG John Duchesneau made Feb 15 at 2018 11:14 PM

MSG John Duchesneau — Thu, 15 Feb 2018 23:14:44 -0500

In the military everybody wants to wear something which makes the special.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Feb 19 at 2018 8:49 AM

SSgt Boyd Herrst — Mon, 19 Feb 2018 08:49:37 -0500

There Air Force didn’t get shiny stuff until the mid 70’s when I got back from S.E.A. I noticed the S.P.s on the gate and some had those specialty badges with that fake chrome on them.. it looked tinny.. like out of a box of lucky charms. Bkfst cereal.. I always thought the brushed metal were better.. shiny makes you a target.. my career field has a specialty badge.. now it’s had because it got pulled for som reason.. it came out in ‘85 but held back because not enough were ready(services specialty badge (here it is, mine is for a 7 level in the Services field.. of which Food service is a part of. I served as Cook/Baker Supervisor(it wasn’t consolidated as a career field until ‘80-‘81 I believe. they made it retroactive to early in 70’s so Vets in Veteran Service orgs could legally wear them on the Post’s uniforms.
For some reason they eerre pulled from being worn or issued (or both?) by those still active..
Anyway I got the shiny, I would have like having the brushed metal.. it doesn’t look “tinny”... maybe there are some still out there?.. somebody that doesn’t care and would give it up.. enough of that.. I thought it cool when it came out.. I did all my work with due diligence and was proud of being a Cook/Baker Supervisor. I think what added to it.. I had an Associates in Applied Sciece(Combined Culinary and Restaurant mgt. degree [with help from CCAF, with creds from CDCs, OJT/apprenticeship, NCO schools, Prof Mil edu. Classes.. other classes I completed.. ]). There are other degrees through CCAF (comm Col. AF) and other Military services continued edu. Schools. My Fellow RP members who followed up and took advantage of their Services continued edu. Services know what i’m Speaking of.. it can shave off so much School time. CCAF gave me FULL creds for my CDCs.. and other edu. Programs I completed..
Those in other services and the AF, AF Reserve and Air Guard really need to tdke advantage of these offerings before they are gone.. don’t just let them sit there.. in your service jackets.. there is a place for your supervisors to note your continuing extra education.. but they can’t
Do it if you don’t make the effort to continue !
It can be an important add-in in your jacket
To show your continuing to improve yourself..
(When you can... ask to see your jacket so you can see you are being noted for your continued
Edu. Efforts.. and completions.. you need to stay on top, it’s not their job to note it.. of course a good unit Training NCO will be I
On top of it.. so YOU stay on it to make sure!).
I know I strayed a bit., but I think that the two
(Specialty badge and skill level/ continued education effort is all connected ). One more little note: Military Retirees should check with their services Cont. edu. Programs to see if their cont edu services are still active or closed out. You don’t or may not be aware of their status,so check! Maybe if you’re recent retiree
(Within 6 months) you might be able to access those creds that are sitting there.. don’t let them go to waste !

Response by SP5 Tommy Cunningham made Feb 25 at 2018 3:44 PM

SP5 Tommy Cunningham — Sun, 25 Feb 2018 15:44:42 -0500

I don't presume to know the answer to your question, but I was in the Army, I went to numerous training schools, some only Army, but some were joint services schools. and with out exception all the Marines gathered together, and did not mix with the other services. So maybe you are feeling a little guilty, I don't know that either, but something does not ring true about your motivation and your question.....

Response by CMSgt Fred Scantling made Feb 25 at 2018 4:22 PM

CMSgt Fred Scantling — Sun, 25 Feb 2018 16:22:54 -0500

My father was a WWII Marine in the Pacific with the 1st Marine Division. He fought with the Old Breed at Cape Glouchester, Guadal Canal, and Peleliu. He retired from the Marines in 1961 at the rank of Lt Col after 20 years of service.

As I recall, he had 6 ribbons.. SIX. Oh, and an expert marksman badge.

Response by MSG Frank Kapaun made Feb 26 at 2018 11:46 AM

MSG Frank Kapaun — Mon, 26 Feb 2018 11:46:47 -0500

In the USMC, one doesn’t see a lot of scare badges on their troops. But, conversely, they place an eagle, globe and anchor sticker on anything not moving.

Response by Cpl Gregory Romeu made Mar 3 at 2018 8:56 AM

Cpl Gregory Romeu — Sat, 03 Mar 2018 08:56:31 -0500

Actuually, we just wear our Eagle, Globe and Anchor and it's usually, "Nuff said"?

Response by SPC Woody Bullard made Mar 5 at 2018 12:19 PM

SPC Woody Bullard — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 12:19:56 -0500

I'm late getting in on this one and I know I'll catch some hell for saying it but I really liked the
"old school" Army Military Police class A duty uniform. The MP white hat worn with the summer
khakis or winter greens with that patent leather gear with those highly polished black boots made
a on duty MP stand out from anyone else in the room. I was told the Army retired the MP duty
white hat sometime in the 1980's. The MP white hat should be brought back for wear with the
class A uniform.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2019 10:59 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Oct 2019 22:59:21 -0400

Badges (schools really) don’t make soldiers better than other soldiers it just makes THEM better soldiers - or more qualified at a particular skill. And the paratroopers and legs definitely need to be separated from each other......the legs need to exit the aircraft first because they get to the ground faster!

