Posted on Jan 14, 2015
On the spot corrections in public; when is it appropriate?
477K
2.24K
1.05K
167
167
0
This weekend me and my GF decided to get out and go to the movies not near any military base once so ever (maybe a Reserve or NG training facility could be near by). So I'm glancing around notice a uniform on a young lady and her hair down with a PT cap on inside of the mall. I didn't loose my mind at first because it could be anyone just wearing the uniform these days. As I get closer to her I notice she has on SPC rank. I told my GF that I have to say something to her and of course she didn't understand. When I approached the SPC and her civilian male acquaintance, I asked her was she in the Army and she quickly replied "yes". So I asked her did she know she was in complete violation of Army Regs she says "yes". The female rolled her eyes at me and I could tell she was going to have
a attitude with me so I quickly removed myself from the situation. So at what point do we as leaders make a on the spot correction in public or remove ourselves from the situation? I felt at the time as a NCO I should have done more to make her fix herself, but on the other hand I didn't want to make a scene at the mall and in public. SPC Ware I definitely will remember you forever.
a attitude with me so I quickly removed myself from the situation. So at what point do we as leaders make a on the spot correction in public or remove ourselves from the situation? I felt at the time as a NCO I should have done more to make her fix herself, but on the other hand I didn't want to make a scene at the mall and in public. SPC Ware I definitely will remember you forever.
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 709
Guess I'm a little lost, why would she even wear it to go to the movies. Are you allowed to wear ACU off post to go to the movies? I'm afraid an attitude would not have gone very well with me. I agree with the others correct in private but the correction needs to be made.
(14)
(0)
SSG (Join to see)
I was wondering that same thing too. Why was she out to movies in uniform? In today's climate of terrorism activities she just made herself a soft target.
(1)
(0)
Lt Col (Join to see)
Well, do we know for sure she was going to the movies? On more than one occasion, I've swung by the theater during lunch or on my way home, in uniform, to purchase tickets for an upcoming event. I have NEVER worn my uniform to a stateside movie theater though (just the one at Al Udeid).
(0)
(0)
SGT Roberto Mendoza-Diaz
There are no regulations against it, however with the continually threat from ISIS and other terrorist groups, it is recommended not to wear your uniform in public.
(1)
(0)
MSgt (Join to see)
SGT Roberto Mendoza-Diaz
Thank you for the clarification. I knew the Marine Corps would not allow it wasn't sure about the Army. But I would agree not a good practice.
Thank you for the clarification. I knew the Marine Corps would not allow it wasn't sure about the Army. But I would agree not a good practice.
(2)
(0)
So let me get this straight. You, as a Staff Sergeant, backed down from a SPC while making a correction just because she was throwing attitude your way? You should probably sit down and rethink exactly what your profession, as an NCO, really means to you. And we, as a collective service, wonder why the ranks are running around without any sense of self discipline and or fear of being corrected.
On that note, I would have jumped not only jumped all over that SPC with the attitude, I would have kindly escorted her out of the movie theater. Then the next day, I would have made a visit to her unit and had a talk with not only her company commander but her Sergeant Major.
On that note, I would have jumped not only jumped all over that SPC with the attitude, I would have kindly escorted her out of the movie theater. Then the next day, I would have made a visit to her unit and had a talk with not only her company commander but her Sergeant Major.
(12)
(0)
I also found myself in the same situation as a junior NCO. I was on vacation in Florida and noticed an NCO that was walking around an outlet mall (where all store fronts are outside) without head gear. I approached the soldier who was straight out of basic training and introduced myself and showed my ID card so they didn't think I was just some guy. When doing this i separated myself from my family and requested the individual to remove himself from his group. I continued to inform the soldier they were representing the military at all times and should take pride when wearing the uniform and always wear it properly. I didn't do this in a demeaning manor, as I wanted to let them know they were wrong and there would always be someone nearby that knew what right looked like. I also reminded him of his army values and sent him on his way. The soldier thanked me and carried on with his activities in the correct uniform.
(12)
(0)
SSG (Join to see)
When I initially went to her I was expecting to correct her and for her to correct the deficiency. Some situations are different than others. Glad you were able to fix it.
(0)
(0)
I have made corrections in Wal-Mart....full uniform, with cover on. I just quietly approached the individual and reminded him that the cover was not approved to be worn indoors. I was in civilian clothes, but I think he suddenly realized that I may be someone that could do something about it and quickly removed his cover. I moved on without making it a big deal.
