What are the origins of the topic stating that Soldiers are U.S. property and say, writing on your hand vandalizes U.S. property?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 Mar 2022 19:10:58 -0400

Good Day,

I was curious about the origins of the topic above heard via word of mouth. Stating that Soldiers are U.S. Property and say, writing on your hand vandalizes U.S. Property?

This has been word of mouth since TRADOC, and hearing of stories of NCOs forcing their groups to do push-ups or low crawl on hot cement/streets causing burns don't seem to have supporting regulations behind this.

I want help finding these regulations; despite an hour of Googling came across no credible cited sources such as a .mil or current Army regulation.

Thank you very much for your guidance in advance.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2022 8:25 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 Mar 2022 20:25:21 -0400

This is what I found.

Are US soldiers considered government property?
Soldiers are “employees”, not property. They are under contract to serve to the extent of that contract up to and including one’s life. However that is not done without compensation of benefits, pay etc. They are considered employees of the government.

If you have a tattoo placed on your hand, then you are subject to the regulations that cover tattoos.

What does NCOs having their men do pushups have to do with the question?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2022 4:14 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 26 Mar 2022 04:14:49 -0400

The law is called the 13th amendment. People are not property, that is called slavery.

During your time in the military you will hear all kinds of sayings passed down from people, that are simply not true. Just because a senior NCO says something they heard once doesn't make it true when they heard it, or true now. Tricare will not pay for one free boob job. Jane Fonda was not slipped a piece of paper with names on it. There is not a bullet in or under the truck on post. You cannot "add to but not take away" from any regulation. You do not get your choice of anything you want on your first reenlistment. Your family does not lose out on your SGLI if you die by suicide. Three counseling statements does not equal an Article 15.

There's a whole host of crazy BS that gets passed around the lower levels, that's just a sampling of it

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2022 6:22 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 26 Mar 2022 06:22:21 -0400

You can't find supporting documents because they don't exist. Word of mouth shit house rumor mill has been active since Moses was a road guard. It prevails because young troops in Basic and AIT don't know any better and are too scared to challenge.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Mar 26 at 2022 7:09 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Sat, 26 Mar 2022 07:09:38 -0400

In all my years I never heard of low crawling and push-ups on hot pavement. The second a trainee would be seen by a medic, PA or Doc the cat would be out of the bag.

Don’t get me wrong Drills have been known to make mistakes, once they are recognized TRADOC blasts out command info putting a stop to any future activity.

Anyway, I have never seen nor heard of this type incident.

Response by LTC Ray Buenteo made Mar 26 at 2022 10:20 AM

LTC Ray Buenteo — Sat, 26 Mar 2022 10:20:29 -0400

If you want to find the source of your question draw on your face and show up for formation. You will get your answer.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Mar 26 at 2022 7:26 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Sat, 26 Mar 2022 19:26:59 -0400

Doubt you be charged- but injury thru negligence, playing around, they can deny the health care cost, make you pay for it.

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Mar 26 at 2022 11:21 PM

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Sat, 26 Mar 2022 23:21:43 -0400

Those myths and sea stories have existed for decades. I heard the same stories from my Grandfathers who served during the 1950's. They would tell me horror stories of guys who had tattoos get infected and they were charged with damaging military property.

It's just ghost stories and Mother Goose tales to scare children and the weak minded.

Not sure where you are going or asking with stories about pushups and random stuff like that. Training and punishment that leads to injuries isn't new. I'm sure that will always be the case in some form or fashion. "good ideas" and the perception of "tough punishment" will sometimes go sideways when dumb people are involved.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 28 at 2022 12:55 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 12:55:27 -0400

There's literally nothing in our contract that states were are property. We are contracted employees to the government and when we sign our contract, we are agreeing to abide by military regulation along with laws. That's the difference between military and civilian contracts - we have UCMJ. They don't. That's why people say we're "property" but we aren't. You can't legally own people in the US - the 13th Amendment abolished slavery except for those who are convicted of crimes.

People say a lot of things. It doesn't mean they're true.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 28 at 2022 6:42 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 18:42:28 -0400

I think it might be, "GI" government issued.

In the early 70's we were always told, we weren't authorized to get tattoos. If you did, you would have a Article 15 for destroying government property.

And, one guy did get a Article 15, for getting sun burned on his shaven head, they said he could have prevented his injury, and having not being able to use his cover.

Response by SSG Rick Miller made Apr 1 at 2022 2:00 PM

SSG Rick Miller — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 14:00:47 -0400

Barracks scuttlebutt and shithouse lawyers, that's where. As for the pushup and low crawl on hot surfaces, it does happen in some places. Think Ft. Sill, OK in the summer. Even the freaking grass is hot. But NCO's forcing their groups to do those pushups or low crawls is, once again, the product of barracks rumor mill and shithouse lawyers. Listen closely, and the stories invariably start with "I heard...." or "My buddy said...." Intentionally trying to cause harm? I did 24 years, and never once encountered such a thing. If that situation is true, then that is one piss poor example of an NCO, and one who doesn't deserve the stripes they wear.

Response by SGT Tim Tobin made Apr 1 at 2022 7:25 PM

SGT Tim Tobin — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 19:25:00 -0400

I think the origin is the term GI
Which means Government Issue. The distinction is the loyalty and esprit de corps, and your oath to serve for a given period of time. Some mistakenly associate that with ownership

Response by SPC William Coyne made Apr 2 at 2022 12:18 PM

SPC William Coyne — Sat, 02 Apr 2022 12:18:28 -0400

When I pledged an oath to protect the United States from all enemies foreign and domestic, I understood that to include offering the service of my body, heart, and soul as part of a sacred trust and a supreme privilege. When I offer to help an old lady cross the street, she does not own me in any way, but if she accepts my offer, she has the right to expect me to treat her respectfully, and not, for example, shout obscene Nazi slogans as we cross the street. If I disgrace any part of myself, it violates not merely a social contract, but a solemn commitment to fulfill my part of the agreement. I believe oaths cover a lot more territory that includes a whole range of grey areas, while a mere signature on a piece of paper outlines well defined stipulations. No. The Army nor our government do not own you, but taking an oath comes with a lot of baggage.

