To the Navy members.... What is your opinion of Red vs. Gold Service Stripes?

2017-06-02T10:33:03-04:00

I am researching the history of Service Stripes for all services, but am curious about the Navy's version. I understand the regulation, but I am more curious about the general feelings toward those who wear the Red Service Stripes after 12 years, knowing something has kept them from going Gold. How do your feel about this person if you were...
a senior?
a peer?
a subordinate?

Response by PO3 Steven Sherrill made Jun 2 at 2017 10:49 AM

2017-06-02T10:49:30-04:00

MSG David Rogers III I don't think anything about it. Look at the chevrons, not the color. Respect the uniform, whether higher or lower.

Response by LT Timothy Parlatore made Jun 2 at 2017 10:53 AM

2017-06-02T10:53:42-04:00

One of the best E-8s on my ship was a guy who had the distinction of being selected for promotion to every single rank twice. I am against my he zero defect mentality and I think some of our best warriors are guys who don't rate gold.

Response by PO3 Steven Sherrill made Jun 2 at 2017 11:15 AM

2017-06-02T11:15:06-04:00

MSG David Rogers III You might find this helpful. PO1 John Crafton

https://www.navytimes.com/articles/misconduct-nearly-ended-his-career-how-tough-lessons-shaped-the-new-mcpon

misconduct-nearly-ended-his-career-how-tough-lessons-shaped-the-new-mcpon

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2017 11:28 AM

2017-06-02T11:28:24-04:00

I am still upset that I was just a few days short of "Going Gold" and they would not waive it or let me delay my commissioning so I could make the shift. So close and yet so far.

Response by MSG David Rogers III made Jun 2 at 2017 11:35 AM

2017-06-02T11:35:58-04:00

How about any Soldiers and Marines..... Do you think your service should adopt a similar practice? Or Airmen.... some kind of distinction on the Longevity Ribbon?

Response by CPO Jerry Daugherty made Jun 2 at 2017 11:39 AM

2017-06-02T11:39:05-04:00

For Senior Enlisted, it used to be a pseudo "badge of honor" in that you overcame your silly mistakes as a young Sailor and were still able to achieve rank. Nowadays, I would suspect you won't see as many red-stripped CPOs, SCPOs, or MCPOs.

Response by PO3 John Wagner made Jun 2 at 2017 11:42 AM

2017-06-02T11:42:24-04:00

I was,always more comfortable around red stripes. I figured they had proven their fallibility at some point and might be a,little less touchy. They always spoke in a more understandable dialect. Often invoking images which gold stripes weren't inclined to present to the public. Still a little harsh however, perhaps they understood the same thing and didn't mind not being held to the same standard of purity. I would rather drink with them.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Jun 2 at 2017 11:53 AM

2017-06-02T11:53:01-04:00

I was on my way to retire with gold hash marks, but one serious lapse of judgment shortly before I retired led to an Article 15 Captain's Mast and I ended up retiring with 5 red stripes. Doesn't matter to me, I still get my pension every month!

Response by PO2 Richard Blakey made Jun 2 at 2017 12:30 PM

2017-06-02T12:30:17-04:00

me can not get gold 13yr. 4 yr. us army

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2017 1:07 PM

2017-06-02T13:07:56-04:00

So a Red Stripe is a Sailor that at some point got in trouble?
A Gold Stripe is a Sailor that never got caught?

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Jun 2 at 2017 4:20 PM

2017-06-02T16:20:47-04:00

MSG David Rogers III I can only one Relate One Story, Some Fields advance much quicker than Others which makes for some entertaining situations. I was coming out of the Galley Corry Station in Uniform with a Toothpick in My Mouth. See this 2 Red Striping Chief coming up quick on my back side, You can tell He is about read me the Riot Act, Up Until he pulls up in front of Me and Sees 3 Gold Stripes. Very Politely reminds me that this is a "School" Environment and "We" Need to set the Right Example for the Junior Students. LOL. Most Polite Almost Ass Chewing I ever got. Nice Young Lad.

Response by SFC Marcus Belt made Jun 2 at 2017 6:14 PM

2017-06-02T18:14:05-04:00

As a Navy veteran, I feel that the zero-defects mentality of the early-90s when I served, was to the detriment of a healthy branch. Besides, WTF is up with the whole "scarlet letter" thing?

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Jun 2 at 2017 8:37 PM

2017-06-02T20:37:35-04:00

All the stripe color meant to myself and peers back in the day was gold meant you weren't caught. Other that that, a pure yawner. For those who thought it was critical for them, they usually had an ego problem. I had a career E-5 who kept getting busted back on a predictable schedule. But there wasn't anyone you'd rather have painting the countryside with Ma Duce. A true artist.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 3 at 2017 9:59 PM

2017-06-03T21:59:26-04:00

While it can be honorable to have gold stripes for a untouched career, there are some of those who may have to wait a bit longer to get them but their character, attention to duty and how they grown as a person in the Navy can be reflected. I've met a lot of people, including one of my RDCs who got into 3 fights in his career, but he still made Chief and proudly wears his red stripes. I know he's a good person and was rough around the edges; he makes a great role model for those looking.