(12)
(0)
I made an on the spot correction when I saw a service member in a truck stop without his uniform top. I waited til we were in an area where it was semi private, I pulled out my ID and identified myself and told him he was out of uniform and that he should correct himself. He asked for my 1SG's contact info which I gave him. He never identified himself.
I found out later that he was a 1LT from a reserve unit in the area. He told my company commander that I was yelling at him in front of a bunch of civilians and had embarrased him. That's the point he f!@#d up big time. My commander got his information and informed him that if I had made an on the spot correction then he should have fixed himself. My commander then went on to say that in the 18 or so months that he had known me he had never one time heard me raise my voice to anyone, inculding my Soldiers.
The officer that I corrected had HIS commander called about the entire deal.
So, yes, you should have made a correction on the spot, if she had copped an attituded then she deserved to get embarrassed for her actions. If she would have gotten loud, you stand your ground and let her make an ass of herself. All you needed was her name, rank and unit to make phone inquirees of local units.
There is always something you can do, and should do. Remember, you are an NCO 24/7 365, and if you can't make decisions then you need to rethink your career choice.
I found out later that he was a 1LT from a reserve unit in the area. He told my company commander that I was yelling at him in front of a bunch of civilians and had embarrased him. That's the point he f!@#d up big time. My commander got his information and informed him that if I had made an on the spot correction then he should have fixed himself. My commander then went on to say that in the 18 or so months that he had known me he had never one time heard me raise my voice to anyone, inculding my Soldiers.
The officer that I corrected had HIS commander called about the entire deal.
So, yes, you should have made a correction on the spot, if she had copped an attituded then she deserved to get embarrassed for her actions. If she would have gotten loud, you stand your ground and let her make an ass of herself. All you needed was her name, rank and unit to make phone inquirees of local units.
There is always something you can do, and should do. Remember, you are an NCO 24/7 365, and if you can't make decisions then you need to rethink your career choice.
(10)
(0)
SSG (Join to see) Great post, It takes character and intestine fortitude to make the hard right over the easy wrong call, by having pride for the uniform and enforcing the regulation instead of letting it go. Shows a lot of leadership by doing what's right in the absence of orders. I say hoooha.
(9)
(0)
MAJ (Join to see)
SFC Davis,
He didn't enforce any regulation. All he did was "asked her was she in the Army and she quickly replied "yes". So I asked her did she know she was in complete violation of Army Regs she says "yes". The female rolled her eyes at me and I could tell she was going to have a attitude with me so I quickly removed myself from the situation."
No offense intended but I fail to see any sort of regulation being enforced.
He didn't enforce any regulation. All he did was "asked her was she in the Army and she quickly replied "yes". So I asked her did she know she was in complete violation of Army Regs she says "yes". The female rolled her eyes at me and I could tell she was going to have a attitude with me so I quickly removed myself from the situation."
No offense intended but I fail to see any sort of regulation being enforced.
(2)
(0)
What the H311 am I looking at? Willful disobedience to boot! There are those who are simply begging to be disciplined. AND then there are those that convince me that we need a lifeguard at the gene pool.
SSG (Join to see) you might have made the right decision to not make a scene, however, I definitely would have been more engaged and asked for her ID card and unit information. It is Soldiers who behave in that manner who bring dishonor to our service.
SSG (Join to see) you might have made the right decision to not make a scene, however, I definitely would have been more engaged and asked for her ID card and unit information. It is Soldiers who behave in that manner who bring dishonor to our service.
(9)
(0)
I simply approach and Say, "You are always being watched. So you need to do the right thing." Then calmly walk away. Paranoia is so effective.
(8)
(0)
SSG (Join to see)
The problem I have with all the confrontational responses is that it allows the possibility of becoming a fight, a challenge, a loud argument. The soldier takes a position that he is off base and thus you are out of your lane.
It doesn't matter that you are right and the soldier is wrong. It is not a matter of who is right so much as what is right. The right thing is to maintain uniform standards for the pride of both the service and the service members.
If the troop wants to be an asshat then be assured they will act the fool in front of their own chain of command where repercussions are more simple and direct.