Response by PO1 Robert Feldt made Apr 3 at 2022 12:50 PM

PO1 Robert Feldt — Sun, 03 Apr 2022 12:50:20 -0400

I am not in any way saying this is fact or it will stick, but under the UCMJ you can be charged with anything. Here is what every service member should have learned in boot

https://www.jag.navy.mil/organization/documents/UCMJ_Punitive_Articles.pdf

An example Say SM3 Squared Away got a tattoo. the tattoo got infected and he is not able to stand duty because he is in sickbay. He or She "COULD" be charged with article 109: Property other than military property – Waste, spoilage, or destruction, 86: Absence without leave, 83: Malingering....
or my favorite the catch all.... 134: General article. Once charged you will have a trial then the court will decide if they stick.

ERROR: The request could not be satisfied

Response by CPL LaForest Gray made Apr 3 at 2022 10:02 PM

CPL LaForest Gray — Sun, 03 Apr 2022 22:02:46 -0400

UCMJ ARTICLE 108 – MILITARY PROPERTY OF THE UNITED STATES – LOSS, DAMAGE, DESTRUCTION, OR WRONGFUL DISPOSITION

SOURCE : https://mymilitarylawyers.com/practice-areas/ucmj-articles/ucmj-article-108-military-property-of-the-united-states-loss-damage-destruction-or-wrongful-disposition/

Court treats military as a context where standard First Amendment protections do not apply to the same extent

“The U.S. military has always operated as a somewhat distinct society governed by its own criminal code. It is currently ruled by a special system of laws, primarily the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ),and has its own system for prosecuting violations of the code, including courts-martial. When responding to First Amendment challenges from military personnel, the Court consistently treats the military as a special and separate context or environment in which standard First Amendment protections do not apply, or do not apply to the same extent (other major categories of special contexts are schoolchildren, incarcerated prisoners, and public employees).”

SOURCE : https://www.mtsu.edu/first-amendment/article/1131/rights-of-military-personnel

TITLE 10 AND TITLE 32, UNITED STATES CODE

SOURCE : https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/STATUTE-70/pdf/STATUTE-70A-Pg1.pdf

UCMJ Article 108 – Military Property of the United States – Loss, Damage, Destruction, or...

If you are facing Article 108 charges for 'Loss, Damage, Destruction' you need to speak with a Military defense attorney right away.

Response by SPC Jason Halper made Apr 4 at 2022 12:46 AM

SPC Jason Halper — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 00:46:36 -0400

I agree with SFC Boyd, most of the "sayings" are diluted from generation hand me downs. I used to be told that if I got sunburned, I would get an Article 15 (I dealt with some real winners in one my units). While mostly complete BS, there are some reasons to avoid certain things regarding readiness relating to personal health. I dealt with a situation in Korea where one of my squad got an "interesting STD". While not punished with Article 15, he was quarantined and this affected our squad performance. I don't know whatever happened with him after I left but I highly doubt he was even prosecuted (except for probably never hearing the end of it). The other reasoning comes from lack of confidence by leadership, using these statements as intimidation versus earning respect from their troops. I used to hear this all the time until finally challenging these sayings, with nothing happening as a result of the challenge.

Response by SGT Ben Bearden made Apr 5 at 2022 12:20 PM

SGT Ben Bearden — Tue, 05 Apr 2022 12:20:57 -0400

Other topics via word of mouth: box of grid squares, board straightener, blinker fluid, a tube of squelch grease, PRC-E7...

before "don't believe everything you read on the internet" there was "don't believe everything you hear in the barracks."

Response by LCDR Robert S. made Apr 17 at 2022 5:55 PM

LCDR Robert S. — Sun, 17 Apr 2022 17:55:50 -0400

The origin is that people would get punished for Malingering (Article 83) because they did something that rendered themselves unfit for duty or failed to do something that they should have (like using sunscreen or wearing a hat and getting sunburned), and folks who weren't actually paying close attention to the charges thinking that they had been charged with damaging government property (Article 108). And barracks lawyers and the rumor mill being what they are, eventually it became the sort of thing that "everybody knows" because nobody actually asks "Hey, where is that in the regs?" because they don't want their NCO chewing them out for being a smartass.

An NCO intentionally (or negligently) causing burns by having their groups do push-ups on hot pavement could be chargeable under Article 93 (Cruelty and Maltreatment), Article 114 (Endangerment - if the thing they have their people do is likely to produce death or grievous bodily harm), or Article 128 (Assault).

Response by Sgt Michael Clifford made Apr 24 at 2022 9:36 AM

Sgt Michael Clifford — Sun, 24 Apr 2022 09:36:39 -0400

Funny story, When I was 17 and being interviewed by a USMC captain at Whitehall St, NYC the day I was sworn in 3/27/62 he asked if I chewed my fingernails. I answered yes. He said that had to stop because that was unauthorized destruction of government property. Needless to say, at 17, God had spoken, and I stopped. No idea what he would have thought about tattoos.

Response by SFC Aubrey Campbell made May 15 at 2022 9:59 PM

SFC Aubrey Campbell — Sun, 15 May 2022 21:59:59 -0400

Look up G.I. on Wikipedia. The military fable around the fictional term G.I. (Government Issue) has been misconstrued to mean that soldiers are government property during their term of enlistment. Therefore, destruction of the body meant destroying “gov’t” property. That has never been further from the truth. You must decide what to challenge or not in the Army. You will win some and lose others. For me, I challenged everything including my enlistment contract. I could not find the words, “You are goverment issue (G.I.!)”

Response by SGT Glenn E Moody made May 16 at 2022 4:20 PM

SGT Glenn E Moody — Mon, 16 May 2022 16:20:16 -0400

I heard it as soon as you sign on the dotted line we have no civilian rites any more. AND if i got sunburnt it was defacing Government property. like if you already have Tatoos you cant get anymore or you could get A ART. - 15 & NJP extra duty loss of pay ect. I myself have never seen it or had it happen to me never liked the idea of marking my body with tatoos

Response by TSgt David Olson made Jun 18 at 2022 6:20 PM

TSgt David Olson — Sat, 18 Jun 2022 18:20:57 -0400

I was in basic the first time I heard the expression, “U.S. property”. My D.I. was a Korean War veteran, C.I.B., Purple Heart, and ribbons. He informed the platoon that we were now government property. I thought about that statement, and realized he was joking. Jeeps are government property, it says so on the vehicle: a soldiers serves in the Army, nowhere was it tattooed on my body, “government property”. The origins of that statement are lost in the mist of time.

