Posted on Jan 14, 2015
SSG Combat Medic
477K
2.24K
1.05K
167
167
0
Image
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.
Avatar feed
Responses: 709
Votes
  • Newest
  • Oldest
  • Votes
COL Administrative Officer
3
3
0
I once did a correction in public. It was at a public safety day in our town, I saw a Soldier (SSG) in uniform (or not, hence the correction). She was walking around outside in public without her PC on. I was not in uniform and did not identify myself, I asker her what unit she was in and made some other small talk, then pointed out to her that she should have her hat on. She made a remark about how hot it was, she probably saw the look on my face because she said "you're right, I'll go get it". It was all done quietly, with making a public scene.
(3)
Comment
(0)
Avatar small
PO3 John Jeter
3
3
0
I witnessed a similar incident event in Guam back in my day (mid to late 70's). One of the marines from our ship was approached by a man in civilian attire. The marine had removed his blouse and t shirt to soak up some sun. He was asked what unit he was attached to and when the marine told him, the man gave him a card and told him he would expect a call from his NCO by 1100 hours the next day either to tell him that the infraction had been dealt with or to ask what was wrong. The card identified the man as a marine Lieut. (attached to the base security unit.). If he didn't receive a call he would come to the ship and find out why. It was over in moments and the man walked away. I always liked that kind of approach.
(3)
Comment
(0)
Avatar small
Capt Brandon Charters
3
3
0
You made the right correction in my opinion. I know folks who might escalate the situation "DI" style and draw attention from everyone standing in the crowded line. That ends up confusing civilians and hurting the overall image of the military. The only other thing you could really do is after you asked about the service branch, glance at the rank & name tag, and say "SPC Smith" what unit are you with? After that answer, you'll be able to calmly ask her to correct the issue on the side or have it elevated to her supervisor. Her choice. Commend you for taking action on this though.
(3)
Comment
(0)
SSG Combat Medic
SSG (Join to see)
>1 y
Thank you sir!
(0)
Reply
(0)
Avatar small
SGT Steven Eugene Kuhn MBA
3
3
0
Remember: praise publically and scold privatly. Take her to the side, possibly even excusse yourself for barging up to her, then introduce yourself and ask if she is currently on duty, then if RA or AR/NG and then suggest the correction, that is all you can do, you cannot force it or demand it, no matter how in the right you are, you will always loose in public. Then thank her for her service and go about your way. POINT: what you leave behind is what will stick with her, prople will change their ways when it is suggested and in a positive way. She may have made some remarks or rolled her eyes but later she will remember that you treated her with respect and only suggested. We as leaders need to remember that if we want lasting change, we need to lead into the future, not in the moment.
(3)
Comment
(0)
Avatar small
SGM Bill Frazer
2
2
0
A good NCO- anytime something is wrong, in a polite- well mannered way.
(2)
Comment
(0)
Avatar small
SFC Senior Instructor
2
2
0
Personally, I think the regulation should be updated to state that you are not allowed to wear your uniform in public unless on military duty. The marines have done it for years and never had a problem with it.
(2)
Comment
(0)
SSG Brian MacBain
SSG Brian MacBain
10 y
I agree to a point with you. When I was in, the rule (order) was that you can go off base to get lunch in uniform where there is no waiter's. Such as Fast food places. Another case is picking up your children from day care is ok. The Marines had a big issue with that and when they first implemented that order, one Female Marine (I believe she was a SSG) almost received and NJP for picking up her child in uniform when she got off work. So they did had problems at first.
(0)
Reply
(0)
CPT Erik Eriksen
CPT Erik Eriksen
10 y
The idea that you shouldn't wear your uniform in public is counterproductive to our service members and veterans. Maybe during the Viet Nam War, uniforms, in many parts of the country stirred up feelings of animosity and derision. But we are in a better place now and seeing people in uniform in public brings to mind the service that our young men and women commit to for our country. Hiding away on post will have the same negative impact as isolationism would on an international level.
Having said that, it should be understood by every service member that, when they wear the uniform, they represent all servicemen and servicewomen and need to act accordingly.
(0)
Reply
(0)
SPC Loreen Chesnes
SPC Loreen Chesnes
>1 y
I believe a soldier is a soldier INSIDE and the kind of soldier you are is directly reflected by your mannorisim and appearance. It upsets me to look at that photo.
(0)
Reply
(0)
Avatar small
SSG Thomas Brousseau
2
2
0
On the spot correction is warranted anytime anywhere. That young Specialist knows that she is to maintain proper military bearing and professionalism at all times, especially while representing the United States Military in a public place.
(2)
Comment
(0)
CPT Erik Eriksen
CPT Erik Eriksen
10 y
I agree whole-heartedly. If you let something go, you have just set a new standard.
(0)
Reply
(0)
Avatar small
SSG Recruiting And Retention Nco
2
2
0
All. Of. The. Time.

Regardless of status, if you are in Uniform, you represent the United States Army. There's no excuse for it. You want to play games at home and look a fool, fine. But in public, you're a visual ambassador to your Unit and the Army.

But what do I know, I'm just a Veteran.
(2)
Comment
(0)
Avatar small
SPC Armor Crew Member
2
2
0
I was a SPC when i was in the army. Then and now if i see some one in uniform i talk to them if they are off post. specially if they are out of regs. I feel and have always been taught that it is your job as military to correct them now matter ware they are. Also no matter what rank you or they are.
(2)
Comment
(0)
Avatar small
GySgt Bryan A. McGown  "Gunny"
2
2
0
Shame on you for not exercising your professional authority to enforce both the UCMJ, and your Army regulations. It is your OBLIGATION as an NCO to enforce order and discipline among your ranks. Would you have preferred an officer or any other competent military person to correct this individual? If you answered yes, please see your 1stSgt and request a voluntary demotion.
(2)
Comment
(0)
Avatar small

Join nearly 2 million former and current members of the US military, just like you.

How are you connected to the military?
  • Active Duty
  • Active Reserve / National Guard
  • Pre-Commission
  • Veteran / Retired
  • Civilian Supporter