It doesn't matter that you are right and the soldier is wrong. It is not a matter of who is right so much as what is right. The right thing is to maintain uniform standards for the pride of both the service and the service members.
If the troop wants to be an asshat then be assured they will act the fool in front of their own chain of command where repercussions are more simple and direct.
(0)
(0)
Wow, hell yes! On the spot correction was totally appropriate. It really angers me that we have Servicemembers who think that is ok, let's not even mention the fact that she's at the movies in uniform...
(8)
(0)
MGySgt Charles Anderson
As a Leader, your have just ruined that Soldier's career by NOT ensuring that she corrects her appearance. Now she will do it all the time and use your name. It all starts in Recruit Training. If she would have caused a scene as a soldier then, you as a Leader should have shown her what the consequence would be.
MGySgt Charles Anderson, USMC, Retired!
MGySgt Charles Anderson, USMC, Retired!
(1)
(0)
MSG Scott McBride
Agreed, I would not have berated her in public (even though she deserves to be embarrassed) but she would have complied with my transmission!
(0)
(0)
CPT Gerald Ramseyer
I guess I'm just an old salty Marine. In my day, if an NCO or Officer came across an improperly uniformed member of the Armed Forces, correction would have been swift and complete. No questions, no privacy no shit!
(0)
(0)
Enforce the standard, or you have set a new one. if it's too public and will go too high-profile and can't pull aside as SMSgt Minister Gerald A. Thomas suggested, memorize name, contact chain of command.
(8)
(0)
Need to revisit the days before 2005 where the BDU was ruled with an iron fist. No shopping allowed back then. Only convenience stops like gas and milk runs and then go home/ work.
(7)
(0)
PO1 (Join to see)
i thought that was how it still was...up to a point. we could be in the working uniform and stop at McDs, etc, for a quick meal but the mall, movies and "fancy restaurants" were a no-no unless in NSU or equivalent (service or dress uniform for the fancy restaurants).
(0)
(0)
LTC Daniel Rogne
Not necessarily true. ACU worn out in public is viewed as a reminder there still is a war going on.
(0)
(0)
LTC Daniel Rogne
Soldiers can fly stateside with ACUs on. I choose to limit exposure in public and go dressy on flights like it's the 1950s again.
(0)
(0)
Many years ago, I was visiting my Brother in CT. There is no Marine Corps facility other than recruiters within several hundred miles. We were at a local mall, and my brother pointed out a LCpl walking into a store that had his service alphas on. Well that would be generous.
He had taken his Alpha Coat off, unbuttoned the collar of the shirt, loosened the tie, and rolled up the sleeves. It was obvious that he was home on leave after just finishing recruit training. I walked up to him in my civvies, and said: "Hey there Marine! How long you been home?" He was with a girl so I figured it was a girlfriend and I didn't want to embarass him.
He responded with some pride in his voice "Hello sir, I've been home for a few days now." I gave him my ID which showed my rank and that I was on active duty. His face kind of blanched at this point. His only experience with Captains thus far I am sure, was not of the positive kind.
I said to him very jovially and kindly "Marine, if you are proud of that uniform, please go into the men's room and correct yourself. I don't want sloppy Marines representing our corps."
He looked at me, blinked once, said "Aye, aye sir!" and told his girlfriend "Honey I need to go to the bathroom."
There was another time that I was brand new 2ndLt and I was part of the Air Group Staff. I had to attend these meetings every morning with the Colonel and the other members of his staff. I happened to be the Fiscal Officer (which is a Capt Billet but I was what was available). Anyway, the Colonel was in the outer office getting himself a cup of coffee when I noticed that the one of sizing tabs on the back of his utility blouse was unbuttoned.
I walked up to him and said quietly: "Excuse me sir. Your blouse tab is unbuttoned."
He looked at me with this very calm look like what I had done was create balance in the world. "Thank you Lieutenant." He quickly buttoned it.
That Friday we had an Officer's call at the Club for some Military PME presentation. Afterwards the Colonel made a beeline to me at the bar. I was with several other Lt's and Capt's. The Colonel shoved a mug of beer in my hand and said loudly enough for every other officer in the room to hear:
"A toast! To 2ndLT Cosgrove who had enough balls to correct a Colonel, enough intelligence to do it tactfully, and an Esprit De Corps that will serve him well. Thank you Lt for correcting my uniform the other day. Gentlemen may you all have enough pride in your corps to be willing to correct a senior officer tactfully when needed."