Response by SSG Aaron Gough made Jun 20 at 2022 9:28 AM

SSG Aaron Gough — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 09:28:25 -0400

Heck no, we can't provide that information. It's G-14 classified. If that knowledge gets out the aliens from area 51 will be released.

Response by LtCol Paul Bowen made Jun 20 at 2022 5:08 PM

LtCol Paul Bowen — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 17:08:16 -0400

No human being can be anyone’s “Property” unless you are living under a Communist regime…then everything you see belongs to the almighty all powerful big brother STATE.

Congress passes the laws that regulate the special circumstances that the military must organize, train and fight. Chain of Command is the overreaching concept. General Officers are allowed discretion over “life & death” in on the spot decisions, given extenuating and justifiable circumstances.

The All Volunteer Force replaced the Compulsory Military Service Laws after 1975. Regardless of the circumstances that put you in a military uniform, you are expected to adapt to, and comply with, the military service culture, traditions and military laws.

You can opt out at any time.

Disfiguring yourself puts your choice of nonverbal communication up for interpretation within the UCMJ ARTICLE 134 “Good Order & Discipline” and “Service Discrediting Conduct” charges against an individual who wants to put themselves above the Service they are privileged to be a member.

Response by A1C Diane Phillips made Jun 30 at 2022 3:41 AM

A1C Diane Phillips — Thu, 30 Jun 2022 03:41:41 -0400

They have always considered us a piece of property and that needs to be stopped completely! I got a really bad sunburn and if I went to the hospital I was going to be written up and punished for burning my skin because I was their property! It's utterly ridiculous no human being belongs to anyone but God. And even God doesn't consider us his property but does consider us a friend!

Response by Sgt Stephen Chiles made Jul 7 at 2022 11:49 PM

Sgt Stephen Chiles — Thu, 07 Jul 2022 23:49:13 -0400

Back in my day, we were called GI, for Government Issue. I recall being called into the CO's office with the First Sgt because I had gotten a fairly good sunburn while I had been on leave. I don't recall if I was an E1 or E2. I recall being warned that if I became "sick" due to the sunburn I could potentially recieve an Artice 15 for Destruction of Government Property under the UCMj. I managed to make it for duty every day and never went to Sick Call for it. But I later knew of a few who did get Article 15s for the very same thing We were stationed in sunny San Antonio, TX where the ambient temps could get as high as 128 degrees). I also recall Black Flag days that if you were caught outside and didn't have a legitimate reason, you could be potentially charged under the same Article of the UCMJ. A newly promoted Sgt received and Article 15 and ultimately lost a stripe for being out on a Black Flag day.

Response by CPT Steve Martin made Jul 13 at 2022 11:32 PM

CPT Steve Martin — Wed, 13 Jul 2022 23:32:55 -0400

My favorite was when a guy that just enlisted would try to start a fight and then say, “I’m government property, so if you hurt me you’re committing a federal offense.”

No, you’re a dick that wrote a check your ass can’t cash. Likely, you’ll be kicked out before basic if you’re starting fights.

Response by A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney made Jul 14 at 2022 2:44 AM

A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney — Thu, 14 Jul 2022 02:44:10 -0400

I Don't Know About That One,
But Here's One For You:
An Individual Whom Was A Government Employee, Working On Some Of The Rocket Programs;
But NOT Well Liked By His Superiors,
Put His Name, Using A Magic Marker, On One Of The Rocket Components
Which He'd Designed And Custom Made.
And He WAS Fired For "Defacing Government Property"....

Talk About AZZHOLES....!!

Response by Cpl William Ryan made Jul 14 at 2022 9:36 AM

Cpl William Ryan — Thu, 14 Jul 2022 09:36:35 -0400

I once went to sick bay because I had gotten really bad sunburn around my ankles. The corpman said he could write me up for destruction of government property. I left and later at the base restaurant I went over and asked some corpman about it, they took me right over to the small hospital and treated my ankles. Never did see that one corpman at sick bay.

Response by MSG Thomas Currie made Jul 14 at 2022 5:14 PM

MSG Thomas Currie — Thu, 14 Jul 2022 17:14:19 -0400

The story is far older than you are and has never been true and never had any basis in fact. There are several different versions of the story, some going back to at least WWII, all of which are totally fake. The versions vary between the services and the common versions change from time to time. I'd never heard the "writing on you hand" nonsense, the most common version in my early days was about getting a sunburn.

Response by SSG Omar Ruiz-Canales made Jul 17 at 2022 10:26 AM

SSG Omar Ruiz-Canales — Sun, 17 Jul 2022 10:26:52 -0400

You agreed to let them govern your military life, you agreed to jump into their circle of control.. The rules and regs are what are emplaced to keep you in the order they want you to which you agreed. Marking your body before was considered destruction of government property, but it was mostly a saying. There were rules against no tattoos, and that's what it targeted and how it was stated to soldiers if they wanted to break that rule.. This is why it's an all-volunteer Military, you chose to abide by their rules. It's just making the legal jargon sound more understandable.

Response by PFC Douglas Stroup made Jul 18 at 2022 12:44 AM

PFC Douglas Stroup — Mon, 18 Jul 2022 00:44:03 -0400

I joined the army in the 80s 89 to be specific. Did 3 years but you do lose certain rights in the military 1 you just cant quit. Saw many try, saw many go through hell and it wasnt quick. 2nd people who got tattoos got treated hard never an article 15 but extra duty. 3rd i remember my CSM ROJAS would come in on weekends and if you were in the barracks sitting around hed send you down to the motor pool to sweep. We all started getting up early and going off post. Another we were not allowed to go more then 50 miles away from post in Germany. Also unless married or a E4 you could not own a car in Germany. So dont tell me you give up certain rights when you sign up you do. But the eventual rewards are worth it. Plus when a alert goes off or your movement date is set and you miss it tell me how that works out for you.

