Have you ever spot checked someone who outranked you? How did you do it? And how did they react?

2016-02-23T22:41:44-05:00

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 23 at 2016 10:45 PM

2016-02-23T22:45:53-05:00

Yes. The key is knowing exactly what you're correcting them on and being respectful, knowing the correct regulation, and so on. I corrected an e-6 when I came in. I brought it to their attention respectfully and quoted the reg. They weren't happy but it got the point across.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 23 at 2016 10:48 PM

2016-02-23T22:48:50-05:00

Yea. But it's more like " Psst. SGT your, your boot lace." And then I stick em with a thumbs up.

They need positive reinforcement too.

Response by PV2 Eddie St. Bernard made Feb 23 at 2016 10:49 PM

2016-02-23T22:49:45-05:00

Yes multiple times I just made sure I said it at parade rest

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 23 at 2016 10:53 PM

2016-02-23T22:53:34-05:00

Yes I noticed part of my first Sergeant's flag on her uniform was falling off like the patches do on the uniform while are CSM was also there walking around the motor pool I went to my Sgt to ask how I should inform her he had me go with him to talk to her. I stay respectful and still took the correct and respectful manner to inform her that her patches where starting to float away and with the CSM present was concerned that it could be an issue.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Feb 23 at 2016 11:22 PM

2016-02-23T23:22:06-05:00

Yes I have, and have had it done to me. First, for me, I want/wanted to know if I as ate up, as that was never my intention... ever. Second, if I made a comment or correction it was always professional and discrete.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2016 1:06 AM

2016-02-24T01:06:11-05:00

During one of our TRNG cycles, I noticed a flag on a COL uniform was crooked (BAD). When he passed by me, I said "Excuse me Sir (went to attention) your flag is a little crooked". He said thanks Sergeant care on. Then about 30 minutes later he pulls me to the side and ask me. Who the hell do you think you are correcting a COL? I told him I was just trying to help out.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2016 2:14 AM

2016-02-24T02:14:03-05:00

I have on more then one occasion and it usually starts with excuse me , sir, mam, or Sgt and then I tell them what I see. Just be respectful and not a smart ass. Most will appreciate you noticing something wrong and allowing them to correct it so they dont walk around with a patch falling off or something of that nature. If you do have them question you if you are correcting improper behavior like walking and talking on a phone be sure to know the regulation and paragraph that covers the infraction.

Response by MAJ Bryan Zeski made Feb 24 at 2016 6:47 AM

2016-02-24T06:47:53-05:00

Just make sure that when you are correcting someone, you know what you are talking about. There is nothing worse than "correcting" someone only to find out it's you who needs correcting - and that is another good reason to make it discrete and respectful.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2016 8:41 AM

2016-02-24T08:41:29-05:00

Yes, my BDE COL. had his combat patch on upside down, just walked over and said here sir, let me fix that for you before some of those 82nd guys see this (his 101st patch) and he said I appreciate that we don't want Mjr. ___ seeing that.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2016 9:05 AM

2016-02-24T09:05:08-05:00

I usually start out with Sir or Ma'am "moment please." get them too the side, state "you are looking a little jacked up, let me help get you squared up." When I am done, I look them in the eye, tell them, "now you are ready to conquer to world. Have a good day, Sir/Ma'am." If they ask a question at any time, which most do, I state what the issue is. All have been grateful, plus the little conquer line gives them that little motivational boost for some reason.

When its done to me, I have no issues being assisted. I know I am only as strong as my people, so if I am out of reg, I want them to help me. I will ask what is wrong, so I can make mental note to check that specifically the next time.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2016 9:16 AM

2016-02-24T09:16:55-05:00

I do it all the time. And the best way I have found to do it, or at least, the way that works best for me:
"Sir, I just wanted to let you know that (insert deficiency here) is off. Would you like me to fix it? I wouldn't want you to go talk to (namedrop a higher authority) or one of the SIT with a messed up uniform."
Typically, they will allow it, and appreciate the correction. Remember, all servicemembers, regardless of rank, have GMA (General Military Authority), and it should be exercised vigorously, whenever a deficiency is found.

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Feb 24 at 2016 9:20 AM

2016-02-24T09:20:47-05:00

Yes I have. I pulled the Captain off to the side. I asked If I could speak to him off line. He said sure and Went off to the side.. His CIB was grossly crooked. I told him. He said thank. Went to pull off his top told him I would help. Straighten his CIB he thanked me and we went our separate ways.

Response by PO3 Donald Murphy made Feb 24 at 2016 9:23 AM

2016-02-24T09:23:18-05:00

We used to anger regular sailors because at the time, only Submarine sailors wore the blue coveralls ("poop suit") and we'd see them come up to us when we were in port, getting ready to make a comment and then they'd be "oh - you're a bubblehead, sorry..." A lot of what we did was at the Captain's discretion as well. So one Captain decided he didn't want us wearing name tags. Another one allowed anyone to have a mustache. So all of us E-2's and E-3's had them. That drove the regular Navy up the wall.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2016 9:23 AM

2016-02-24T09:23:38-05:00

I have both checked and been checked by lower ranking. Personally, I mentioned the reg. Something like "Excuse me, Sir, but you are aware that the 670-1 States that you cannot keep your hands in your pockets."
When I am checked I will usually thank the soldier. That is of course assuming that the soldier was right in the on the spot correction. In the cases where he or she is wrong, I will generally ensure he knows what is right before I leave his presence.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2016 9:54 AM

2016-02-24T09:54:46-05:00

I remember being in the PX just prior to Holiday Block Leave when I noticed a LT (Company XO) standing around with her Drill Sergeants while their company was going through ticketing at travel. This is a long mundane process both for the warriors and the cadre. After looking at the XO something wasn't right but I couldn't put my finger on it. I then realized that she didn't have a US flag on her uniform. (honest mistake that we probably all made at one time or another) I had the NCO that was with me run out to my vehicle and grab the flag I had off my windbreaker. I took her on the side and indiscreetly gave her the patch. No one to include the Drill Sergeants was the wiser. As stated below discretion is key. At the end of the day we all put on our pants the same way one leg at a time.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2016 10:04 AM

2016-02-24T10:04:40-05:00

Yes, I have spot checked my Commander (who is a MAJ), I have even spot checked other Officers and higher ranking NCO's. As long as it is done correctly, professionally, then there should not be any issues. How I do it is I usually pull them to the side and address the uniform infraction, and the reaction is more often than not a thankful one.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Feb 24 at 2016 10:45 AM

2016-02-24T10:45:54-05:00

Yes, respectfully pointed out the error and moved on.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2016 11:01 AM

2016-02-24T11:01:43-05:00

I had a DS whose name tape was upside down and no one said anything. After a formation I went up with a battle buddy, outside of platoon ears and said (at parade rest) "Drill Sergeant; I didn't know if anyone pointed out, but your name tape is upside down." He bellowed to the rest of the platoon "WHO THE F-- SAW MY NAME TAPE AND DIDNT SAY SH--". I stood at parade rest watching a lot of collective push-ups. Only time I ever had a DS use the words "Carry on, Private." with any kind of gratitude. Got all tingly inside.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2016 11:23 AM

2016-02-24T11:23:29-05:00

I've done it multiple time, most of my NCOs appreciate it. Always said in a respectful and tactful manner. I've even corrected NCOs and officers on ARs and what they actually say. At parade rest or position of attention of course.

Response by SFC Craig Dalen made Feb 24 at 2016 11:36 AM

2016-02-24T11:36:47-05:00

Yes I have. As long as you use tact there should not be an issue. I have had one person blow me off and say "I got this guy"...

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2016 12:44 PM

2016-02-24T12:44:05-05:00

This is your second discussion post I've read this morning. The first one smacks of some kind of jealousy or bitterness over perceived (or real) handling of an overweight soldier who's buddies with the CSM and/or Colonel. Personally, how that directly impacts you and your own career is escaping me. Now, this post. You practically want someone to advise you how to go about critiquing the uniform of a superior officer. I can't wait for Number Three. My advice is this: Do your job. Do it well. Positively influence and impress those you work directly FOR, WITH, and any directly under your control. Some overweight soldier is not your problem. Give it a permanent rest. And about wanting to "diplomatically" gig a superior officer? You're an E-4. A few too many of those encounters and you'll be retiring as one. Don't even think about it.

Response by Cpl John King made Feb 24 at 2016 1:14 PM

2016-02-24T13:14:20-05:00

Yes. Both ways. Always appreciated, you just have to do it a little nicer when its going uphill.

Still do this today in business. People with something on their face/tie appreciate you looking out for them. It's when you discover it yourself, and no one said anything that bothers me.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2016 1:31 PM

2016-02-24T13:31:48-05:00

when a brand new 1st LT told me, hey, you gotta cut those strings on your new rank, I said, thanks LT, um, did you notice the difference in our shoes? He looked down, his 'shiny new class A's shoes literally had mud ALL OVER THEM. He never spoke with me again...hmmmmmmm.

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made Feb 24 at 2016 3:29 PM

2016-02-24T15:29:19-05:00

I used to do it all the time, as long as you are professional and discreet, it usually wasn't a problem. I have run into 'leaders' who reacted very badly when I was attempting to keep them from looking crazy in front of anyone else.

Edited to include:
If you do ever correct someone with more rank than you, you better be sure you are correct!

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Feb 24 at 2016 3:33 PM

2016-02-24T15:33:15-05:00

Yes, when I was more junior. And the way you do it is with the attitude that you are trying to be helpful.

Response by Sgt Tammy Wallace made Feb 24 at 2016 5:16 PM

2016-02-24T17:16:51-05:00

yes, I have...once while I was stationed aboard Camp Pendleton I was a Corporal and I saluted first and then corrected a newly promoted (I assume) 1st Lt...he had a 2nd Lt bar on his cover and a 1st Lt bars one on his cammies...he took it very well...he saluted me back looked at his cover, told me thanks and kept on walking...it was the "darndest" thing...funny because I never spoke of it or even thought of it again until just now. :) in hindsight, it could have not even been his cover, I guess...I don't know, either way, the experience fits the post. :)

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2016 5:44 PM

2016-02-24T17:44:39-05:00

Yes.

Response by MCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2016 7:34 PM

2016-02-24T19:34:49-05:00

I did it a many times... it only took a couple of ass-chewings to figure out how to do it right.

"Hey, Captain, can you please help me out, I really need to speak with you." When they come over, away from others, I ask them to please look at (insert something easy to see in the distance). Then I tell them to not react, but (insert whatever deficiency)...

Invariably, the person will walk with me away from eye witnesses and fix whatever it is - all while appearing to talk with me about some horrible problem - and since I started doing it this way, I've NEVER had someone jump in my shorts.

It's a whole lot better than yelling across a room or parking lot, "SERGEANT MAJOR, YOUR BOOTS ARE ALL FUCKED UP!!!"

Yeah, I did that, too. No, it didn't end well for me.

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2016 8:01 PM

2016-02-24T20:01:16-05:00

Absolutely! The key is approach and diplomacy. HOW one says it is critical.

"Oh, Ma'am, I think your hair has fallen out of its bun..." (when the hair is crazy)... "Sir, sorry to bother you. I think you've forgotten your headgear.." (when 10 feet out of the Commissary).

Response by SFC J Fullerton made Feb 25 at 2016 4:18 PM

2016-02-25T16:18:08-05:00

Many times, but the funniest one I can recall was when I was an E5 on a guard detail at a warfighter exercise. I passed a 2nd LT inside the fence who immediately stopped me for not saluting him. I pointed to the gate he just walked through and informed him there was a sign that stated "NO SALUTING BEYOND THIS POINT". His face turned immediately red and he kept on walking. Moral of the story is- Have your ducks in a row before you try to correct someone or you just may end up looking stupid doing it.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2016 11:54 PM

2016-02-25T23:54:03-05:00

Easy... let them know respectfully and privately. Nobody is perfect. Yesterday I had an NCO fix the flag on my shoulder after it was probably snagged on any of the many things that attract velcro. For any hiccup, any senior would be more than appreciative that you stopped them from running around in the wrong. If it's something debatable, have your regs to reference...

Response by SSG Drew Cook made Feb 26 at 2016 10:40 AM

2016-02-26T10:40:22-05:00

Tactfully, yes. A good leader will take heed.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2016 8:55 PM

2016-02-26T20:55:54-05:00

In Tech training I said something to my Squadron Commander. Since I was directly to his left on the Squadron drill team, I waited for a pause in his talking and said "LtCol (name), you have a massive string hanging down from your left armpit seam." The MTLs didn't necessarily like that, since I caught their glares to my left through my peripherals, but the Squadron CC said "Holy hell, I could hang myself with that! Thanks Airman Kimber." Simple as that.

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Feb 29 at 2016 1:16 PM

2016-02-29T13:16:18-05:00

Used to do it a lot actually. Got my 1SG a couple times, a couple Warrants, our Company Commander, even our Battalion Commander. It almost became a game with us E4 types. No matter who you are correcting, do so professionally and with respect.

Response by SGT Mathew Husen made Feb 29 at 2016 1:28 PM

2016-02-29T13:28:40-05:00

On the spot correction is always acceptable when conducted properly. The only time I been yelled at was properly pulling aside and pointing out to a National Guard SSG a brown t-shirt with PT shorts was a violation of the AR670-1. He screamed at me and demanded to see my squad leader. Long story short, I took him to see my 1SG instead and the problem solved.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 29 at 2016 1:55 PM

2016-02-29T13:55:33-05:00

I don't see an issue if you do it tactfully. It probably wouldn't be a good idea to do it in front of a bunch of people, Just pull them to the side and let them know. Before I sewed my nametapes on I'd put them on backwards before on an early Monday morning. I would rather have the lowliest private correct my than look ate up all day and have an 1SG or SGM correct me.

Response by SPC Bobby Coble made Feb 29 at 2016 1:57 PM

2016-02-29T13:57:13-05:00

I was a brand new PV2, riding with the 1st SGT on day, during an AT at Camp Atterbury, he stopped to talk with one of the platoon leaders (2LT). Right before he pulled away, I leaned over and whispered to Top, "1st SGT, I think his collar brass is switched." Top corrected him just like he was a private. Turns out, he was sharing a tent with the XO, and the XO switched his brass on him.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 29 at 2016 2:40 PM

2016-02-29T14:40:24-05:00

This is situationally-dependent. In general, no matter what the rank, they appreciate the spot check. It keeps them from looking like an idiot in front of their peers/subordinates. That said, you're likely to loose a few teeth if you tell an 11B just coming back from a firefight in 110 degree heat that he has a string on his uniform. Pick your battles wisely.

Response by Ryan Mac made Feb 29 at 2016 2:59 PM

2016-02-29T14:59:06-05:00

Lol, had a fellow Officer Candidate that was prior tell the whole platoon at OCS how he corrected a Major on civilian attire, and that the had missed a belt loop at a grill out. The Major went off on him, but later apologized when he sobered up. I believe he was an E4 at the time he did it.

Response by SSG Javier Antonsanti made Feb 29 at 2016 3:12 PM

2016-02-29T15:12:25-05:00

While on SDNCO, after my BN CO walked in and I called attention I follow him to his office very quickly to let him know that his flag, name tape, and US Army take were out of place. Just be tactful.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 29 at 2016 3:17 PM

2016-02-29T15:17:53-05:00

Last year one if my cadre put his Cadet Command patch on the wrong side.

"Hey Sir! I didn't know you deployed with ROTC?"

He laughed and changed it right away.

Response by SGT Alicia Brenneis made Feb 29 at 2016 3:22 PM

2016-02-29T15:22:04-05:00

I would just say it casually like it was no big deal and keep doing whatever I was doing. Sir ma'am Sgt your _______ is _____. Only ever had one negative response because I didn't go to attention when I spoke to him. I went to attention, repeated what I said (internally rolled my eyes) and moved on.

Response by MSG Pat Colby made Feb 29 at 2016 4:45 PM

2016-02-29T16:45:17-05:00

While attending Ranger School I made the mistake of correcting an RI. He was confusing people with Immediate Action Drills with Standard Tactical Techniques. I ended up re-cycling the first Phase and graduated with the next class...

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 29 at 2016 5:28 PM

2016-02-29T17:28:31-05:00

Is this right forum to admit when I was a PFC/SPC I used to walk around, ate up with hands in my pockets just to make the NCOs go ballistic? Fond memories.

Response by SPC Marcus DeMatos made Feb 29 at 2016 5:51 PM

2016-02-29T17:51:11-05:00

The best instance I can remember is the Bde CSM walking up behind the HHC loading area that we shared with our sister battalion and singling out a PFC with a Huahh coin for having shown "Personal Courage" in upholding the Army Values and telling him his uniform had been "all ate up". That cat was an instant hero.

Response by CSM William Payne made Feb 29 at 2016 6:01 PM

2016-02-29T18:01:46-05:00

It's all in the intent and presentation.

I fixed numerous uniform issues with Senior NCOs and Officers to include General Officers over my career. I did it respectfully and if at all possible out of earshot and / or sight of others. I have had many of junior Soldiers correct my uniform in the same manner. I have also purposely created a uniform infraction to see how long it would take for someone to have the fortitude to correct me.

If your intent is to show up someone of higher rank or responsibility than yourself, it will probably be telling and not going to go well. If your intent is to assist the Soldier and you maintain your military manner and do it respectfully, it should be accepted gratefully.

We need more Soldier's to carry out this responsibility up and done the ranks and Chain of Command. It's part of the job.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 29 at 2016 6:49 PM

2016-02-29T18:49:12-05:00

on graduation day from basic our lead drill instructor was letting us take pictures before we had to march to the parade grounds. in one of the pictures of the lead drill instructor along with a friend he had a big smile on his face and she was pointing at his tie that was all screwed up. after we got the picture he looked down and started laughing at himself saying looks like I might have to give myself some push-ups for not having my uniform on correct....with that we all busted out laughing.

just glad he had a great sense of humor.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 29 at 2016 11:20 PM

2016-02-29T23:20:14-05:00

I Just saw 2 First Sergeants smoking in the wrong area. I walked up to them, stood at parade rest, pointed out the smoking area, and let them know where they were wasn't a smoking area. They thanked me and went to smoke in the designated smoking area. Tact, and a respect for their rank is all it takes.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 29 at 2016 11:59 PM

2016-02-29T23:59:54-05:00

It's all about TACT, everyone is human and should except that mistakes can be made. Which is in no way saying NCOs shouldn't police themselves, but that no one is perfect. If the SM's intent is to embarass the leader then it's wrong and deserves attention. If it's honest then we as leaders should support the action because it promotes standards and understanding. If you're lashing out because your feelings are hurt you're a weak leader. -Drop the Mic-

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 1 at 2016 12:21 AM

2016-03-01T00:21:54-05:00

When addressing leadership, I find it best to not call them out in front of subordinates. It's best to have a one on one conversation addressing any issues of concern. Being tactful is good too. Nobody likes a "know it all."

Response by SSG Kristell Lee made Mar 1 at 2016 6:15 AM

2016-03-01T06:15:24-05:00

There was a CW3 in my office with crazy looking hair. Her bun was on top of her head and messy. I pulled up the regulation and called her to my cubicle. I respectfully told her that her bun was out of regs and showed her the regs. She was very nice and told me she believed me and didn't need to see it, and went to the restroom and fixed her hair right away. I really appreciate her attitude, mainly because one of my soldiers was the one to point it out but was afraid to correct her. I was showing my soldier that you can always correct someone respectfully no matter the rank.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 1 at 2016 12:58 PM

2016-03-01T12:58:26-05:00

I only would do it to a E6 below and O2 and below. Other wise they blow me off and walk away, as if they are not capable of making a mistake. I only do it when nobody is around or so nobody is aware of it.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 1 at 2016 1:24 PM

2016-03-01T13:24:37-05:00

This can be a hard one. I don't care who you are, but everyone will make a mistake with their uniform. Yes, we call them "bad hair days". When noticing a superior who is at error though, we should be tactful. There have been days I have been missing patches after getting clothing out of the laundry. As a field grade and commander, I am often in a rush and it is easy to forget something simple like a flag for my uniform. It sort of pisses me off when somebody goes out of their way to point out a missing flag, especially when there are much bigger problems that must be solved. I will ask the Soldier telling me of my error, however, what is the solution? What do I do when I am at a remote location in Arizona and there is no uniform shop to purchase a missing uniform item? I have to drive on, unless somebody has an extra flag. Often, we must do our best with what we have on us. Leaders will make simple mistakes, but that does not discredit their leadership, responsibilities, or position or authority.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 1 at 2016 2:01 PM

2016-03-01T14:01:25-05:00

If you are professional and use tact, there should be no problems. As a Captain, I have had a junior enlisted Soldier inform me I had a boot lace hanging. The Soldier was clearly nervous and apologized for pointing it out. I thanked the Soldier and let him know I appreciated him squaring me away.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 1 at 2016 5:09 PM

2016-03-01T17:09:00-05:00

I always believed the phrase "check down not up" was first said by a jacked up NCO that was sick of his/her soldiers correcting them.

Response by PO3 Donald Murphy made Mar 2 at 2016 9:04 AM

2016-03-02T09:04:11-05:00

I wonder if anyone tells all the Navy SEALs and Delta Force that they can't have beards?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 3 at 2016 10:31 PM

2016-03-03T22:31:56-05:00

I remember when I was in Korea, in formation formation PT, and one of my NCOs had a massive booger hanging from his nose. "Uh Sgt there's a booger hanging from your nose." He got on the Katusas because they knew and didn't say nothing . lmao

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2016 12:59 AM

2016-03-06T00:59:10-05:00

If it is an NCO you go to parade rest and politely tell him/her their deficiencies. If it is a officer stand at attention and do the same thing.

Response by SPC Joyce Foster made Mar 13 at 2016 11:46 PM

2016-03-13T23:46:41-04:00

Be respectful and most times there is no problem.
No one wants to be jacked up.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2016 8:18 PM

2016-03-20T20:18:06-04:00

Yes i have! Be very respectful about it. They can act either way, but will usually fix it

Response by SSG Rafael Rodriguez made Apr 20 at 2016 3:35 PM

2016-04-20T15:35:30-04:00

I you see a defect on someone's uniform first check yourself, after you find out you're good then remember use tact and courtesy while addressing this Soldier by his rank then last name then let him know of his defect and he in turn should thank you not admonish you.

