Is it appropiate for a prior service member to correct service members on AR 670-1 violations?

PV2 Daniel Shipley — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 00:06:05 -0500

Is it appropriate for any PSMs to correct the violations of AR 670-1 on any currently serving SM? This includes any rank (PVT to O-5). As a PSM who honorably served in the Army, I see many soldiers who violate AR 670-1, And I have corrected most, including SGTs and higher (I am a PV2). Am I wrong for this? And, can we, as PSMs report disrespect after corrections to brigade commanders if corrections are ignored? Thoughts, please.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2015 12:09 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 00:09:34 -0500

Frankly, if I were walking around all ate up (it happens to us all), I would want someone to stop me and square me away. I wouldn't let pride keep me from receiving the correction. The alternative is to be a casual laughingstock until someone with guts DOES fix you or you catch it yourself.
I view it as the equivalent to going on a date with spinach stuck in your teeth, Please tell me.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2015 12:16 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 00:16:04 -0500

I think a PSM should be able to make on the spot correction. As long as they are correct when making a correction. They need to be up on the regulation. ie. New hair and boot requirements.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2015 12:19 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 00:19:12 -0500

I wouldn’t. When you’re out, you’re out. I think in cases of prior service making corrections it those that just can’t let go of the military.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2015 12:29 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 00:29:46 -0500

I would, just to save you from looking like a soup sandwich. But just wait and see when I am wearing my ASU's at a authorized event(as a retiree) wearing the above item, that will turn some heads and someone will be looking up AR 670-1 really fast:

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2015 12:36 AM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 00:36:13 -0500

It is absolutely appropriate, as long as you are versed in the current regs. It's not about the "authority" to do so as pointed out in an earlier post. I've made corrections to officers when I was on active duty and I was only an E-4. If someone's ate up, it's your duty to let them know (but please do so tactfully).

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Feb 4 at 2015 1:13 AM

SFC Mark Merino — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 01:13:24 -0500

NCO till I die! If I see some poor young LT or junior enlisted troop heading towards an ass chewing, I'm going to hook a brother up. I see it as helping, not interfering. We may retire from the leadership position, but not being a leader.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2015 1:26 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 01:26:09 -0500

There should be no reason why a prior service member couldn't make the correction. Still serving, retired, medical out, whatever the reason, you take an oath, that makes you party of it all. If someone it's in violation of military standards, whoever it may be, whatever the rank, they should be corrected. I see it ask the time myself, and I make the correction that I see needs to be made. If your going to wear my/our uniform, you will wear it correctly!

Response by SGT Francis Wright made Feb 4 at 2015 1:26 AM

SGT Francis Wright — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 01:26:30 -0500

Not in the game. So I would not make uniform corrections. If a soldier can't respect themselves not my problem.

Response by 1SG David Lopez made Feb 4 at 2015 1:32 AM

1SG David Lopez — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 01:32:32 -0500

In my opinion it is more appropriate for us to police ourselves, in a courtious and professional manner. No self respecting Soldier, NCO and/or Officer should take offense to you (us) prior service members / retired Army correcting their uniform violation. If they don't like it, then shame on them. It bugs me to see uniform violations, I figure the least I could do is try to help the person out by telling them. I now work in Corrections, we wear a uniform, and the NCO in me screams out to correct uniform violations, some of these POSs don't get it.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2015 1:50 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 01:50:59 -0500

I think it's appropriate as long as you are up to date on the regs.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2015 3:28 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 03:28:57 -0500

Personally, I would find it highly inappropriate for someone who isn’t currently serving (AC/RC/NG) to correct me on uniform deficiencies of any kind. Can you imagine how galling it would be for some guy with a huge beard and shoulder length hair try to correct you on your uniform?