Response by Patricia Dodge made Jul 19 at 2022 11:34 AM

Patricia Dodge — Tue, 19 Jul 2022 11:34:56 -0400

During the COVID vaccine fiasco, you heard this a lot, much harassment over this. YOU ARE NOT GOVERNMENT PROPERTY, THEY SIMPLY EMPLOY YOU...THEY DO NOT OWN YOU! IF YOU BELIEVE THEY OWN YOU, THEN YOU DESREVE TO BE ENSLAVED...JUST SAYIN'. NO WHERE IN THE CONSTITUTION DOES IT SAY THAT THE GOVERNMENT OWNS YOUR BEHIND OR ANY FACIT THEREOF JUST BECAUSE YOU ARE EMPLOYED BY THEM OR ANY OTHER CORPORATE ENTITY FOR THAT MATTER. WHEN THEY OVERSTEP, THEY ARE PUT BACK IN LINE BY THE LAW OF THE LAND. YOU ARE FREE...GOVERNMENT AIN'T YOUR MOMMA OR YOUR DADDY. THEY WORK FOR US NOT THE OTHER WAY AROUND. THEY USE OUR TAX DOLLARS, SO WE HAVE THE FINAL SAY AS HUMANS NOT GOVERNMENT OR ANY CORPORATE ENTITY. WHAT I DO NOT UNDERSTAND IS WHY MEN /WOMEN WILL FIGHT FOR A CONSTITUTION THEY HAVE NOT EVEN READ. NO MAN/WOMAN IS ABOVE OR BELOW YOU..,WE THE PEOPLE ARE ALL EQUAL. HIGHER RANK BULLYING, INTIMIDATION, OF LOWER RANKS TO MAKE YOU FEEL LIKE A SLAVE...ALL ILLEGAL. READ...READ...READ. YOU ARE NOT AN ANIMAL YOU ARE HUMAN...NO ONE OWNS YOUR BEHIND BUT YOU.

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Aug 5 at 2022 12:57 PM

1SG James Kelly — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 12:57:29 -0400

The proper term is:
Your soul belongs to God, your ass belongs to me.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 12 at 2022 6:52 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Aug 2022 18:52:39 -0400

What do you mean? No one in the military has ever been told something stupid.....

Response by CWO5 F Rodriguez made Sep 10 at 2022 1:56 PM

CWO5 F Rodriguez — Sat, 10 Sep 2022 13:56:41 -0400

Simple answer: Boredom is the origin of of most stupid sh^* in the military. Whether from up the chain or fellow service members.

Response by CPL Kenneth Pealock made Oct 26 at 2022 5:17 PM

CPL Kenneth Pealock — Wed, 26 Oct 2022 17:17:53 -0400

The essential point is that everyone effectively became government property with the passage of the federal income tax in 1913. Your labor is your property, and your labor belongs to the federal government. We already work until May for the government before we work for ourselves. Add in the inflation tax (vis-a-vis the Federal Reserve Act), and we are just as enslaved as black slaves once were. Only the masters changed: from southern plantation owners to the federal government. In short, the government owns you and everything you earn. In every socialist-communist nation, the government determines how much you are allowed to keep.

Response by PO1 Frank Downs made Oct 27 at 2022 7:01 PM

PO1 Frank Downs — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 19:01:49 -0400

To say the government owns you is only an expression used by members because of the UCMJ;
Article 134—General article

The military was granted the power to set laws for good order and discipline (UCMJ).
The whole Damage to government property; If you get a sunburn severe enough that prevents you from performing your duties you can be charged
The Military can also restrict your activities such as if you were deployed they can order you not to Ski or use water jets.

Response by SSG Bob Robertson made Oct 29 at 2022 10:47 AM

SSG Bob Robertson — Sat, 29 Oct 2022 10:47:00 -0400

I have been out of the Army for 40 years but I can tell you a story. My friend got a whole back tattoo at Ft. Campbell 2 days before we were suppose to go out to the field. He couldn't go because he couldn't carry his ruck. He received an Article 15, damage to property. I don't remember the exact charge but as far as I remember that was it. It's not that you are actual property but when you sign up you are then subject to whatever is in the UCMJ.

Response by MGySgt Samuel Steen made Oct 30 at 2022 10:24 AM

MGySgt Samuel Steen — Sun, 30 Oct 2022 10:24:53 -0400

I’m a retired Marine Master Gunnery Gunnery Sergeant (E-9). I served in tour United States Marine Corps for 32 glorious years at “my pleasure” so please, let me assure you that neither you, I nor anyone else are or were property of the US Government. Now, with that being said, we have an all volunteer force that enlist under their own free will and sign contract which is the only legally binding document that contains all written WRITTEN AGREEMENTS that were either agreed to or promised to you by your recruiter and your specific branch of service, so read it careful. That contractual agreement is guaranteed unless you later become disqualified for any reason therefore you have a choice at that time to either request to be discharged which is a promise, sign an open contract and let the army reassign you to a occupation field you qualify for, or if possible you can set down with a counselor and find another occupation. So the answer to your question is NO your mind does NOT belong to the Army but your physical body is shared lol, during your first tour of duty. Hopefully that answers your questions but joining any branch of service has many great benefits that will be with you for the reminder of your.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Oct 30 at 2022 11:18 AM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Sun, 30 Oct 2022 11:18:53 -0400

BLUF: Some people are really gullible and naive.

Response by SPC Thomas Bourland made Oct 30 at 2022 3:04 PM

SPC Thomas Bourland — Sun, 30 Oct 2022 15:04:43 -0400

a good portion of the government property trope is a line of thinking left over from the last world war. which has persisted through the last few decades even when I was a pvt in the mid 80's. Although I noted a few ucmj actions that originated at company level for things like like facial tats.

Response by SGT Christopher Sigafoos made Oct 30 at 2022 5:38 PM

SGT Christopher Sigafoos — Sun, 30 Oct 2022 17:38:33 -0400

So, to my knowledge (and I could be wrong), the saying is an old, and I mean OLD, way of encouraging troops to take care of themselves and keep them from harming themselves.

Response by SSG Robert Pratt made Oct 30 at 2022 6:20 PM

SSG Robert Pratt — Sun, 30 Oct 2022 18:20:09 -0400

I remember hearing...if the Army wanted you to have a wife they would have issued you one. Sorry sucker, I was married when I entered the Army and they accepted me like that, try your BS on someone else. You signed a contract, not a indentured servant clause. No one "owns" you .