Response by SFC Gary Edwards made Jun 3 at 2016 5:24 PM

2016-06-03T17:24:14-04:00

Yes I did, a reserve Major at the Main PX. He was walking through the parking lot of the Main PX with his field jacket open, the collar turned up and his hands in his trouser pockets. When he saw me he removed his hands from his pockets in preparation for the customary salute which I indeed rendered. I then said sir may I speak to you for a moment? He said sure Sgt. What can I do for you? I told him, " sir, you're on a training installation full of AIT soldiers who are observing you and your appearance at this very moment. If they were to be found as you are now they'd be in a lot of trouble." He said "sure, what is the problem"? I said, "Sir your field jacket should be buttoned up with the collar down. You should wear gloves if your hands are cold and never place them in your pockets." He looked around, said "thank you sergeant" and began correcting the deficiencies. It took about a minute or so, I said thank you sir as I saluted him and departed the scene. It's about tact and professionalism. Even when the person being corrected has some deficiency, they still outrank you.

Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Jun 3 at 2016 7:51 PM

2016-06-03T19:51:30-04:00

I only had to actually say something twice all the time I was in. When I'd been nearly done at USAF OTS at Lackland in TX, mymmoms, dad, and younger fraternal twins brothers were walking around the school with me before the graduation. A less senior officer trainee or OT was walking past us in the opposite direction. The less senior OT was wearing aviator sunglasses popular due to the bright glare, however, strictly forbidden as we'd all been told by the commandant, it was a very well known rule, honest. So, in that one case, I had to actually give him a demerit, the one and only time I had to do that whole at the school. Later on, while going into the enlisted barracks where I'd been assigned to get some mail for me, when I'd walked out, an airman had an obvious open can of beer in public, with his uniform shirt visibly wide open his t shirt showing , there was no approved unit party going on, they were all off duty and just in the parking lot, and a couple of relatively senior NCOs also living in the barracks participating in some slightly loud boisterousness in the parking lot of the barracks. I just stopped and stared at him, saying nothing, just starimg, that's all, honest. Both senior NCOs saw me staring and realized whay was wrong, then told the airman to close his shirt, and, also, presumably lose the beer, or take it inside, they saluted, I saluted back, they obviously all understood, and I left, that was all. As I'd said, that was the only other such instance, I just thought you all might just find those stories of some passing interest, many thanks.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 28 at 2016 9:43 AM

2016-11-28T09:43:45-05:00

I worked at a brigade HQ so there were times I had to point out to officers about a uniform malfunction. But I knew them and worked with them so it really was not a big deal to them.

Response by SGT Thomas Bentley made Nov 9 at 2017 6:15 PM

2017-11-09T18:15:07-05:00

Never correct in public. Alway be cautious in manner and tone. Unless they're complete douchebags then by all means call them out cause they would not hesitate to do it to you. Know who and when you can.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2017 6:31 PM

2017-11-09T18:31:37-05:00

During a dining in ceremony, seen the division executive secretary, a Major, show up to the dinner with a division patch sewn-on the left shoulder of her ASU uniform. This was about two years after the ASU was fielded. I raised my glass, called for a toast, and called her out in front of everyone. It was beautiful, she didn’t know where to hide, she gave me shit for it, for the next two years.

Response by PO1 Joseph Smith made Nov 9 at 2017 6:36 PM

2017-11-09T18:36:26-05:00

I probably did a lot because I'm a stickler for detail, but do not recall any specific time calling anyone out.

However, I remember the one time I got caught slipping. I was in my dress whites for some occasion in a city park that I also frequented in civilian clothes because my university was nearby. I had pulled out my cell phone to try to locate my party and started walking and talking. It didn't take long for a SrA in civilian clothes to call me out. At first I was irritated, pissed off actually, but also realized I was in the wrong and promptly hung up, shoved my cell back in my sock, and thanked her for calling me out.

Response by Jerry Rivas made Nov 9 at 2017 6:44 PM

2017-11-09T18:44:34-05:00

I asked my 1st sgt for some time to go to the barber shop. Then I asked if he needed a ride there. The man went apeshit......But later that day, I saw he had taken the hint. LOL

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2017 6:46 PM

2017-11-09T18:46:52-05:00

I have. It was a maj, and their flag was all kinds of ate up, threads falling out, stars, well, you couldn't even call them stars anymore, and flag looking faded as hell. What i did was, as i was doing my medic thing, pointed it out by handing them my brand new flag, and took theirs, as that was the only thing i could think of at the time, because ya know, private mind works as "I'd rather take the hit than the officer". I got free food out of it, so hey, alls well i guess

Response by PO2 Robert Levin made Nov 9 at 2017 6:58 PM

2017-11-09T18:58:48-05:00

I was in the chow line at CID Correy Station. Grabbed my tray and got in line behind a chief. It was taking forever so I told him "forgot your belt chief" he looked down said fuck and walked away. I got lunch 5 seconds faster.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2017 7:55 PM

2017-11-09T19:55:09-05:00

I do it all the time. Don't shout it in formation just let them know. I know I would rather who ever noticed any issue with me to tell me ASAP. Uniform mistakes are one of the several tests I use when I get to a new location checking to see if they have the personal courage to correct me.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2017 8:13 PM

2017-11-09T20:13:35-05:00

Make the correction needed in a respectful and discrete manner using all customs and courtesies. If they chose to berate you for identifying a problem then are they really a leader? On the second hand you shouldn't be worried about how they act you did the right thing and if they choose to chew your ass then drink water and drive on. You did the right thing

Response by SMSgt Mark Gildersleeve made Nov 9 at 2017 9:06 PM

2017-11-09T21:06:28-05:00

I used to work in the medical field, had to correct physicians and nurses did it in private and tactfully...Sometimes they would seek me out to make sure they were correct.

Response by Cpl Rc Layne made Nov 9 at 2017 10:13 PM

2017-11-09T22:13:13-05:00

I once made a recruit at Parris Island tell a DI his name tag was on upside down.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2017 8:02 AM

2017-11-10T08:02:39-05:00

Lots of times, and had it done to me many times too. It’s no big deal, if you’re cool about it... just tell them quietly and privately that something ain’t squared away right. It’s just a basic part of looking out for each other.

Response by SSG Shawn Stauffer made Nov 10 at 2017 11:09 AM

2017-11-10T11:09:01-05:00

Yes. Not long after being transferred to Germany in 85, my best friend and I ( both E-4's) questioned the Bn Sgt Major ( very respectfully) about a foreign award certain companies were wearing. We cited the pertaining part of AR 670-1, said we were uncertain if that was correct or not. Explained that we understood the reg to mean that it was not authorized for temporary wear. He asked if we were sure, and said yes. He went back and looked it up, word went out right away to take it off. It's all about how you approach someone, regardless of their rank.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2017 4:02 PM

2017-11-10T16:02:26-05:00

I’ve done it on numerous occasions. Just be respectful about it “excuse me ______, your ____ is messed up. It should be ____” for example. For example, I saw a navy LT walking across the entire base with their garrison cap backwards. Same story. She wasn’t happy because she was embarrassed as all hell, but made the change.

Response by Capt Dennis Tague made Nov 10 at 2017 5:08 PM

2017-11-10T17:08:34-05:00

Once when I was a MSgt, *after breaking ranks* I quietly pointed out to the Colonel who had just done an open ranks inspection on us that he was out of uniform ... he was in a lesser, not equal uniform than the squadron. It was just before I was commissioned. We had a good laugh out of it. Condensed version: On two other occasions when I was a first-term 3-striper, supervisors (branch chiefs) who were not in my career field didn't like it when I basically told them I knew my job better than they did, and was later proven correct. Both vowed to get even with me via the APR. I still made SSGT under four, and went on to retire as a Captain.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2017 6:13 PM

2017-11-10T18:13:14-05:00

Depends. As per courtesy and respect, as a NCO when I provide corrective measures to a superior NCO/Officer, I pull them away from the public eye and address the problem. It's not because I want to flex my AR-650-1 expertise, it's because I've occasionally had others help me out and it prevented me from looking "all ate up".

With males I often receive appreciation, however with females I often get negative responses, most of the time being asked if I was a National Guard or Reservist and questioned how a "weekend warrior" is in any position to correct an AD member.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Nov 12 at 2017 3:37 PM

2017-11-12T15:37:09-05:00

Respectfully, out of ear shot of others. Their reactions was usually thanks Chief.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 23 at 2018 10:59 AM

2018-01-23T10:59:43-05:00

I corrected an E7 and he was so butt hurt that he threatened to call the MPs on me because he felt salty and demanded me to do something. I respectfully told him to make me do it and the butt hurt got worse, for him.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Jan 23 at 2018 11:25 AM

2018-01-23T11:25:02-05:00

Very discreetly and with a lot of tact. I had a Bn.Cmdr. who had the bad habit of going ballistic on junior officers and NCO's in front of there troops and peers. I bet my bars and took him aside and very tactfully pointed out that his actions were undermining the authority of those junior leaders and mine since it was my job to correct them, and that it was bad form to reprimand someone in front of his subordinates. I really expected him to go off like an atomic bomb, but he accepted the correction with good grace and admitted that I was correct.
Now he didn't get in the troops faces after that, but he still never had a problem of lighting me up if he thought I was screwing something up or my company had screwed it up. But it never bothered me to take one of the platoon leaders over in the woods and advise him of his tactical, intellectual and moral shortcomings either.

Response by Jerry Rivas made Mar 25 at 2018 6:01 PM

2018-03-25T18:01:28-04:00

I once yelled HEY!!! very loudly, and when the female 1st louie turned to look at me, I politely reminded her that she was OBLIGATED to return my salute. I then asked her name and unit.....She got nervous.

Response by 1SG Bill Farmerie made May 19 at 2018 4:23 PM

2018-05-19T16:23:06-04:00

When I was just a Sgt, I let my 1SG know his bootlace was hanging down. He thanked me, and squared himself away. He always thanked anyone who pointed out a deficiency. He always said the key was go up to the person and try to be discrete. Do not announce it to the world and most leaders would appreciate it. I took that advice as an NCO and also thanked others who corrected me.

Response by MSG Greg Kelly made May 19 at 2018 6:36 PM

2018-05-19T18:36:44-04:00

Called a O3 out for wearing a college football cap while in uniform. He told me to piss off an O5 overheard him ate ass out LOL. I had some O3 put hands on me in Iraq for wearing and out of date PT shirt. Told him do not touch me tried that I am a CPT crap its ok. No Sir its not do not touch me! All most started slinging hands because some medical office douche FOBIT wanted to flex his muscles. I slapped his hands away twice. Some people right. Its like hey dumb ass we are in Iraq you may want to forget the Drill Sargent crap for 20 minutes for the simple reasons of 1 some of the soldiers here are real combat guys. 2 They have more respect for the enemy then a loud mouth jack ass'.

Response by SFC David Xanten made May 19 at 2018 9:05 PM

2018-05-19T21:05:14-04:00

WWhenever you correct anyone regardless of their rank you should call them aside and tactfully correct their mistake. That is assuming they are not recruits, those you yell at.

Response by Maj John Bell made May 19 at 2018 10:24 PM

2018-05-19T22:24:48-04:00

I have but I was asked, or I happened to notice an issue. I was discrete and never ran my mouth about it later. In either case I was always thanked for the assist.

When I was a Company Commander; neither I, the 1st Sgt, the Company Gunny or any of the Company HQ Staff left the Company HQ in the Service or Dress uniform without at least two sets of eyeballs giving a quick check, even when securing for the day.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2018 11:26 PM

2018-05-19T23:26:00-04:00

As the NCOIC of a BN team and at one time, the highest ranking NCO on active duty for our BN, I made spot corrections on numerous occasions to Officers and NCOs. Most of the time, it was something minor that was out of place or missing. Sometimes it was a misunderstanding or ignorance of a regulation. My OICs relied on me to bring it to their attention if there was something wrong with their uniform or they misunderstood or weren't aware of a reg or guidance. The vast majority of Officers and senior NCOs thanked me and took care of the problem. No one wants their supervisor to be the one to notice the errors.
First, always make sure that you are correct before saying anything. Second, always use tact, and third, don't make a big deal of it.

Response by GySgt Moses Lozano made May 20 at 2018 1:54 PM

2018-05-20T13:54:26-04:00

I bitched out an E-9 and challenged him to take it outside rank aside but he punked out and later apologized because he knew he was a pos! He was lucky the Base Sgt Major was not in his office that day.

Response by SFC David Xanten made Dec 31 at 2018 10:26 PM

2018-12-31T22:26:54-05:00

You can correct anyone as long as you use common sense and a lot of tact

Response by SFC William Ewing made Feb 11 at 2019 3:48 PM

2019-02-11T15:48:56-05:00

Once when I had just had a in ranks inspection.

The Major was questioning me about unit awards that my unit received when I was there.
Tried to tell me I couldn't wear them once left.
I informed him I was authorized.

Then I noticed he had his ribbons on the wrong side. And his unit awards were upside down
I informed him that the wheat fries up and his ribbons were on the wrong side.

He said something about a mirror.
Than turned to the SGM and said why didn't you catch it.M
The in ranks inspection was over at that time.
I was a young SP5 in a Sgt position.
The Major called me into his office later and we went into the regulations.
Looked up my unit and found I was right.
The I had him look up his and found his unit received a unit citation that he was not aware of.
Also he told me he was prior enlisted.
Never received his good conduct medal.

A month later Battalion commander presented than Sp4 now Major with a good conduct medal the Major than announced that he had been wrong and I was right.
I than had to help the unit personal look up their unit's.
I wasn't personnel but tried to know my stuff.
Every one of my soldiers were taken care of whether junior or senior they were my responsibility

Response by Sgt Anthony Piazza made Feb 14 at 2019 1:18 PM

2019-02-14T13:18:45-05:00

Don't know the how or why, but I've one instance that sticks out for me: my company XO had his dress blue collar EGAs on backwards.
He came up to check on the head table placard placement for the head table for our Gator Ball, and as I looked up, saw it right away. I just politely said "Sir, I don't know if you were aware, but your collar EGAs are on backwards..." He reached up to check, and just said thank you while he went to the head to correct it.
In retrospect, I could've been an ass and waited 'til I could serve him to the grog bowl, but I'm too much of a nice guy and enjoy thing's looking presentable.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2019 1:26 PM

2019-02-14T13:26:28-05:00

I was an e4, had a master Sergeant show up to meet with my platoon, his flag patch was upside down. I had shot the shit with him on a few occasions, so we had some rapport. I asked him if he would step away and talk with me a moment. He agreed and when we were out of sight/ sound of everyone else I let him know. He was grateful for the discretion.

Response by SFC Jimmy Williams made Feb 14 at 2019 8:10 PM

2019-02-14T20:10:04-05:00

The worst were the ones who couldn't correct someone without being an ass. I never felt it necessary to berate a soldier, junior or senior. I corrected others when it was appropriate in a calm, matter of fact way. I thought it was classless to correct a soldier in the PX parking lot, in front of their family, in a condescending way, over a minor infraction.
But I did see a few that were funny. I was in the 11 ACR in Fulda. We had a captain who thought he was hot stuff because he was a company commander in the ACR. He tried to correct a full Colonel (medical officer) over how he had his wool scarf wrapped around his neck. The Colonel's reaction was priceless. Needless to say, the captain didn't get the reaction he thought he should.
When I was at my advanced course, we had a SFC Major (last name was major). In morning PT he was a road guard and a car was passing the formation that he thought was too fast. He yelled a few choice words and hit the hood of the car with his fist. A Major jumped out and demanded to know his name and who his class advisor was. Let me tell you, the majors head almost exploded when the guy said he was sergeant Major. He left his car there and ran with us so he could personally escort this smart ass to the school secretary for discipline. When he found out the guys name really was Major and he really was a sergeant, he didn't know what to do. The real school CSM smoothed his feathers and told Sergeat Major to not do that again. The whole class laughed about for the remainder of the course.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2019 9:40 PM

2019-02-14T21:40:31-05:00

Had a dumb ass when I was in OSUT ask a DS if he had to do push ups for every inch of loose thread found on his uniform. There were multiple smokings that day

Response by Jerry Rivas made Feb 15 at 2019 6:18 AM

2019-02-15T06:18:40-05:00

I once accidentally called a female Capt. Sir.....Boy did she correct me.....After she was done I apologized profusely. I said, I'm sorry MA'AM.....But the mustache threw me.........

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2019 1:54 PM

2019-02-15T13:54:18-05:00

You just gotta go about it tactfully. "Hey, (insert title here) you've got (insert deficiency here)" Best to do so before a formation and away from everyone else.

Response by PFC Stephanie Klinker-Jones made Feb 15 at 2019 2:00 PM

2019-02-15T14:00:56-05:00

My husband and his fellow DS's on the trail would do this with intent, to encourage their platoons to both be observant, and to speak up, even if someone outranked them wasn't wearing their uniform properly. They would reverse/inverse tapes all the time. Soldiers would pull them aside to advise a spot check uniforms. Not only did it teach the privates to check the drill sergeants uniforms, but each other's as well.

Response by SSG Jack Lewis made Feb 15 at 2019 2:20 PM

2019-02-15T14:20:14-05:00

When I was posted on the perimeter during an EDRE as a private in the ROK, I watched a grader (04) leave my perimeter and duck behind a tree to take a leak. He pretty much insisted that I let him walk back toward the mess trailer, but I had my orders and he didn't have the password memorized. My section chief found me standing over him with a rifle, with the evaluator's hands fastened behind his head. My sergeant was eight kinds of pissed off at his new private, but I reminded him what he'd told me: anyone comes through here without the password, put 'em on the ground.

I found out later that the grader had a good laugh about it with our CO. He'd done it on purpose, just to test the new fish.

Response by Cpl Brandon Rocco made Feb 15 at 2019 3:42 PM

2019-02-15T15:42:27-05:00

My favorite was while I was checking out there was an unnamed Sgt Maj who was a raging prick, who happened to have all of his ribbons wrong. He was corrected and berated the marine who covertly made the correction. So being the helpful soul I am proceeded to yell at the top of my lungs "SAGGY MAGGIE YER RIBBONS ARE ALL FUCKED UP YA GODDAMNED RETARD" as to generals who were visiting the base happened through the building. I also kindly pointed out the first to people who tried to tactfully point this out and who were loudly berated publicly. Yeah dont fuck with the guy Dd-214 in hand we dont care anymore because shit like that is why obdropped pack and checked out. Watching a General yell At a Sgt Maj is priceless

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2019 4:23 PM

2019-02-15T16:23:52-05:00

My first sergeants wife made his uniform up for him every morning. Sometimes I would slap my chest in an x and he knew what was up.

Response by MSG Scott McBride made Feb 15 at 2019 5:21 PM

2019-02-15T17:21:53-05:00

Just the mere fact that you would have to spot check a senior says a lot about how some leaders were failed in thier growth and development. They're human too, but walking around with gigs is unsat. Check yourself leaders. Results, not excuses.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2019 5:26 PM

2019-02-15T17:26:54-05:00

Just yesterday I had a LTC try and spotcheck me, however he was in the wrong. I am an active duty service member and also a gold star family member. The commissary parking was packed so I decided to park in the reserved gold star family member parking spot (I do have a parking pass that matches my vehicle information placed on my front windshield) (I was also in uniform) he stopped his vehicle behind me and got out. I got out as well and rendered the proper salute. Following that he said “So you’re telling me you have a soldier in your family who is dead?” As I proceeded to tell him about my father, and pointed out my valid parking pass, he quickly apologized and said “I’m sorry, you just don’t come across this often.” When you spot check anyone, make sure that sm is in the wrong before you check them.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2019 5:58 PM

2019-02-15T17:58:30-05:00

I'm a TL and my PSG had me counsel a soldier for walking and talking on her cell phone, then when I tried to (tactfully) tell him that he was setting the bad example by doing the same thing, he yelled at me. Blew my mind because this was less than 2 hours after he informed me of the the incident requiring a counseling.

Response by SSG Cecil Stroud Jr. made Feb 15 at 2019 6:27 PM

2019-02-15T18:27:02-05:00

Tact and decorum should be used in how you deal with the situation.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2019 6:31 PM

2019-02-15T18:31:20-05:00

When I was in AIT, I was waiting at the CQ desk to escort a battle buddy to Urgent Care on a weekend, and the 1SG walked by with one of his shoulder pockets unzipped and a headphone hanging out. I got his attention and very carefully whispered to him that his pocket was open. He then told me "Thank you, I can't be out here lookin' like shit," he laughed and told me to have a good day. Overall pretty good experience

Response by SSG Jonathan Sprague made Feb 15 at 2019 6:35 PM

2019-02-15T18:35:15-05:00

Most dont like it, and most react badly. I was on rear detachment because I had some dwell time left, and had to do courtesy patrol, i approached a Major, i was a SSG then, because his boot laces were hanging out, and i ask him if he noticed that they were. He got angry and started cursing at me, and threatened to ruin my career. I simply turned so that my courtesy patrol arm band was facing him, informed him I was on courtesy patrol, asked for his ID and unit and recorded it in my log. The rear Detachment Division CSM took care of the rest.

Response by HA Jace Gallagher made Feb 15 at 2019 7:12 PM

2019-02-15T19:12:19-05:00

At my command I had a Sergeant Major I. the Army who must have been in a rush because he swapped the spots where his name tag and the U.S. Army side was supposed to go. I was Navy so I looked up the region just to be safe, then I approached the Sergeant Major at parade rest and asked him if he had a moment. He was in a rush and said no, do I said it was an urgent matter that he nee and ed to address before his meeting with the CO. He stopped in his tracks and asked what was up. I mentioned his name tags. He turned beet red, fixed it and hurried off. Next day I get called to his office with my LPO. We both thought I was in trouble. He actually thanked me and gave me one of his coins lol

Response by Lt Col Bill Fletcher made Feb 15 at 2019 8:11 PM

2019-02-15T20:11:45-05:00

Ask the Commander of the National Guard what happens when you go out with your medals on upside down.