Also, regulations change all the time. What used to be the regulation might no longer be the case and you may end up correcting something which doesn’t need to be corrected.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2015 4:25 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 04:25:05 -0500

Gross uniform infractions yes. Minor uniform infractions that may have changed, stand down.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2015 4:33 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 04:33:42 -0500

If a currenty SM is wrong and a Past SM knows the regulation then by all means correct and inject knowledge into the current SM so he/she will know. Ignorance is only bliss until you are no longer ignorant of the situation.

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Feb 4 at 2015 8:30 AM

COL Jean (John) F. B. — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 08:30:42 -0500

I think it is very appropriate for former military personnel to make on-the-spot corrections if they observe a violation. Approaching the individual in a "helpful" manner would most likely be appreciated by the service member, particularly if he/she were unaware of the discrepancy. I have done that on many occasions and I think the person being corrected/helped was appreciative that I brought the issue to his/her attention.

I have never run into a situation where the service member "copped an attitude" with me. Not sure what I would have done, if he/she had. One thing for sure, however... I would not have simply walked off and forgotten about it.

I think that a person's approach to the situation sets the tone. Approach as trying to be helpful, not demanding or overbearing.

Bottom line is that violations should be pointed out and corrected by anybody observing them.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2015 8:42 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 08:42:49 -0500

I see nothing wrong with a PSM making a on the spot correction if they see something out of the ordinary or incorrect on my uniform following they meet the two underlying conditions.

1. Know the most up to date version of AR 670-1 (new changes are always implemented greatest changes to the most recent version were regarding ethnic hairstyles and tattoos being approved for those grandfathered in.)

2. Use Tact when making an on spot correction, don't walk up to someone yelling at them as you see in some of the stolen valor videos online mind you those are a different situation however be mindful and pull the person to the side for a more interpersonal conversation. keep in mind most people if they just didn't notice something was off (i.e. pocket flap open) they will usually thank you and be glad you corrected them keep in mind some people may take it offensively but in my experience I've never met someone who I had to correct get upset at me for doing so. Also they may possibly be less inclined to listen to a PSM if that is their mindset however like I said I haven't ran in to that personally. As I was always told it is better for someone to correct you at a lower level than you walk in and a high up sees it.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Feb 4 at 2015 8:47 AM

SGT Ben Keen — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 08:47:33 -0500

To me it doesn't matter what your status is. As long as you are current on the regs and make the correction in a respectful manner than it is a good thing. I feel that if you see the violation and fail to make the correction than you are pretty much walking around with that same violation. We all have rough days and sometimes can use a second set of eyes to make sure we look as good as we can. Heck, I still do it today when I have to get dressed for a formal meeting or something that requires me to put on a suit or my tux.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Feb 4 at 2015 8:47 AM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 08:47:59 -0500

I mentioned in the other thread.

I no longer have the authority, but that doesn't mean I can't advise.

If I saw a Marine with his EGAs facing the wrong way, or an upside down ribbon (like a CAR), I'd let him know.

I used to work on an Army base. Saw a guy who had missed a belt loop in the back in service uniform. Just approached and gave him a friendly heads up. He thanked me, and hit the head to correct.

Response by SGT Jim Z. made Feb 4 at 2015 8:48 AM

SGT Jim Z. — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 08:48:13 -0500

I am not in-depth with the latest 670-1 or any of the regulations but if I see a soldier that is obviously ate up I will politely stop them and make the correction. I may be a veteran but the NCO in me is still there but I do things on a much more even keel now. Truth be told most soldiers will be like thanks.

Response by MAJ Jim Steven made Feb 4 at 2015 8:52 AM

MAJ Jim Steven — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 08:52:03 -0500

So....even after you get out of the military, you continue to download copies of the latest 670-1???
These aren't the same people who are having trouble finding a job, are they?

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Feb 4 at 2015 8:55 AM

TSgt Joshua Copeland — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 08:55:46 -0500

Nothing wrong with a polite "excuse me Sir/MSG/SGT/CPT/Whatever, your collar is jacked up/you [insert something here] is on crooked/etc/"

Be polite, be professional, and have a plan to kill everyone in the room...wait that is another quote. I guess that works here too!

