Rules we all think are true, but not written anywhere?

TSgt Joshua Copeland — Mon, 18 May 2015 09:45:59 -0400

Every service has one (or a couple dozen) of "rules" that "everyone" knows but somehow you can never find where they are actually written down.

What are some of yours?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2015 10:09 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 May 2015 10:09:51 -0400

Can we get an example of what you are referring to?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2015 10:12 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 May 2015 10:12:22 -0400

Are you talking about unwritten rules? Like officers don't smoke. Officers will not grow a mustache in garrison, and only select times when deployed. Or actual hard and fast rules?

Response by SSG Steven Borders made May 18 at 2015 10:28 AM

SSG Steven Borders — Mon, 18 May 2015 10:28:05 -0400

I have always heard that the military only ships your household goods to your home of record when you ETS. But when I asked Transportation they will ship it anywhere. You just might have to pay the difference depending on where it goes.

Response by COL Vincent Stoneking made May 18 at 2015 10:32 AM

COL Vincent Stoneking — Mon, 18 May 2015 10:32:02 -0400

My favorite is "officers don't wear weapons qualifications badges."

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2015 10:33 AM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 May 2015 10:33:48 -0400

Wrote a column for Stars and Stripes....many Military Urban Legends were camouflaged customs and traditions, when they were true at all. For example, "Saluting a Medal of Honor Winner" --it's a custom in some units, mentioned in unofficial handbooks (Air Force) and guides because someone added them; not found in official policy. There were many other strange ones that were in promotion board study guides such as saluting with left hand, "church flags" (there isn't one although there is a "flag" shown when conducting religious services at sea) the very odd "what is a "truck" question, involving finials on flag staffs vs flag poles...where a soldier was to somehow get the flag, find the final round to be fired "inside the truck", also a match and a razor blade, cut the stars from the stripes, burn the flag, then shoot the enemy (or him/herself)...

Response by SrA Edward Vong made May 18 at 2015 10:43 AM

SrA Edward Vong — Mon, 18 May 2015 10:43:59 -0400

Thou shalt not put ketchup on hotdogs.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2015 11:06 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 May 2015 11:06:46 -0400

TSgt Joshua Copeland use two straps when using a backpack, is something that irks me but, it is not against regulation.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2015 11:22 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 May 2015 11:22:13 -0400

"You can add to, but can't take away." As far as I'm aware there is no regulation that states that, and that it's just in a way an implied authority given to leaders through a liberal interpretation of a whole bunch of various regulations.

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2015 2:06 PM

CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 May 2015 14:06:52 -0400

I am sorry. It is a Monday.. I can only contribute to how I feel about ketchup on hot dogs today... Enjoy. :)

Where are you on the ketchup on hot dog debate, KB?

Response by CCMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2015 3:11 PM

CCMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 May 2015 15:11:43 -0400

There was one I heard as a young Airman in Germany: "Maximum of two drinks with lunch, not as lunch"

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made May 18 at 2015 8:33 PM

CAPT Kevin B. — Mon, 18 May 2015 20:33:47 -0400

Incoming fire has the right of way.

Response by 1SG Frank Rocha made May 18 at 2015 9:54 PM

1SG Frank Rocha — Mon, 18 May 2015 21:54:16 -0400

I heard a warrant officer tell me once that any badge or device sewn onto the ACU must be of the same material as the uniform (i.e. FRACU, A2CU, etc.).

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made May 18 at 2015 10:24 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Mon, 18 May 2015 22:24:42 -0400

1SG and Co eat last. I bet someone already listed this.

Response by SFC Stephen Carden made May 19 at 2015 12:18 AM

SFC Stephen Carden — Tue, 19 May 2015 00:18:11 -0400

What about the old saying that "regulations are for the GUIDANCE of Commanders. They are not set in stone."? I have found that, when a Commander wants to do something that may be discouraged in the regs, this is the go-to saying. However, regs are freely cited when they back up what the Commander WANTS to do.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2015 8:01 AM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 May 2015 08:01:27 -0400

More urban legend than rules but...

A Petty Officers crows are beak facing in on uniforms, during war, they switch to beaks facing outward.