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2022 9:55 AM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Nov 2022 09:55:01 -0500

They figure since they pay you, and train you, uniform, you, spend money to get the so-called millions of dollars of military grade, weapons and equipment for you and you sign the contract you belong to them. So if you damage yourself in some sort of way, they consist of not taking precautions after being warned such as not putting sunscreen on and getting a sunburn. Now you’re out of the fight and you can’t train and you can’t fight, so they looked at that as the root cause.

Response by SSG Mitch Cobb made Nov 10 at 2022 7:59 PM

SSG Mitch Cobb — Thu, 10 Nov 2022 19:59:26 -0500

In regard to the SFC and a 45 round in a truck is that truck in the motor pool.. The only truck I know of is on top of a flag pole. Sorry you are wrong or a fraud. I was a SSG and was in the Army for over 9 yrs. I went to 5 solder of the month or NCO of the month boards, i won 4, and completed NCO promotion boards, on my SSG promotion board I received a score of 198. That question was asked at all the boards I attended, ALL OF THEM. I answered them the same way. If the Post was over run in war the Post Commander was to use the match to burn the flag so it didn't fall in the hands of the enemy and the 45 round was for the Commander to commit suicide. He failed in his responsibility, akin to the Captain going down with the ship in the Navy (sorry about the underlining, doing that on it's own). I was never advised that I was wrong or never corrected about my answer.
I question your credentials, do you put your bullet in your gun. A Solder places a ROUND in his WEAPON. Get off the platform if you never served, we have to many fakers claiming to have been in and stealing the Valor of the Honerable Solders. A true Solder would never call a Round a BULLET. As for a 45 round in a truck at the top of a flag pole is moot because you have been proven a fraud. Calling a "round" a "bullet" is not a mistake professional Solder would make, Sorry if I am wrong about your service I would never besmerch a service member but what Solder make a mistake like that. Is your truck in a motor pool? My truck is on the flag pole outside the Post command center, motor pools are where you park vehicles. Guess you got your SFC out of crackerjacks.

Response by SFC Sfc Darwin Maring, USA Ret made Nov 19 at 2022 7:21 PM

SFC Sfc Darwin Maring, USA Ret — Sat, 19 Nov 2022 19:21:26 -0500

You signed a Contract with conditions. That is what it is all about.

Response by Col Dan Ketter made Dec 4 at 2022 9:36 PM

Col Dan Ketter — Sun, 04 Dec 2022 21:36:38 -0500

Look under .oldwivestales.com

Response by SFC Gerald Gatlin made Dec 6 at 2022 3:27 PM

SFC Gerald Gatlin — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 15:27:04 -0500

The "government property" is probably just the gossip trail following someone being punished under Article 134 of the UCMJ. If an NCO mistreats troops then he/she could be charged under Article 93.

Response by Sgt Robert Hellyer made Dec 7 at 2022 3:50 PM

Sgt Robert Hellyer — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 15:50:31 -0500

I remember hearing people say that when i was a kid, and I think it dates back at least to WWII. Probably earlier than that, and I'm not real sure that it wasn't a joke. There were an awful lot of WWII servicemen with tattoos, and I'm pretty sure none of them were charged with anything.

Response by MGySgt Rick Tyrrell made Dec 8 at 2022 7:46 PM

MGySgt Rick Tyrrell — Thu, 08 Dec 2022 19:46:21 -0500

You will not any supporting documentation on this topic. We are contracted employees doing a job we signed in agreement that we would do. It is often a harsher job than others might be, but it is still a job, and we are still people. Owning people is illegal. We still have rights, though we give up some of them.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Dec 19 at 2022 6:28 AM

SSG Shawn Mcfadden — Mon, 19 Dec 2022 06:28:00 -0500

I will say that the phrase G.I. means Government Issue. That might help in answering the the U.S. property question.

Response by TSgt D Newman made Jan 22 at 2023 9:53 AM

TSgt D Newman — Sun, 22 Jan 2023 09:53:48 -0500

So let's throw out half the damn enlisted ranks because most have a tattoo.

Response by A1C Jj Birchard made Jan 28 at 2023 8:34 AM

A1C Jj Birchard — Sat, 28 Jan 2023 08:34:06 -0500

True. Slavery is against our constitutional law. But back in the draft days 'involuntary service' or 'indentured servant' apparently not. Mohamad Ali had that one figured out. As did millions of others.

Response by Capt David Winter made Feb 15 at 2023 3:43 PM

Capt David Winter — Wed, 15 Feb 2023 15:43:35 -0500

If a military member gets themselves sunburned
or otherwise neglectfully disabled to the point that they can't perform their mission; they may face disciplinary action. They are responsible for their own personal mission readiness. DI's may embellish this; but only so as to make a memorable point.

Response by PO1 David M Burns made Feb 25 at 2023 8:15 PM

PO1 David M Burns — Sat, 25 Feb 2023 20:15:32 -0500

your first question - No.
your second question - it is called "Training"
your third question - there are no regulations concerning the first two questions.
now it is time to get up and go to work.

Response by CSM Rick Cassel made Feb 28 at 2023 1:46 PM

CSM Rick Cassel — Tue, 28 Feb 2023 13:46:40 -0500

We had a term for them in my Marine Corps days...."Barracks Lawyers." Usually over zealous Senior NCOs or Company grade officers. The E4 mafia has their fair share as well.

One of the biggest lies ever told to troops was, if you did X or Y and died, your family won't get your SGLI. FALSE, SGLI is a VA benefit and the Army/Navy/Maine Corps/Airforce can't withhold crap. Every time I ever heard that in any sort of briefing I threw up the BS flag.

Response by MAJ Angelo Sambunaris made Mar 1 at 2023 11:55 AM

MAJ Angelo Sambunaris — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 11:55:26 -0500

Back in 1977, while in the US Army, a member of our platoon fell asleep while sunbathing during the weekend. Due to the sunburn, he was unable to perform his duties the following duty day and for "damage to government property" he was issued an Article 15. Perhaps the paperwork was worded a bit differently, this is what we were told by our Platoon and Section Sergeants.