Response by SPC Joshua H. made Feb 4 at 2015 9:09 AM

SPC Joshua H. — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 09:09:52 -0500

The uniforms have changed A LOT since I got out and not up to date on all of the new changes. I wouldn't try to correct other then something major (ie cover indoors) and would do it with respect.

Response by CPT Richard Riley made Feb 4 at 2015 9:26 AM

CPT Richard Riley — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 09:26:49 -0500

Discretion is the better part of valor ..... Your question poses - is it appropriate? You then further clarify to include only PVT to LTC.
If we're talking about a flagrant violation, tact and common sense rules the day. There is a way to point out an issue without making it personal or destructive and that may be your best course of action. What matters is how the issue is presented and that it is truly outside the AR 670-1 regs. Being nit-picky just because you can is no reason to call someone out.
I tend to think how you approach it is 75% of the problem. All members want to be inside the regs but no one enjoys being berated over something that, in the grand scheme of things, is small potatoes.

Response by SSG Peter Ludlum made Feb 4 at 2015 9:33 AM

SSG Peter Ludlum — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 09:33:15 -0500

Yes, however no matter rank above or below it should always be done with respect. Most of us will welcome a correction as we are all one military. It just has to be done with respect.

Response by SPC James Mcneil made Feb 4 at 2015 9:42 AM

SPC James Mcneil — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 09:42:39 -0500

To me, it would depend on how it's done. I would do so, but I would do so in such a way that I try not to convey the idea of "I know more than you." I would say, "When I was in, this was the regulation. Is it different now?" Or something like that.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2015 9:48 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 09:48:01 -0500

If they are a prior service, and they know the reg and recognize me for being outside of the reg, I welcome the correction they can provide. If I am am a walking piece of bubblegum, I want someone to tell me.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2015 1:36 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 06 Feb 2015 01:36:28 -0500

I wouldn't mind someone helping me out if something looks ate up. But on the other hand, know what your talking about.

Response by SGT Keith Lusk made Feb 7 at 2015 4:56 PM

SGT Keith Lusk — Sat, 07 Feb 2015 16:56:42 -0500

Yes, absolutely.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2015 7:46 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 07 Feb 2015 19:46:29 -0500

But what if the correction is in error based on either changes to rules and regulations or that the PSM is just wrong?
In our local PX Food Court one afternoon where I was joining my family for a duty day lunch (I was in ACUs), I had a much older gentleman approach me and told me that I was wrong for chewing gum in uniform, and that I should know better! (I have posted this before, so will not go into much more about opinions of gum chewing.)
Of course, there is no regulation or rule about not chewing gum (of course, looking bad, etc. still applies) so what do you do?
I thanked him for his service (I assumed he was a Retiree), then moved about my lunch with my family. (Of course I asked my CSM as soon as I could to make sure I wasn't missing something.)

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2015 7:58 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 08 Feb 2015 07:58:13 -0500

I would have to say your are in the right, it is our job to make sure our battle buddy's are squared away at all times regardless of rank. Because we are so scrutinized under the public eye, we need to make sure we look professional at all times.

Response by SGT Laura Martin made Feb 8 at 2015 12:12 PM

SGT Laura Martin — Sun, 08 Feb 2015 12:12:29 -0500

I agree with SFC Merino. NCO until I die. If I see someone that is incorrectly wearing the uniform, especially in a public area off post, I will correct them, discreetly, since their actions reflect poorly on all of us, past present and future SM's. JMHO

Response by PO1 Phil Audritsh made Feb 8 at 2015 12:32 PM

PO1 Phil Audritsh — Sun, 08 Feb 2015 12:32:42 -0500

As a veteran, I am not against helping someone else to avoid confrontation with a superior. This goes for E or O. I had to help many officers who entered my units as most had never worn camo. And junior members sometimes need extra attention until they are accustomed to how things should be.

