Should a Warrant Officer promotion packet require a DA 5500 (Body Fat Worksheet) if you've never been taped? Does it send a bad signal?

2017-01-13T12:39:25-05:00

Here's a new one - I was asked several times for my 5500 for my CW2 promotion packet (in the Guard). I've never once in 14 years been taped. Despite my insistence that I don't have one, "S1"supposedly insisted on including one, which my Readiness NCO made one for. Of course, there's no measurements, presumably, only the documented H/W from the 705.

Thoughts?

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Jan 13 at 2017 12:53 PM

2017-01-13T12:53:50-05:00

It likely is a packet requirement, not an option.. And if it is, I'd assume it needs to be filled in, not just HT & WT with a "GO"

Response by LTC Kevin B. made Jan 13 at 2017 2:25 PM

2017-01-13T14:25:12-05:00

I can see a reason for a promotion board wanting to see it as verification that you meet the body fat standards (I don't agree with it, but I can see it). That form shouldn't hurt you IF it's a requirement for everyone (regardless of whether or not anyone has ever been taped). If that isn't enforced across the board, then I can see it being problematic. The "if applicable" seems to indicate that it's only needed if you required being taped.

Regarding the taping itself, I can see the merit of having the form, even in cases where someone has never been taped. Meeting or failing the height/weight really doesn't mean anything at all. The height/weight is just a simple way of identifying those soldiers who are most likely to be overweight. Failing the height/weight won't get you flagged, but failing the follow-on body fat standards will get you flagged. So, it's all about meeting the body fat content. I've seen people fail the height/weight, but still pass the body fat. Conversely, it is conceivable that someone could pass the height/weight table (and not get taped), but still not meet the body fat standards. Requiring the form thereby ensures that you have actually been fully screened against the actual standard (body fat) that can be problematic.

Personally, I don't think it should be in your packet if you've never had any problems with your body fat. The only additional issue is how you look in uniform. Some research has shown that simply looking big can be problematic, even when you meet the body fat standards. In a way, having that form in there gives you a visible reminder to the board that you do, in fact, meet the standards.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 15 at 2017 5:32 PM

2017-01-15T17:32:52-05:00

A command can tape a Soldier even if they meet the height/weight standards.