Response by SPC David Sumrall made Feb 15 at 2019 9:32 PM

2019-02-15T21:32:12-05:00

As a PFC I corrected a major general at ft Riley, old school fatigues had a shirt and rear pants pocket un buttoned. Didn't do it where anyone else could hear and got a thank you.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2019 9:39 PM

2019-02-15T21:39:34-05:00

In Basic, we were lined up to head out to the range - One of our drill sergeants had just been promoted to E-7, and everyone was congratulating him/giving him shit... When he turned around, I noticed he didn’t have a flag on his uniform... So, I called him over, ripped mine off, and discretely stuck it on his uniform... He gave me a look that said, “OH SHIT MAN I APPRECIATE YOU SO MUCH BUT I CANT TELL YOU THAT OUT LOUD IN FRONT OF THESE PEOPLE BECAUSE YOURE A LITTLE BITCH”

... I graduated with honors and he never personally smoked me again.

Response by Capt Paul Newcomb made Feb 15 at 2019 9:51 PM

2019-02-15T21:51:33-05:00

Let’s just say O-6s don’t take 35-10 corrections from O-2s well.

Response by PO1 Dave Waters made Feb 15 at 2019 9:57 PM

2019-02-15T21:57:05-05:00

I joined the Navy as a non-designated Airman recruit.
I was a airman E3 in the Navy going to AT A school. Had already spent 2 years in a F14 squadron and competed a 7 month world cruise on the Enterprise.
I’m walking down the sidewalk with my briefcase full of books headed to a study group. The briefcase is getting heavy so so I switch it to my right hand for a bit. Any way, some rent-a-crow (enlisted for 6 years and gets E4 upon graduating A school and starting AFTA) comes from the other direction and says “Don’t you think it would be hard to render a proper military salute with that briefcase in your right hand?”
I said “No. I’d just move it to my left If I saw someone worth saluting.” And went on my way.
Another time some Marine LCPL (school staff) started to give me shit because my hair was a bit longer and dungarees were more faded than everyone else’s in my class. The instructor (AT1) came along and saw us just as I was about to tell him where to go, got between us and told the LCPL to move along with a panicked look on his face.
I thoroughly enjoyed A school as a “fleety”.

Response by COL Jon Lopey made Feb 15 at 2019 10:14 PM

2019-02-15T22:14:43-05:00

SPC: Yes, I have. When I was on active-duty or while a reservist, I would be disappointed if one of my subordinates didn't catch something wrong on my uniform. The most common issue I have seen is the US Army and name tapes being mistakenly reversed and another common issue I had a "pet peeve" about was ribbons out of precedent. If a superior was involved I would be discreet and say what was incorrect but very, very tactfully. I can guarantee you that if I had something wrong with my uniform a superior would call me on it. I remember once when I was a young captain, a brigade commander (colonel) was circulating around a room full of junior officers and he had a tendency to call out even the most minor infraction with the uniform. One of my fellow captains was a Viet Nam combat veteran with a CIB and BSM and the colonel pointed out the star he was wearing on his Viet Nam Service Medal was the incorrect size. The Captain related to the colonel that he had his ribbons made at Fort Benning, which was a little defiant in my opinion. The colonel insisted the star was too large. The captain then advised the colonel that he had more than three qualification bars hanging from his marksmanship badge, which exceeded the number specified in Army regulations. I guess it was a case of offsetting penalties but I can tell you the colonel was not the captain's greatest supporter and fan after that encounter. Usually, it is better to suck it up and drive-on! I would be reluctant to correct a superior officer, such as a general, if I was not the next senior officer present because I think it is better to leave it to the senior officer present and not yourself. COL L

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2019 10:25 PM

2019-02-15T22:25:41-05:00

My grandpa, served in the army during WWII, and he told me to keep my head down, ears open, and don't volunteer for anything! which is what I did...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2019 11:15 PM

2019-02-15T23:15:49-05:00

Had a PSG a few years ago that liked to be messed up on purpose sometimes and call everyone around him out for not correcting him. Sometimes he was messed up unintentionally, and if that was the time you chose to correct him he would talk down to you for doing so.

Response by LTC David Tuttle made Feb 15 at 2019 11:22 PM

2019-02-15T23:22:22-05:00

I remember when I was a PFC (1981) that my BN SGM had his back pocket undone, and the pocket flap was up (sort of like an airplane coming in to land), I went up to him and stated "excuse me, SGM but your back rear pocket is undone". I said it with tact, and very quietly. He checks his back pocket, realizes that I had made "an on the spot correction" and says thank you. Some weeks later, he catches up with me, sees that my green utility collar is messed up, he fixes it, and tells me - "we're even"....

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2019 12:07 AM

2019-02-16T00:07:26-05:00

Had a plt sgt (e6) in air try to correct my uniform for having the carbine tag on my marksman badge he told me it should be rifle I politely informed him the m4 was not a rifle. Next day he approached me and informed me I was correct.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2019 12:36 AM

2019-02-16T00:36:45-05:00

Had just come out of a deep cleaning at dental when a senior sailor in khakis walked by I nodded to them and kept walking to my car when an ensign stopped me upon saluting him asking why I hadn't saluted the prior sailor...in a short lapse of judgement and irritation I replied to him "you mean the fucking master chief!!?!?!?"

Response by PVT Jason Campbell made Feb 16 at 2019 12:42 AM

2019-02-16T00:42:17-05:00

When I went to basic my civilian bag got stuck getting off bus ds asked if I needed help I said yes....first mistake he ripped me off the bus then in my infinite wisdom told him his rank was upside down....mistake two.. third mistake was saying it loud enough for everyone of my barracks hearing it never forget that day as long as I live

Response by Cpl James Stutts made Feb 16 at 2019 12:49 AM

2019-02-16T00:49:03-05:00

As a young LCpl fresh off my first deployment I told my SSgt that his stack was ate up. He asked me how, and I told him his good cookie went behind his NAM... he said...and I quote...”Thanks fuckstick. And if I hear one word about from any other swingin dick I will end you.” I rogered that and got the hell out of dodge. Magically the next month I was accidentally left off of the duty rosters...

Response by MSG Robert Ford made Feb 16 at 2019 9:52 AM

2019-02-16T09:52:56-05:00

Yes, I did it several times in my career... once a LTC my Chief of Log...had his name tag on his class B uniform on the wrong side of his shirt... I went up to him and politely said Sir, you know you have your name tag on the wrong side... he looked down at it and he said SSG FORD I had my head up my ass his morning...

Response by MSG Douglas Tolliver made Feb 16 at 2019 4:55 PM

2019-02-16T16:55:13-05:00

The one that stands out the most was the Battalion Commander, in Italy, walking into the motor pool with all of his buttons unbuttoned on his Gore-Tex jacket. I said " sir, do you mind buttoning the buttons on your jacket?" He said "SSG Tolliver, are you going to make the Colonel button all these buttons?" And I told him that, in fact, I was and he complied.

Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Feb 16 at 2019 5:34 PM

2019-02-16T17:34:34-05:00

Curiously, for whatever crazy reason, I honestly can't recall ever needing to do that...however, once, when I was at USAF OTS just before I'd finished, I was walking with my family, one of the newbies had on sunglasses, the Commandant had expressly forbidden them for OTs, only staff could wear them, that was the one demerit I ever had to hand out there...one other time, where I was assigned, I'd gotten mail from the enlisted mailroom those of us in the BOQ used...when I walked out, a junior airman had his fatigue shirt open, with an open can of beer in his hand, yakking with two more senior NCOs...they were yelling to some friends across the parking lot, esp. the junior airman...I just stood there and stared at them...eventually, the senior NCOs took the hint, one of them told the junior airman to lose the beer, and close his shirt, that was the only time I ever had to do that there...another time, I had to spend a day with the base commander, it was a newbie Lt thing a Capt I was under in my unit wanted me to do, for exposure, it was actually quite interesting...anyway, I was with the base commander in the car, minding my Ps and Qs, obviously, gorgeous and immacuate, of course, we got to the installation command bldg for the daily or weekly command briefing with the Lt Gen of the installation, the only time aside from one instance he passed me in his 3-star command car, I saluted, he saluted back, that was it, we were both moving...anyway, the base commander and I got out to go in, a junior airman walked out, something was awry in his uniform, the base commander raised a finger at him, beckoning, and said, "Young man..."...I just stood there and watched, that was the one time I ever saw something like that happen out of doors in that fashion...just figured you might find those anecdotes of interest.....

Response by A1C Robert Smith made Feb 16 at 2019 5:35 PM

2019-02-16T17:35:20-05:00

I didn't like knowing more about the planes that my trainers knew, but I was being trained to be Quality Control, they didn't bother telling me that as an AB

Response by SrA Kevin Piatek made Feb 16 at 2019 5:55 PM

2019-02-16T17:55:20-05:00

I had senior NCOs and officers that would do things wrong on purpose just to see if anyone would correct them. I once corrected and officer with respect and I got coin for it.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2019 7:04 PM

2019-02-16T19:04:47-05:00

It was a special privilege being an enlisted MP and spot checking officer's in a airborne outfit and telling them respectfully they're out of uniform !

Response by PFC Lacey Burke made Feb 16 at 2019 9:15 PM

2019-02-16T21:15:38-05:00

At BCT, the Company Commander grabbed DS's field jacket when standing up to leave the chowhall, as she walked by my table, I spoke in a stage whisper "With respect, I think you have DS X's field jacket" the Captain looked down, saw it wasn't hers and told me to "stop watching the Cadre table. It was directly in front of me. I couldn't help it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2019 10:13 PM

2019-02-16T22:13:22-05:00

You don’t. Lol, anytime someone higher ranking then you says “we all get dressed the same, just be tactful”, it’s a trap. Or at least that’s how every senior NCO and officer was at Polk and Hood.

Response by SGT Tj Casiano made Feb 16 at 2019 11:56 PM

2019-02-16T23:56:19-05:00

I did it in a respectful and subservient manner personally so as not to create a problem. Do it away from others if you respect the military structure and want to go far in your career.

Response by SPC Donn Sinclair made Feb 17 at 2019 7:31 AM

2019-02-17T07:31:04-05:00

When I was leaving for basic training in April of '69, my Dad, a WWII vet, advised me to, "Keep your mouth shut, your eyes open, and don't volunteer for anything." Made a solid effort to follow that advice for the duration of my hitch.

Response by SFC Joe Farrar made Feb 17 at 2019 9:14 AM

2019-02-17T09:14:28-05:00

Great question tough one to answer. During a Class "A" inspection our 1SG was wearing his ribbons wrong backwards upside down some screw-up but this guy was totally unapproachable you could hear everyone talking about him. But because he was so unapproachable no one bothered to tell him. If the senior is approachable it's easy they prefer to be right. But those that are like this 1SG I figure they have the attitude that they are right and everyone else is screwed up.

Response by 1SG Dale Cantrell made Feb 17 at 2019 10:40 AM

2019-02-17T10:40:47-05:00

It is proper to spot correct a higher rank , but if you do it to make the higher rank look back in public, you are wrong, I corrected a two star as an MSG, by telling the LTC staff officer, the general had his cat eyes on front of his helmet before he inspected the troops at night range

Response by SGT Brianna MacKinnon made Feb 17 at 2019 11:07 AM

2019-02-17T11:07:50-05:00

I have done it on numerous occasions. However, I always did it so that know one else could hear me so that the person I notified could correct the deficiency without embarrassment. Their reaction, if they were a good leader was to thank me. I usually DID NOT notify a superior if I did not respect them and knew that they would take it out on me. I would usually let the Platoon Sgt or 1SG handle them.

Response by PO1 Andrew Whitehead made Feb 17 at 2019 12:00 PM

2019-02-17T12:00:02-05:00

Once, on the USS Denver...I am a fellow sailor were on the O3 level during lunch overlooking the pier. As usual for the Navy, there were two Ensigns walking up and down the pier, collecting salutes and chewing out every sailor who didn't salute them within 50 feet. It was fun to watch. he looked at me and said, 'Those guys are just being assholes, fouk them'. Before I could react, he yells, 'Look at those two assholes collecting salutes' at the top of his voice. Everyone on the pier froze, turned, and looked right at me. I turned to my left...my right...he was gone...like a friggn' ghost. By now, people are pointing at me and yelling. Damn! I was just an E3, not even a stripe yet. I never ran so fast inside the skin of the ship and down four levels, jumped in my rack and faked sleep so fast in my life.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 17 at 2019 12:20 PM

2019-02-17T12:20:02-05:00

Please let a junior Soldier come to me and correct me. I welcome it. I tell it to my Soldiers when I get to the unit if I am doing something wrong just to pull me aside and tell me. I had a CSM tell me that one time so I have never had an issue correcting someone. We all make mistakes. It’s better they know a head of time because you never know they might be going to see the brigade CSM or commander at that point in time.

Response by SN Jay Perry made Feb 17 at 2019 2:11 PM

2019-02-17T14:11:06-05:00

I usually wait till after formation and then very quietly and politely point out that fact usually they're pretty grateful

Response by CH (CPT) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 17 at 2019 3:10 PM

2019-02-17T15:10:05-05:00

As a Buddhist Chaplain, I am pretty much a "target of opportunity". My PC has the Dharma Wheel, and at least 2-3 times a week, some enterprising young Soldier will tell me I "have the wrong PC". Usually, this becomes a nice little learning opportunity. That all changes when I detect arrogance or malice in the "correction"... it becomes a correction in and of itself.

Response by CSM Bill Sanders made Feb 17 at 2019 8:42 PM

2019-02-17T20:42:55-05:00

I was doing a Unit.visit and w as asking the Unit Sgm while we were stsnding in the hall outside his office. A female of color came up and said you can't talk in the hallway. She was wearing a t-shirt w/unit insignia and this was approx 1400 hours. I continued my conversation when she stepped between us stating didn't t you understand me. I told her no i choose to ignore you. She asked who are you? I stated i am the ARCOM COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR and just who the hell are you. You have not once addressed me by my rank. The Unit SGM said this is Major whatever. I said you are out of uniform during duty hours and I don't have time to take.your ass to the Colonel for an explanation as why an officer in his unit is out.of uniform..with no visible rank, and acting like s goddamn hall monitor. You are dismissed. So get your ass out of my sight. She departed without further comment but my.General got a phonecall and laughe when I told him what prompted.the call. I later learned he called the Colonel and ripped his ass for calling him about Sergeants business.

Response by SFC Bill Kurtz made Feb 17 at 2019 11:16 PM

2019-02-17T23:16:45-05:00

Happened a lot in Ft Gordon. I would respectfully advise them and if they bristled I’d pull out my green pocket memo book where I had the most common mistakes reference The AR.

Response by SPC Steven King made Feb 18 at 2019 4:19 PM

2019-02-18T16:19:37-05:00

Not on uniforms - on a sex issue though. I was a SPC stationed at Camp Hump in Korea. I was a 96D - intel weenie, so I'd say in general we lived in a more relaxed environment than many other MOS's did and we were all probably a little too relaxed on occasions around our superiors. I had my own squad as we had a shortage of E-5s at the time and my squad was often on night shifts, 1800 - 0800. We did have an over-abundance of warrant officers for some reason - a CW 3, CW 2 and W 1 for our platoon of about 18 people, all of whom were on 24-7-365 schedules and generally on duty when a lot of people were not. Bottom line - we were all pretty close because we were generally the only people on shift duty in the 1800-0800 block. One of my female soldiers (PFC) who had joined the army late and was somewhat older than you'd expect of a typical PFC was rumored to be sexually involved with a married CW-3 I knew from my previous duty station. I talked professionally to the CW-3 about it, essentially saying "Sir, I've heard from a few people in the company that you are involved with PFC xxxxxxx - and if I'm hearing about it, so are a lot of other people" and left it at that.

His initial reaction was to be defensive, tell me I had it wrong or that it wasn't what it seemed like and to mind my business. Two weeks later he came by our work area (in a fairly isolated area inside a SCIF) and talked to the PFC he was allegedly involved with, then called me outside. He thanked me for talking to him about it, said obviously he couldn't give me any sort of commendation for it, but that I had done the right thing. I was pretty comfortable with his reaction, especially the follow up.

Response by CSM Frank Toles made Feb 18 at 2019 5:42 PM

2019-02-18T17:42:50-05:00

You have to approach them in a way that is not embracing to the individual. I never had a problem with it.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 18 at 2019 8:34 PM

2019-02-18T20:34:03-05:00

Best one I did for was a Capt/Maj(sel) Pilot. He was up for a special duty assignment and was a finalist for this assignment. I just came from that assignment as a tram member (enlisted SSgt). I knew what they look for in uniforms and personality. So I asked him if I could see him in uniform and I told him, in his office, that he needed new ribbons and shirt. Uniform was Charlies (USMC). He grumble a little but he knew it was my best intention to make him look good. I personally ensured that his ribbons were on spot and double checked him. Unfortunately he did not make the team as it is a unanimous vote and he missed by one. But he was great full that I took time to ensure that he was the most presentable Marine for this assignment. Unfortunately a year later he lost his life in an aircraft accident on his way back from deployment but he save a town by riding it in. Cabbie your still missed to this day.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 18 at 2019 10:58 PM

2019-02-18T22:58:39-05:00

Go ahead spot check me. If your cool about it I’m pleasant. If you come to me with an attitude I’m not going to make you push. I’m going climb inside your brain and make it hurt.

Response by SSG Keith Bearden made Feb 18 at 2019 11:23 PM

2019-02-18T23:23:09-05:00

Used to work for a LTC when I was a SSG
He loved wearing foreign badges on his bdu’s
Corrected him all the time and cut some crazy subdued wings off his chest one time

Response by SFC Melvin Brandenburg made Feb 18 at 2019 11:32 PM

2019-02-18T23:32:39-05:00

You definitely don't want to embarrass them. Done tactfully it is appreciated. My soldiers know to say something like, sarge, we know it is important to be squared away, but you have a loose bootlace

Response by PO2 Paul Schexnayder made Feb 19 at 2019 1:58 AM

2019-02-19T01:58:50-05:00

Served onboard an aircraft carrier with the Master-At-Arms Department (shipboard security and police force) as an E-5. We had just pulled into home port and tied up to the pier coming home from a 6-month cruise deployment. The ship's Weapons Officer; an excellent but hard-nosed Commander who was 3rd in command; was in the hangar bay holding his infant child and hugging his wife who had just come on-board. I noticed that he was missing his tie while he was in Class A uniform, so with great trepidation I quietly asked for a word with him in private. We stepped aside and I respectfully asked him, "Correct me if I'm wrong, but doesn't that uniform require a tie?" He did a quick self-check, realized he was tieless, thanked me for letting him know and quickly returned to his stateroom to get his tie. I don't believe there's a problem with a junior pointing out such a goof to a senior as long as it's done respectfully and tactfully, and any NCO or Officer that does have a problem with a respectful and tactful pointer isn't worth the time of day to begin with.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 19 at 2019 9:58 AM

2019-02-19T09:58:10-05:00

So a couple of months ago a CSM did a beeline for me while I was standing at Clothing Sales waiting on a sales clerk to get back to me about an order. The CSM wanted to berate me for hydrating while standing. He went on to inform me how if I wanted to hydrate I had to be sitting. Now I’ve been I 38 years. I’m a CWO. But really... so I kind of laughed at him and he stormed off. I’d heard there were Sergeants Major like that out there. I did inquire me being a visitor to Fort Leonard Wood. But no one could find a regulation that forbade me from drinking from a cup while standing.

Response by SSG Paul Ellis made Feb 19 at 2019 6:32 PM

2019-02-19T18:32:52-05:00

I've done it on and off through my career. Mostly, it was NCOs checking each other before Class A inspections. One time that stands out however, is back when I was stationed at Fort Gordon. I was walking up to the PX and right out front were 2 2nd Lieutenants who were goofing around like Privates and one of them had a pants leg that had come unbloused somehow and was hanging down his boot.

Correcting them wasn't a big thing. I remained respectful (to their rank) and barked out a loud greeting followed by a crisp salute. Even though they were in the covered area where you didn't have to salute, one straightened up immediately and the other practically jumped up from the patio table he was sitting on. (I do so much miss messing with Butter Bars!) I took the one with the loose pant leg aside and told him his pants were looking chewed up (that was the trick with officers: blame something they had, not them) and politely advised him that he and his fellow officer might need to act with more decorum out in the open...especially considering there were so many impressionable trainees walking about and watching them. (Another trick was giving the officer a sense of responsibility for something. Didn't matter what. It would straighten him right up.)

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 22 at 2019 2:18 PM

2019-02-22T14:18:06-05:00

Yes, but with the appropriate amount of tact and respect, as you and others did.

Response by Maj David Shoe made Feb 22 at 2019 3:04 PM

2019-02-22T15:04:53-05:00

I saw the base commander in uniform playing grab ass with another officer during the playing of the national anthem. He was behind the formation of a welcome home celebration on a unit coming back from Afghanistan. He had not deployed with that unit. After the national anthem I walked up to him and asked him to step aside. I am a retiree and was in civilian attire. I said to him, "Sir, in the Air Force I grew up in, we did not play grab ass during the playing of the national anthem. When in uniform you must always conduct yourself beyond reproach. Has the service changed that much?" He apologized to me and said he understood.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 22 at 2019 10:25 PM

2019-02-22T22:25:02-05:00

I’m a DS. While on the trail at FLW, pulled up to my barracks at the end of the duty day and see about 30 Soldiers milling about smoking next to the barracks... in TRADOC land. 100% no-go. Now mind you, I’m a smoker, if I have to hide from trainees, you sure as hell have to as well. Get out of my car, don the round brown, march up to the crowd of smokers... shit. Lt Col’s, Majors, Capt’’s CSM’s, 1SG’s, all there for some training mission. Well FML, but now I’m committed

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 23 at 2019 8:05 AM

2019-02-23T08:05:06-05:00

During one Alert, I was sitting in the flight station of a C 141 when three Officers stopped in front of my aircraft and started taking pictures (I was an E4), I told them to stop, they told me to f off, I called the SPs and had them arrested. They spent the night in the jail and the next morning, their Base Commander had to call to get them out. I don't know if this qualifies for the question, but I still get a kick out of it.