Response by MSG Scott McBride made Feb 8 at 2015 12:36 PM

MSG Scott McBride — Sun, 08 Feb 2015 12:36:23 -0500

Still Serving! Just do it properly. You can't barrage a Soldier with your correction in a veteran status and expect them to respond appropriately. You can however advise and hope they have enough respect for you and your attention to them to fix the discrepancy.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2015 3:22 PM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 08 Feb 2015 15:22:34 -0500

That's appropriate. I've been pulled to the side at home while on RA by a retired female Marine who advised me on my hair and that my skirt may need to be tailored if it doesn't sit where it's supposed to after I returned to my normal weight (I dropped almost 15 pounds in boot camp), because it sat too low on my hips and it seemed too long.

Personally, I'd rather be corrected than have someone shake their head and watch me look like a shitbag.

Response by SFC Marvin VanBuskirk made Feb 8 at 2015 7:35 PM

SFC Marvin VanBuskirk — Sun, 08 Feb 2015 19:35:06 -0500

You are correct in doing that, anyone can make on the spot corrections and if they outrank you then you should pull them to the side and then make the correction. But if they give you a problem with it then you can report it to your chain of command

Response by MSG Douglas Tolliver made Feb 8 at 2015 8:24 PM

MSG Douglas Tolliver — Sun, 08 Feb 2015 20:24:40 -0500

No, there's no reason you shouldn't do it. If you know the standards help them out. I've been corrected before.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2015 11:03 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 08 Feb 2015 23:03:56 -0500

I think that as long as it is done respectfully, there should be no problem. I'd appreciate it if someone corrected me if I was out of regs. It's a professional job and we should take pride in it. So many soldiers nowadays have gotten sloppy.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2015 11:14 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 08 Feb 2015 23:14:34 -0500

Retirees and veterans are "Soldiers for Life". Making a friendly correction is very appropriate because not only do we want to keep our image positive to the community, but as SFC Merino pointed out we are helping a fellow soldier and. I definitely agree with him; as an a retired soldier, my responsibilities to the Army and my follow soldiers don't end.

Response by LTC Bob Kiser made Feb 9 at 2015 7:46 AM

LTC Bob Kiser — Mon, 09 Feb 2015 07:46:10 -0500

Yes, but show some respect when you are doing it and do so in the spirit of helping a Soldier get better......If you are junior and get brushed off......don't be surprised to find out that the offender went home, broke out 670-1 - checked the mirror.....and made the correction....

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2015 9:33 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 09 Feb 2015 09:33:20 -0500

Anyone with any service history has an obligation to right what is wrong. And, in the Army, a private is allowed to correct a Col as long as they do so respectfully. It is a matter of upholding the standard before the individual. And if you are disrespected, especially being prior service, get their name, rank, and command, and I am sure it won't be tolerated.

Response by SFC Richard M. made Feb 9 at 2015 9:50 AM

SFC Richard M. — Mon, 09 Feb 2015 09:50:36 -0500

Of course it's appropriate. So long as it's done with tact and respect.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2015 7:00 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 Feb 2015 07:00:39 -0500

Yes, but only if they are aware of the current regulations. Example: an unnamed CSM in the Army "corrected" my apparent mustache infraction according to Army standards. He was unaware that Naval regulations differ from Army regulations, and that I was within Naval regulation (since I am a sailor). Thankfully it was easily fixed by printing the regulation and showing him, but that is not always possible with a retiree which you may not ever see again. My point is if I am retired and the individual looks professional, I will never question him/her (because I have no intention to study 5 differing regulations after I am out).

Response by SPC Neil Hood made Feb 10 at 2015 9:43 AM

SPC Neil Hood — Tue, 10 Feb 2015 09:43:29 -0500

Just be respectful to the service member. They will appreciate it. Don't use phrases like "hey high speed" or "jacked up".