Response by GySgt Kenneth Pepper made Mar 6 at 2023 9:34 AM

GySgt Kenneth Pepper — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 09:34:34 -0500

In 1792 an E-3 told an E-2 that story in the barracks after said E-2 got a sunburn. It has taken a life of it's own ever since.

Response by PO2 Joan MacNeill made Mar 16 at 2023 7:53 AM

PO2 Joan MacNeill — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 07:53:29 -0400

Reminds me of "Your ass is grass, and I'm the lawnmower", or more to the point "Your soul may belong to Jesus Christ, but your ass belongs to me!" Purported DI statements.

Response by SPC Geoffrey Jenkins made May 4 at 2023 7:45 AM

SPC Geoffrey Jenkins — Thu, 04 May 2023 07:45:46 -0400

Good morning to all,
I think people are confusing(GI's)Government Issue as property in which I never considered myself and my battle buddies as property,

Response by SSG Russell Moon made May 7 at 2023 11:28 AM

SSG Russell Moon — Sun, 07 May 2023 11:28:57 -0400

I once got a very bad sunburn at a change of command ceremony when I was a young SPC (I was in the band so did about two dozen a year). Several others got sunburns but I was the lightest-skinned one so mine was so severe I got 48 hour quarters. My 1SG wanted my squad leader to write me up for something but he said “for what”? The compromise is that I was ordered (in writing) to keep a bottle of sunscreen with at least SPF 15 in my instrument case from then forward. Bought a bottle for all four of my instrument cases and had no problem for the rest of my time at the Presidio.

Response by SFC Barbara Layman made May 28 at 2023 7:27 PM

SFC Barbara Layman — Sun, 28 May 2023 19:27:46 -0400

It was always understood to be 'tongue in cheek,' and was never a serious legitimate claim.

Just like the phrase "If the Army wanted you to have a wife/husband, you would have been issued one."

Unfortunately, our current society has bred at least 2 generations without a sense of humor. Without the ability to rationalize or to understand/appreciate sarcasm etc., life becomes one long episode of unwarranted fear of anything new.

Response by Sgt James Biear made Jun 2 at 2023 7:52 AM

Sgt James Biear — Fri, 02 Jun 2023 07:52:43 -0400

While this one is mostly rumor, there is an element of truth to it. BEWARE of the flexibility of the Uniform Code of Military Justice…..

Response by SFC William Fowle made Jun 4 at 2023 7:41 AM

SFC William Fowle — Sun, 04 Jun 2023 07:41:43 -0400

The origins of that saying come from wow or WWII time frame. Everything was Government Issue, GI. Soldiers were called GIs, or Government Issued. There is and never was a Regulation stating this, but willfully damaging yourself or otherwise making yourself unfit for service comes under UCMJ for Malingering. At one time just getting a tattoo in the Army was cause for punishment under UCMJ for malingering

Response by PO2 Paul Dempsey made Jun 30 at 2023 10:07 AM

PO2 Paul Dempsey — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 10:07:45 -0400

I believe it may come from people who have purposely injured themselves to avoid duty. Malingering charge. Break you hand by punching a wall, shooting yourself in the foot. I've even seen a sailor taken to mast for a major sunburn after being warned not to. Not property but must maintain your readiness.

Response by SSG Gerhard S. made Jul 1 at 2023 11:41 PM

SSG Gerhard S. — Sat, 01 Jul 2023 23:41:38 -0400

Nobody cares if you write on your hand.

Response by PO1 Robert Ryan made Jul 3 at 2023 11:47 AM

PO1 Robert Ryan — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 11:47:51 -0400

Because yiu are a soldier does not mean you are not still a citizen of the United States. True on active duty we have to temper some of our amendment rights . But we are no ones property.

Response by SGT Gary Stemen made Jul 5 at 2023 9:11 AM

SGT Gary Stemen — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 09:11:47 -0400

A lot of this started with the phrase "your a$$ is mine" a comment stated by many Drill Sergeant's years ago...

Response by SFC Tracy Donahoo made Jul 5 at 2023 1:53 PM

SFC Tracy Donahoo — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 13:53:42 -0400

FYI, 1977 a stand-in Drill Sergeant made our platoon lowcrawl across summer blacktop pavement. A couple days later we stood in-barracks inspection and the bird colonel asked several of us how we got the nasty scrapes and burns on our elbows and fired the DS when he found out. It was called trainee abuse.

Response by SP5 Skip Saurman made Jul 9 at 2023 11:25 PM

SP5 Skip Saurman — Sun, 09 Jul 2023 23:25:04 -0400

We were told that getting a sunburn was a "self-inflicted wound," thereby rendering an Article 15.

Response by SGT Jack Baxter made Aug 11 at 2023 8:50 PM

SGT Jack Baxter — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 20:50:07 -0400

As our beloved Gunny R. Lee Ermey once said “Your heard belongs to Jesus but your ass belongs to the Corps”.

Response by PO3 Edward Riddle made Aug 13 at 2023 10:23 PM

PO3 Edward Riddle — Sun, 13 Aug 2023 22:23:33 -0400

I got a sunburn one time and had to go to Captain's Mast for destroying Government property.

Response by MSgt J D McKee made Aug 13 at 2023 11:06 PM

MSgt J D McKee — Sun, 13 Aug 2023 23:06:48 -0400

I have been threatened with an Article 15 by drill instructors for getting too sunburned, actually my whole basic training flight was. They told us the thing where we would get an Art 15 for destruction of government property ver seriously.

Of course, that was in 1973 and the DI's also stole my really good pocketknife, it was a Case. I didn't get the word that knives were verboten in basic, so they confiscated it and yelled at me. They got about 20 pocketknives, I think. When I left basic I was afraid to ask for it back in case they took some revenge, which I still think was a valid decision and that they would have.

I had already figured out that not only were they probably selling them at flea markets or something, and that our youngest Di, A1C Karasec probably "got married" and had money taken up to buy him wedding presents every class, maybe 4 a year for that crew. We all know that basic induces a kind of "Stockholm Syndrome" in many if not most people and that made it easy I suppose. I quickly figured out that literally no one in the USAF could ever be trusted, so I never really did, I guess basic did what it was supposed to, got me ready to survive in the military.

But I never believed bullshit without proof after that. And there is a shit ton of bullshit going around. Or, hell, was 27 years ago and I doubt it has changed.