Response by 1SG Tommy McGee made Apr 25 at 2020 10:13 AM

1SG Tommy McGee — Sat, 25 Apr 2020 10:13:10 -0400

I believe that it is professionally “healthy” to set yourself apart from other MOSs. I helps to create commeradi and pride in doing what you do.
In the end we are all in the fight together, no matter what MOS or specialty that you have and no matter what branch of service that you are in. The only people that I have ever met that talk crap about other branches is new service members that have never served a combat deployment, actually being shot at and shooting the enemy. In my career, I servered in combat with every branch and I was glad to have them standing beside me sending rounds down range.

Response by SFC Jeremy Boyd made Apr 25 at 2020 10:39 AM

SFC Jeremy Boyd — Sat, 25 Apr 2020 10:39:49 -0400

Not necessarily to stick out from other branches/services, but often times to stick out from other Soldiers in your same field for the purposes of promotion, as has been mentioned by other RP members on this thread. Also, I have no shame in admitting that I was always driven to try more things during my time in the Army by the allure of shiny baubles. I obtain great personal satisfaction from medals, ribbons, badges, certificates, and my Stetson and spurs. For me it was an added incentive, an additional goal to pursue. Not everyone is motivated in the same way, so there are those that will do their duty to the best of their ability regardless of trinkets at the finish line, and I highly respect then for it. I was always going to do my job to the best of my ability no matter what, because that's how I was raised, but there is nothing wrong with a shiny prize in that Cracker Jack box, especially if you truly earned it through your own efforts.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 21 at 2020 6:28 AM

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 21 Sep 2020 06:28:59 -0400

Honestly, I feel like all these shiny trinkets the army make the unnecessary change to how a unit acts or reacts to a soldier. This in returns makes some soldiers in the unit not want to try because the unit will always look towards the soilder with the best chest candy anyways. Vice versa, the soldier with the most trinkets feel that they don't have to perform or act better than others.

I've seen tons of people with wings here at Bragg that are horrible at Physical Training or worst Toxic individuals, mind you...it takes a toll on the body, but that doesn't mean you should act like you run things just because you got an award or deployment someone else does not have.

The Army is a hodgepodge and the ones who have been awarded for duty need to get back to learning how they were taught to help the one's under them not only become better soldiers but better people.

Response by SPC Mark Kreutsberg made Mar 9 at 2022 4:21 PM

SPC Mark Kreutsberg — Wed, 09 Mar 2022 16:21:47 -0500

I was ADA and we did just fine without sanitizing to make us stand out. It was enough just knowing the Air Force hated and feared us. Lol

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Mar 9 at 2022 4:46 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Wed, 09 Mar 2022 16:46:45 -0500

Hell, I had a lot more lethal firepower as a tanker. I don't care about the color of the beret. What I am interested in is what they bring to the fight. I have had stupid ass young infantrymen boo me as I rode in my 70 ton tank. What those f@ckers don't know is I would had their backs and overwatches.

Response by SSG Eric Blue made Mar 9 at 2022 8:27 PM

SSG Eric Blue — Wed, 09 Mar 2022 20:27:07 -0500

I don't think it matters as much as some people think. I know it doesn't for me. I busted my butt my whole career, trying to be like "the cool kids" and get the bells & whistles & shiny stuff, and as hard as I worked and outshined everyone else around me, I got NOTHING! So yeah...it doesn't matter to me. Maybe to someone else, though.

Response by SMSgt Bob Wilson made Mar 10 at 2022 10:08 AM

SMSgt Bob Wilson — Thu, 10 Mar 2022 10:08:26 -0500

The Army history goes back 250+ years. The Army, in the 1800s was a group of "little armies" which developed traditions [remember the outpost in the west were miles apart and for the most part established their own regulations and uniform add-ons]. With that said, I agree with you, the Army has two much "junk" on the uniform. I've always like clean uniforms [rank, name, ribbons. I, personally, prefer the ribbons to be worn on the dress uniform only].

Response by SSG Dave Johnston made Mar 10 at 2022 6:38 PM

SSG Dave Johnston — Thu, 10 Mar 2022 18:38:18 -0500

Why not, it used to be a magnet long long time ago, but now, not so much, all those purty wibbons and medels hanging on ones chest... the patch on our right sleeve proudly screaming lookey where I was...

Response by MSG Tony Hughes made Mar 21 at 2022 7:33 PM

MSG Tony Hughes — Mon, 21 Mar 2022 19:33:28 -0400

I was in airborne unit once in my career. It was simple. No wings, you were a leg. Didnt matter to me, not many were lucky enough to get airborne training

Response by LCpl Michael Cappello made May 7 at 2022 8:02 PM

LCpl Michael Cappello — Sat, 07 May 2022 20:02:13 -0400

It the Corps, we had very little "Bling". Just standard uniform brass and service ribbons / devices. Most of out stuff is flat black. But, when you have a uniform like out Dress Blues, what else do you need ? That and our military bearing pretty much says it all.