Response by Cpl Clinton Britt made Feb 10 at 2015 9:51 AM

Cpl Clinton Britt — Tue, 10 Feb 2015 09:51:17 -0500

My Brother in Arms and Fellow Veteran. As a Marine, we are the worst for this. Most of us even question a persons right to wear the word Marine with a graphic of the covet EGA (Eagle Globe and Anchor)

Some times that does seem a little far but as correcting a SM of any branch, I think it is still our obligation to do so because I really dont think that our Oath ever expires. Its the required active duty that does

Cpl Britt
USMC eas

Response by SFC Ralph Hudson made Feb 10 at 2015 5:21 PM

SFC Ralph Hudson — Tue, 10 Feb 2015 17:21:57 -0500

I think it's fine to make a correction. There is no need to be a dick about it, because that could just lead to a bad situation since the civilian has no authority anymore. As a civilian it's important to make sure that the correction that you are making is correct since there are always changes to the regulations and it's not like most civilians are still researching Army Regs.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2015 11:19 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 Feb 2015 23:19:12 -0500

It's always proper to correct. Correct those seniors with the respect befitting their rank.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2015 11:20 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 Feb 2015 23:20:16 -0500

If you know the standards then go for it however uniforms change and the standards become different. When I am 90 years only and I see a Soldier wearing his or her mech suit all jacked up I may say something if I have read the reg over said mech suit

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2015 12:51 AM

PVT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 11 Feb 2015 00:51:45 -0500

PSMs can be a life saver at times for this. For example I am in NG and getting ready to ship for 11b OSUT soon. We have our RSP each month and one morning me and a buddy were in a rush and stopped at a CVS to grab some water where a PSM came up to my buddy and just said "hey the back of your collar is jacked you need help to fix it real quick?" this then saved him from getting smoked upon getting to RSP. However there has been times where PSMs have been set on calling someone out for stolen valor because something is off and will not listen to anything you have to say. An example of this is after RSP we stopped to grab some food and a PSM came up and started grilling us on where our unit patches were and because we are in RSP and havent gone to training yet we dont get patched and sent to our units until after. We tried to politely explain this to him as it could be confusing but he wasnt having it and started yelling at us and we werent exactly sure what to do but luckily a SM came up a settled it.

So my point is it is nice to have PSMs come up and make corrections because it can be a life saver. but on the other hand dont approach assuming since the uniform isnt perfect.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2015 6:57 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 11 Feb 2015 06:57:06 -0500

Right but you're saying honorable served but you're a PSM PV2 which either means med boarded before your first year in the army was up or reduced in rank and booted out. Also AR 670-1 is ever changing, so unless somebody stays updated on regulations they can't really correct somebody. Finally as for reporting to a Brigade commander is ridiculous simply a squad leader or first sergeant would suffice, my Brigade is in a whole different state, so you could see the level of difficulty.

Response by SSG Daniel Miller made Feb 11 at 2015 8:45 AM

SSG Daniel Miller — Wed, 11 Feb 2015 08:45:38 -0500

If you are fluent in the current regs, make the correction. Currently serving or not, those in the uniform represent the heritage of the service and need to wear it right.

Response by 1SG Joseph Anderson made Feb 11 at 2015 12:53 PM

1SG Joseph Anderson — Wed, 11 Feb 2015 12:53:01 -0500

As a retired 1SG, ABSOLUTELY you can make an on the spot correction for a uniform mishap. I make them anytime I see one. If someone is disrespectful, I would try and report them if I felt need be. The only thing is will they give you the info to their leadership. I've never really been disrespected for a correction though. Just don't take it too far, let them know they are in the wrong and you would prefer they fix the issue. If they don't try and get the soldiers name rank and unit. Report their misconduct to leadership. What everyone has to know is that one Soldier whether near a military facility or the farthest, they are representing the past, present and future Soldiers of the Great UNITED STATES of AMERICA. If they look like a p.o.s, others will believe we all look like this. Represent us all as the greatest Soldiers in the world!

Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made Feb 12 at 2015 11:36 AM

1LT Nick Kidwell — Thu, 12 Feb 2015 11:36:25 -0500

There's a lot of NG servicemembers in my area.