That one incident taught me that when you are right, you should never fear what needs to be done, so long as you do it tactfully. That Colonel was a leader of Marines who I will always remember.
He had taken his Alpha Coat off, unbuttoned the collar of the shirt, loosened the tie, and rolled up the sleeves. It was obvious that he was home on leave after just finishing recruit training. I walked up to him in my civvies, and said: "Hey there Marine! How long you been home?" He was with a girl so I figured it was a girlfriend and I didn't want to embarass him.
He responded with some pride in his voice "Hello sir, I've been home for a few days now." I gave him my ID which showed my rank and that I was on active duty. His face kind of blanched at this point. His only experience with Captains thus far I am sure, was not of the positive kind.
I said to him very jovially and kindly "Marine, if you are proud of that uniform, please go into the men's room and correct yourself. I don't want sloppy Marines representing our corps."
He looked at me, blinked once, said "Aye, aye sir!" and told his girlfriend "Honey I need to go to the bathroom."
There was another time that I was brand new 2ndLt and I was part of the Air Group Staff. I had to attend these meetings every morning with the Colonel and the other members of his staff. I happened to be the Fiscal Officer (which is a Capt Billet but I was what was available). Anyway, the Colonel was in the outer office getting himself a cup of coffee when I noticed that the one of sizing tabs on the back of his utility blouse was unbuttoned.
I walked up to him and said quietly: "Excuse me sir. Your blouse tab is unbuttoned."
He looked at me with this very calm look like what I had done was create balance in the world. "Thank you Lieutenant." He quickly buttoned it.
That Friday we had an Officer's call at the Club for some Military PME presentation. Afterwards the Colonel made a beeline to me at the bar. I was with several other Lt's and Capt's. The Colonel shoved a mug of beer in my hand and said loudly enough for every other officer in the room to hear:
"A toast! To 2ndLT Cosgrove who had enough balls to correct a Colonel, enough intelligence to do it tactfully, and an Esprit De Corps that will serve him well. Thank you Lt for correcting my uniform the other day. Gentlemen may you all have enough pride in your corps to be willing to correct a senior officer tactfully when needed."
That one incident taught me that when you are right, you should never fear what needs to be done, so long as you do it tactfully. That Colonel was a leader of Marines who I will always remember.
(6)
(0)
Here are my thoughts about on-the spot corrections.
1: Corrections have to be made. As a leader, it's my responsibility to lead. Sometimes that means pulling SPC Longhair there off to the side and pointing out the applicable paragraphs in 670-1.
2: If I don't make them, who will? If I am not going to make the corrections, who am I expecting to do it? Perhaps the guy serving concessions should?
3: When I let a standard slip, I "create a new standard." Since neither you nor I have the authority to rewrite policy, I don't want my inaction to give someone else the false idea that they have permission to be jacked up too.
4: Junior leaders need to see other leaders making corrections. If one of my squad or team leaders watches me "turn a blind eye" to this kind of situation, what should I expect them to do in the same situation?
5: Doing the right thing isn't always comfortable...but who guaranteed me comfort? Since when do leaders have the luxury of only doing the right thing when it's comfortable?
If you put those things together, the question isn't whether or not I should say something but whether or not I should use the knife hand while saying it.
1: Corrections have to be made. As a leader, it's my responsibility to lead. Sometimes that means pulling SPC Longhair there off to the side and pointing out the applicable paragraphs in 670-1.
2: If I don't make them, who will? If I am not going to make the corrections, who am I expecting to do it? Perhaps the guy serving concessions should?
3: When I let a standard slip, I "create a new standard." Since neither you nor I have the authority to rewrite policy, I don't want my inaction to give someone else the false idea that they have permission to be jacked up too.
4: Junior leaders need to see other leaders making corrections. If one of my squad or team leaders watches me "turn a blind eye" to this kind of situation, what should I expect them to do in the same situation?
5: Doing the right thing isn't always comfortable...but who guaranteed me comfort? Since when do leaders have the luxury of only doing the right thing when it's comfortable?
If you put those things together, the question isn't whether or not I should say something but whether or not I should use the knife hand while saying it.
(6)
(0)
The responses in this thread surprise me...