Response by SSG Ray Murphy made Jun 5 at 2017 6:06 PM

2017-06-05T18:06:21-04:00

It's almost as if the Navy makes up ranks and uniform items as they go....j/k. I have no dog in this hunt. Interesting though.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 5 at 2017 6:33 PM

2017-06-05T18:33:41-04:00

Would someone mind explaining to the Army guy what causes someone to have red instead of gold? Seems to be related to UCMJ actions or something. What are the details? Once you go red, can you ever go back to gold after X years of good conduct? Or is it an all or nothing thing? Thanks.

Response by SCPO William Akin made Jun 5 at 2017 7:27 PM

2017-06-05T19:27:31-04:00

I retired in 1980 so I'm sure times have changed more then a little, but as I can best recall (and it was always my opinion) most Sailors that I knew or dealt with paid absolutely no attention to the color of your crow and hash marks.. Bottom line with me it was/is much ado about nothing!!!
For the record Gold bling cost a good bit more then red... Money that could have been spent on cold beer :-)

Response by PO2 Rev. Frederick C. Mullis, AFI, CFM made Jun 6 at 2017 11:43 AM

2017-06-06T11:43:05-04:00

A good sailor learns from his/her mistakes. I made a lot of them. never went to MASS, No NJP's Not one single write up ever in my career. I had one 2nd Class that for whatever reason did not like the cut of my Jib in my first Command, He wrote one of my Quarterly marks and gave me a 2.0. that hounded me and kept me from getting my GCM on my first 4 years. all because of one person's feelings. But Yet, as an Airman (E3) I was filling a 2rd Class (E5) Billet. DCPO for the Division. Go Figure. Had a Admirals inspection in my Squadron, the Skipper was walking around with the 3 star, He stopped in front of me and looked at my crow and said "Second Class Ordnanceman eh?" I replied quickly, "No Sir Second Class Petty Officer, First Class Aviation Ordnanceman Sir." The Admiral looked over to our Skipper and our Skipper smiled and said "Thats a fact, Sir."

Response by CPO james A. Redd Jr made Jun 6 at 2017 4:27 PM

2017-06-06T16:27:58-04:00

I was a real half-asser my first 10+ years in, but somehow my dream came true and I got to work with SEALs, after that I was a 4-0 sailor all the way. My earlier evals were so bad I was "counseled" about my performance. But Once I finally got my dreams to come true. I was Command Advanced, Made Chief my first time up. Somehow I made the gold stripes. I knew some guys that were a HELLUVA lot better then me that should have never got in trouble. I guess it depends on the Command and the people in charge that defines a mans fate.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2017 12:04 AM

2017-06-07T00:04:09-04:00

So this got me to thinking. If the Army had this system, would I ever have not had red stripes?
Truth is, yes. But there were so many times I should've gotten an A15 that... well, I guess being a good talker makes me a good CA guy.

Response by PO1 Michael G. made Jun 8 at 2017 8:40 AM

2017-06-08T08:40:01-04:00

My dad, who is a retired CMDCM, talks about how back when he first enlisted in 1974, it was incredibly common to see Chiefs, Senior Chiefs, and even Master Chiefs with red stripes and rating badges. There was even a running home that to make Chief, one had to have his DUI and divorce in his service record.

As the Navy has gotten smaller, though, and tried to push back against the cultural stereotype of the drunken Sailor, fewer and fewer Sailors are able to stay in for very long after going to mast, so the +12 red stripes aren't very common. However, when it's obvious that somone has been to mast, I read the situation that their Captain believed that while mast was appropriate for that Sailor's actions, the Sailorneither learned their lesson or the situation wasn't so severe that the Sailor was a total loss to the Navy.

Basically, I'm saying that it doesn't matter to me, and that I wouldn't have the information to judge it anyway.

Response by CPO Mark Weber made Jun 9 at 2017 4:50 AM

2017-06-09T04:50:38-04:00

I think it should stay the way it is, as it has no bearing on advancement

Response by LT Timothy Parlatore made Jun 12 at 2017 9:36 PM

2017-06-12T21:36:59-04:00

As if on cue:
https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2017-06/deckplates%E2%80%94base-gold-stripes-service-not-conduct

From the Deckplates—Base Gold Stripes on Service, Not Conduct | U.S. Naval Institute

Provide an independent forum for those who dare to read, think, speak, and write to advance the professional, literary, and scientific understanding of sea power and other issues critical to global security.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2017 2:54 PM

2017-10-14T14:54:33-04:00

I have 3 red service stripes and one good conduct medal, only because I went into the Army after active Navy. Folks looj at me weird until I explain then they're like oh.....ok. why folks are so judgemental is beyond me.