If the uniform error a bad one, like completely incorrect wear of the uniform, then yeah. I would have no problem offering a polite correction. If they give me 'tude because I'm a vet and not a serving soldier, I'm pretty sure I know someone who can tell me who their chain of command...

Response by SGT Tommy Lawhorn made Feb 12 at 2015 2:12 PM

SGT Tommy Lawhorn — Thu, 12 Feb 2015 14:12:44 -0500

It's funny you mention that. I was up at my wife's college a few years ago and I saw some numb nuts with the canteen strapped to his dress greens...I definitely gave them an ass chewing

Response by SPC John Reed made Feb 19 at 2015 2:52 PM

SPC John Reed — Thu, 19 Feb 2015 14:52:02 -0500

Is it ever inappropriate to do so if done respectfully and politely? I would however be slow to report a lack of correction unless met with outright disrespect.

Response by PO2 Pualani Ralph made Mar 11 at 2015 3:19 PM

PO2 Pualani Ralph — Wed, 11 Mar 2015 15:19:18 -0400

Depends... I mean I wouldn't necessarily correct them. Regulations change, I would privately talk to them... Here is why I am on the fence about it...

I was home on leave and I saw a guy out bowling with his buddies wearing his black zip up and is name and rank on it ( I think that is what he was wearing it was a couple years ago)...Now I am from a small town so military plays a huge part there and I know that he was excited to be in the military and blah blah blah...

My husband was prior service in the Army and pointed it out, My husband doesn't want confrontation so he let it go. I was like I am not, he is using it to try and get things for free. He is the reason a lot of people hate giving discounts to people who deserve it. I wanted to make sure I knew what I was talking about before I confronted him. At the time of this incident my team lead was actually an Army SSG, so I called him. I asked if what the Soldier was wearing was out of regs. SSG confirmed that we were right. I didn't want to blast him in front of his buddies so I called him over to us. There were like 8 people in the entire building. ( My Dad who was running the place, my son (2yr old at the time) my husband, and then his group.

I have really good hearing so I heard him telling his buddies see I told you it pays off (thinking I was going to pay for bowling or drinks....this eerked me a little but I kept my composure and I went along for the ride. He was a SPC (I think) I asked him how long he was in the service, where he was stationed. (I can't remember the answers) but what I do remember is what happened next...

I asked him how well he knew uniform regulations...he went from looking relaxed to a "bucking up" stance. He was like yes why...I was like look don't be so defensive, I know you know you are wrong and that is all I am going to say. He questioned how I knew and I showed him my ID. He continued to state that he was going to do what he wanted and I couldn't stop him. I out ranked him and told him to give me his Company's information and he did (At this point the NCO in me started coming out, I hate being disrespected). I called my SSG and gave him the low down. Within 10 minutes, I see the Soldier get a phone call and you could see the embarrassment just crossing his face as he was taking his stuff off his jacket. A small part of me felt really bad for him, but then again he could have just taking my advice and he wouldn't have been embarrassed in front of his buddies. His buddy came up and was like was that necessary and I told him no it wasn't I gave him a chance to take it off and that was it but he wanted to disrespect me as a higher ranking military member. His buddy apologized and went back.

I would never intentionally want to embarrass someone, but don't be a jerk to me either. I get the fact that he wanted to show off his military service, but do it correctly. You never know who is around you and your in the military your under strict orders that you are supposed to follow.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Apr 14 at 2015 9:17 AM

COL Charles Williams — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 09:17:22 -0400

It is not only appropriate, it is our duty 24/7. The Army works when the Army polices itself. Professional prompt uniform corrections are always in order. I would always want to know if I was not right, as it was likely by an accidental error vs. an intentional act.