A Sailor may wear an earing in uniform if he survived a sinking ship.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made May 19 at 2015 10:05 PM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Tue, 19 May 2015 22:05:33 -0400

o Officers don't wear qualification badges

o You can add to but can't take away

o Can't PT after a phase II physical

o 1SG determines the uniform (sorry guys, that's the training schedule, blessed off by the CO)

o "Well the Sergeant Majors' policy is..." ( Sorry again, unless he's a school's commandant, CO's set policy, the CSM is his advisor. It might be his idea, but the CO says yay or nay)

o 2LT's don't salute 1LT's (SORRY! I hate it too!)

o Don't get a sunburn, you're government property! (it kills me that the gullible still believe that)

o What's in the truck of the flagpole?! (nothing. The answer is nothing. It's an urban legend)

Response by SSgt Mary Kelly Anderson made May 20 at 2015 11:30 AM

SSgt Mary Kelly Anderson — Wed, 20 May 2015 11:30:50 -0400

What applies to the regular service branch does not apply to flying squadrons.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2015 10:19 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 May 2015 22:19:37 -0400

How about this old classic from the Air Force.

E-1 to E-4 = Achievement Medal
E-5 to E-6 = Commendation Medal
E-7 to E-9 = Meritorious Service Medal

Response by HN Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2015 1:43 PM

HN Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 May 2015 13:43:40 -0400

Makes you look like a shitbag, but you can't have your hands in your pockets when standing still. You can, you just can't walk with your hands in your pockets because if you trip and fall you have to be able to brace yourself.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 28 at 2015 11:03 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 28 Jun 2015 23:03:55 -0400

Mandatory buy ins to the club when you make rank.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Jul 2 at 2015 3:31 PM

PO1 John Miller — Thu, 02 Jul 2015 15:31:35 -0400

"Males cannot shave their heads totally bald (think Mr. Clean) unless they are a certain percentage bald already."

Debunked years ago (2003 I think) in a Navy uniform gram (quarterly message sent out by the Master Chief in charge of the Navy Uniform board), but still mistakenly enforced (at least back in 2010 it was).

Response by PO1 John Miller made Jul 2 at 2015 3:32 PM

PO1 John Miller — Thu, 02 Jul 2015 15:32:12 -0400

White guys can't get no shave chits/profiles.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Jul 2 at 2015 3:35 PM

PO1 John Miller — Thu, 02 Jul 2015 15:35:06 -0400

The center of the Coronado Bay Bridge is lined with dynamite so that in an emergency, Aircraft Carriers can get underway that way.

Debunked because there is only one way in/out of the San Diego bay. Silver Strand would need to have a canal dug through it, as well as being trenched out so that it would be deep enough for all ships, let alone a Carrier, to get to the Pacific that way.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 3 at 2015 12:31 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Jul 2015 00:31:24 -0400

I originally responded to this question by mistake, but I've read a lot of responses that are quite familiar!

I enjoy the military history and old sayings that get passed down and then repeated as knowledge! I've known many good soldiers in my unit to get sunburns, but none of them received UCMJ punishment for it!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2016 4:28 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Nov 2016 16:28:35 -0500

Not sure where saluting after a meeting came from. It seems to happen a lot in the Army, get done with a meeting stand up from the table and salute. I understand etiquette to stand at attention as the commander leaves the table/room, but no where can I find why many believe saluting is a rule - i.e. indoors.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2017 11:20 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 11:20:08 -0500

I used to love this because I would always ask what reg they were quoting (Some may have changed since then)
1) Brown Sweater is unauthorized (Love my brown sweater)
2) Cant walk and talk with a cell phone.......I can walk and talk with a radio.
3) Mustaches....loved when I was told I could not have one, or being told it was out of reg. just because I had more than the "Hitler" stash.
4) You have to starch your Uniform (670-1 and BDUs had a warning label on them not to starch)
5) falling out of a plane automatically makes you a better Soldier

Response by SN Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2017 1:21 PM

SN Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 07 Apr 2017 13:21:23 -0400

Hands in your pockets, walking while talking on a cell phone

Response by SPC Todd Hanson made Apr 7 at 2017 5:55 PM

SPC Todd Hanson — Fri, 07 Apr 2017 17:55:30 -0400

Mine was the army award system,
E4 and lower nothing higher then AAM
E7 to E5 Arcom and higher gets MSM.
While deployed E7 and higher gets bronze star.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2017 9:07 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 07 Apr 2017 21:07:51 -0400

The beret should be shaved.