I was in the USMC in the 90's, and an NCO for the majority of that time. I ran into this, and similar situations, on a regular basis. There is-- and should be-- only one response to this kind of thing.
- Avoid a public display of chastising the junior Marine, but pul that person aside and establish who you are.
- Get the person's full name, rank, and unit.
- Instruct them to get themselves unf--ked on the spot (many times, the infraction was a violation of the civilian clothing regs)
- If it's a violation that cannot be fixed on the spot, tell that person to return home, or to their unit, and change into appropriate clothing. Tell the junior person that you will be calling the Duty NCO to ensure that the problems have been corrected, which means that they will have to check in with the Duty NCO; give them a reasonable time frame to get it done.
- Follow through.
The first couple of times that this happened, it irritated my wife-- it took time away from our leisure time together. I explained to her that if she liked being the bride to a man in Dress Blues, she had better learn to like everything that came with.
I also had more than one NCO and Platoon Sergeant tell me that I was overstepping my authority by correcting "THEIR' Marines. I would very tactfully remind them that a) they were the CORPS's Marines, and b) if they had been doing their job in the first place, there would have been no need to correct anyone.
No matter what branch you serve in, you represent your unit, your organization, and your Country. That responsibility does not end at the gate. Junior enlistees need to see their NCO's doing the right thing ALL the time. NCO's are the backbone of every service, and the necessity of setting the right example all the time falls especially hard on sergeants, corporals, petty officers, and specialists, but that's part of the job.
I was in the USMC in the 90's, and an NCO for the majority of that time. I ran into this, and similar situations, on a regular basis. There is-- and should be-- only one response to this kind of thing.
- Avoid a public display of chastising the junior Marine, but pul that person aside and establish who you are.
- Get the person's full name, rank, and unit.
- Instruct them to get themselves unf--ked on the spot (many times, the infraction was a violation of the civilian clothing regs)
- If it's a violation that cannot be fixed on the spot, tell that person to return home, or to their unit, and change into appropriate clothing. Tell the junior person that you will be calling the Duty NCO to ensure that the problems have been corrected, which means that they will have to check in with the Duty NCO; give them a reasonable time frame to get it done.
- Follow through.
The first couple of times that this happened, it irritated my wife-- it took time away from our leisure time together. I explained to her that if she liked being the bride to a man in Dress Blues, she had better learn to like everything that came with.
I also had more than one NCO and Platoon Sergeant tell me that I was overstepping my authority by correcting "THEIR' Marines. I would very tactfully remind them that a) they were the CORPS's Marines, and b) if they had been doing their job in the first place, there would have been no need to correct anyone.
No matter what branch you serve in, you represent your unit, your organization, and your Country. That responsibility does not end at the gate. Junior enlistees need to see their NCO's doing the right thing ALL the time. NCO's are the backbone of every service, and the necessity of setting the right example all the time falls especially hard on sergeants, corporals, petty officers, and specialists, but that's part of the job.
(6)
(0)
Sgt Donald Stone
OOH RAAA Sarg !!! I realize that this young "lady" is a soldier, and the vast majority of responders to this issue are soldiers, but I have to wonder why so few Marines haven't chimed in. Semper Fi
(1)
(0)
Sgt James Morse
I can venture a guess. My son recently enlisted in the Army (not his first choice, but the USMC recruiter dropped the ball) and when he and I talk about his job, it's almost like two people conversing in different languages. The Army just lacks the bearing and professionalism that is the bedrock of a Marine's early training. It's a cultural difference that doesn't necessarily reflect poorly on the Army, but it is still there. My son is an Airborne scout--not the most elite guys on the planet, but they are a little bit more professional than your average 11B's and their esprit de corps and professionalism-- not to mention morale-- is considerably lower than what I experienced in most Marine Corps rifle battalions. Compared to a MEU-SOC, there is no contest.
So, in all likelihood, my guess is that the Marines are writing the army off as nasty when in fact they just can't get a clear view of where the Army's standards end. There is a reason that the Marine Corps is much harder to get into, and the difference in the cultures of the various services makes US out to be the knuckle-dragging apes that are trained to attack tanks with our entrenching tools!
So, in all likelihood, my guess is that the Marines are writing the army off as nasty when in fact they just can't get a clear view of where the Army's standards end. There is a reason that the Marine Corps is much harder to get into, and the difference in the cultures of the various services makes US out to be the knuckle-dragging apes that are trained to attack tanks with our entrenching tools!