Response by CPL Jay Freeman made Apr 14 at 2015 9:49 AM

CPL Jay Freeman — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 09:49:45 -0400

I even fix civilians if I see the caller up I approach them and tell them I'm going to touch you and fix there caller something about this drives me nuts. Lol. And then I live near an air force base where they issue access cards to get to certain private places on the base I see them in the local Walmart with them displaying it on the outside as a former security forces officer I fight the response to yank it off and turn it into the base commander as not having it displayed is a big part of opsec. My one question is has the regulations changed to where it's ok to wear your uniform off base to shop? And how safe is this practice?

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Apr 14 at 2015 11:16 AM

LTC Paul Labrador — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 11:16:38 -0400

As with any person doing the correcting, it's a matter of a) tact and b) knowing what the current regs are. The regs may be different now than what they were back when they were still in....

Response by SGT Littleton Kirkpatrick made Apr 18 at 2015 12:04 AM

SGT Littleton Kirkpatrick — Sat, 18 Apr 2015 00:04:38 -0400

It is absolutely appropriate, as a retired NCO it is still my duty and obligation to ENFORCE the standards. If you or I or any other service member active, inactive or retired fail to do this we are creating an incorrect standard.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2015 12:17 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 18 Apr 2015 00:17:26 -0400

I'm not current on the regs and I live near Patrick, way to many air force for me to start. If I see something horribly off, I'll say something, but I limit myself to the obvious. Head gear, belt loops, collars, missing button, etc.

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Aug 9 at 2015 4:14 PM

SGT Michael Glenn — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 16:14:12 -0400

I most certainly think we should! No matter who it is we are all still soldiers/leaders to an extent, my oath as a NCO did not come with an expiration date on it nor did my oath to defend this country so why should the responsibility to help a soldier out when the need arises?? If they are doing something blatantly stupid in uniform I have no issue with it as they are disgracing not only themselves but the uniform and all of us as well. If its something that requires tact ( head gear or uniform oopsies who better than a former SM VS a fellow SM who may just get them into serious trouble??

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2015 2:57 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 10 Sep 2015 14:57:17 -0400

I see no problem with correcting someone. If they're jacked up, I say help them. That's what I would want even if I get a little irritated because I don't like being corrected. Though it's not apparent I, and hopefully others, appreciate what you do when you correct a AR violation.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 18 at 2015 12:23 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 18 Sep 2015 00:23:44 -0400

It's definitely a good thing to square away fellow soldiers because we all represent the US Army (or whatever branch/component we serve in). Just today as I was flying out of CAB I noticed a young man that had his duffle bag and acu backpack but he was wearing his APFU short sleeve shirt with jeans. Since I wasn't too sure, I consulted AR 670-1 and found that after the April update, combining PT's w/civies is prohibited. I quietly told him and as expected, he said "My DS's said it was ok" but I still showed him the text and he thanked me and apologized. I told him not to worry as I only wanted to help him look squared away, he went to the restroom and changed into a regular t-shirt. Turns out he had been sent home from reception at Ft. Jackson due to anxiety.

Response by SrA Paul Pfeil made Jan 13 at 2016 4:12 PM

SrA Paul Pfeil — Wed, 13 Jan 2016 16:12:41 -0500

Darn right you can. Anyone can correct a soldier in violation. Just be polite and respectful. The big one I see is hands in pockets and head gear. I have no problem yelling cover to some soldier. Same goes for actions unbecoming.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 13 at 2016 9:06 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 13 Jan 2016 21:06:09 -0500

No, I don't think it is appropriate, and I have never seen it happen. Serving members have a chain of command, and on-the-spot corrections in a public setting are always inappropriate, especially coming from someone that is no longer on a contract. What you could do is ask politely for that individual's company/ shop/ platoon, and speak with their leadership offline and let them handle it. I know a lot of 'lifers' and gung-ho vets out there don't like that answer, but the harsh reality is that you had your time to shine, and you served your nation well; it's time to let the next generation on NCOs handle their men and women, and how those serving today look in public is a direct reflection of their leadership- hold them accountable.