Response by MSgt Christopher Schoen made Apr 7 at 2017 9:56 PM

MSgt Christopher Schoen — Fri, 07 Apr 2017 21:56:53 -0400

We were taught never to do the "Victory Dance" inside the radar van after fixing something that was broke. You know...being all excited and stuff. We had to go outside the van to celebrate. Actually saw a SNCO do the dance with I was a dragonfly in the early 90s.

Response by SFC Jerry Wallace made Apr 7 at 2017 11:38 PM

SFC Jerry Wallace — Fri, 07 Apr 2017 23:38:13 -0400

Wearing a Kevlar in any military vehicle. Drives me crazy.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2017 11:42 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 07 Apr 2017 23:42:39 -0400

While in Germany on a CAV post (I was not in any way affiliated with) had several people, including a 1SG, inform me that it was ARMY Reg you wear the color of PT belt that reflects your rank--Yellow for PVT-SPC, Green for NCO....ect. They weren't just blowing smoke--they actually believed they were right. They are not right. There is no Army reg that states you must wear a PT belt color that correlates with your rank. I started wearing bright orange. No one would so much as look at me after that because they had no idea what I was (LOL). Also had a 1SG confront an E6 in my company outside the gym and inform him that wearing a long sleeve PT shirt before OCT was against Army regulations. The 1SG actually believed he was in the right. There were a lot of "Hooahs" and "Rogers" that day I can tell you.....

Let me also say that if you're an NCO of any rank, and you haven't bothered to read the regulations and just take some other NCO's word (high ranking or not) and pass on misinformation to your Joes ... You're a dirtbag....Go smoke yourself.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2017 2:54 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Apr 2017 02:54:51 -0400

2LTs had to salute the red flag on firing ranges... one of my Drill Sergeants told our young LT that he needed to salute the flag when it was raised to show respect just like we salute our American flag... lol... the LT just left our unit for a new one and I cant help but wonder if he is still doing it, and has anyone told him not to yet? IDK

Response by SSG Chris Morrison made Apr 8 at 2017 7:55 AM

SSG Chris Morrison — Sat, 08 Apr 2017 07:55:04 -0400

During the hamstring stretch standing after a run you must keep your head above your heart or you will pass out.

1. No you won't. I've asked a doctor and a nurse
2. Why not just do the hamstring stretch seated?

Why? "Because we've always done it this way"

Response by SSG Jimmie Baker made Apr 8 at 2017 8:05 AM

SSG Jimmie Baker — Sat, 08 Apr 2017 08:05:39 -0400

Going thru all the boxes of MRE's and grabbing all the chicken and rice meals

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2017 8:31 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Apr 2017 08:31:02 -0400

CW3s don't salute CPTs (O-3) "We're the same rank"

Response by MSgt Ray Carlson made Apr 8 at 2017 8:44 AM

MSgt Ray Carlson — Sat, 08 Apr 2017 08:44:23 -0400

the easiest way to pick out a Mustang in the Air Force is to see ribbons on a class B shirt. The non-prior enlisted Os won't wear them except in As.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2017 9:44 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Apr 2017 09:44:32 -0400

Is there a written rule on when to wear summer vs winter APFUs?

Response by PO1 Greg Lundberg made Apr 8 at 2017 4:44 PM

PO1 Greg Lundberg — Sat, 08 Apr 2017 16:44:35 -0400

When the enemy is in range, so are you.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2017 5:27 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Apr 2017 17:27:16 -0400

You can't use a .50 cal machine gun against personnel, only equipment (so shoot the equipment the enemy's wearing). That's a dumb reg or law of war to believe. .50 cal against personnel is a beautiful thing.

Response by SSgt Dwight Deatherage made Apr 8 at 2017 9:56 PM

SSgt Dwight Deatherage — Sat, 08 Apr 2017 21:56:03 -0400

When I was a young troop in the 1970s there was some folks in the Army that believed you could be Court Martialed for carrying and umbrella. I carried mine because it beat getting wet. I guess I was a non-conformist.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2017 11:41 PM

SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Apr 2017 23:41:31 -0400

Officers don't wear ribbons in blues.

I am not bothering to check the AFIs on this, but I have never seen an officer wear their ribbons on a random or scheduled blues day. Granted only half of my assignments have been in a place that has blues days, but still it was a norm that I noticed across assignments to multiple commands.