Response by MSG J G. Sandy Phillips made Aug 15 at 2023 11:02 PM

MSG J G. Sandy Phillips — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 23:02:56 -0400

AND there is NOTHING I'm aware of in Army Regulations that say a soldier gets their birthday off, either.

Response by 1SG Gary Bacon made Sep 11 at 2023 6:29 PM

1SG Gary Bacon — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 18:29:24 -0400

My question would be, why do grown adults want to draw on their hands? I thought that ended in about third grade

Response by SFC Terry Bryant made Sep 14 at 2023 10:09 AM

SFC Terry Bryant — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 10:09:59 -0400

It started because of article 134. The MCM states a service member may be subject to prosecution<. UCMF for a violation of Article 134 – Self Injury, Without Intent to Avoid Service if the following elements can be effectively demonstrated:

The accused intentionally inflicted injury upon himself or herself; and
under the circumstances, the conduct of the accused was either: (i) to the prejudice of good order and discipline in the armed forces; (ii) was of a nature to bring discredit upon the armed forces; or (iii) to the prejudice of good order and discipline in the armed forces and of a nature to bring discredit upon the armed forces.
If the offence occurred during a time of war or in a hostile fire pay zone, that element is to be added.

Examples:

Sailor during war world 2 would often get severe sun burn and unable to perform his or her duties.

Soldiers would get drunk while on shore leave and do stupid shit like jumping off bridges into waste deep water.
Some Soldiers and Marines in war would shoot themselves in order to get out of further combat. When the wounds they received was proven to be self inflicted then article 134 kicked in.

Because of this article many Military members seen this as BELONGING to the US. And in a sense they would be correct despite the 13th amendment. Even the 1st amendment didn't apply to many Military members as they were prevented from speaking their mind and their opinions more often than not as they represented the US and not any specific political party.

Response by PVT Mark Whitcomb made Sep 14 at 2023 2:10 PM

PVT Mark Whitcomb — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 14:10:28 -0400

Hmm I was in from 74-77 and I don't remember any of that stuff. But then again my first 40 weeks was all training and we never had time for that stuff. I did basic in FT Knox. AIT in Ft. Polk Air Assault School at Ft Campbell. Don't remember having time for chit chat. they kept us busy busy all the time.

Response by SSG Dwight Thompson made Sep 15 at 2023 9:07 AM

SSG Dwight Thompson — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 09:07:59 -0400

AIT & IET Soldiers being afraid or scared to challenge seniors. No the saying just sounds good. Lol

Response by SSG Dwight Thompson made Sep 15 at 2023 9:10 AM

SSG Dwight Thompson — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 09:10:01 -0400

P.s.
SPC why write on your hand(s) when the supply rooms can order writing tablets

Response by SPC James Fitzpatrick made Sep 15 at 2023 4:30 PM

SPC James Fitzpatrick — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 16:30:40 -0400

Your in the Army! If you have to crawl on hot cement, you do it. In comabat, you may have to crawl on far worse - like dead, putrifying bodies, or sharp objects. As for NCOs telling stories, that's as old as George Washington.
I can't believe all the whining that I hear on this site. Soldiers bitching is normal, but this goes far beyond bitching.

Response by SGT Joseph Dutton made Sep 19 at 2023 12:37 AM

SGT Joseph Dutton — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 00:37:55 -0400

A individual entering military service is Government Property because you have been bought and paid for through a contract of service. However there is no direct link of regulations of a member. All though they use the Destruction of Government Property, Defacing Government Property and so forth under the UCMCJ Article. "UCMJ ARTICLE 108 – MILITARY PROPERTY OF THE UNITED STATES – LOSS, DAMAGE, DESTRUCTION, OR WRONGFUL DISPOSITION". Now if and individual violates a Policy, Directive Order & Memorandum issued by a Command can be brought up on UCMJ ARTICLE 108 charges. Mostly getting a Tattoo. But it is a hit and miss from individual to individual and the command/s. UCMJ ART 108 can be extended to more serious crimes to a service member from a service member.

Response by Lt Col Timothy Cassidy-Curtis made Sep 19 at 2023 11:20 AM

Lt Col Timothy Cassidy-Curtis — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 11:20:09 -0400

I have heard this, too. With that said, it is intended to Protect not Abuse the soldier.

There are solid Federal Laws that are aimed at protecting Federal Property. It is a violation of Federal Law to abuse, misuse, or in any other way mistreat any item of Federal Property. The Taxpayer has paid good money to get these resources; it is incumbent upon everybody (this includes All Citizens) to make sure that these resources are used to best effect, and to avoid loss of their value to the Citizen. How would you like to buy a car, only to have it abused and degraded to the point that you have to buy another car? Nobody wants that! It's the same with Government Property.

The GI is protected in the same way. Under some circumstances, the human body can come back stronger and better after some kinds of stress. Your NCO's need to understand that, and when your NCO makes you do something that is "uncomfortable" that's the point. Beyond that, the NCO becomes responsible for the Soldier's condition.

So, if you, as a GI, believe that your NCO has gone beyond the normal "strengthening" paradigm, your options may include a discussion with the First Sergeant. Don't expect a lot of sympathy for hurt feelings, etc., but a factual and professional relating of circumstances, along with a respectful hearing of the Shirt's response, will go a long way to clarify the situation.

Response by CPL Miguel Velez made Sep 22 at 2023 6:12 PM

CPL Miguel Velez — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 18:12:03 -0400

I was called to office by Col. Weekly, because I had shaved my head. That was back in the early 70’s. I told all of them that I shaved because it was a promise to God in exchange of transforming my entire life.

Response by CPO Kurt Baschab made Oct 28 at 2023 7:57 PM

CPO Kurt Baschab — Sat, 28 Oct 2023 19:57:48 -0400

I am not sure of the origins , but My understanding was it came from WWI OR WWII, when citizens from other countries called service members GI, for Governments issue, Please do not quote me on this, Because I truly do not know, this was something I was Told when I was A Very young man, if you find out the true answer please let me know

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2023 6:31 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 04 Nov 2023 18:31:07 -0400

Tell the young technician to run down to central supply and get a box of fallopian tubes.
Or run over to sterile supply and pick up an Otis elevator.
(For those not surgically inclined, there are a number of instruments which are "elevators" for prying things up or apart, usually bone. Otis is not one of them.)

