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

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?

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.

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

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).

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....

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.

PV2 Daniel Shipley

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.

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:

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.

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....