Is it okay to be a guest speaker for a old classroom I was in? Am I allowed to wear my uniform?

2018-08-02T13:26:01-04:00

So I am curious. My old middle school teacher and I keep in touch. He helped me a lot when I. Was struggling through school and has asked me this year if I would be willing to come talk to his students for a hour when school starts up again. I’m wondering if this is ok. And if I am allowed or not allowed to wear my uniform? I don’t want to do anything I’m not allowed so figured someone could help me out and let me know

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 2 at 2018 1:30 PM

2018-08-02T13:30:16-04:00

I talked to a group of third graders on R&R from my first deployment. My aunt knew the teacher and they had been sending me letters and cards so I went and talked to them. I wore my uniform.

They asked me typical questions and there was that one kid who asked "have you killed anyone?" I showed them some pictures of where I was at just general pictures and of myself. But it was third graders so they didn't get too in the weeds.

Ask your command. I don't think there's much of an issue of trying to reach out to the community just talk to command and PAO if you have one.

Side note - those kids were 3rd graders in 2006 - so they're like 21 now. I feel old.

Response by SGT Tony Clifford made Aug 2 at 2018 1:52 PM

2018-08-02T13:52:16-04:00

Ask your leadership to make sure that it won't get anyone flustered. Unless it conflicts with work, I don't think that they will mind. Remember that if you wear your uniform, you're representing your unit and the army as a whole. Answer only questions that you are qualified to answer, don't talk politics with anyone whilst in uniform, and especially when dealing with children keep your language PG.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Aug 2 at 2018 2:03 PM

2018-08-02T14:03:05-04:00

Yes to all- it is like HomeTown recruiting!

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 2 at 2018 4:02 PM

2018-08-02T16:02:56-04:00

I think if someone wanted to be VERY strict (bordering on asinine) about current guidance...they might say no. DOD Directive 1334.1 Section 3.2.3 for example. However, there is no doubt that under the same guidance, any honorably discharged veteran who served during a time of war is permitted to wear their uniform under specific circumstances-which includes just about anything defined as "military" or "patriotic".

My sense of it is this; if someone is 100% "out", not affiliated, it's really their business.

However, if someone's still "in" in any capacity (or wishes to honor regulations as if they were), common sense should be the guide. I wouldn't wear my uniform to ring the bell for the Salvation Army, to a corporate ball, let alone the Sizzler. I WOULD wear it anytime prescribed by the event for the purpose of promoting and/or honoring what that uniform represents. That may include a church service dedicated to veterans, a memorial for a fallen comrade, a service ball, and yes...being asked ot speak to a class about the Military.

No matter what, and under whatever circumstances...I'd be 100% certain to be "squared away" in terms of grooming, appearance and behavior.

Response by SGT Joseph Gunderson made Aug 3 at 2018 10:51 AM

2018-08-03T10:51:44-04:00

Definitely yes, and of course. This is great. Just make sure that you don't talk about taboo subjects and don't talk about stuff that you don't have experience with. I.E. don't talk about politics, do bash the POTUS, and if you haven't been to combat, don't comment on it. The list goes on, but you get the idea.

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Aug 3 at 2018 12:17 PM

2018-08-03T12:17:06-04:00

You are a veterans and you did your service to your country, As long as your uniform is IAW the regulations and you don't look like some stolen value dude, Do what you make to set the example for them kids and have some of them of one of them be a positive influence on the military