Response by Maj David Walters made Feb 23 at 2019 11:50 AM

2019-02-23T11:50:41-05:00

As an officer, I was corrected several times. Always quietly and with genuine concern. I really appreciated it. Some others I saw were offended. If you are arrogant enough to be unable to admit a mistake, you have no business on a team like the military.

Response by LTC John Bush made Feb 24 at 2019 9:25 AM

2019-02-24T09:25:55-05:00

for sure but do not make a public production out of it. making a combat buddy check is an essential part of teamwork and it should carry over.

Response by CW3 Joseph Lawrence made Feb 24 at 2019 5:15 PM

2019-02-24T17:15:15-05:00

Had a Battalion Commander, who was making some changes on a Training Schedule that involved some efforts on the part of the S-4. Showed him the regulation pertaining to that subject and that it allowed No Deviations. He said he could get around that, and that's when I pointed to the last page and said that it was signed by a four start general, and I asked him do you out rank him. After that he would call me at my office and ask if he could do certain things so I didn't have to embarrass him in front of the whole staff.

Response by SFC Raymond Thibault made Feb 24 at 2019 10:09 PM

2019-02-24T22:09:12-05:00

Tactfully asked if I could point something out. Took him aside and correct his ribbons, which were out of order. He thanked me and I gave a color copy of the Order of Ribbons.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2019 11:26 PM

2019-02-24T23:26:43-05:00

PFC: Excuse me SGT, you got a rappel rope (points at my boot).
ME: Thank you.
We then went about our respective day.

Response by CMSgt Martin Church made Feb 24 at 2019 11:36 PM

2019-02-24T23:36:12-05:00

Over my 42 year career, occasionally I have observed minor things wrong with uniforms, of senior to me, that I discreetly mentioned to them and the reply was always thank you chief. We all get in a hurry sometime and screw up with putting our uniform together in the proper order. Never be afraid to mention, Discreetly, to anyone, regardless of rank. Remember, we are all Human, and a subject to errors.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2019 7:47 AM

2019-02-25T07:47:29-05:00

Sure, All the time and If they acted like they were irritated that I would spot check them, I would say something like, "Wow that's an excellent job" or something to that effect or tell them why and how to do it better.
Spot checking is continuous in our profession, up and down.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2019 9:58 AM

2019-02-25T09:58:25-05:00

The tougher scenario is "smoking" soldiers that outrank you. As an Air Assault instructor, this was a regular scenario. I once smoked a CSM next to a private, that had been dropped by another instructor. I did not know their rank until they got back up. Once they got back up, I realized the situation, and then had them both get down and get some more. The easiest way to look at it, in humility, is that your job is to teach, bear, and administer the standard that applies to all soldiers. Humility is realizing in any other scenario you could be in their position. Sometimes I felt that if you were too polite some would see it as kissing up or showing favoritism.
It the real world address your seniors and even your peers with tact and humility. Never call them out in front of others. One team one fight.

Response by SGT Eliyahu Rooff made Feb 25 at 2019 10:55 AM

2019-02-25T10:55:07-05:00

When I was assigned to the station hospital as a medic, one of our regular "duties" was to help the younger doctors get their uniforms squared away. They'd come in with the name tag on the wrong side or above the pocket, rank insignias on the lapels of their coat. etc, and we'd do our best to get them squared away. Most of them were about as "military" as Hawkeye Pierce, so they appreciated the assistance.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2019 12:13 PM

2019-02-25T12:13:56-05:00

Division CSM for improper blocking of headgear (Ranger roll). I identified the regulation, paragraph and line number, and the deficiency. Without breaking stride, he popped it out, and thanked me.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2019 2:25 PM

2019-02-25T14:25:02-05:00

Man up -- stay in their face! The result might not be what you'd expect. Sometimes rank has absolutely no rights in a "need to know" situation. Sort of like the private who would not let 5-star Omar Bradley & staff through the lines without showing proper ID or giving the "call sign" at the Battle of the Bulge. He ended up decorated.... 'just sayin'

Response by CSM Dale Thompson made Feb 26 at 2019 9:41 AM

2019-02-26T09:41:42-05:00

1994 Germany, Command Inspection, As First Sergeant, I told everyone in the unit, have someone check you out! then picked a newly arrived PV2 and asked him to inspect me in front of the unit. he, of course, found that I had my bottom left two ribbons reversed. He didn't know how to tell me in front of the unit, told him to point out my discrepancies. Howsomeever (a real word in my world) a bold 1st Lieutenant blew this off. General showed up, asked me which of my officers gave me the most grief. Told him of the preinspection and the Lieutenants attitude. Never had a problem with that Lieutenant for the 18 months we continued to serve together.
God Bless America and all our ships at Sea

Response by SFC Michael Mott made Feb 26 at 2019 11:57 AM

2019-02-26T11:57:41-05:00

I was a high speed buck SGT and we were in Iraq and my Detachment SGT was late to the gym for our workout. I check the times of arrival by looking at the sign in list, and sure nuff the SFC was late. I wrote him a counseling statement about the importance of timeliness and setting an example for the lower ranking Soldiers. The corrective action stated that due to his considerable time in service, grade and position he would be able to monitor his own progress in this area. He actually signed it, and I saved it in my Love me book...lol

Response by SSG Ricky Johnson made Feb 27 at 2019 8:02 AM

2019-02-27T08:02:15-05:00

Being EOD we were accustomed to checking each other. If something was amiss, you counted on them to help you out. Rank was not a factor. A PFC could help out a MAJ or COL, and would get a thanks. If you wore the badge, you were appreciated. Now this was when EOD was 8-10 person detachments. In a time long ago. 35 years ago.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 27 at 2019 11:43 AM

2019-02-27T11:43:18-05:00

While in OSUT at Ft. Benning, our Senior DS had his tapes reversed one day. I pointed it out to him and he genuinely thanked me. He collected the Platoon and told us, if you EVER see any of us screwed up, god help you if you don't point it out. The following day in the DFAC, one of our DS had his brown round on in the dining hall. I quietly pointed out to him that he should remove his head gear....he went on a tyrant about being a drill sergeant and he would damn well do as he pleased. About 3 minutes later the BN CSM walked in, drug him outside and chewed on him for wearing his brown round in the DFAC. I only know what the discussion was about because the ENTIRE DFAC could hear his thorough tongue lashing. I laughed inside for WAY too long. He discontinued wearing his brown round in the DFAC for the rest of the cycle.

Response by PO3 David Davis made Feb 28 at 2019 12:23 PM

2019-02-28T12:23:06-05:00

yes, i have more than once.

Response by MSgt Donald Martz made Mar 2 at 2019 6:31 PM

2019-03-02T18:31:16-05:00

Members of the ‘team’ should act as the extremities of the body, supporting it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2019 5:18 PM

2019-03-06T17:18:12-05:00

A couple buddy's and I ran in to the First Sergeant on a off day. He called out my two buddy's for not shaving that morning. Me the smart ass SPC. At the time looked at my FIRST SGT. and noticed he had not shaved himself. I said she there first Sgt. Did you shave this morning. He paused and touched his face and said you know what I must have forgot thanks for letting me know I will go shave right now. He walked away lol my buddy's were shocked lol.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2019 5:42 PM

2019-03-06T17:42:47-05:00

A 2lt was behind me in line at a gas station with his flag diagonal. I waited to see if anyone else informed him of it. Right before I left I told him since nobody else did.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2019 10:48 PM

2019-03-06T22:48:28-05:00

I once corrected General Odierno. When he was commander of 4ID at Ft Hood. I was an E1. I was on flag detail, doing a police call, he was outside with some staff officers. While picking up some garbage near where they were talking, I noticed that he had a "boot snake". I approached and saluted, sounded off with a hearty "Steadfast and Loyal!" and informed him he had a uniform malfunction. He seemed amused. The staff officers seemed put upon. He asked me what his uniform malfunction was, and I told him. He looked down, saw that I was correct, thanked me, then asked his officers why they hadn't told him. I thought I was going to faint.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2019 10:57 PM

2019-03-06T22:57:54-05:00

It was never on blast, but it happens all the time. I never told them to correct it, just let them know. I just hope they see how I approached the issue and they use the same common curiosity.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2019 10:58 PM

2019-03-06T22:58:17-05:00

I got my favorite coin for an on the spot correction. I was walking on the FOB in Afghanistan, and noticed the guy in front of me had his name upside down on his PC. "Excuse me SSG, CSM..... but SSG, your name is upside down on your PC. The CSM proceeded to give me a coin. Come to find out, he was the prankster who flipped it in the first place. 10 hours prior.

Response by CW4 Craig Urban made Mar 13 at 2019 12:24 PM

2019-03-13T12:24:05-04:00

Yes a Lt. When I was a cw3. I called a friend. The division commander.

Response by SPC Chris Ison made Mar 18 at 2019 4:34 AM

2019-03-18T04:34:45-04:00

We were in Iraq one day. We were out on patrol we had 2 squads of 2 Humvees. We had linked up with the other section for a quick chit chat. As we drove up, a SGT (E-5) was riding the .50 cal with no Kevlar on.

After the chit chat, my Team leader another SGT (E-5), said to me me Okay Ison your call where are we going to go? And i responded:

" I don't care where we go, as long as i can ride around with my Kevlar off Like SGT Doe."

The Sergeant in question was bit of hard ass, as he was a prior service Marine, but he knew he was wrong, and what was worse is, he was wrong in front of a junior enlisted man. He did not bitch, he did not curse, he did not point out I had no right or authority to dress him down, he just reached over and grabbed his Kevlar and strapped it on.

I also was once in a position to shut down a pilot. In the Navy as an E-3 and below you, generally, work in the line division as a plane captain, it is similar to crew chief in the air force. The most important thing about this duty position is that as long as the wheels on the plane are on the ground, the Plane Captain is in charge of said plane.

One night we had a Lt. Commander, who had worked previously as an Aviation Boatswains mate (yellow shirt). He was getting trained on the A-7E before it was to be decommissioned. He was a bit of an ass. That evening Petty officer 2nd class "sleepy" i do not remember his real name (PO2 is E-5) told us specifically NOT to send a plane to final check if the AOA lights were out.

So, we do this launch, i get butt face, and the AOA light is out. I call for a troubleshooter, and then stand around for about 10 minutes, before i notice butt face in the cockpit having a shit fit. I crawl up into the cockpit ask him what was wrong and he asked me why we were waiting, i told him we needed a bulb, he asked if we could continue the launch while we waited. I saw nothing wrong with that so i finished the launch, still no troubleshooter so i again call for a troubleshooter, and begin to wait.

I am not sure how long we waited until he had another conniption, so again a crawled up to the cockpit asked him what was wrong, and he said that we could just go to final check and they can replace the bulb there, and i responded that Sleepy had specifically told us not to do that crap anymore, he then said "I am the pilot and I am in charge of this aircraft." to which i responded, "No i am the plane captain AND AS LONG AS THE WHEELS ARE ON THE GROUND I AM IN CHARGE OF THIS AIRCRAFT." I then crawled back down and called for a troubleshooter.

Almost immediately my supervisor, another PO2, came tome and asked what was wrong as the pilot was bitching to maintenance control. I explained it to him, and he was like. let me see if i can get a troubleshooter over here, and I looked at him and I said, only way this bird is taking off tonight is if you launch it yourself, I am done. And walked off the flight line. My supervisor told the pilot to shut the aircraft down, and the pilot refused, I am not sure what he told the maintenance master chief, but he eventually he shut the plane down.

Next day I was in the office with the maintenance master chief, the command master chief, My CO, and the pilot. The the CO asked me what happened, he then asked me WHY it happened, and I said something like, "Sir, it is my responsibility to make sure that plane is safe to take off. Sometimes we make exceptions to policy, but that night we had been specifically instructed to not do the very thing the pilot asked me to do. You specifically entrusted my with your authority to do my job, and I don't appreciate a pilot, who has worked as a yellow shirt, and knows that the ground crew is in charge of plane while its wheels are on the ground to try and intimidate me into doing my job wrong. So i decided to make a point." My Co was very supportive. He backed my play. My CO had a soft spot for plane captains as we were young and had a lot of responsibility, and we were the most familiar with the aircraft having the most contact with them on a day to day basis. I heard through the grapevine that after we had left he said something to the effect of: "You need to learn to take care of your plane captains, they may save your life one day."

I had to report a second class petty officer in the navy. I was getting a plane ready for launch, when this PO2 borough up anew LOX bottle. He pulled the old one out, and put the new on in then proceeded to pull the cable out of the BNC connector to the LOX bottle. he put the wire back in and then used his chewing gum to secure the wire into place. I was shocked, and i sad, "Your not really going to leave my bird like that are you?" and he said, "Yup it will be fine." i threw my hands up in the air in disbelief, and went into the line shack and told the PO3 there that my bird was down and i needed a new bird.

after my launch, I was, once again, before the maintenance master chief explaining why i downed another bird. This time though it resulted in an Article 15 (captains mast) for the PO2 and he lost a stripe. I am not sure what gum on a LOX bottle will do for you, but i do know not getting LOX at high speed can lead to passing out, which can lead to death, so i guess the CO was right, I may have saved a pilots life that day.

Response by PO1 Sanford Snyder made Mar 24 at 2019 8:28 PM

2019-03-24T20:28:22-04:00

I was standing shore patrol in Naples Italy at the local military club, can't remember just which one as it was over 40 years ago. It was closing time, and the patrons were leaving. A USN Lieutenant was leaving, three sheets to the wind on the arm of a female PO2 who had latched on to him, she was holding him up. It was December, cold and windy, his dress coat was unbuttoned. I stopped him and said "Lietenant, it's cold outside, you should button your coat". He slowly, as a man in his drink would do, buttoned it up as the PO2 looked at me like I had spit in the Captains coffee.

Response by Chris Grimm made Mar 24 at 2019 9:48 PM

2019-03-24T21:48:15-04:00

I got checked once when I was in ROTC by a SGT. Obviously, he was my superior, but he did it really politely. It was my 2nd time in ACUs and I was walking to lab. He politely took me aside with a “Hey, Cadet, can I talk to you?” He then told me my patches were in the wrong spot and helped me fix it before I went in. I still remember it seven years later.

Response by James Adair made Mar 24 at 2019 10:23 PM

2019-03-24T22:23:57-04:00

Considering I've never been in the military, if I ever did and they got lippy I'd tell them " it's a spot, not a dick don't take it so hard."

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Mar 24 at 2019 11:24 PM

2019-03-24T23:24:16-04:00

As a young SPC, I told my Commanding General his boot laces had come untucked from his boot. We (CG, Div CSM, and I) were walking across a field on the way to Div HQ, and I saw the laces sticking out. I said "Sir, I don't know if you noticed, but your laces are out." He stopped, tucked them in, thanked me, and we continued walking. When we got to HQ, and the CG went down the hall to his office, CSM ripped me a new one for correcting his General. Evidently only he (the CSM) was allowed to do that.

Response by 1SG David Spalding made Mar 25 at 2019 12:02 AM

2019-03-25T00:02:15-04:00

While going through in processing at the First Sergeants' Course (keep in mind, I was a mouthy E7, back two days from Afghanistan) I got into a discussion about needing to make an eight hour round trip drive to get my class As (required for the course), when the Commandant (CSM) starts questioning why I wasn't prepared. We had a short conversation, and they released me to drive home and back before the first day of the course. Just before I turned to leave, I said in a soft voice, "and by the way Sergeant Major, your flag is on the wrong side." He fixed it immediately and thanked me. After that, he told every class he spoke with about the incident and wondered why it took almost a full day before it was pointed out. I still think he did it on purpose to see who would have the balls to correct him. Good times!

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2019 12:42 AM

2019-03-25T00:42:37-04:00

I was a 1SG the first time and a CSM the other times. I made lite of it and joked around that their stuff was jacked up. I help fix it then told them “don’t let this happen again.” There was no problem as I made what could have been a “shit” call a joke and we laughed it off. This may not work on all as some people have no freaking sense of humor. Those I let crash and burn if they refuse help and correction.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2019 9:17 AM

2019-03-25T09:17:41-04:00

Yup, when I was a Major I let a Lt Col know he had a General Officer’s flight cap on instead of a regular officer’s flight cap (GO flight cap has a solid silver trim, while the regular one has a broken looking silver trim). He thanked me whole heartedly and went to military clothing to get the right hat. Spot checking a superior is no big deal... it actually shows that you respect them enough to not want them looking like a soup sandwich.

Response by SPC Daniel Rankin made Mar 31 at 2019 11:04 PM

2019-03-31T23:04:28-04:00

Did that to a butter bar once and he tried to dress me down. What he did not know is that the motorpool commander was standing behind him. He proceeded to take him into the office with me and dressed him down with a written councelling. He uniform looked like it had not been pressed in days.

Response by SSG Timothy Lanham made Apr 3 at 2019 11:03 PM

2019-04-03T23:03:56-04:00

pull them to the side and use tact. As a civilian in Iraq I was eating breakfast one time and a few officers sat at my table. One of them had US upside down. I walked over to that side of the table and bent down so my mouth was a few inches from ear and whispered the problem. The officer fixed problem and asked the others why they did not say something.

Response by SSG Timothy Lanham made Apr 3 at 2019 11:21 PM

2019-04-03T23:21:26-04:00

Not an outrank thing but one time in Germany the Bn CSM had one of the screw ups stand outside the PX ate up. When an NCO passed him and did not say anything, the soldier wrote the NCO name down to give the CSM. About an hour later CSM had about 12-15 NCOs outside the PX dogging the hell out of them

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2019 5:10 PM

2019-04-08T17:10:04-04:00

Just last month I was walking with my phone in my hand texting like a 14 year old girl and a MSG pulled over on his motorcycle and helped me see the error of my ways. I immediately put him in the front leaning rest and said, well, of course I'm kidding that part never happened just seeing if anyone is paying attention. He did tell me that I was wrong and I thanked him and said I was sorry that it was necessary and he's a good man for caring. I only mention that so other folks can prepare a good polite and professional response for WHEN you get called out and you're wrong. It happens.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2019 6:20 PM

2019-04-15T18:20:33-04:00

I imagine this General would have like someone at any rank to have told him his ribbons were upside down.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2019 5:40 PM

2019-04-18T17:40:12-04:00

As long as you do it tactfully and out of earshot, I've never really had it go poorly. It's all about maintaining professionalism and humility.

Response by Cpl Clifford Hager made Apr 22 at 2019 8:36 AM

2019-04-22T08:36:26-04:00

I was stationed at Camp Pendleton in 1969 in a battalion that was tasked with training brand new butterbars right out of O.C.S. to be platoon commanders. Walking to breakfast, early morning, maybe January I approached another Marine walking towards me. We made eye contact and maybe I nodded my head as we passed, when he spun around and immediately began dressing me down for not saluting a superior officer. I stared at him in surprise as he called me some unflattering names, berated my discipline and blasted my boot camp drill instructors for failing to train me properly. When he finally finished his tirade and asked me what I had to say for myself I calmly replied, "Excuse me sir but you are not wearing any rank insignia. I mistook you for a private." He looked down at each shoulder of his field jacket, then unzipped it with obvious contempt and pulled it aside to display the very brand new gold bars on his blouse collar. I snapped to attention, delivered a perfect salute, said "Good morning sir!" and before he could even return the salute I did a parade ground about face and continued on to breakfast with a very amused grin on my face.

Response by SSG Gary Runcie made May 5 at 2019 10:10 AM

2019-05-05T10:10:58-04:00

As a SP4 I occasionally was tasked to driver the battalion XO ( a Maj.) he had a habit of leaving one of his shirt pockets unbuttoned I always mentioned it to him. In fact it got to a point that he always checked himself whenever he saw me. I never said anything in front of others so as not to embarrass him in front of troops . He never said anything to me but I believe he did appreciate that I had him correct uniform before he corrected anyone else.

Response by SFC James Asbill made May 11 at 2019 2:17 PM

2019-05-11T14:17:10-04:00

When doing that correcting was one of the few times I actually learned to use tact ..

Response by CPO David Sharp made Jun 2 at 2019 6:47 PM

2019-06-02T18:47:07-04:00

Respectfully, with a reason behind what and why you are stating the issue. This is as much training as you give subordinates. Officers have to stand before the people they lead. To not be on the same plane of "squared away" will not benefit one who is issuing any order in the eyes of their personnel.

Response by PO1 T.M. Ritchie made Jun 3 at 2019 11:15 AM

2019-06-03T11:15:03-04:00

I was walking out of the NEX one lunch time when I saw a newly minted Ensign walking in from the parking lot wearing his khakis and a "fore and aft"cap. He had a smile on his face knowing I was going to be one of the first enlisted to salute him personally. I gave the young man my finest salute and greeted him, "Good afternoon sir, you have your cover on backwards..."

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2019 8:20 AM

2019-06-08T08:20:40-04:00

Sitting in the chow hall a female captain came in a sat down in front of me. Her hair was med length but touched the collar all the way around. I had an LT sitting to my right she was talking too and a Maj across from him, next to her.
I sat there as long as I could and then my mouth opened and did it's thing. I asked " How long have you been in the Air Force Ma'm.?" She replied " I am not in the Air Force." Me: " Air Guard? " Her: " NO, why? " Me: " OH, I figured you where by your hair touching your collar all the way around." Her: " Do not worry about my fucking hair. " My brain said stop but my mouth opened and I said " As an officer how can you hold someone or anyone to STANDARDS if you can not hold yourself to the same standards? ".
She went to chopping at my ass but the Major spoke up and said SGT that's a fucked up way to talk to a Cap. but your right she is out of standards and I am sure she will correct herself as soon as she can. "
Maybe I should have just keeped my mouth shut but just so tired of peoples " Do as I say, not as I do "

Side note she had a new within standards about a week late.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2019 9:45 PM

2019-06-09T21:45:19-04:00

An M.P. at the main gate SFC type had his khakis on that day (when we wore khakis) and his brass was crooked. So I proceeded to be the brave Sgt and pulled off to the side. I proceeded from my vehicle and ask if I could have a word with him. When he came over I explained that his brass was on crooked and that I would hope that he would take the time to correct the matter. He said thank you for letting me know and did an about face, went into the gate house and came out a few minutes later with the corrections made. He gave me a kind of salute as I drove off.