Response by SPC Franklin McKown made Apr 9 at 2017 3:18 AM

SPC Franklin McKown — Sun, 09 Apr 2017 03:18:12 -0400

19D scouts can't go to sniper school...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 9 at 2017 8:54 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Apr 2017 08:54:17 -0400

When taking the APFT, everyone has to turn around.

Response by Sgt Chester "Dan" Matney made Apr 9 at 2017 11:43 AM

Sgt Chester "Dan" Matney — Sun, 09 Apr 2017 11:43:38 -0400

This is the worst click bait ever.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 9 at 2017 1:14 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Apr 2017 13:14:05 -0400

Reserved Parking Spots on post.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 9 at 2017 3:39 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Apr 2017 15:39:15 -0400

In the Army, many still believe no cover requires if "under cover" (e.g. when pumping gas). The regulation now specifies not worn while "indoors" (AR 670-1, para 3-7) for which at the gas pump would not apply.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 9 at 2017 4:17 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Apr 2017 16:17:14 -0400

You must have a Red Cross message to go emergency leave.

You must take a ht/wt to count as a record APFT,

You must take your ht/wt within x days of PT test

You can take a diagnostic ht/wt. learned that one the hard way.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 9 at 2017 7:32 PM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Apr 2017 19:32:31 -0400

How about Officers don't ware ribbons on their shirt, that's an Enlisted thing.
Or
Officers don't remove their abu/acu top while working, only Enlisted.

Response by SGT Katie Robinson made Apr 9 at 2017 10:12 PM

SGT Katie Robinson — Sun, 09 Apr 2017 22:12:06 -0400

US Army Europe 1981 Everyone who earns Honor Graduate at the NCO Academy gets put to the end of the duty roster and is awarded the Commendation Medal... that happened in my unit until I went to the NCO Academy and earned Honor Graduate.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 9 at 2017 10:40 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Apr 2017 22:40:54 -0400

Officers don't drive. Well everywhere except The Great Place. Come on everyone I know a shortcut! lol

Response by SGT Katie Robinson made Apr 9 at 2017 10:40 PM

SGT Katie Robinson — Sun, 09 Apr 2017 22:40:59 -0400

I had graduated basic training at Ft McClellan about 10 months before this incident and my drill sgt told me whenever I am in the field to wear my steel pot on my head. Yes, this was a long time ago.
While I was stationed at Ft Carson, Colorado I was invited to go into the field and shadow some of my soldiers so I could gain a better understanding of their jobs, job conditions and whatever else was influencing them. I met with the captain and we went to the mess tent for chow. He instructed me that it was not necessary to wear my steel pot in the mess tent. I had just finished putting my steel pot aside when one of the heavy side support poles fell and hit me upside the head. My hard head did no harm to that pole. The pole bounced off of my head. I haven't heard words used like that since.

Response by SGT Charles Napierala made Apr 10 at 2017 8:27 AM

SGT Charles Napierala — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 08:27:10 -0400

My favorite:

Your hair cannot exceed 3" on top and 1/8" on the sides.

Your hair can be as long as it's neatly groomed, has a tapered appearance, and doesn't affect the wear of your headgear. Also, your haircut is to be judged while wearing headgear, not without. Your hair cannot fall past your eyebrows or ears **when combed**.

Read your regs boys.

Response by SSG Lon Watson made Apr 10 at 2017 12:38 PM

SSG Lon Watson — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 12:38:22 -0400

Talking to superior ranked NCOs I'd often a unit policy not just regs. Go to the 82nd, 101st or the Ranger Regt and you'll see it everywhere in garrison.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 10 at 2017 5:32 PM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 17:32:07 -0400

Not service-specific, but...Don't p*ss on my leg and tell me it's raining.

Response by SGT John C. made Apr 10 at 2017 8:35 PM

SGT John C. — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 20:35:50 -0400

1) If the enemy is in range so are you
2) The best laid plans are great until the first round is fired
and my personal fav
3) the most dangerous weapon in the US Army is a 2LT with a compass and a map

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 11 at 2017 3:52 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 03:52:02 -0400

Drill Sgts dont have mustaches, I immediately ran back shaved mine off, after graduating, nearly have the Drill Sgts I worked with on the trail had a mustache...