(1)
(0)
I see Soldiers out in public all the time in uniform (cammies) so what exactly is the Army policy on wearing uniforms in public?
As a Marine we are not allowed to wear them off base and if I see a Marine wearing them I WILL correct that individual. If they are with family or friends I will pull them to the side, introduce myself and I ask to see their ID, that way I get their full name so I can look them up and contact their Chain of Command if needed.
As a Marine we are not allowed to wear them off base and if I see a Marine wearing them I WILL correct that individual. If they are with family or friends I will pull them to the side, introduce myself and I ask to see their ID, that way I get their full name so I can look them up and contact their Chain of Command if needed.
(6)
(0)
CPT (Join to see)
SSgt John Lavender,
I will attempt to find the regs to clear the confusion. But, I believe the fundamental difference could be the name adapted by the two different services: US Army calls it Army Combat Uniform (ACU); I believe the US Marines call it Utilities.
I will attempt to find the regs to clear the confusion. But, I believe the fundamental difference could be the name adapted by the two different services: US Army calls it Army Combat Uniform (ACU); I believe the US Marines call it Utilities.
(0)
(0)
PO1 Michael G.
SSgt (Join to see) Well said.
Technically speaking, the Navy regulation says the same thing about being en route to and from work/duty, Sailors are authorized to wear NWUs to make "regular" stops and gives the example of grocery shopping, picking up kids from childcare/school, and even going out to eat. However, the regulation is also clear to spell out that drinking alcohol in NWU during those stops is verboten, despite being perfectly within regulations to drink while wearing NWUs in an on base club.
Quick non-sequitur: my brother is a Marine stationed in Beaufort, too.
Technically speaking, the Navy regulation says the same thing about being en route to and from work/duty, Sailors are authorized to wear NWUs to make "regular" stops and gives the example of grocery shopping, picking up kids from childcare/school, and even going out to eat. However, the regulation is also clear to spell out that drinking alcohol in NWU during those stops is verboten, despite being perfectly within regulations to drink while wearing NWUs in an on base club.
Quick non-sequitur: my brother is a Marine stationed in Beaufort, too.
(1)
(0)
(0)
(0)
MAJ (Join to see)
It's a matter of interpretation, but going to the movies (or the soldiers mentioned in other responses wandering the mall) aren't making "regular" stops - usually interpreted as in SN Geilczyk's examples above.
That doesn't count at least two (hair down in a pony tail while in any uniform other than PTs, wearing a cover indoors when not under arms), and probably three (wearing the watch cap vice the patrol cap, unless the watch cap was part of her unit's duty uniform) violations of AR 670-1.
That doesn't count at least two (hair down in a pony tail while in any uniform other than PTs, wearing a cover indoors when not under arms), and probably three (wearing the watch cap vice the patrol cap, unless the watch cap was part of her unit's duty uniform) violations of AR 670-1.
(1)
(0)
I have had similar issues and when I made the correction, my wife was astounded, almost embarrassed, but I told her that I had to make the OTSC. I would have pulled her to the side and the eye rolling and size of her friend tells me this might not have been a good event in public. Having her name and rank, this would probably be a research situation and direct intervention with her command.
The OTSC I had was in a international airport with about 3 Soldiers running around in the ASU with no jacket and no tie in a LS shirt and others with open jackets walking around the airport. I just could not allow this to continue in public. I stopped them each individually and pulled them to the side, identified myself and had them fix themselves immediately (a couple had to go retrieve parts of their uniform).
Another incident was a motorcycle with a bald rear tire showing threads. I saw the only Solder with a helmet and asked him if it was his bike, he said yes and I pulled his ID and drivers license, got the commanders name and phone and took a photo of his license plate. I gave him basically an order to replace the tire or I would contact his command, gave him my number and told him to send me a photo of the new tire on the bike, he did.
The only thing that I have not experienced to date in public is a attitude of the OTSC. Not sure how to deal with it other than snap a photo and try to find the command group and address the issue.
The OTSC I had was in a international airport with about 3 Soldiers running around in the ASU with no jacket and no tie in a LS shirt and others with open jackets walking around the airport. I just could not allow this to continue in public. I stopped them each individually and pulled them to the side, identified myself and had them fix themselves immediately (a couple had to go retrieve parts of their uniform).