Response by LTC Jason Carter made Jun 15 at 2019 10:22 AM

2019-06-15T10:22:46-04:00

I pointed out to a Major (I was a Captain at the time) that his name and US ARMY were on the wrong sides of his blouse. He actually got mad at me and told me mine were wrong.

Response by LTC John Bush made Jun 23 at 2019 7:07 PM

2019-06-23T19:07:36-04:00

Yes and you should but do it quietly with respect, they should appreciate it.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 25 at 2019 6:58 PM

2019-06-25T18:58:25-04:00

I was walking to the dining facility at Fort Knox one afternoon when I saw Solider in front of me walking and talking on the cell phone. I thought for a second and I just said, " excuse me sir can you stop at one place and use that cell phone?" As he turned around I noticed that he was a full bird Colonel. Understand that I was a 56 year-old drill sergeant at the time. He then put his hand on my shoulder and said "you know Old Timer, you're absolutely right," and put his phone away. I looked him Square in the face and I said, " sir, there is no such rank as 'old-timer' in the United States military. I'm a Staff Sergeant here at Fort Knox. He looked embarrassed turn around and walked away. I have no qualms about having leaders set the example. As long as you do it tactfully and professionally then every individual should not have to worry about the rank of the Soldier because in the end we're all Soldiers.

Response by SGT Keith Smith made Jul 6 at 2019 12:42 AM

2019-07-06T00:42:10-04:00

Okay. Yes often. First use tact and military bearing. Make sure your straight before you approach anyone. Address them by proper rank and name. Do not blurt it out. I normally started with something like did you know your are you aware that. Then do not stick around to see if they fixed themselves. You are not their boss and you have done your duty by bringing awareness to the problem. Go on about your business like you did not say anything. Everyone makes mistakes even higher ranking individuals. Not everyone knows regulations. Just keep it polite civil and be very respectful

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Jul 6 at 2019 12:51 AM

2019-07-06T00:51:01-04:00

I spot checked a captain about the bars on her field cap, looking like an "equal" sign. She took off her cap and looked at them and those on her collar. She replied that they were both the same. Then she gold me NCOs do not correct officers ever. So as she left the restaurant, she walked into a Lt. Col., who gave she a proper butt chewing about how she should learn to dress herself. She shot me a dirty look and I just laughed.

Response by PO1 Richard Norton made Jul 13 at 2019 7:15 AM

2019-07-13T07:15:13-04:00

Spot check, as in looking over a fellow serviceman/woman's uniform before an inspection. Use to do it all the time. Making sure that there are no stray threads, hairs, etc. Checking their ribbon rack to insure that they were set properly. Anyone can miss something or make a mistake.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2019 4:03 PM

2019-07-17T16:03:39-04:00

Different people react in different ways. Anyone who cares about their appearance would want to know that they need something fixed. Sometimes after swapping gear, you may not know your collar is jacked or patch is pulled down until someone says something.

Response by SPC James Seigars made Aug 12 at 2019 8:33 PM

2019-08-12T20:33:00-04:00

I have done it several times & had it done to me as well. Now that I am retired I still will if I am on a Military base (regardless of branch. I have a nephew in Special Olympics and we go to the Air Force bass in Southern Miss. once a year).

I am always tactful when correcting others and appreciative when being corrected. The reason I have always been this way is because way back in one of my AIT’s (I had 4 MOS’s) I corrected my 1st SGT for having his name tape upside down when EVERYONE was talking about him, but nobody else wanted to do the right thing and let him know. I did it tactfully & respectably, in private. He then called a company formation and had me stand next to him. He told them that he KNEW his name tape was wrong & had been LISTENING to them TALK about him behind his back until I corrected him. He then told me to go to the barracks and enjoy my day off while everyone else had to do “busy” work (pick up cigarette butts, rake, move rocks off the sidewalk, etc). It ALWAYS pays to do the right thing, sometimes it just takes longer.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 14 at 2019 11:23 AM

2019-08-14T11:23:59-04:00

The 1SG at my ANCOC/SLC graduation had her 3rd ID CSIB going the wrong way on her ASUs. i stepped up to her, out of earshot of everyone else and let her know. No big deal. Not quite on topic, but I was giving instruction on D&C for a ceremony to the one star, also no big deal, just treat them like a fellow Soldier.

Response by PFC Kevin Becker made Aug 27 at 2019 11:55 AM

2019-08-27T11:55:31-04:00

While stationed at the Pentagon in '75, I was on an elevator with a Navy Lieutenant when Chief of Staff Army, Frederick Weyand and an aide got on. General Weyand looked at the Navy Lieutenant, laughed and asked him if he had a little girl at home. The Lieutenant said , yes, he did. General Weyand said she did a good job on his ribbons, and like his wife had undoubtedly told him many times, hang your clothes up in the closet. Do not throw them over the back of a chair. The child had "fixed" his ribbons with a crayon or marker of some sort.

Response by PFC Kevin Becker made Aug 27 at 2019 12:03 PM

2019-08-27T12:03:52-04:00

Response by MAJ William Smith made Sep 2 at 2019 11:30 AM

2019-09-02T11:30:31-04:00

When I was a new 2LT at IOBC at Fort Benning. There was a new COL in the club wearing his eagles backwards on his blues. I was a Civil War buff and recognized it. I brought it up as a history thing and he seemed grateful.

Response by CW3 Michael Clifford made Sep 2 at 2019 8:21 PM

2019-09-02T20:21:04-04:00

Did it all the time as an MP. In yesteryear (I was trained at Fort Gordon, GA), uniform violations were of major commanders.

Response by SGT Joseph Schmalzel made Sep 3 at 2019 10:56 PM

2019-09-03T22:56:12-04:00

I was a Spc in Germany. Saw a 1Lt. that had his rank and branch insignia reversed on his BDU lapels.
He was not in my unit but we were in a chow hall.
Simple Cody I walked up and politely informed him quiet like to not draw attention and said. Sir you should go split for a minute your ranks on wrong.
He was cool with me about it. Said thanks Spc I made a boo boo. Told him hey its better me than a Ltc. or higher. Then he said yeah no kidding they would eat me for lunch.
Anyone can make an on the spot correction. And nobody has to be a dick about it. Same as safety.

Response by MSG Loren Tomblin made Sep 4 at 2019 8:22 AM

2019-09-04T08:22:31-04:00

I came across a WO-3 and he gave me the malocchio (stink eye) for not saluting him. It was early in the morning as we both were headed to base. I suppose he was in a hurry and forgot his insignia. I pointed to his shoulder and he thanked me and did a 180.

Response by SPC Franklin McKown made Sep 4 at 2019 8:43 AM

2019-09-04T08:43:52-04:00

I have often told anyone who has a uniform about errors...DRESS UNIFORM that is . Duty,uniform ?Never ,that's on them alone...NOT to mention I really didn't care WHAT my duty uniforms looked like ,My TRACK was too important.All my vehicle commanders knew why I was often wrinkled...tore the CRAP out of "ripstop"summer weight BDUs.
MECHANICS liked me.

Response by SN Shane Clark made Sep 4 at 2019 5:33 PM

2019-09-04T17:33:23-04:00

Was in the barracks standing watch and our superior had just given watch standers and FYI to call out even senior personnel if something is visually out of place. She had just transferred over to our training command for her final three years of service. As she was walking away, I noticed that one of her cargo pockets was open. I called her out, and she quickly fixed it and thanked me. Proceeded to walk away.

Response by SGT Javier Silva made Sep 5 at 2019 9:16 AM

2019-09-05T09:16:08-04:00

I was a Specialist when I spot checked a Major in Germany - we were in the headstart program at the time. His name tape was upside down. I politely stated, "Sir, your name tape is upside down." He says, "Thank you." Two minutes later his name tape is still upside down, and someone else points it out, and goes, "That's that Soldier's fault. He told me it was upside down." Come to find out the Major didn't even try to correct the first time around.

Response by SSG Dale London made Sep 7 at 2019 4:28 PM

2019-09-07T16:28:17-04:00

As a SP4 at Ft Hood I was pulling duty at a DFAC that served three battalions. That day I had been given explicit instructions by the mess sergeant that nobody, not even Ronald Regan himself (yes, it was that long ago) was to be allowed to eat in that facility without an ID card.
So in walks a full-bird Colonel who slaps his money on the desk and reaches for the pen to sign in.
I said (as near as I can remember), "Excuse me sir, but may I see your ID card?"
"That's okay, son." He says. "I'm the (whatever) battalion commander."
"Yes, sir," I said. "But the Mess Sergeant carries a cleaver!"
The colonel smiled this huge smile, dug out his 2A and signed in, then I went and changed my skivvies.

Remind me to tell you what happened the time General Shallikashvilli caught one of our unit drivers sleeping in his jeep!

Response by PO1 Anthony Sam made Sep 8 at 2019 12:18 PM

2019-09-08T12:18:28-04:00

No but I did give a 01 & a 02 a left handed salute

Response by LCDR Joe Blanchard made Sep 8 at 2019 4:46 PM

2019-09-08T16:46:41-04:00

Yes, and it wasn't a positive experience. Never, tell a navy pilot that something is wrong or step on your sword to save them from making a fool of themselves. It is best to just let them do it and ignore the issue.

Response by SFC Bill Mace made Sep 9 at 2019 2:18 PM

2019-09-09T14:18:54-04:00

I had a 1SG that was the guest speaker at a NCO Academy graduation ceremony show up with his unit crests on upside down. Since I was the MC, it was my job to ensure everything went well so I professionally told him he should fix it. His response was "just say my f@cking name correct when you introduce me." He didn't fix it. The NCOA Commandant chewed him up and spit him out after the ceremony. Can't fix someone who thinks they are better than you. But it is definitely your responsibility to try.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Sep 9 at 2019 4:05 PM

2019-09-09T16:05:37-04:00

My last duty station in Korea, I had to spot check a 1st LT. I simply said Sir, your name tape and Army tape are backwards. Fortunately, this happened before we had formation.

Response by SFC Mike Thompson made Sep 9 at 2019 4:25 PM

2019-09-09T16:25:31-04:00

When I (SFC) was at FT Gordon, GA., 2005 standing at the Pharmacy waiting for a Prescription I noticed at Female 2LT talking to a CPT. I kept looking at her uniform and noticed her US Army and Name tag was reversed. I caught her eye and wanted to know what I needed. I explained the issue and she said I will take care of it. She kept talking another few minutes and still nothing. I kept staring, she finally fixed it and didn't appreciate me tactfully calling her on the issue.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2019 9:22 AM

2019-09-10T09:22:17-04:00

Spot checked commissioned officers and senior non-coms MULTIPLE times when I was doomed to the S3 section as an E5 on Active Duty. Always did it with tact, never gotten any flak for it.

Response by SSgt Veronica Fraga made Sep 11 at 2019 12:02 PM

2019-09-11T12:02:00-04:00

Ugh. I once pointed out to a newly assigned, AF ring-knocker butter-bar that, as a white girl (in 1990), her navy blue bra, quite visible under her light blue dress shirt, was against regulations. Yeah, she didn’t take it well. Apparently, since “all those colonels and generals running around The Academy never said anything,” who did I think I was, yadda, yadda! As a native New Yorker, I never did unlearn the whole being blunt thing. Kudos to those of you who made correcting superiors into a fine and subtle art!

Response by COL Brian Shea made Sep 12 at 2019 3:02 PM

2019-09-12T15:02:39-04:00

This is sort of on topic. When I was in (MP) OBC one of my classmates (2LT Hamilton) who had many years of service before being commissioned and already accumulated an impressive array of ribbons was standing in formation with the rest of us for a Class A Inspection by our training company commander (CPT), who was wearing four ribbons on his class A's. The good CPT approaches 2LT Hamilton, and I guess he thought the latter's ribbons were not properly mounted so he said "Lt, try to make your ribbons look more like mine", to which 2LT Hamilton responds "Would you like me to take some off Sir?". Never did find out exactly what the CPT meant as after the laughter subsided the rest of the inspection passed rather quickly.

Response by MCPO Gary Uzonyi made Sep 13 at 2019 11:22 AM

2019-09-13T11:22:17-04:00

Regularly. All paygrades from O-1 to O-7, Navy, MARINES and Army.
Responses varied from individual to individual but mid-grade officers were usually less than appreciative.

Response by SPC Brian Stephens made Sep 15 at 2019 10:52 AM

2019-09-15T10:52:22-04:00

One early morning while my platoon was hanging out back if the post to practice an airmobile mission, my LT, the XO, and the BC were lounging against the equipment and talking. An amiable conversation between Mark, Manny and John respectively. My roommate, a Specialist, turns our Section Chief and loudly says, "Ha he ha ha. . . What do you think of that, BOB????" Our Section Chief turns beet red with eyes popping out of his skull, shaking his head back and forth while mouthing the word, "No!" Conversation turns silent as everybody turns and stares at roommate. I think if that even 30 years later and I still laugh my ass off.

Response by CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana made Oct 13 at 2019 2:30 PM

2019-10-13T14:30:30-04:00

I informed the superior that ",,,,,,as he is aware standards are set by seniors for subordinates to emulate and, your cooperation in staging the perfect example for subordinates will be much-appreciated, Sir." At first, the superior in question rejected my offer and later accepted it. Achievinh the set objective was extremely fulfilling for me.

COL Mikel J. Burroughs,LtCol Charlie Brown,Col Private RallyPoint Member,Maj Marty Hogan,CH (CPT) James L. Machado Workman

Response by SPC Greg Campbell made Nov 2 at 2019 11:19 AM

2019-11-02T11:19:33-04:00

knew 99% of the Lts in my unit from being a duty driver, they SDOs. liked catching them with 'your rank is on upside down' or 'your epidermis is showing Sir' upside down rank works on some captains as well

Response by SFC Robert Ellis, Jr. made Nov 2 at 2019 2:08 PM

2019-11-02T14:08:40-04:00

I was NCOIC of Plans and Ops at Ft. Devens. Reserve Units came to us for training and this Major didn't like talking my orders and tried to get me in trouble. I dismissed him and sent him back to his unit with an Incomplete Assessment. Just doing my job and you should do yours or go home

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 2 at 2019 7:18 PM

2019-11-02T19:18:01-04:00

Absolutely! I have tactfully made corrections on many people who have outranked me. The times that I can readily remember, I took them aside and just simply told them about the uniform issue and all of them were extremely grateful that I let them know. The vast majority of spot checks oddly enough involved the ACU uniform. All too often, the name tape and U.S. Army tape were in the wrong place, or the unit patch and combat patch was on the opposite sleeve. All of them laughed about it, corrected the problem or asked me to do it for them, and on our merry way we went. The only Officer that did give me a bit of a "grumble" was a female Captain who had her pin on rank wrong on the epaulet on her waist length winter coat. She didn't say anything to me, she just gave me a dirty look and went onto the latrine to correct the problem. I see that you are a Promotable Specialist. Please note how I used the word "tactfully". While it's okay to make a correction on a superior, please follow my suggestion and save yourself possible grief and embarrassment. While most are very appreciative that you took the time to assist them, some may be a bit resistant to a Junior Enlisted Soldier calling them out like that. Just a word to the wise, and I hope that you have a very successful career!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 2 at 2019 7:29 PM

2019-11-02T19:29:57-04:00

As I was reading the responses, I remembered a mistake I made with my own uniform. As a Healthcare Recruiter and Station Commander, we wore the Class B uniform as our duty uniform. I further added the directive that we would wear "Super B's" as having all of your ribbons and qualification badges added a talking point to perspective Soldiers. One day, I was sitting behind my desk talking with a nurse who had just taken the Oath, and we were just shooting the breeze about some paperwork that we needed to do. He looked at me and said "hey Sergeant, your ribbons are on upside down". At the time I had four rows of ribbons that formed a square shape. Naturally I called BS, and went to look. Sure enough, it was upside down. I cracked up and we had a good laugh at my expense for a while after that. My guys at the station? Well, they were out recruiting and weren't around me, or else they certainly would have let me know! Have a great day!

Response by AB Edward Mondini made Nov 4 at 2019 1:09 AM

2019-11-04T01:09:08-05:00

I’m willing to bet that DS put that name tag upside down deliberately just to see who on his team had the gonads to take the calculated risk of showing leadership & support for his DS, while showing the rest of the team the downside of:
1. letting fear conquer courage
2. shamefully allowing their DS to
become vulnerable to corrective
remarks from his superiors.
If I did that to a Manager or CEO in the civilian world, I guarantee he’d write my name in his little black book & I’d never be promoted as long as I worked there.

Response by SFC Johnny Robertson made Nov 4 at 2019 2:24 PM

2019-11-04T14:24:08-05:00

I once told a CPT to remove his headgear inside, he was actually cool about it.

Response by SFC Robert Ellis, Jr. made Nov 4 at 2019 11:10 PM

2019-11-04T23:10:39-05:00

I was NCOIC of Plans and Ops and We had Reserve Units assigned to us. This Major would NOT complete the assignments I gave him so I had to write him up and I sent him back to his unit with “Incomplete Assignments”. Nothing ever happened or said.

Response by SSG Nathan Blair made Nov 5 at 2019 3:04 PM

2019-11-05T15:04:34-05:00

I was in BNCOC and was being inspected by some SFCs from ANCOC. The Sergeant standing in front of me had his awards in the wrong order and the bottom left, my right was sticking out a quarter inch beyond the stack, so that it left a gap between the other two. He said, you're checking me out as I'm checking you out aren't you Sergeant? I responded with Hooah! He then asked if I saw anything wrong, I again responded with Hooah! He said what is it? I came back with Sergeant, your National Defense Service Medal, your ARCOM, your NCO professional development ribbon and your Army service ribbon are in the wrong order and your Liberation and Defense of Kuwait is sticking 1/4 beyond the bar. He walked back to his cohorts conferred with them, then came back and thanked me for correcting his deficiencies. I received top NCO out of 42 other NCOs that day. I reflected back to the day my very 1st permanent duty 1SG chewed my ass for not knowing my soldier had on erroneous awards on his uniform. Quietly under my breath, I said, thanks Top.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 5 at 2019 9:03 PM

2019-11-05T21:03:55-05:00

Yes. Not hard to do. Just gotta be tactful and respectful.
I was standing in line at a gas station waiting to pay for my coffee and noticed a Soldier in front of me who had their collar turned up on their OCP top. As she turned away from the counter to leave, I noticed her rank was that of a MAJ. I politely stopped her as she walked by and told her in a low voice so as not to bring attention to her and advised her of her situation. She thanked me for bringing it to her attention and left. No outburst, no indignation and no attitude. She was totally cool.
I initially thought about letting it go, but I know who she works for and wasn’t going to set her up for failure by walking into the General’s office with a glaring uniform issue.

Response by CPT Terry Lewis made Nov 7 at 2019 12:36 PM

2019-11-07T12:36:15-05:00

I was a mere Captain at the time and I observed a Medical Corps Lt. Colonel (wearing class A greens) with half of his medical insignia brass on crooked approaching me on the street on the post. I saluted and stopped him to advise him of his incorrect placement of his medical insignia and he thanked me profusely, admitting that he was a direct commision and had only been in the Army for 2 weeks and hadn't gotten the hang of putting his uniform together yet. I quickly straightened out his insignia for him and welcomed him to the Army, saluted him again and received more thanks and we parted ways, never to meet again.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 7 at 2019 4:11 PM

2019-11-07T16:11:38-05:00

Eadership tip of the day, you can’t let fear guide your decisions. True story, a Specialist was coined by a General because he had the balls to tell the General he was wrong and that General had to balls to verify the information and accept that he was wrong. It is our duty to take care of each other. That being said, if you tell a Warrant Officer to take his hands out of his pockets or get off the grass, you will get a polite thanks and we will move on with our important business, whatever that is

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 7 at 2019 4:12 PM

2019-11-07T16:12:47-05:00

As a PV2, I was taking a PT test administered by a LTC (due to the circumstances it was just him and I). I did push ups, and then noticed that his flag & combat patch were on the left shoulder, and unit patch on the right. I made sure that it was the case a few times before speaking up, and just simply said ‘Sir, your stuffs on the wrong sides...’ he checked, in disbelief also, and then said he had worn it this way for 5 days and nobody had corrected or noticed.

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Nov 8 at 2019 2:30 PM

2019-11-08T14:30:25-05:00

Sounds like a test to me. Be glad you passed. lol

Response by SSG Ken Gilder made Nov 10 at 2019 7:15 PM

2019-11-10T19:15:28-05:00

I had picked up a reserve assignment to the Presidio of San Francisco. My supervisor took me in to introduce me to the garrison commander. After the introductions and other niceties were complete, I asked the commander (a colonel) if I could have a moment. He agreed, and after my supervisor left his office, I said "Sir, the flag display behind your desk is not correct, in that the staff bearing the American flag, should cross in front of the staff bearing the Army flag. If you like, I'll help you make it right."

The colonel seemed to be appreciative, first, that I pointed out the error, and secondly, that I did it privately.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2019 8:51 PM

2019-11-10T20:51:08-05:00

All the time, they're called officers. " hey Butters get back in the truck and get on the radio" or "hey COL XXX, we dont actually work for you so we arent going to do that"
Standard stuff

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2019 9:51 PM

2019-11-10T21:51:58-05:00

So as XO, my 1SGT spot checked a uniform issue. I was appreciative for his assistance not letting me look like a bag of ass. OUTSTANDING 1SGT.

Response by Cpl Jeff Ruffing made Nov 13 at 2019 6:50 AM

2019-11-13T06:50:09-05:00

Hell yeah I did. I had two NCOs who took personal pleasure in pointing out wrong things. They inspected rooms and found dust on a wall poster, dust on the outside of your window. So anytime I was able to find something they had wrong it was a joyous occasion. All it was, as far as the approach was, “ Hey Sargent So n So, check your x, it seems out of alignment.”