Response by 1LT Aaron Barr made Jan 14 at 2016 9:29 AM

1LT Aaron Barr — Thu, 14 Jan 2016 09:29:00 -0500

Well, the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States of America guarantees free speech so if I see a person blatantly violating uniform standards, I have every right to point it out to him. No longer being in the military, he's under no obligation to listen to me, let alone obey me if I tell him to fix it, but I most certainly can say something.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 4:11 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 16:11:40 -0400

If you are 8^, it shouldn't matter who makes the correction.

Response by MSG Dan Castaneda made Jun 2 at 2016 8:52 AM

MSG Dan Castaneda — Thu, 02 Jun 2016 08:52:29 -0400

I disagree with most here. If you are no longer in the Army, you should not be able to make uniform corrections. If you walk up to me and say something about me having my hands in my pockets and you are not in uniform, I will pay no mind to you. You will be wasting your time and leave feeling like an idiot.

Response by CPL Matt Johnson made Feb 15 at 2017 9:46 PM

CPL Matt Johnson — Wed, 15 Feb 2017 21:46:01 -0500

Square them away!!!!! We've all been there. Active or Veteran. Don't be the Blue Falcon!!!!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2018 1:49 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 01:49:05 -0500

If your patches, name tapes, boot places etc are ate up then yes. Nobody likes walking around ate up. When it comes to AR 670-1 infractions, no. stay in your lane, if you are no longer in the service. An active service member will spot the infraction and correct it. The reg has changed quite a few times in the last 5 years and so have the uniforms.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Mar 6 at 2018 11:40 AM

SGM Bill Frazer — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 11:40:30 -0500

You should try, it's sad that they are corrected as much as they need to be- BUt make damn sure YOU are right in what you are correcting.

Response by SPC David Willis made Mar 6 at 2018 11:44 AM

SPC David Willis — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 11:44:35 -0500

Thing about regulations is they are always changing. Go for it if you want to and there's nothing wrong with it if you're tactful, but you could also be wrong.

Response by SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA made Mar 6 at 2018 5:40 PM

SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 17:40:13 -0500

I've been instructed by NCOs to always, respectfully, make such corrections. Therefore, I have called a CSM's attention to the fact that he had lost his flag. He thanked me.

Response by PO2 Brian Fox made Jul 18 at 2018 8:53 AM

PO2 Brian Fox — Wed, 18 Jul 2018 08:53:40 -0400

Personally I correct people on adaily basis. I’m not even near a navy base anymore and I still correct them. I’m a dual branch combat war/disabled/retired veteran. I don’t care what they say after I correct them but I’m polite and courteous about it. If they don’t correct it immediately I ask them them where they are stationed and then contact the local recruiter and have them deal with it. When I contact the recruiters I also provide a photo of the person in question. Just like when I contact the police about a law breaker. Photos speaker louder than words most of the time.

Response by SFC Harry H. made Jul 31 at 2018 3:43 PM

SFC Harry H. — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 15:43:59 -0400

Well being your prior service and no longer in the service, I'm pretty sure you as a civilian can say what you please. Even if it were to state in AR670-1 that a PSM can not correct a SM.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Jul 31 at 2018 5:18 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 17:18:23 -0400

NO, on the spot corrections are good for all- to include my favorite O7

Response by PFC Donnie Harold Harris made Jun 15 at 2019 4:11 AM

PFC Donnie Harold Harris — Sat, 15 Jun 2019 04:11:23 -0400

Should a taxi cab driver give driving advice to anyone about driving?

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Oct 6 at 2019 4:58 PM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Sun, 06 Oct 2019 16:58:21 -0400

You can bet your pay.

Response by SSG Sidney Galloway made Jul 23 at 2021 5:45 PM

SSG Sidney Galloway — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 17:45:54 -0400

Right-o. When a Private corrects a Colonel, let it be done in a respectful, tactful manner. Method A: "(Render salute) Good morning, sir. I couldn't help but notice that your collar is turned up in the back." Not B: "Hey. Fix your collar, Colonel." If you receive disrespect after going with option A, grab a minute with the post commander, under the open-door policy. Please return to share your experience.