Another incident was a motorcycle with a bald rear tire showing threads. I saw the only Solder with a helmet and asked him if it was his bike, he said yes and I pulled his ID and drivers license, got the commanders name and phone and took a photo of his license plate. I gave him basically an order to replace the tire or I would contact his command, gave him my number and told him to send me a photo of the new tire on the bike, he did.
The only thing that I have not experienced to date in public is a attitude of the OTSC. Not sure how to deal with it other than snap a photo and try to find the command group and address the issue.
(5)
(0)
(2)
(0)
CW5 Sam R. Baker
No need to kill the messenger and find yourself in the UCMJ process. I have had many complaints against me over the years, all unfounded and eventually the perpetrator usually is exposed for the problem.
(0)
(0)
Damn, I'm afraid I might've lost my shit, lol... I'm no longer Active, but for some CRAZY reason, I try to keep up with current regs from all of the branches (I like to be able to offer advice when SM's find themselves in trouble or something). I've given on the spot corrections as a Veteran and they were usually well-received. If I had gotten the eye-roll or something... Jesus. Most SM's I've been in contact with like this were respectful about it. You never know who is approaching you when they're in civilian clothes... Whoa be the Private who pops off to a Colonel...
(5)
(0)
(2)
(0)
PO3 (Join to see)
THIS is the sort of thing that worries me. I'm looking to get back in the Army (Reserves) by the end of the year, after a 13 year break in service. God help the ate up Private who doesn't care that they look like a soup sandwich (especially when I have to go back to AIT)... I will lose my mind, lol...
(1)
(0)
I had a guy pull me to the side inside a Publix due to wearing my Field Jacket, now I was not in uniform, and I'm a vet. He wanted to really make a big deal out of my combat patch (3rd Id) and the proceeded to give me the 21 questions about my service and when did i serve and what bases and Fobs.
First thing i asked him "Have you ever been deployed?" He said no, I turned and walked away.
There's a time and place to correct, but make sure your right first.
Thats just the way I see it.
First thing i asked him "Have you ever been deployed?" He said no, I turned and walked away.
There's a time and place to correct, but make sure your right first.
Thats just the way I see it.
(4)
(0)
SSG Mike Angelo
When making on the spot corrections the "be right first" attitude is the way. Its time tested and a proven model of excellence; professional behavior. I learned that as a young NCO going thru 7th Army NCO Academy in Bad Tolz, FRG. (Germany 1982).
(1)
(0)
U have to grow a pair. Iam sorry not saying marine's Are god's gift to the world. But at the same note if that were a marine female or male another marine would have not cared or waited to say anything. If she or he got a attitude well that just makes a marine want to correct u more. My answer to your question is if u care for what u wear and the sight of some one wearing that uniform in such a manner that u have to come up and say something, don't stop keep on them. Junior enlisted or not they know how to wear it and know what happens if they get caught not doing it right. Cpl Hardin united states marine corps. Have a good day.
(4)
(0)
The standards are the standards for that very reason, to be enforced by leadership...without fail!
You made your move to correct the specialist & was instantly disreguarded as a NCO.
Now, It's at that point you explain to the Soldier that she don't want to make this a bigger deal that it has to be & also suggest she think about what her Command would think of this violation of AR670-1 esp. her First Sergeant because you will take this up higher, if need be!
Close with "Square Yourself Away, Soldier" & stand there with your game face on! She would've fix herself at that point, SSG Robinson...
Being a NCO means doing the dirty work, outside the wire & at home, so always remember when you see Soldiers not doing the right thing, in violation of the standards or when you spy a fake in the crowd...
Remember "No one is more professional than I".
You made your move to correct the specialist & was instantly disreguarded as a NCO.
Now, It's at that point you explain to the Soldier that she don't want to make this a bigger deal that it has to be & also suggest she think about what her Command would think of this violation of AR670-1 esp. her First Sergeant because you will take this up higher, if need be!
Close with "Square Yourself Away, Soldier" & stand there with your game face on! She would've fix herself at that point, SSG Robinson...
Being a NCO means doing the dirty work, outside the wire & at home, so always remember when you see Soldiers not doing the right thing, in violation of the standards or when you spy a fake in the crowd...
Remember "No one is more professional than I".
(4)
(0)
Read This Next