Response by SMSgt Lori Staeffler made Nov 13 at 2019 4:23 PM

2019-11-13T16:23:01-05:00

Yes, the regulations apply to everyone. Do it with respect

Response by PO1 Sharon Anderson made Nov 27 at 2019 6:04 AM

2019-11-27T06:04:51-05:00

I had an officer come in in whites with heart underwear on..you really can't miss that, but took him aside and said sir, hearts are nice but not in whites...embarrassed him, but saved him from further embarrassment from the CO as he excused himself and changed into white boxers..without the hearts...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 1 at 2019 10:14 PM

2019-12-01T22:14:41-05:00

Yes...I corrected a CSM once...There was something wrong with his uniform...I got at parade rest, called him by his rank, and told him what was wrong...He thanked me....I didn't get a big head..I just moved out...Charlie Mike

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2019 12:30 PM

2019-12-08T12:30:33-05:00

I said "hey staff...get your hands outta ya pockets!" Didnt go so well.. maybe I shouldn't been so much of an asshole saying it. Didnt help I was a specialist at the time either....

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 12 at 2019 12:30 PM

2019-12-12T12:30:46-05:00

Like SPC Weaver, when I was in Boot, my DS had grabbed the wrong BDU blouse. He saw me staring and asked what was it I was looking at? I said, "Drill Sergeant, I'm just curious why you're wearing DS XXXX's blouse." He looked down and asked how did I notice? I told him he didn't have his 9ID overseas patch. He laughed, and told me to carry on.

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Dec 15 at 2019 6:41 PM

2019-12-15T18:41:11-05:00

Yeah, they fixed it.

Response by SGT Joseph Alanzo made Jan 4 at 2020 3:10 AM

2020-01-04T03:10:04-05:00

I did the same to every one go and look what was not right all the time oh yes $1.00 for the pot

Response by SGT Robert Eddy made Jan 11 at 2020 10:53 AM

2020-01-11T10:53:33-05:00

I'd say, "Gimme $20 and I'll show you proof."

Response by Maj Dale Smith made Feb 9 at 2020 7:43 PM

2020-02-09T19:43:29-05:00

I was the one that was spot checked and I called his supervisor and lauded the airman for it. I was unaware that the Expeditionary Medal ribbon was not bilaterally equal. The E4 pointed out that the blue side went closer to the inside of your chest. I appreciated his noticing and the rationalle behind it. A few years later, as a retired O4, I informed a Navy Commander with a Bronze Star that his Expeditionary Medal was backwards and he too was pleased to know and why. Most of the time ,those of us that have something wrong with our uniform, (we) are unaware of it and would like to be correct. If you can help us, most of us would appreciate it.

Response by PO1 Chad Alcock made Feb 14 at 2020 11:10 AM

2020-02-14T11:10:12-05:00

I was at my first Navy Ball, while at "A" School in Pensacola (after having spent 6 1/2 years in the Army). I was talking with a Marine Colonel and pointed out that he was missing a button on his mess dress shirt. Other junior sailors were aghast that I said anything, but the Colonel looked to make sure the button was actually still there, it had just come undone. He just said " Good those damned things are expensive!" and thanked me for letting him know.

Response by SSG David Kaelin made Feb 16 at 2020 2:54 PM

2020-02-16T14:54:52-05:00

I did it all of the time.

"LT, you're soup sandwich. Let me square you away."

"Big Sarge, look at that."

"CPT, I didn't think that was authorized."|

There's always a way to do it.

The thing one has to remember is that General Officers can pretty much make any change to AR 670-1 that they wish to make for themselves or their unit.

Response by PO2 Steve Wikert made Feb 19 at 2020 11:26 AM

2020-02-19T11:26:13-05:00

When I was a military policeman in jeep patrols stationed in Danang, Vietnam (1970-71) all outside of compounds were "off limits" to military personnel. Part of our job was to apprehend any American found off base if they were military. One day we came upon an American walking along an isolated ville road with civvies on. He gave us a bunch of "sh_t" and claimed he was an officer Navy (LtJg) and had the right to be there because of his rank. He did have what looked like a valid military ID. He said he outranked us and how dare we arrest him. We both pointed to our white helmets and said these outrank anybody anywhere when we are on duty. We were professional and respectful but made sure his handcuffs were well secured (really tight) He became actually pretty belligerent making threats of putting us on report We put him in the jail cell when we got back to headquarters. We asked out Chief (E-7) who did not take sh_t from anybody to be there when he was picked up. A more superior officer from his outfit (which we requested) did pick him up. He was still making threats toward us and his superior told him to "Pipe down or YOU will be the one going on report." I can't lie to you it really felt good!! We laughed our asses off after they left. BUT NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW!

Response by SMSgt Cary Baker made Mar 4 at 2020 10:22 AM

2020-03-04T10:22:26-05:00

I believe the majority will thank you for squaring them away. As a Senior MSgt, if I was approached (professionally and politely), by a junior rank for this reason, I always thanked them. I would rather have that, then my superiors approach me and correct it.

Response by SPC Troy Shelby made Mar 6 at 2020 12:18 AM

2020-03-06T00:18:30-05:00

We had one butter bar in our unit that insisted he be saluted no matter where we were In garrison salute, in mess hall salute, in the field salute, while everywhere except the field was acceptable and correct, a smart officer would rip you apart for saluting in the field well this guy was not smart so as a joke for him we all changed the greeting of the day to Sniper Check Sir, After a while, he figured out what we were trying to tell him and then he didn't want to be saluted anywhere it was awesome

Response by SCPO Paul Sayles made Mar 15 at 2020 8:29 AM

2020-03-15T08:29:19-04:00

Check the award winners mug shots. There are bound to be ribbons on wrong or missing. I was at a dining out where an O-5 had his medals on the wrong side of his mess dress jacket. I told him I thought there was a problem and at first he doubted me until he turned around and looked at everyone else. I think it depends on how it is done. If you embarrass the person, stand by for some push back. If you do it informally or as a question you will likely get a more positive outcome.

Response by CW4 Jeffrey Sumners made Mar 15 at 2020 7:32 PM

2020-03-15T19:32:34-04:00

I was a CW2 and walked past two 2LTs trainees in flight uniform who didn't bother to stop talking to each other to return my solute. I could clearly see that one had a gold stud in his tongue. I turn and call him out and 'ordered' him to remove the stud immediately. He 'pulled' rank and told me to shove it and he would have me on charges for disrespect. I said fine, I have nothing to do, do you want to start with the Co, Bn, or Bde CO? I name all three by name. All the commanders on the Post knew me because I was the Post Protocol Officer for all Installation and tenant activities. The 2LT proceeded to remove his embarrassing tongue stud without further comment.

Response by SPC Robert Hendrickson made Mar 16 at 2020 7:56 AM

2020-03-16T07:56:32-04:00

On the spot checking a senior ranking soldier..yes several times and even s.c. a senior nco. More respect was given from the soldiers and if given properly that will go longer ways to instill trust and etc. : )

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 17 at 2020 12:29 PM

2020-03-17T12:29:11-04:00

I don't care what my rank is. If I'm jacked up, I prefer to get squared away. If I outrank you and you're afraid to say something, either you don't know me or I have failed to create a command climate that allows you to correct problems.

Response by CPT Michael Moyers made Mar 17 at 2020 6:01 PM

2020-03-17T18:01:48-04:00

Yes, I’ve done the checking and been the checkee. As other have said, it all comes down to tact and professionalism.

When I was a SGT our installation had just opened a new commissary. I somehow ended up as part of the dog and pony show. Afterwards, the CG was standing outside, having a conversation with some people. He was not wearing his PC. I approached him, stood politely off to the side, but within his LOS, and waited until the conversation ended and the others walked away. I saluted, and when he returned the salute I said quietly that he wasn’t wearing his headgear. I acknowledged that while he was walking and talking with the assembled guests, it must have just slipped his mind because he was so deep in conversation. He half smiled, thanked me, and pulled his PC out of his pocket and put it on. The looks on the faces of the collection of FG officers was awesome; I think one had kittens.

As the superior, I had gotten out of my car and rushed to a hastily called ceremony for a tree planting. It was summertime in Georgia and I had completely spaced on removing my polarized sunglasses that I wear while driving. The BDE CSM (we can debate the merits of calling a CPT “superior” to a BDE CSM until the cows come home) approached me, saluted, and sidled up next to me. He tilted his head over and whispered “hey sir, those are sexy but I’m still in duty.” I was half confused about what he was referencing, but he gave me the head-nod towards my face. I reached up and realized that I still had them on. I took them off and told him that he’d have to get in line. He chuckled, patted me on the shoulder, saluted, and walked away.

Response by SCPO Sam Allerton made Mar 18 at 2020 9:11 AM

2020-03-18T09:11:32-04:00

Yes, but never in boot camp. Reponses to everything in boot camp are expected to be exaggerated.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cichelli made Mar 19 at 2020 8:03 AM

2020-03-19T08:03:33-04:00

Did this a lot and made sure to correct someone in private, especially if they out rank you. But even if you outrank the person, do it quietly and discreetly. Never had an issue correcting superiors peers and subordinates.

Response by SPC James Cooke made Mar 20 at 2020 3:15 PM

2020-03-20T15:15:08-04:00

Had a DFAC NCO (my old SSG) that was wearing a cook's uniform. His zipper was down. I was standing to the right of the double doors watching the main line serving sizes and the to-go clams (I was also a 92G, but I was one of the DFAC's R&U (Supply & Maintenance) soldiers). SSG walks by to go back into the kitchen and I noticed it, but the SSG didn't hear me call for him. He walks towards the kitchen again after checking the main lines and outside line. I put my left hand up and tap his left shoulder. He stops. I say, "Your zipper." He comes closer, "Hmm?" I bumped my head down. "Your zipper." SSG looks down, pulls his zipper up, and gives me a nod and "Thanks," and carries on with his shift.

No idea how many cooks and other soldiers saw it and didn't say anything.

Nobody else was close enough to hear our very short conversation.

Response by SGT Chester Beedle made Mar 21 at 2020 3:18 PM

2020-03-21T15:18:11-04:00

A number of times, both active and Guard. The key is tact and knowing when and how to approach the person. Don't go at it like a DS would a trainee! Obvious. More like Sir/Sergeant/1SG/CSM/SGM, your bootlace is hanging out or your nametag is upside down. Everyone makes a silly mistake sometime, and most will just accept they made one. Only if they are some egotistical asshole will they be a dick to you about it. Or if you forget that tact thing and try to embarrass them. Especially if it's say a group of new LTs and one is messing with another.
The way SPC Z. Weaver did with his DS is a perfect example of how to do it. A little more extreme because of course he was in Basic, but the technique was great.

Response by Sgt Jude Eschete made Mar 24 at 2020 11:15 AM

2020-03-24T11:15:14-04:00

Yes my CO, a LtCol, we were wearing service uniforms and his ribbons were sliding off on one spot. I just simply said excuse me sir but your ribbons are sliding off.

It's not hard, just use some tact.

Response by SFC David Hackett made Mar 26 at 2020 11:29 PM

2020-03-26T23:29:26-04:00

Back when I was an A1C in my Air Force days in the 80's I worked in a dental clinic and was at the front desk this particular day. A major approached the desk to check in and he had his name tag and his ribbon bars on the opposite sides. I politely leaned forward and quietly told him that his things were on the wrong side. He proceeded to go off on me at the front desk and something to the effect of MYOB. He then proceeded to sit in the waiting room with everything still the same. I even mentioned that there was a bathroom around the corner with a mirror. I then went a knocked on our O6's office door and politely explained to him what happened and his reaction. Our COL was a Vietnam era vet and he was a great guy and supported us totally. He asked if I was sure and I said "yes sir" and he got up from the desk and asked me to show him who it was. We stood at the corner of the desk and I pointed to who he was and our COL basically teamed his ass right there and said that I was extending professional courtesy and that his Airman were a direct reflection on him and his full support and it was unprofessional of him to react in the way he did and basically pointed to the same bathroom that I had mentioned earlier and to not return until his uniform was in order. The major was very embarrassed and scurried out and returned properly adorned. When he checked out he apologized to me for his reaction. It doesn't matter what your rank is if you address a senior professionally normally they are very grateful. Col Leonard Spencer was the best OIC that I ever had!
SFC Ret David R. Hackett

Response by MSgt Allen Chandler made Apr 7 at 2020 5:15 PM

2020-04-07T17:15:38-04:00

I’m adding this comment on April 7, 2020 after seeing some of the replies to my early comment about not being able to wear a hat for over a year. I’m very proud of the 21 years I put in the Air Force and the job I did. I am not proud of numbers Mickey Mouse rules that we had and numerous Mickey Mouse rules that we InForest. I will remember A fellow airman been brought up on charges By a Sergeant for his hair being too long and sticking out under his hat. It wasn’t touching his neck or beyond his years it just stuck out funny. The squadron commander Listen to both sides and ordered the man to get a bigger hat. I didn’t like hazing in college and I didn’t like it in the military. In the military you were in a job where are you ruin your life on the line are you at a job where you were getting ready to wear your life on the line. I had many many great leaders that do that and truly dislike that was the story. I also remember a few assholes that just couldn’t understand the real world. This may surprise you but I didn’t think much of them as leaders.

Response by SSG Dennis R. made Apr 7 at 2020 8:25 PM

2020-04-07T20:25:47-04:00

My final assignment was NCOIC of Outpatient Psychiatry and Psychology Services at DDEAMC. Psychologists at that time came directly to active duty the day they walked into the clinic, as O-3's. We had to build their Army record from there. 4 brand new Captains each year as interns, knowing little more about the Army than a 17-year-old enlistee on their first day at the Reception Center. They would attend Officer's Basic upon the completion of the internship.

I was at Rucker in '68 for Huey AIT. I remember walking with 2 buddies - all of us PVT's - and saluting a 2LT left-handed - for shits & grins - he never noticed.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2020 10:40 PM

2020-04-07T22:40:40-04:00

Leadership 101: ask them if you can speak with them and let them know the fault you see. Do so in a respectful manner and most of the time it will be acknowledged. If not go tell your 1SG and let them handle it.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2020 9:13 AM

2020-04-08T09:13:30-04:00

when I was a 1LT had a knee injury requiring a leg brace from ankle to hip and crutches. BN CO sent me alone to pick up a box of Motorola handhelds from a unit across post. December at Ft Stewart. I get the radios and, since I just hobbling back to my vehicle I don't put on my field jacket, just drape it across my back. This SGM decided to do a spot check. I took great joy in having him stand there and hold that box of radios and my crutches while I fixed my deficiency. Who knew it could take 10 minutes to put on a field jacket?

Response by PO1 Lyndon Thomas made Apr 8 at 2020 3:48 PM

2020-04-08T15:48:21-04:00

I was heading to a somewhat formal military event I believe it was a COC. I see this proud Navy Commander walking towards me and I simply said pardon me Sir, but you have a couple of awards out of order, mind if I fix it? He said My God Sure! He even said lets go somewhere less embarrassing. he even took the shirt off while I fixed him up!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2020 7:47 PM

2020-04-12T19:47:55-04:00

As a CPT, I arrived for our Brigade’s Welcome Home parade. I met our Battalion Chaplain (1LT)for the first time. He pulled me aside and corrected the placement of my name and Army tapes, which I had reversed. I appreciated his correcting me.

Response by PO1 Tim Scimemi made Apr 14 at 2020 1:42 PM

2020-04-14T13:42:26-04:00

I, once on a field exorcise, took the visiting base commander (a Naval Aviation type), who was visiting the exorcise, off to the side respectfully informed him that his "borrowed" SEABEE uniform trouser legs were supposed to be 'blowsed" and his wern't. i took him over to my tent and gave him a set of blousing straps to help "get him into the proper uniform". He got a great kick out of it! a really good guy.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2020 5:04 PM

2020-04-17T17:04:39-04:00

I sent a text message to my 1SG to inform him that CSM's flag was crooked as all out.

Response by LCDR Joseph Richter made Apr 25 at 2020 1:03 AM

2020-04-25T01:03:40-04:00

I worked for this particular two star admiral at the time I am commenting on. He was well liked and respected, I too liked and respected this man. We were at the Navy Ball and I looked over and the Admirals Medals were on the right breast pocket. I made comment to a shipmate next to me, he said nobody has the balls to bring that to his attention, I said, I do, he's my skipper and I don't want him embarrassed throughout the night. I went over to him, and addressed him and asked if we could have a brief chat, only a couple moments, away from the head table. I told him of his ribbons, actually he took them off and I personally got to pin 12 medals on an admiral, bragging rights! He thanked me graciously and we enjoyed the night.

Response by COL Don Hall made Apr 29 at 2020 8:29 PM

2020-04-29T20:29:20-04:00

I don't know if this exactly counts, but in 1985 I was a captain assigned to the 1st Medical Group at Fort Hood, TX, and there was a Command Sergeant Major visiting our Group Command Sergeant Major. He caught my attention as the two of them were walking through our 3 shop on the way to the parking lot, because he had an 11th ACR Shoulder Patch, but we had a company that was war-traced to them, so it wasn't necessarily out of the question. Then I noticed he had a III Corps combat patch. But in 1985 NOBODY had a III Corps combat patch, because they hadn't been in combat since 1945. So I jumped up, discretely tapped him on the shoulder as he was about to step out of our office into the parking lot, and whispered "Um, Sergeant Major, I think they sewed your patches on the wrong shoulders." (It was clearly a brand new uniform) So he looked at his right sleeve, looked at his left sleeve, went "God damn it all to hell, I've been walking around all morning like this. Thanks." And then he left. I considered it my good deed for the day. I see it a lot more frequently nowadays, but it's not such a big deal, because of the Velcro. But it was a big deal in 1985, especially because a lot of people had probably noticed but were probably afraid to say anything . . .

Response by LTC Michael Keenan made May 10 at 2020 2:44 PM

2020-05-10T14:44:29-04:00

Back in '76 my Reserve unit was on annual training at Edgewood Arsenal. The uniforms for us were class B khakis/TWs for the officers and OD fatigues for the enlisted. As we were standing in line for breakfast, one of our officers, 1LT "V" was ready to pay for his meal. The headcount NCO looked carefully at him and suggested something appeared wrong with his uniform. 1LT "V" checked himself and said he thought it was OK. I, then a Sp5, politely asked 1LT "V" to do an about face so I could check him myself. I immediately saw the problem: all his insignia and decorations were exactly in the mirror image of what they should have been. CPT "N", another unit member who was right behind me, also saw the problem. Together, CPT "N" and I escorted 1LT "V" to the men's latrine. CPT "N" put 1lT "V" at "attention." Then CPT "N" and I quickly rearranged 1LT "V"s decorations and insignia to be regulation. So much for using a mirror to arrange your uniform. We proceeded to breakfast without further incident.

Response by SSG Gregg Mourizen made May 19 at 2020 1:55 AM

2020-05-19T01:55:38-04:00

Yes, It could be very fun, in the right situation. Best case scenario, pull them off to the side and quietly let them know. I respectable senior will fix themselves. You could always point it out to their superior. Never call them out, publicly, unless you are ready to take the backlash.

I've done this one, three times (different Battalion Commanders).
The BC was doing a open ranks inspection. By the time the BC got to my platoon and squad, no one took the opportunity to let him know he had shaving cream on his face. After he finished inspecting me, I whispered to him he had shaving cream next to his ear. He quickly fixed it, and I confirmed he got it. He then moved on to the next guy.

It still amazes me that, neither the CO, SGM or 1SGT, let him know he was jacked up, before letting him inspect his troops, to see if they were jacked. I can only imagine how pissed he was, about that.

Response by SPC Brian Stephens made Jun 11 at 2020 11:54 AM

2020-06-11T11:54:56-04:00

I have and I did it discreetly. They thanked me for it and moved on.

Response by SSG David Angell made Jun 14 at 2020 10:51 PM

2020-06-14T22:51:52-04:00

While stationed in Iraq, for the 3rd time, I was at an internet building when I saw a soldier in dress Uniform. I noticed that he had reversed his ribbon and name plate locations. I didn't see any rank at first glance other then the reversed placings.
As respect for that, not knowing the rank, as I wasn't paying any attention to it, I just said.."Excuse me soldier". He stopped and turned around, and when I finally saw that he was a MAJ, I then went back to the correct addressing, per his rank. I said "Sir, I don't know if you know it but, your name plate and ribbons are reversed.
He looked at me and then looked at the ribbon and name plate. He said Thanks, because he was about to have a meeting with a Colonel and didn't want to screw things up. He said next time he will pay close attention on the placement, as he told me that he had it hanging up, while putting his uniform together.
He laughed! I think more from embarrassment, then anything else.

Response by SSG Clayton Lam made Jun 16 at 2020 5:04 PM

2020-06-16T17:04:10-04:00

I did and i learned early on that it’s best to do it away from their peers because they may become defensive. You address them according to their rank (I.e. sir or ma’am or whatever their NCO rank is). Do it tactfully and be respectful and if they choose not to adhere then just walk away. I told a WO that he should not be wearing his headgear in doors and he immediately pulled rank eve though I did it in a respectful manner. One major factor is to make sure you are correct; I mean make sure it’s in the refs and not some barracks lawyer information.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2020 3:45 PM

2020-06-18T15:45:58-04:00

1. In the grand scheme of things, who cares?
2. Do yourself a favor: Ditch the (P) after your rank. No one cares until you get promoted. It's an ego trap. Avoid it ... unless you're one of our Navy friends who like the term "select". Even then, well, it's kind of a douche move. My .02.

Response by SGT Allen Treviranus made Jun 22 at 2020 4:57 PM

2020-06-22T16:57:37-04:00

Hey SGM, there's some toilet paper on your boot.
*SGM removes toilet paper*.
Life went on.

Response by TSgt Renetta Bradford made Jul 8 at 2020 10:12 AM

2020-07-08T10:12:28-04:00

Thanks for the post today. Although I am Air Force (grins) I can relate to both the fear and excitement you felt. Carry on indeed! Love it!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 11 at 2020 5:24 PM

2020-07-11T17:24:28-04:00

While I was at Fort Hood, I was waiting in the III Corps HQ foyer when I noticed a CSM with his name and US ARMY tag flipped. As a SSG, I respectfully pulled him aside with an “Excuse me CSM, can I speak with you a second? I’m not sure if you’re aware, but your tags are flipped.” He said “My staff has let me walk around all goddamn day looking like an ass right before meeting with the Corps CSM. I’m going to kill them. Thank you sergeant.”