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 11 at 2017 7:28 AM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 07:28:27 -0400

Can't take leave in conjunction with a pass. Never been true, just misconception.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Apr 11 at 2017 11:42 PM

COL Charles Williams — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 23:42:28 -0400

If the enemy is in range, so are you.
http://www.megazone.org/Random/murphy.shtml

Murphy's Laws of Combat

Over theyears I saved a few odds and ends and stuff a number of them into myFTP site. Now I bring a few choice members to my web site.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 23 at 2017 10:04 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Apr 2017 22:04:18 -0400

If you forget or lose your cover, you can place your hand on top of your head as a substitute.

Response by MSG Mamerto Perez made May 2 at 2017 12:22 PM

MSG Mamerto Perez — Tue, 02 May 2017 12:22:35 -0400

I hate the word deployment, was never used until the Gulf War.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2017 4:26 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 11 May 2017 16:26:47 -0400

Hair length. There are rules on basic non-fadish appearances of hair-style, and not having hair extended over the ears, but beyond that I have not discovered any true written rules on hair length (e.g. 3" max for men). Anyone know otherwise and have material reference?

Response by MSG Mamerto Perez made May 12 at 2017 7:30 AM

MSG Mamerto Perez — Fri, 12 May 2017 07:30:21 -0400

In the 60's, you never would have received any of this.

Response by SCPO Lonny Randolph made May 21 at 2017 1:24 PM

SCPO Lonny Randolph — Sun, 21 May 2017 13:24:44 -0400

Probably never explicitly stated anywhere, however, your senior's authority and power is only limited by your personal belief in what its limitations are...

Response by SSgt Thomas Sharp made May 28 at 2017 9:11 PM

SSgt Thomas Sharp — Sun, 28 May 2017 21:11:16 -0400

Tracer rounds work BOTH ways!

Response by SPC Todd Hanson made Jun 1 at 2017 9:23 PM

SPC Todd Hanson — Thu, 01 Jun 2017 21:23:38 -0400

Officers don't wear good conduct medals

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2017 12:42 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 02 Jun 2017 00:42:46 -0400

How about "junior guy takes out the trash"

Sure, out of respect for rank, etc it's common practice, but... lol

Response by SGT Nick Laurant made Jun 2 at 2017 10:43 PM

SGT Nick Laurant — Fri, 02 Jun 2017 22:43:07 -0400

"Officers do not wear tattoos." Sure, why not.....

Response by PO1 John Miller made Jun 3 at 2017 5:03 PM

PO1 John Miller — Sat, 03 Jun 2017 17:03:00 -0400

I just thought of another one:

When I was a junior Sailor (E-3 or below) I was told that if you wanted to grow a mustache, you had to submit a special request chit. Reasoning was it changed your appearance and "you would have to get a new ID card."

I proved that wrong after I made Petty Officer. I took leave when I was stationed in Guam and came back with a mustache. No one in my Chain of Command said anything about it. I also grew it out on deployments. Again no one said anything.

Response by Sgt Greg Puckett made Jun 4 at 2017 6:24 PM

Sgt Greg Puckett — Sun, 04 Jun 2017 18:24:29 -0400

Do not eyeball your CMsgt while he is ripping you a new one. I am pretty sure thats a LAW

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 5 at 2017 11:50 PM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 05 Jun 2017 23:50:18 -0400

When one loses their cover, there is a mandatory return fee even if it's someone of a much lower rank giving the cover back (I.e. An E-3 finding an O-4's cover)

Response by Sgt Greg Wilcox made Jun 6 at 2017 4:42 PM

Sgt Greg Wilcox — Tue, 06 Jun 2017 16:42:59 -0400

MIGHT NOT APPLY HERE, BUT I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHERE IN ANY REGULATION IS IT WRITTEN "EVERYTHING IS WAIVORABLE"?

Response by SSgt Michael Clar made Jun 8 at 2017 3:47 PM

SSgt Michael Clar — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 15:47:36 -0400

There used to be an unofficial "two beers at lunch" rule when i was in the Air Force. Supposedly you could have two beers with your lunch and not be considered "drunk or drinking while on duty".

Response by Lt Col David Nadeau made Jun 12 at 2017 1:06 PM

Lt Col David Nadeau — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 13:06:40 -0400

The whole concept of "deployed in place". Cheezy way for some REMF's to make themselves feel good about doing their jobs.