Response by MSG Lonnie Averkamp made Nov 19 at 2023 5:36 PM

MSG Lonnie Averkamp — Sun, 19 Nov 2023 17:36:24 -0500

SSG Mitch Cobb - Is correct, to a degree, about not having the same Constitutional Rights as a civilian. A service member may not criticize his superiors or any politician or civilian over him/her while in uniform. A service member may have things like wall lockers and barracks living areas inspected without any warrant. On-post, your vehicle may be inspected for weapons, drugs, or contraband, without a warrant or even probable cause. So to say that you "lose your Constitutional Rights" may be overly broad, it can be said that those rights may be more limited.

Response by SMSgt Billy Gilliam made Dec 11 at 2023 8:29 AM

SMSgt Billy Gilliam — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 08:29:51 -0500

Title 10 of the US Code contain all laws written by congress pertain to the military. You should find a copy at your llocal legal office

Response by A1C Diane Phillips made Dec 25 at 2023 4:24 AM

A1C Diane Phillips — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 04:24:31 -0500

I know what they made me do when I had 103 temperature when I was in the Air Force they made me March anyway and I thought I was literally going to die and I had bronchitis! And yes we are their property and I was told that over and over and over and over again! When I got a sunburn I was told if I had to go to the hospital that I would get written up for that because I burned their property!

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2024 3:24 AM

PVT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 09 Jan 2024 03:24:29 -0500

Ive heard this idea. I think its just justification for some other ideas. Like some who do not like tattoos. COuld be wrong.

Response by MSgt Ed Larson made Jan 10 at 2024 7:18 PM

MSgt Ed Larson — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 19:18:03 -0500

Old SGTMJRs and senior enlisted say all sorts of stuff that isnt true. They are trying to enforce their view of what is acceptable. Most of it is bullshit. When i was a young Marine the Corps tried this crap.

Response by A1C James Perkins made Jan 12 at 2024 1:01 PM

A1C James Perkins — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 13:01:37 -0500

Obviously most of you people didn't, or couldn't read your enlistment contract.

Response by SGT Keith Smith made Jan 12 at 2024 3:12 PM

SGT Keith Smith — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 15:12:12 -0500

Okay. Read this and realized that there are a host of details left out so I will try to cover the bases. First the idea that soldiers are things started with G.I. Or general issue. You have to requisition personnel just like equipment so soldiers started referring to themselves as G.I.s.
Now what kind of writing are we talking about. Walking around with disrespectful words, words of hate, things that be construed as offensive are covered by UCMJ. Any tattoo can be seen as self mutilation. That would need to be decided by the chain of command. When I was coming up tattoos were not allowed and it was covered under a published order. Something about distracting from the uniform now I have read that some are allowed and would believe it would have to be tasteful nothing lewd. If all else falls then I have seen them reach for the catch all. 134 which has a very broad interpretation. Common sense guides us. If your child wrote on your hand I love you I doubt that any commander would want that to get to trial. However if it is a bar stamp from an off limits club well you just ratted yourself out and they are going to throw the book at you. Again missing information and no one owns you unless you are convicted and sent to jail. Then the state can sell your labor and profit from your work.

Response by PO1 David Kingsley made Mar 5 at 2024 2:50 AM

PO1 David Kingsley — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 02:50:27 -0500

Writing upon oneself, is not a permanent condition
getting a Tattoo, is a permanent condition.
No Service Member has gotten into trouble for getting a tattoo.

Response by SPC Terri Robards made Mar 7 at 2024 4:21 PM

SPC Terri Robards — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 16:21:49 -0500

How about "You Soldiers are Government Property and You can't Sue the Government for anything that happens to you while you're serving?
Which seems to be partly true, considering when I served late 70's - early 80's
There wasn't any recourse for anything that happened to you while serving, for the most part.
But yet 10 to 15 years later, Enlisted were informed and encouraged to submit any possible claims of injury and such, 6 months before through 6 months after discharge from service.
Showing Regulations change over the years too, but they don't keep Everyone up to date. But I have to say that since the Internet and Our Brother/Sisters in Arms sharing updated info with each other, it has helped find out the Truth from the Misinformation and how to go forward if you choose.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2024 3:47 PM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 30 Mar 2024 15:47:46 -0400

Back in my day, early 60's, I got a real bad sunburn at the beach and was told by my shop NCOIC that if I went on "sick call" I could suffer disciplinary action for "damaging government property" sooooo not knowing any better I suffered through it.

Response by SSG Bob Robertson made Apr 12 at 2024 8:30 PM

SSG Bob Robertson — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 20:30:14 -0400

G.I. Joe. G.I. stands for Government Issue. Therefore you are government property and right now you need to go to the latrine and release from service any waste you may be carrying right now. Yes that's an order.

Response by SP5 Wick Humble made Apr 14 at 2024 12:03 AM

SP5 Wick Humble — Sun, 14 Apr 2024 00:03:53 -0400

Did anyone quote "Your soul better belong to God, 'cause your ass belongs to me!" from a Drill Sgt? One of our DS said it in 1969, but then the others had a good laugh over it.
Still, duck-walking around a big concrete barracks with a M-14 held high over one's head... ! I get leg cramps now just remembering that!

Response by SP5 George Smith made Apr 14 at 2024 12:41 PM

SP5 George Smith — Sun, 14 Apr 2024 12:41:28 -0400

Haven’t been around civilized humanity since its beginning, but I am going to guess that motivating quips such as this have been around since the Roman army. There is no source document for such sayings we’ve all heard while we were in service (Unless someone has written a book since I was in). I can speculate that the purpose is to maintain discipline, uniformity, and preventing self harm of our youthful idiocy as we try to survive in our early years. If there was an official source document that declared us as government property would a boot understand Drill Sergeant citing the section of the manual? It would have been way over my buzzed haircut for my underdeveloped philosophical brain to comprehend. It was easier for me to see the logic behind being Uncle Sam’s property since we all were dressed, fed, and trained the same way without anyone asking us what our choices were. I guess in today’s Army you can’t say, “Get your head out of your a**!” or “Quit stepping your d**k!” any more. Yup! Things have changed…For the better?