Any decent leader will accept the on the spot correction with grace and gratitude. I would rather have a private correct me if my patches or something are messed up than someone higher ranking than me, personally.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2020 11:54 AM

2020-07-19T11:54:52-04:00

Was in Afghanistan and was posted outside of a generals office (wont say which or what fob) because I was escorting an Afghan that was having a meeting with the general. A colonel was fast walking up to attend the meeting and his uniform was DICKED up. Like, you could tell he was in a huge rush but regardless I stood up and stopped him. For context I'm in the infantry and was a specialist at the time, and he was an Air Force Colonel.
me - "sir wait wait wait."
Colonel - "You better have a good f-ing reason for stopping me"
me - "Sir, your rank is crooked, your patches aren't dress right dress and your flag is on the wrong sleeve." I then proceed to fix it for him as quickly as I can. "there you go sir, no disrespect, just looking out."
He just said thanks real quick and ran in because he was late but he did come find me later after I was done with the escort and thanked me. We talked for a bit and he was really kind of chill. I'm sure that would have gone differently if we weren't in country but still. We did have a good laugh about how he initially wanted to wring my neck when I stopped him.

Response by SSG Ray Elliott made Jul 19 at 2020 12:15 PM

2020-07-19T12:15:21-04:00

We looked out for each other, if you saw someone regardless of rank that their uniform was out of regulation we politely out of earshot of others told them. The usually response was thanks for letting me know I'll fix it. I told my CO who obviously got dressed that morning in a rush that I believe he put his ribbons on Upside down that morning. I did it after morning formation in the privacy of his office. He appreciated the correction and fixed it immediately.

Response by SSG Eric Blue made Jul 25 at 2020 4:15 PM

2020-07-25T16:15:06-04:00

Oh, I've spot-checked MANY A SENIOR during my time in the Army! In some cases, I received "thank you, PV2/PFC/SPC/SGT/SSG Blue for squaring me away." In others, I've been told "I don't care", "Who the f--- are YOU to check ME", and "SHUT THE F--- UP AND DO WHAT THE F--- I TELL YOU, AIRBORNE!" But it was my responsibility to (1) make the correction tactfully & respectfully and (2) to remind those leaders that they can't except soldiers to adhere to the standards if they themselves don't do the right thing. I don't like for other soldiers (regardless of rank) to embarrass themselves in the uniform because that makes me look bad for not keeping them squared away, nor do I like for someone who outranks them to dig in their ass about it. If my correction to that senior isn't taken, that isn't my problem.

Response by SSG Paul Carrier made Jul 30 at 2020 11:27 AM

2020-07-30T11:27:41-04:00

I have no knowledge of turning my captains bars sideways on his hat....

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2020 3:52 PM

2020-07-31T15:52:53-04:00

I ( as an E-6) once encountered an Army medical officer on Ft Detrick whose cap was on backwards (2LT). I discretely told him his hat was on backward and he fixed. We exchanged salutes and went our ways.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 1 at 2020 11:25 AM

2020-08-01T11:25:46-04:00

My son (SPC) got spot checke for failing to put his tapes on his gray jacket by a CPT. He corrected immediately. Then he told the CPT his name and is army were on the wrong sides. Back at ya.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 2 at 2020 12:46 PM

2020-08-02T12:46:32-04:00

I guess one way of looking at it is that when it's someone senior to you, it's not spot checking, it's "a second set of eyes."

Response by CPT Don Kemp made Aug 2 at 2020 8:38 PM

2020-08-02T20:38:52-04:00

I was a prior service SSG and an ROTC cadet when I corrected the LTC ROTC Commander for hands in his pockets. Didn’t go well.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 4 at 2020 10:49 AM

2020-08-04T10:49:57-04:00

I've told many a superior - NCO, Company and Field Grade officer, couple General officers - that something on their uniform was jacked up. Sometimes I was able to just point at the location on myself and got them to see it on their own uniform, occasionally I had to spell it out for them. A simple "Sir, you got a snake." or such had them fixing the issue without any further comment beyond thanks for pointing it out. Had fun with the General that asked his aide why he left him walking around looking ate up and didn't say anything. But as someone else said, keep perspective of why someone might be looking ate up... If they just came out of the field or a long day in the motor pool, they don't care about being dirty, or loose boot lace if they are headed straight home from formation. They just wanna go home and take off the uniform altogether!

Response by CDR Tom Davy made Aug 4 at 2020 6:04 PM

2020-08-04T18:04:51-04:00

When I was a HM1 (E-6 Corpsman), I noticed that a medical Commander (O-5) had his collar rank and staff corps devices on the wrong collars. I gave my XO a word and he privately advised the doctor.
My Flag Sea Daddy sent out a massive e-mail that had embedded in it a racist photo of President Obama. I asked if he had done that on purpose; he immediately recalled the e-mail, apologized to anyone who had read it, and thanked me for having younger eyes that caught the offensive picture.
My point is that, if handled quietly, seniors usually appreciate a junior who is looking out for them.

Response by SPC Dawn Appelberg (Johnson) made Aug 4 at 2020 6:30 PM

2020-08-04T18:30:17-04:00

With extreme respect and professionalism. "Sir, your rank is upside down." "Ma'am, you may want to look at your beret." No reason to be rude.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 4 at 2020 7:35 PM

2020-08-04T19:35:34-04:00

Nope!!!! I Usually let em be.. I had a LTC who would walk with his hands in his pockets and I would let him be.. You might mean well. But depending on the situation, you could have started something you can't finish or win.

Response by SCPO Sam Allerton made Aug 6 at 2020 10:28 AM

2020-08-06T10:28:22-04:00

As a Chief / Senior Chief / Master Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy, it is our job to spot check everyone, all the time, regardless of rank. As a Senior Chief Petty Officer, on my way to the hangar deck one morning for Quarters, I was standing outside of Maintenance Control "spot checking" haircuts and uniforms as personnel headed out to line up. Out comes a young lieutenant (a pilot), who had clearly been out too late the evening prior. I stopped him, asked if I could speak to him privately. When were out of earshot of the others, I asked if he was headed to quarters. He replied in the affirmative. I asked if he realized his uniform was out of regs. He replied indignantly "what's wrong with my uniform?". I asked him to check his placement of ribbons / devices. He didn't get it at first, but when he did, he appeared to deflate like a balloon. I suggested, going forward, that he not put his khaki uniform together (ribbons / warfare device) while he was looking at himself in the mirror. He had positioned his ribbons and warfare device on his own right breast, an exact mirror image of what would have been correct.

This is a great question and I wish more personnel asked it. This subject - in my opinion - is the basis of good order and discipline. The only way EVERYONE in the command gets the message that part of BEING professional is LOOKING professional is for everyone to be watchful of each other. This is the beginning of the razor's edge for any unit. At the very least, senior noncoms should be checking their people for uniform / haircut / military bearing infractions all the time. It's how a unit gets and maintains its reputation for having squared away Sailors. I've been on both sides of this. In my experience, there is no middle ground. A team that LOOKS professional tends to out perform those that do not.

Response by CPO Kurt Baschab made Aug 6 at 2020 8:31 PM

2020-08-06T20:31:19-04:00

You do it with RESPECT, and out of ear shot of others, no one wants to walk around out of Uniform, a good shipmate or team mate lets his senior members know they are out of Uniform.

it unit Pride thing one looks bad we all look bad.
but you do it with Respect, I never jumped down every junior member who made a mistake on there uniform, if it was not a normal situation, I would walk up and just tell them to fix there Uniform. now if I had a individual that was Consistently messing up,or out of uniform I would do two things, I would get on there case, and I would ASSIGN a Mentor to help him or her Correct his or her situation.

I would then stop talking to junior member, and start talking to the Mentor that I assigned to him or her on how they were Progressing, This would give me a opportunity to see the Leadership ability of the person I assigned to mentor the Individual, and a chance to mentor him or her on basic leadership, once he or she did ok with one Individual, I would Assign him or her multi individuals. it was a win win.

Response by CPO Bernie Penkin made Aug 7 at 2020 10:51 AM

2020-08-07T10:51:14-04:00

Had an Coast Guard E-7 (definitely not a Chief) ask me where my long sleeves were at one day after I had just pulled in across the pier from a very rough multi day SAR case. Hadn’t slept in about that long a time. I looked at him and said “I must have left them on my other shirt as I walked by.” He wanted to argue and I just told him what happened and he said he would talk to my CO. Please do was my response.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Aug 7 at 2020 3:40 PM

2020-08-07T15:40:02-04:00

Yes, with respect and tact. The reaction by any Soldier being corrected is usually well received and appreciated. Jerks will be jerks, when folks Senior to me were jerks I was always able to help them to the next higher commanders office for a deeper discussion.

Response by SSG Jeffrey Monk made Aug 8 at 2020 9:31 AM

2020-08-08T09:31:18-04:00

Yes. Nothing fancy just whispered to my Lt that his rank was missing on his cover or the bar was side ways. The poor guy was always getting pranked but he was a great officer and I will only say that about my top five in my whole career. Now once the ACU velcro wonder came out you didn't want to take your top off with out something getting changed.

Response by SFC Ernest Thurston made Aug 9 at 2020 5:11 PM

2020-08-09T17:11:09-04:00

I used to do it on almost a weekly basis. I was assigned as an MP to the Letterman Army Medical Center at the Presidio of San Francisco. Medical Officer were always coming to work with some kind of uniform problem, like ribbons on the wrong side. Or brass in the wrong place. Once there was one that came in with his lab coat under his greens. I usually would just say something like "Sir you must have put your uniform together in front of the mirror". And then I would point out everything was backward. I was always polite and did it in a humorous way. Most of the time they were embarrassed and thanked me. One even asked me to help him set it up correctly. You have to understand that this was the seventies and most of these doctors were reservist. The didn't act like soldiers. They were doctors first. I also used to have fun with them because they avoided saluting. We would post ourselves around so the Docs would have to salute several time before getting inside. The Docs would go in there office and immediately change into scrubs or a lab coat. I never once had anyone take offence at me making a uniform correction I've had several times where I corrected a senior NCO or office wearing field gear. I don't know how many times I've taken an SGM or a Col aside and said something like "Your ammo pouches are supposed to be in the front or your holster goes on your hip not in front of your crouch." Weapons training was always fun too. A lot of medical and admin "leader" didn't know or remember how to operate an M16. Sometimes it was like training a week #1 basic trainer how to shoot!

Response by LTC Leonard M. Manning, Sr made Aug 10 at 2020 11:19 AM

2020-08-10T11:19:52-04:00

When I was an E5 Platoon Sargent stationed at Ft. Gordon, Ga in the 1970s I checked the post commander for the length of his uniform trousers. I contacted his Aide with my observation. I was told to mind my own business and was soon transferred to Ft. Bragg, NC.

Response by 1SG Billye Jackson made Aug 23 at 2020 10:26 AM

2020-08-23T10:26:44-04:00

Once in Graf at a 50 Cal Range, I as a First Sgt called a Cpt off to he Side and Asked hem to remove a German Nick scarf off as it was not part of the Uniform. His response was " I'm a Cpt. you don't tell me what my Uniform is" with which I Saluted hem said "Three Bags Full" did an About Face Got in my Jeep and went to the Next Range and informed the Bn XO what had happen. He Beat me back to the 50 Cal range and was Letting the Cpt have it. Needless to say the Cpt and I didn't have a very good relationship after that. Oh and the XO left with the Scarf in his Hand.

Response by SSG Dave Johnston made Aug 24 at 2020 6:32 PM

2020-08-24T18:32:54-04:00

Yes I have, I was a bit tough on him, and he wondered who I was and why I was correcting him...
May 1989 Ft. Bragg NC MFO Rotation
I won't go into the details of what deficiencies I pointed out and the corrections needed to be made, suffice it to say that; Nnnnnnnnnnn. I wondered if he had any mentors at his previous unit.

Response by SPC Thomas Kosakowski made Sep 12 at 2020 10:43 AM

2020-09-12T10:43:19-04:00

As an enlisted in the S-4 office,we always checked each other out. With all the brass running about, you better look good. It was appreciated by all if something was not right.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 20 at 2020 7:23 PM

2020-09-20T19:23:16-04:00

More times than I can count. Giving someone a correction is just courtesy. Whole stationed at Knox as a SPC and SGT I routinely corrected MAJs, LTCs and COLs for uniform issues. Never an issue. Just say “excuse me, sir or Ma’am, such and such is wrong just wanted to let you know.” Every time I was told, oh thank you I didn’t realize that” or “whoops, I’ll fix that thanks”

Response by MSG Lonnie Averkamp made Sep 25 at 2020 7:43 PM

2020-09-25T19:43:33-04:00

I was a Drill Sergeant (E-6), when the Army first started issuing the "speed lace" boot. A Senior D.I. (E-7) bragged about how a Private had his laces wrapped around his boots, in violation of the Army Regulation, and so he cut them off with his knife - thereby rendering the laces unserviceable. I said that the Private was following the tag that came with the boots, and the E-7 said that those were "suggestions", and that the AR superseded them. I said, "Those were Instructions that came with a piece of Issued Equipment, and cutting the laces may fall under Destruction of Government Property". I didn't belabor the Point, but I didn't hear of any more laces getting cut.

Response by CW4 Glen Nardin made Sep 26 at 2020 8:51 PM

2020-09-26T20:51:01-04:00

When I was at Ft. Sill as a Sgt, I appointed myself to stand at the door of the Officers Club at a dress blues event and pull all the LTs aside and inform them of uniform violations. I got nothing but Kudos because I saved a lot of them from their sergeant majors!

Response by Col Richard Roessler made Sep 28 at 2020 7:41 PM

2020-09-28T19:41:42-04:00

Contrary to popular opinion (LOL), those senior in rank are not immune from stupid. I have been corrected by subordinates for minor uniform infractions. I was embarrassed and got back at the subordinate by saying ‘THANK YOU!’
I would suggest not starting your correction with the words, ‘Yo, stupid. Who taught you how to dress?’ but yeah, if I had my cover on backwards I would want someone to say, ‘Er Sir, you might want to check your cover....’

Response by SPC Carmen H Ramirez made Oct 12 at 2020 10:09 PM

2020-10-12T22:09:35-04:00

I did spot check a platoon Sargent for needing a haircut, He didn't like it. He afterward asked to speak to me away from the rest of the soldiers and told me that to embarrass him like that was unprofessional. He said I should have pulled him aside like he had done me and told me in private. I disagreed mentally and let him have his way that he thought he was right. At the time I spot checked him, he was criticizing a couple of other soldiers. I thought he was being a hypocrite so I pointed out he needed a haircut. I guess he can dish it out but can't take it.

Response by SFC Wilfredo Ramos made Nov 1 at 2020 7:22 PM

2020-11-01T19:22:24-05:00

Once in Iraq (I was SFC) a PFC came up to me and said "Sergeant your name and US Army are backward" I looked at my uniform and he was right I thanked him and I started to laugh thinking how many other Soldiers realized it and did not dare to say anything. The PFC was in a respectful way and it was correct. I thanked him because there is nothing wrong with a Soldier correcting his superior in a respectful way.

Response by SSgt Derick Brock made Nov 3 at 2020 9:23 AM

2020-11-03T09:23:09-05:00

I assume you mean other than playing with the butter bars.

Response by SPC Chris Ison made Nov 9 at 2020 1:16 PM

2020-11-09T13:16:27-05:00

This is going to be a long post so bear with me, I will try to be as brief as I can.

in 2004, just before we deployed to Iraq, we were at NTC. We had a "fresh" first lt, he was a prior service officer who had just finished OCS and his officer basic course, I am not sure where he came form he was transferred into our unit as we were short on officers. He was assigned as "liaison officer" and I was his driver. He had a habit of bitching about NG soldiers and how "sloppy" they looked and behaved.

One day we were working alongside the 10th Signal, and I said to him, "I am going to show you the difference between a NG soldier and active duty soldier." I Summed up my best command voice and barked, "What the fuck is this shit? Where is my wedge formation?" The 10th signal guys did nothing but simply look left to get their interval and fell right into a wedge. The NG soldiers looked around to see who issued the order, as they did not think they had to follow someone who did not outrank them. I explained that as a NG soldier you have a civilian job, one where you may have a certain amount of independence and responsibility, and that affects the nature of the chain of command in the guard. Many specialist are better leaders than NCO's due to their civilian job.

He never got the point and continued to bitch about NG soldiers, so I asked for, and got a transfer to a line unit.

Fast forward we are in Iraq, there is an NCO who was a former officer in the AIr Force (he may have been in a reserve component I am not sure), but he was trying to get his commission back, i remember seeing him submit his paperwork way back when I was still a part of the BN staff. We were in An Najaf, and he was running around without a Kevlar, My Platoon Sergent asked me to ask him to put his Kevlar on, When I relayed the message he whined to the 1lt i had previously spoken of about being told what to do by a specialist (of which I was just the messenger). He never put his Kevlar on.

Sometime after that I was on patrol as gunner with the scout platoon, and we met up up with the other squad who was on patrol with us, and there was a sergeant who had his Kevlar off. This particular NCO had 4 years of active duty in the Corps. The TC's and such chatted for about three minutes, and then my TL said, "Okay Ison you pick, where do you want to go?" I said, "I don't care as long as I get to ride around with no Kevlar like Sgt X. SGt X did not get angry, he did not bitch, he did not tell me to mind my own business. He knew he was wrong; and he was wrong in front of a specialist. He simply grabbed his Kevlar, said " thank you", and they left.

A good leader acknowledges when they have made a mistake, and since the best leaders lead by example they know they must also follow the regulations. 'Do as I say, not as I do' has no place in the Army (or any other branch).

Response by SMSgt Bob Wilson made Nov 14 at 2020 9:24 PM

2020-11-14T21:24:37-05:00

Yes; as a matter of fact is was a regulation requirement in maintenance. The person performing the work could me clear a aircraft grounding issue. I had supervisors performing the work. I went out and checked it to ensure it was correct and cleared the aircraft. Once, I found something wrong with a supervisor's work. He was standing watching me when I found a loose "B'-nut. The problem was corrected, he apologized for the error and bought me lunch. It was never brought up again. RULE OF THUMB: The person who clears the discrepancy is responsible should something goes wrong. Never that a person's word in this situation.

Response by GySgt Thomas Vick made Nov 15 at 2020 9:37 AM

2020-11-15T09:37:30-05:00

It should be, but most awards come with a accommodation letter, if anyone is questioning you should show both.

Response by MSG Clyde Mills made Nov 15 at 2020 11:17 AM

2020-11-15T11:17:15-05:00

I was walking on one side of the street in Germany talking to my ex-wife and out of the corner of my eye I saw another soldier walk past. Clearly across on the other side of the street on the sidewalk, which was at least a good 30 to 40 feet away. As this soldier passed by, he yells out, excuse me soldier are you forgetting something. I turn around and look and still have no clue as to what he is talking about. So I walk towards the soldier and as I get closer and get to within 6 paces I render a proper salute. Because he is a 2nd. Lt., he then begins to give me a lecture on when passing an Officer, that I should have rendered a hand salute since he was an Officer.
Oh the blood was boiling in me so bad atm, but I kept my cool and respectfully informed him that according to Military Regulations Enlisted soldier's only have to render a hand Salute when 6 paces from an Officer while outdoors walking towards each other. But being that you were clearly 30 to 40 feet away from me and on the other side of the street, I had no reason to render a salute to you at all, nor should you have stopped me at all or interrupted my conversation with my ex-spouse. He was totally tongue tied and still felt he was in the right and I told him he was absolutely incorrect. I was an E-5 at the time and also was going through the Sgt Morales Club at the time. Of which I had made it to the 3rd level out of 5 so far. So my knowledge of Military regulations on Drill and Ceremonies was at the top of my game 100%.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2020 5:27 PM

2020-12-07T17:27:01-05:00

Our new brigade commander came out of a huge brigade meeting, and as he was walking down the sidewalk I saluted him and said “Excuse me, sir, your unit patch is upside down. North Star is supposed to be on top.” He was pissed at everyone in the meeting and was like “why was a PFC the only one who had the courtesy to correct me?”

Response by HN Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2020 8:34 PM

2020-12-07T20:34:57-05:00

Yeah, she was an ensign. A blue side nurse so naturally she was on the kinder side. She had her dress whites on and my LPO told me to find the discrepancy in her uniform and then correct. It took all but a second to see the bright pink silhouette of her underwear beaming through her trousers. I approached her and saluted. Said “ma’am I apologize for interrupting, however I noticed an issue with your uniform” she eagerly asked me what it was. It older, “neon colors should not be work under the dress whites”. she looked confused until the switch flipped and terror filled her eyes. Her face was a pink as the discrepancy. she thanked me and quickly walked off. Probably the last time she did that. Pretty sure she missed the command inspection that morning.

Response by PO1 James White made Dec 27 at 2020 12:26 AM

2020-12-27T00:26:26-05:00

I've encountered the same situation a few times over my career. If you are discrete, polite and point out the error, I was always thanked. Even professionals can have a bad day or a brain fart, and I was never disrespected for assisting someone over their error.

Response by SPC James Seigars made Dec 28 at 2020 2:28 AM

2020-12-28T02:28:26-05:00

I had a 1SG at Fort Campbell who did that (put his name tape on upside down) on purpose whenever we either 1. Had a change in Commander or 2. Had a bunch of new soldiers come into the unit.

Why? Because he wanted to see you would call him out on it, how they would do it & how many others would make up excuses as to why THEY didn’t step up and tell him.

It was his way of engaging the Integrity of his soldiers and helping decide which ones of those his Platoon/Squad leaders recommended for promotion he would send to the board. From what I saw the three years I was there (including in Iraq) it worked pretty well.