Response by SGT Robert Clark made Jun 18 at 2017 11:35 PM

SGT Robert Clark — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 23:35:44 -0400

There is non written rule that at Ranger Battalion nobody has a mustache, clean shaven always. Lead by example, Ranger Lead the Way.

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made Jun 18 at 2017 11:38 PM

SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 23:38:18 -0400

Never let the 1st Shirt know your name ...

Response by SMSgt Lawrence Bockenkamp made Jun 27 at 2017 12:42 PM

SMSgt Lawrence Bockenkamp — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 12:42:35 -0400

I don't know of what TSgt Join To see, I was an E-4 and received the MSM. And it was my first award. It really depends on the job and your performance. I understand the so called unwritten rules, because the Col. that pinned it on, could not believe a "Buck Sergeant" was being awarded the MSM.

Response by LTC Julian Carnes made Jun 27 at 2017 12:53 PM

LTC Julian Carnes — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 12:53:20 -0400

It's easier to get forgiveness than it is to get permission.

Response by SSgt Holden M. made Jun 27 at 2017 2:15 PM

SSgt Holden M. — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 14:15:02 -0400

I remember being told that career field badges were optional on the ABU's then I got to the space command headquarters and our one-star asked what my career field was because he didn't see any badge on my ABU's. I quickly learned if you are in any kind of space squadron you wear your career field badge on your ABU's.

Response by SGT Steve Adams made Jul 2 at 2017 4:01 PM

SGT Steve Adams — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 16:01:06 -0400

If I learned anything in the Army, it is this: If you ever consider doing something unacceptable, against regulation, or unlawful, do not consider using "Everyone else is doing it" as an excuse or a defense.

I cannot believe that it is written anywhere, but my much beloved platoon sergeant in Vietnam told me, "Adams, a good mortarman don't need no earplugs." He liked me and wanted me to know how to be manly and professional. Sadly, when I told him, "A good deaf man don't need no earplugs neither," he asked me to repeat what I just said to him.

I do not remember if a foxhole is supposed to be a particular depth or if it is dependent upon the height or leg length of the troop or troops who are going to occupy it. As I was digging one I looked up and asked CPT (perhaps MAJ by then?) Bill Carpenter if mine was deep enough. Looking extremely "strak," West Point like, and All-America End like (all of which he was, including being the original "Lonesome End"), he replied something like, "Dig that hole a little deeper, troop." I do not remember whether or not he had already received his DSC, but he later had four stars in addition to the DSC and innumerable other medals he earned. Sometimes I think I never stopped digging that hole a little deeper! :)) At least I never said, "Everyone else is doing it."

Response by SGT Tim Fridley made Jul 7 at 2017 8:21 PM

SGT Tim Fridley — Fri, 07 Jul 2017 20:21:46 -0400

Saw this after Desert Storm E-1-E-5 ARCOM E-6 & up Bronze Star. I was put in for Bronze Star was down graded due to Me being an E-5 though was in an E-7 position. Kicker was we had an E-6 removed from 3 positions and still got a Bronze Star.

Response by AA Joseph Moody made Jul 7 at 2017 8:55 PM

AA Joseph Moody — Fri, 07 Jul 2017 20:55:33 -0400

This is from my federal service. But when I was at the union office I had found out that no one there had ever read the 690-1 and most of them hardly knew the LMA.

It don't matter how tedious those books are, sit down and read them. Take a week per section if you have to, but sit down and understand them.

Response by TSgt James Carson made Jul 24 at 2017 1:57 PM

TSgt James Carson — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 13:57:27 -0400

Don't think just because you didn't find a written rule it doesn't exist You failed to look in the right place.

Response by SSG Paul Carrier made Jul 28 at 2017 1:35 PM

SSG Paul Carrier — Fri, 28 Jul 2017 13:35:38 -0400

That you have to have an AAM before you can be awarded an ARCOM.

Response by SSgt Christopher Mortell made Aug 21 at 2017 12:11 PM

SSgt Christopher Mortell — Mon, 21 Aug 2017 12:11:36 -0400

This certainly was the "rule of thumb" in my day. That said I got an MSM as an E-5. It's just a harder sell.

Response by SGM Harvey Boone made Aug 21 at 2017 5:57 PM

SGM Harvey Boone — Mon, 21 Aug 2017 17:57:59 -0400

It has always been a policy that the highest medal given to an enlisted is an ARCAM Any enlisted E7 and below who gets an MSM or above did a lot or is a dam great at ass kissing Watched it all the way through thirty years.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 25 at 2017 10:23 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Sep 2017 22:23:44 -0400

Tobacco is a tangible form of currency,
If it can go wrong, it will go wrong,
and it's not gay, if its in a 3-way.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Sep 26 at 2017 1:23 AM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Tue, 26 Sep 2017 01:23:00 -0400

How about the first rule of Military service ? We already know its not written down but in many cases worth paying attention to, " Never Volunteer for anything !"

Response by SGT Eric Hawkins made Sep 27 at 2017 7:21 PM

SGT Eric Hawkins — Wed, 27 Sep 2017 19:21:07 -0400

My favorite was, "The Service Cap is not authorized for wear by junior enlisted." I think that is the case, now. But, when I was in (the Service Greens), the Service Cap was authorized for wear as long as you were not in a formation (unless everyone had one and it was the prescribed uniform). It was a pain to keep up with. But, it looked good.

Response by SSG Eric Eck made Sep 27 at 2017 7:51 PM

SSG Eric Eck — Wed, 27 Sep 2017 19:51:04 -0400

You can walk while smoking. The actual regulation, can't cite it, states that you should hold your cigarette in you left hand so as to be able to salute when approaching an officer.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2017 7:24 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 Oct 2017 19:24:05 -0400

Don't you know your 4th General Order?
I will walk my post from flank to flank and take no s#*t from any rank!

Response by SGT Josheua Cooke made Oct 17 at 2017 2:06 PM

SGT Josheua Cooke — Tue, 17 Oct 2017 14:06:59 -0400

If one plays enough Call of Duty you develop target reticles in your mind.
Holding a clipboard and walking quickly will preclude you from special details.
Shot placement is not important during the SAW qualification, accuracy is achieved through volume.
Screaming "M203 I choose you" on the range guarantees a direct hit.
Responding to any ranking official's question with "in accordance with the prophecy" supersedes their authority.
God (or your chosen deity) may contradict any O1 through 04's orders.
One may be permitted to postpone haircuts if it were to tamper with their Samson like powers.
Gum chewing is allowed in formation if one brings enough for everyone.
"With all due respect" allows one to say anything one wants up to and including "are you smoking crack?".
One may challenge their chain of command to the Field of Honor.
Crucifixes ward off Officers.
Smiley faces are used to mark minefields.
Bayonets may be affixed to crew served weapons.
"I'm drunk" is a perfectly acceptable answer to an officer's question.
Richard Simmons "Sweating to the Oldies Vol 5" is an acceptable PT regimen.
The following items may be requisitioned from the Supply Sergeant Keys to the Drop Zone, A box of grid squares, blinker fluid, winter air for tires, canopy lights, and/ or Chem-Light batteries.
Running a business out of the barracks precludes one from having to pay sales taxes.
The UMCJ wisdom of the 10 year E-4 is to be taken as gospel and utilized at ones earliest convenience.

Response by MSgt Thomas Mason made Nov 13 at 2017 8:50 AM

MSgt Thomas Mason — Mon, 13 Nov 2017 08:50:30 -0500

"To the last inch!"

Response by MSgt Thomas Mason made Nov 13 at 2017 9:00 AM

MSgt Thomas Mason — Mon, 13 Nov 2017 09:00:46 -0500

From the DoD Judge Advocate: "Treason is not just OK, it's worth a $300,000 reward"!

Response by SSgt Liam Babington made Nov 17 at 2017 3:04 AM

SSgt Liam Babington — Fri, 17 Nov 2017 03:04:39 -0500

...tradition??

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Nov 26 at 2017 3:42 PM

SSgt Daniel d'Errico — Sun, 26 Nov 2017 15:42:55 -0500

I agree with Tsgt Koenig, there is that unwritten rule that many awards and decorations officers and commanders love to enforce. Professionally, the award of medals must be equal to the standard of the achievement by the person receiving the award. This unwritten rule of "you're awarded the medal/commendation according to your rank is a load of crap. Just because you're an E4/E5, doesn't mean you're not eligIble for the MSM or higher. But many a E9 or O4 would argue the point. Because they're jealous of your achievements.