Response by 1SG Frank Lafferty made Dec 29 at 2020 3:30 PM

2020-12-29T15:30:32-05:00

I corrected a major who had her branch insignia on crooked. Very politely by asking her what the proper way it should be placed. It was an odd insignia, (financial management) kind of elongated diamond. When she went home and checked her other fatigues - all were correct, except the set she was rearing. Her colonel husband told her to not question the First Sergeant.

Response by 1SG Frank Lafferty made Dec 29 at 2020 3:31 PM

2020-12-29T15:31:35-05:00

Oh, she took it very well and we had a good laugh about it.

Response by LCpl Kenneth Heath made Jan 21 at 2021 5:40 AM

2021-01-21T05:40:00-05:00

Of course, Marines are Marines and watch out for how the world sees us. It's not disrespectful to square away a mistake.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 21 at 2021 12:53 PM

2021-01-21T12:53:54-05:00

Yes, but be tactful. Once I was at an Army ball and everyone was in blues. I saw an O-6 (I'm an O-4) with one of his shoulder boards upside down and simply said, "Excuse me sir, one of your eagles is flying upside down," as I pointed it out. He thanked me and his wife stopped and helped him correct it. He was just about to enter the main room and go through the receiving line so I'm sure he was very grateful that I caught that for him. The key is to be kind and courteous. They will probably thank you.

Response by SFC James Jones made Jan 29 at 2021 11:07 AM

2021-01-29T11:07:00-05:00

I have on several times. One time I saw a SGTMAJ that had his lapel brass on the wrong side. I asked him if he knew his brass was on the wrong side, he said and thanked me for it.. Then he said that his wife put his uniform together for him.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2021 12:19 PM

2021-02-09T12:19:42-05:00

When I deployed to Iraq back in '09 I watched as two officers, a captain and a major, walked into the DFAC with their hands in their pockets. As coincidence had it I, another NCO, and a specialist ended up sitting next to them. I knew I had to say *something,* and I did. I apologized for interrupting their meal and said something like

"Sir, I noticed when you and CPT 'So and So' walked in you had your hands in your pockets. Sir, it's really hard to keep my soldiers doing the right thing when the officers they look up to aren't either."

The captain was visibly pissed. The major, however, looked at me and simply said, "Duly noted, sergeant." At that point I looked directly at the major and as politely as possible said, "Thank you for understanding, sir."

Was I uncomfortable? Damn straight. I was actually scared because I was only a sergeant and I was correcting two officers. Bottom line - if you're in the right and the reg backs you you're safe. But I'd add this, never try to embarrass someone. Do it quietly and don't call attention to them.

Response by SPC W. Neil Cantor made Feb 18 at 2021 6:54 AM

2021-02-18T06:54:27-05:00

Wonder why an officer didn't comment on his name tag? Out of uniform perhaps?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 18 at 2021 11:43 AM

2021-02-18T11:43:25-05:00

I did the opposite, kinda.
I was walking with a LTC and saw two SPC's cross the street and turn their heads away to avoid saluting, though they were well within the distance to do so. I excused myself and caught up the said SPC's and asked why they had ignored him. They gave some crap excuse.
"Look, that guy wanted to be an officer, and there is only ONE thing that we as enlisted personnel can make an officer do, and that is return our salute. And, by God, every officer I see is going to return my salute.'
I walked away and caught up to the LTC when I saw the sparkle come on in their eyes.
I told him it was 'covered.'

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2021 2:33 PM

2021-02-20T14:33:47-05:00

Four words: With All Due Respect.
No-one wants to be seen out of uniform. If you adhere to the regulations, and say "With All Due Respect", you are ok.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2021 2:36 PM

2021-02-20T14:36:34-05:00

Four words: "With All Due Respect". When I was deploying to Iraq, we had many officers who did not properly wear the uniform. I pointed out the error respectfully, and I never got any pushback.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2021 10:23 PM

2021-02-20T22:23:26-05:00

About a year ago a SSG told me I wasn’t allowed to wear headphones on the track, per the post commander. I told him that I conducted a risk assessment and determined that by staying on the track, I could mitigate the additional risk of wearing headphones to an acceptable level.

Response by SSG Eric Blue made Feb 22 at 2021 8:40 PM

2021-02-22T20:40:29-05:00

Of course. Leaders make mistakes, too. I'd tactfully tell them the problem I saw and go from there. Depending on the senior I'm correcting, I'd get a variety of answers. Everything from "Oh. Thanks." to "SHUT THE F--- UP, AIRBORNE!" And everything in between.

Response by Lt Col George C. made Mar 29 at 2021 11:31 AM

2021-03-29T11:31:44-04:00

As a Major assigned to the Commander's staff, I routinely attended weekly staff meetings, sitting back against the back wall, or course. One meeting, there was a newly frocked 06 sitting in front of me whose eagles were posted facing towards the back. Before the meeting got started, I tapped him on the shoulder and said, "Sir, your eagles are on backwards". He looked, and quickly left, returning in a moment just before the meeting started. Later, he quietly thanked me. The key to something like this is to be discreet and avoid any embarrassment.

Response by CPO Kenneth Arbogast made Apr 12 at 2021 2:33 AM

2021-04-12T02:33:36-04:00

I once was piping an admiral aboard a Coast Guard cutter when I saw his nametag and ribbons were reversed. As an E-3, I was NOT going to confront an admiral. So I went to the Officer of the Deck and mentioned the problem. The OOD later told me he talked with the admiral's aide, who corrected the issue. When we had a formation with the admiral, his uniform was squared away. Imagine the aide's butt was chewed pretty well over that.

Response by SFC James Corona made Apr 16 at 2021 3:01 PM

2021-04-16T15:01:02-04:00

Spot checks are totally acceptable from a subordinate. It's not the "spot check". It's the rude callous attitude in the communication of the spot check.
In my case it was retaliation for old spot check done by me on a subordinate soldier.

Response by SSG Dave Johnston made Apr 25 at 2021 11:00 AM

2021-04-25T11:00:44-04:00

Yes I have, it wasn't pretty, and the senior servicemember did not believe those uniform issues existed till I had him read AR 670-1...

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2021 11:19 PM

2021-04-25T23:19:44-04:00

Oh I have plenty of times.. most memorable one though is when I was in Cuba and we just got a new battalion commander and he wanted to introduce himself to my company, he looked like he was Neil Patrick Harris’s brother, at like 0700 or 0800 in the morning reason why it sucked at that time is I just got of night shift at 0600 and I was like a vampire at this point, oh and we were meeting at the outdoor theater it was horrible, anyways after about 30-45 minutes of talking to use I noticed his 10th mountain patch was all jacked up, I told another SGT in my squad and he said I wouldn’t say anything.. So when we got released I walked up to him no one really around except a few guys from my squad on the hill behind us watching me and I said “sir I don’t want to be that guy, but I’m gonna be that guy. Your patch’s f#*ked up.” And I went to fix it he just said “oh I always mess it up when I try to put it on myself.. thanks.” Honestly thought he was gonna react different but that was it. And a few months go by and his patch was missed up again.. I left it alone didn’t want to be that guy twice. Lol

Response by CPL Joseph Elinger made Apr 26 at 2021 10:09 AM

2021-04-26T10:09:29-04:00

Yes. On the lunch line @ Ft Bragg. A Captain had his Branch Collar Tab loose (lost a fastener). Rigged an eraser off a pencil to fill in. Brief chat too, I think it was Infantry. Asked about his Degree, Majored in Accounting. I was surprised. I'd figure they'd put him as Finance! My Medic Platoon Leader (1st Lt) worked for Orkin doing Pest Control before he did OCS.

Response by SGT Gary Tob made Apr 27 at 2021 5:35 PM

2021-04-27T17:35:42-04:00

In my day name tags etc were sewed on. Rank could be pin style or sewed on

Response by 1SG Brett Austin made Apr 29 at 2021 1:43 AM

2021-04-29T01:43:41-04:00

Yes, I was an E4 and went into the 1SGs office for something and he had both hands in his pockets. I called him out on it...his response was “I’m looking for my keys”. I said, with both hands 1SG...and what does he do? Pulls out two sets of keys. I didn’t have a lot to say about that. Lol. He was honestly the best 1SG I ever had ...1SG Wicks, Ft Lewis, WA, somewhere between 1984 and 1986.

Response by CW5 Sam R. Baker made Apr 29 at 2021 3:16 PM

2021-04-29T15:16:16-04:00

All the time! Usually blunt force trauma with clear transparency and honest feedback! The benefit of a SWOA is that you ARE the safety valve for stupidity at times and often you can clear the commanders head when the staff consistently is the "YES MAN" when stupid things are constantly shoved in their direction. Having intestinal fortitude and the ability to communicate in a hostile environment help, meaning a little people skill as well. Lots more to write, but have to get back to work!

Response by SSG Gregg Mourizen made May 1 at 2021 3:13 AM

2021-05-01T03:13:53-04:00

This happened to me a couple of times. Different units.
Brigade Commander, doing an open ranks inspection. Went through several platoons. I saw it way before he got to me.
When he did, I said under my breath "Sir permission to speak?"
He leaned in close "speak."
I whispered "Sir, you have shaving cream on your left cheek."
He looked real embarrassed. Reached up and wiped his cheek. "Did I get it?"
"Yes, sir" Quietly.
"Thankyou, .." "Specialist" the first time. "Staff Sargent" the second time.
He moved on to the next guy. The CO and SGM both gave me looks, but didn't say anything.
It really amazed me, no one said anything to him before the formation, or until he got to me.
The first one, I never saw up close again. The second attended my retirement ceremony.

Response by SPC Rigo Fernandez made May 1 at 2021 11:40 AM

2021-05-01T11:40:20-04:00

I had an SPC E5 write me up for "lacking a sense of urgency" because he didn't think I moved fast enough to get to the aid station on a day I was not scheduled to work, and was called up at the last minute to fill in for someone else.

My 3-page response outlining HIS "lack of urgency" in how he performed HIS duties, complete with names, dates, times, etc., got him called in the CO's office. He never bothered me again. I was a SPC E4.

Response by SPC Chris Ison made May 2 at 2021 1:30 PM

2021-05-02T13:30:55-04:00

We had a lot of USMC bailouts in my National Guard unit. One of the was a Sergeant in my section. He was a guy who thought of himself as "STRAC" ( this is term from the 80's it means Strong Tough and Ready Around the Clock).

So you are required to wear your Kevlar whenever you are in a Humvee. As a leadership Challenge i would take my Kevlar off when we were inside the Humvee, I never took it off if I was acting as gunner, and inside the wire, and I had been called out for it several times.

One day we are out on patrol and the other section came over, this sergeant was riding, Kevlar off, in the gunners turret. The NCO's chewed the fat for a bit, and then my VC turned to me and said, "Ison, you choose where do you want to go?" And i replied, "Sgt I don't care where we go as long as I can ride around without my Kevlar on, like SGT X."

He did not say a word to me about being flip, being familiar, or even disrespectful. And do you know why? He was a real leader, and he knew he had broken the cardinal sin of leadership, he had set a bad example, and he did it front of a leadership challenge. He simply grabbed his Kevlar, put it on, and said, "Now you pick where we go" and that was it. And that is how he earned my respect. There were very few NCO's in my NG unit I would have gladly followed into enemy fire with just my boots, my weapon, and a hail marry and he was one of them.

Response by SGT Scott Henderson made May 3 at 2021 9:31 AM

2021-05-03T09:31:21-04:00

I've told people about name/us army tapes being switched. Usually the response is "oh shit, thanks".

I've heard stories about a CSM test would go to the NCO school at Ft Bragg wearing PV2 insignia. He'd coin the ones that corrected him and tell the rest they didn't deserve to be there. Pretty sure it's an urban legend though.

Response by Lt Col John Culley made May 4 at 2021 7:26 PM

2021-05-04T19:26:22-04:00

Ever since February 2019 when Air National Guard four star General Joseph Lengyel wore his ribbon rack upside down at the State of the Union Address military personnel have been encouraged to spot check superiors so they don't look like ignorant fools.

Response by CW3 Michael Clifford made May 30 at 2021 7:14 PM

2021-05-30T19:14:31-04:00

I did it all the time as an MP. As a CID agent, I saw the MPs in Germany apprehend a brigadier general for a uniform violation. They then took the offender in handcuffs to the USAEUR CINC, who was pissed off at the uniform violations by personnel in Heidelberg, Germany in 1981.

Response by SFC Martin Salazar made Jun 1 at 2021 6:11 PM

2021-06-01T18:11:45-04:00

Had a Bird Colonel walk in to a staff meeting and his Eagles were backwards. I walked to the door motioned to him to follow me it was urgent. Went to another room out of earshot and told him “I’m gonna put my hands on you and fix something. Please stand still.” I took off his Eagles and placed them properly. He thanked me. I told him no need that’s what NCOs do Sir. I always have your back. We then went back to the meeting as if nothing happened.

Response by SPC James Seigars made Jun 26 at 2021 9:10 AM

2021-06-26T09:10:30-04:00

One of the units I was in had a 1SG who would do that when new soldiers arrived to see if they would say anything & how they would go about it. Those of us who had been there knew what was up and we were told not to say anything unless the new soldiers asked us to mention it to him.

It didn’t help that he was a short, sticky guy who was a weight lifter and would put you in mind of George C. Scott as General Patton or Taz from the WWE a while back.

Anyway, when he did that upon my joining his unit I waited until Formation was over and when I saw him alone I went to him, got at Parade Rest and told him about his name tape. He called all the other new soldiers to the unit to a mini formation with me staying as I was beside him & told them what I did before getting in their case for not having the integrity to mention his “mess up” to him or one of the Platoon Sergeants or other NCO’s presumably not having a problem with their 1SG looking ate up the rest of the day unless someone outside the unit corrected him. He then made them do push-ups and told me I had the day off (one of only two times that happened, the other being in AIT. But that is another story).

Response by CH (CPT) Jerry McGowin made Jun 27 at 2021 2:45 PM

2021-06-27T14:45:08-04:00

Yes I have, as a Captain, i whispered in my commander's ear that his unit ID patch was sewn upside down.

Response by SFC Jeff Quackenbush made Jun 27 at 2021 5:06 PM

2021-06-27T17:06:25-04:00

Yes I have. As an SFC I noticed a soldier sitting in a hummv. He was wearing sunglasses with neon green arms and green reflective lenses. I pulled up and thinking it was just an enlisted soldier I motioned for him to come over to me. When he got out of the vehicle and put his hat on I noticed he was a 2LT. I then walked over to him and explained the regulation for wearing sunglasses. And explained that as leaders we need to set the example. We couldn’t make on the spot corrections if we didn’t know the standards. He then thanked me for helping him get squared away. It’s all about tact!

Response by SMSgt Rick Manley made Jun 28 at 2021 8:13 AM

2021-06-28T08:13:50-04:00

I was traveling on a C-141 from Patrick AFB to Ascension. A Major got onto the flight and as he walked down the aisle toward his seat I leaned over and whispered to him “sir, your name tag is upside down”. He looked down, tilted it up and said, “looks fine to me”. I noted that later in the flight he had quietly flipped it over. True story!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 28 at 2021 9:55 AM

2021-06-28T09:55:37-04:00

I’ve always had mixed feelings about this but only when the “corrector’s” attitude gives off the vibe of “I’m better than you”, or “I’m the uniform police “. When I was a 1LT I was walking near the Warrior DFAC on Bagram with my Company commander and the XO. It was in the evening and I remember the street being somewhat deserted. The XO had one of those Roshan phones and he had gotten a phone call while we were walking. Some 1SG appeared like a cop doing a speed trap and said “Hey Sir, you can’t be on the phone while walking!” In retrospect, I didn’t think my response through very well. We all stopped, as the two Captains looked startled. I said, “First Sergeant, if you’re interested in following all the rules perhaps you should be standing at the position of attention when speaking to us.” I’ll give him Kudos, he then did. My CO thanked him and covered for me being snarky. That story stays with me because I’ve never fully decided if it was the best response. It was funny though. I top blocked that OER.

Response by SN Shane Clark made Jun 29 at 2021 2:28 PM

2021-06-29T14:28:28-04:00

I personally never checked anyone’s uniform that outranked me, but our division’s recruit leader in basic training checked or Senior Chief RDC because the back of his collar popped when he changed uniform blouses. Senior responded by thanking him and encouraged others to speak up in similar situations.

Response by Pvt Frank Carpi made Jul 1 at 2021 8:32 AM

2021-07-01T08:32:09-04:00

That's a funny story.

Response by COL Bruce Brant made Jul 2 at 2021 11:41 AM

2021-07-02T11:41:04-04:00

As a brigade commander, I had my CSM and driver check me out every day. As a 2LT, I had my RTO check me out. We all make mistakes and need to watch each other's backs. Hopefully, you are in a command climate that fosters that thinking.

Response by SGT Ron Cummings made Jul 2 at 2021 9:19 PM

2021-07-02T21:19:47-04:00

Not so much higher ranking…..

Saw a brand new 2nd Lt early in the first Gulf War in a parking lot of a store. Dress greens, unbuttoned, no cover, just sloppy. Walked up to him and quietly introduced myself and reminded him that he was a commissioned US Army officer and his country was currently at war, and suggested he might make a better show of himself.

He did square himself away on the spot. Hope it stuck.

Response by SFC Jose A Hernandez made Jul 3 at 2021 5:43 AM

2021-07-03T05:43:13-04:00

Oh YES!!!!!! The know it alls!!!! A SGM called me on the spot in front of others for wearing "spit shined" low quarters with ripples soles normally worn by mail carriers, at that time regulations called for Unauthorized Patent Leather low quarter shoes; he said I wasn't authorized to wear my rippled shoes per Army Regulations; I pulled a copy of the Army Regulation which didn't mention my shoes, BUT, it did mentioned the unauthorized wearing of the patent leather and told him he was wrong and out of line by wearing those shoes. I did it in front of everyone else as well, needless to say he was embarrassed. For image of Vintage 50's/60's ripple sole oxfords by Thorogood. Leather uppers and linings / Rubber soles Google it

Response by SGT Joseph Dutton made Jul 3 at 2021 10:46 PM

2021-07-03T22:46:09-04:00

I never Dressed Down higher ranking person. However I did let someone know of the same rank that his / her uniform is UNSAT.

Response by GySgt Lawrence Watson made Jul 16 at 2021 2:27 PM

2021-07-16T14:27:15-04:00

Yes. I had a Navy Chief who had some ribbons out of order. It ended well. He was a personal friend.

Response by PO1 Todd McMillin made Jul 21 at 2021 7:07 PM

2021-07-21T19:07:33-04:00

I actually spot checked our CAG (Commander Air Group); a 2 Star Admiral in flight suit right in front of our CO, XO and senior command staff. They were walking down the hall with their main zipper at waist level. This is 3 days after; he put out on in a general e-mail that all coveralls and flight suits will be maintained at chest pocket level. This was unless you're working and have the coveralls rolled down and at waist level with a proper t-shirt underneath.

I politely pointed out that his zipper was down; as he leads by example to the Air Wing and Ship that he's our (moral) Compass and we should be following all his examples. He stopped, zipped up his flight suit to pocket level and said, "You're completely correct Petty Officer McMillin, Thank you!" and walked on.

My CO & XO were shocked I was so bold to say something to him directly without backlash. However, it's funny that my CMC later on called me into his office and was amazed that I had that big of BRASS BALLS to actually call out the CAG to his face.

I said, "CAG wants to show he's a leader than he has to follow his own examples". The fact that the CO & XO wussed out on let it slide. When I gave them side eye roll for not having the spine to correct the CAG before he left the Ward Room for common spaces is their own mistake. They were mad because they were also guilty of having their zippers at the belts too and not setting the same example.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2021 11:50 AM

2021-08-27T11:50:26-04:00

As a young E-4 attending an Air Force Leadership school, the Base commanding General came to address the class. When we was leaving i caught up to him discreetly before he left the building to let him know is rack of ribbons was not in the proper order. He said he would check into it. Two days later I was at a BBQ mixer and I feel a arm around my shoulder. It was the General coming to thank me for correcting him. I called his office a few days later and left a message with his secretary. to let hi know his official photo also had his ribbons in the wrong order. Never heard back from that.

Response by SP5 Christopher Proescher made Sep 15 at 2021 12:18 PM

2021-09-15T12:18:12-04:00

Sure..
Halfway thorough Basic and finally owed a bit of free time, so I went to the PX. While there I saw a Lt Col with his garrison cap on. I probably wouldn't have said anything except he had it on back wards and the rand insignia was on the back side of his head. I politely, and in a low voice told him about his cap being on improperly and then carried on. It was a non-issue.

I also had a Plt Sgt in Okinawa what was wearing his Recruiter badge after he had left that billet. That did not go quite as well when I mentioned it being against regulations while he was no longer a recruiter. He never did like me after that, but I PCS'd three months later to the best assignment I ever had in the Army.

Response by SSG Eric Blue made Sep 15 at 2021 6:37 PM

2021-09-15T18:37:40-04:00

Done it a number of times. Tactfully and respectfully each time. Usually, I'd approach it like, "(insert senior member's rank and name here), did you know that (insert knowledge absent from leader here)?" I've only had a few of them act like buttholes toward me for trying to help THEM out, but most of them said, "Thanks for squaring me away", fixed themselves, and kept it moving.

Response by SSG Roger Christiansen made Sep 17 at 2021 9:56 PM

2021-09-17T21:56:09-04:00

I spot checked a reserve CSM for running around with ear buds in, he got miffed, yelled at me & asked if I knew who he was, etc etc, but I held my ground (@ Parade rest) and calmly explained that it didn't seem right for him to be running around w/those in his ear with younger troops running around who are told they couldn't wear them in uniform. He told me to mind my own business and get back to "my" companies business (he was in a different company but on a floor that RA used frequently for our training meetings). Later on, the 1SG of that company came over and asked me if I had in fact called out the CSM for wearing earbuds. I acknowledged I did, very discreetly and tactfully. The "AGR" 1SG almost busted his gut open laughing because the CSM told him "Some RA soldier from that "other unit" called me on the carpet for wearing these things. Top told him if he didn't take them out he'd have the AGR COL tell him to! My understanding was that he never wore them again anywhere around the building regardless if in uniform or not.