Response by COL John Hudson made Nov 27 at 2017 8:23 AM

COL John Hudson — Mon, 27 Nov 2017 08:23:19 -0500

From the IG Desk: Awards & Decorations (A&D) have and will always be a sore contention throughout our entire military family (Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard). Understand that "Regulations" are more 'guidelines' than law and each and every situation is different, regardless of what opinion others may offer. Yes, there are problems associated with how and why any particular effort is recognized while opinion and politics often do enter into the picture (IE: I don't have one so you aren't going to get one, or the so-called 'Rank' list construction). During my own 30 year career I've witnessed all of the machinations mentioned but was helpless to do anything about it. My advice? If you are in ANY leadership position, take care of those you lead. Period. Regardless of any accolade you may or may not have, your DUTY is to ensure you FAIRLY recognize the efforts of those who trust YOU to "always do the right thing." And for the record, RANK has nothing whatsoever to do with the weight of any military accolade on the books. It's the EFFORT and what it ACCOMPLISHED that matters and the writer MUST ensure that effort and accomplishment is properly documented and supported. During a Korean assignment, a unit under our command submitted numerous award forms. I refused to accept them due to an abundance of 'white space' (lack of support). I mentored the individual tasked to complete them. He accepted that advice, started over, and was successful in obtaining the required support necessary to substantiate each of the submitted accolades. There were no questions about the awards presented as the 'process' was correctly followed.

Response by LCDR Kevin Dean made Nov 30 at 2017 8:49 AM

LCDR Kevin Dean — Thu, 30 Nov 2017 08:49:24 -0500

With the Marines: "Black Flag PT restrictions only apply if you can actually see the flag."

Also: "High and Tight haircuts are only for enlisted members - not officers."

And has anyone mentioned: "Officers don't get/have tattoos."

One I think ought to be written down (as I always had to remind myself): '"You're never as funny or as clever as your juniors/subordinates make you feel."

Response by 1SG Michael Farrell made Dec 24 at 2017 6:32 PM

1SG Michael Farrell — Sun, 24 Dec 2017 18:32:14 -0500

As I recall, the AAM was supposed to replace the Certificate of Achievement when something more was deserved but not the ARCOM. Guess what...It did in a lot of cases, but it also resulted in more people getting the award until it became kind of meaningless. I had a CSM buddy with several MSMs plus a Silver Star offered another MSM at retirement. He said he didn't intend to go to the ceremony and if that was all they thought his career was worth, give him a AAM because he didn't have one of those. I had six MSMs, and paid no attention to my 7th at retirement. What you get is equally a reflection of what you've done, how well the guy recommending you writes, and what the board thinks of you both. So, since you've got no real control over it, do your job as well as it can be done, take care of your people and don't care about the bullshit. Be proud of your service and fuck 'em if they can't take a joke.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 14 at 2018 4:08 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 16:08:58 -0400

I remember guys saying "it's not in the regulation or policy" but the command said via an order that you will do certain things or else

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 14 at 2018 10:13 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 22:13:50 -0400

Fill in from the front.
You must carry a copy of your profile.
Stand at the position when some says " Attention to orders".

Response by SSG Harry Herres made Jun 15 at 2018 5:39 PM

SSG Harry Herres — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 17:39:39 -0400

Incoming is addressed to resident

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2019 6:36 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Jun 2019 18:36:14 -0400

Where does it say in the regulation that you can’t call the general by his first name?

Response by SGT Charles Butler made Sep 13 at 2019 5:24 PM

SGT Charles Butler — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 17:24:19 -0400

If you're not 15 minutes early, you're LATE!

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2020 10:43 AM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 06 May 2020 10:43:17 -0400

You can add to but cannot take away.

Open up FM/Regulation to signature page and read it. You can't do either without an ETP.

Response by LTC Robert Gaddi made Jul 3 at 2020 8:21 PM

LTC Robert Gaddi — Fri, 03 Jul 2020 20:21:58 -0400

Tracers work both ways!

Response by LTJG Richard Bruce made Jul 4 at 2020 8:03 PM

LTJG Richard Bruce — Sat, 04 Jul 2020 20:03:34 -0400

Sailors know, "up, forward, starboard; down, aft port".