Response by PO1 Kevin Arnold made Jan 11 at 2018 11:43 PM

2018-01-11T23:43:07-05:00

I retired as a red Petty Officer. I went to mast at my 9 year mark. So I did go fleet reserves, would that time count towards wearing Good?

Response by SN Timothy Clark made Jan 31 at 2018 10:58 AM

2018-01-31T10:58:44-05:00

As tough as it is, unblemished records deserve note. Red and Gold are appropriate. I too appreciate everyone's service.

Response by Sgt Charles Welling made May 10 at 2018 7:05 PM

2018-05-10T19:05:39-04:00

Is the opinion of many going to make a difference?

Response by PO1 James Smith made Jun 2 at 2018 3:45 AM

2018-06-02T03:45:34-04:00

Got my first good conduct medal. Captain looked at the 3 red stripes on my sleeve and just smiled and moved on. Didn't bother me at all.

Response by PO1 James Smith made Jun 2 at 2018 3:50 AM

2018-06-02T03:50:41-04:00

When the capt. gave me my first good conduct medal he looked at the 3 red stripes on my sleeve and just smiled shook his head and walked on. Didn't bother me at all.

Response by PO2 Roy Johnson made Jun 2 at 2018 4:10 PM

2018-06-02T16:10:26-04:00

Red or gold, it never mattered to me. The guys with the gold hashmarks were the ones who were lucky enough not to get caught.

Response by SGT Joseph Miller made Jun 2 at 2018 4:56 PM

2018-06-02T16:56:03-04:00

My daddy was a red stripe MCPO as he did something stupid as a young sailor and it never hurt his career. He made E8 as an ETCS on nuke fast attacks in 10 years and made E9 in 15. He taught at code 10/14 in new London at the sub school and wrote alot of the electronics manuals that submariners used during his time and was COB on quite a few boats and MCPO on a few sub tenders so it didn't matter in his day but in this politically correct day and age it might be time to get rid of the scarlet letter as it's not the badge of honor it use to be and it's not fair to good sailors to be looked down upon for a youthful indiscretion.

Response by SGT Joseph Miller made Jun 2 at 2018 4:57 PM

2018-06-02T16:57:49-04:00

I'm gonna add something else too, it's funny how the rank charts show red stripes only for E1 to E6 because they even know that real sailors mess up every now and again.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2018 5:06 PM

2018-06-02T17:06:01-04:00

For me when I was enlisted, I held the "gold stripers" (NOTE i SAID STRIPERS NOT STRIPPERS) pretty much in awe as I could not understand how anyone could serve that many years without getting caught for something. Later, as a commissioned officer, I respected the gold stripes because by then, I understood a little better. What I considered important at that time though, was the service member's performance at that time, rather than past history.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Jun 2 at 2018 6:18 PM

2018-06-02T18:18:18-04:00

Had some rough sailing in his time..

Response by SPC Christopher McMahon made Jun 2 at 2018 6:36 PM

2018-06-02T18:36:33-04:00

So, the red stripes are meant to openly shame, the service member? That’s a little bizarre, isn’t it?

Response by Capt Helen Slack made Jun 3 at 2018 11:47 AM

2018-06-03T11:47:17-04:00

I had dinner with General Krulak the elder probably around 1980. He told many stories of the crimes he commited as a junior officer along with his peers. He commented it was a pity that if any officer today did what he had they would fail promotion.

Response by MCPO Roger Collins made Jun 4 at 2018 12:08 PM

2018-06-04T12:08:39-04:00

Funny how this one continues. I retired with five gold stripes and gold MCPO insignia. In my record, due to a number of questionable action as a teen were noted, along with some mediocre evaluations (none related to skills or knowledge), a Summary Courts Martial conviction (smoking in an authorized area), and a showdown with my last CO and the Wardroom that I requested escalation to squadron level, they backed down. So, for those that believe gold means a so called perfect sailor, you are wrong. That being said, new ballgame in these times. BTW, I was selected for MCPO before my 18th year of service.

Response by MSgt Tony Perry made Jun 4 at 2018 3:00 PM

2018-06-04T15:00:02-04:00

My dad retired with 30 yrs of service as a SCPO. He had red hash marks. He always said he didn't want to spend the money on the gold ones.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 4 at 2018 3:18 PM

2018-06-04T15:18:50-04:00

It's a perfect way of recognizing excellent service. You want gold, do what is needed to earn them.

Response by PO2 Killashandra Leigh made Jun 4 at 2018 3:49 PM

2018-06-04T15:49:22-04:00

While the gold stripes look impressive, every sailor can't be a saint. I was on my way gold when one small screw up had me standing before the man at the green table, and while the end result was nothing more than a severe ass chewing, it still went on my record, and disqualified me. I got out shortly thereafter because the changes implemented in the mid-90s made thing far too political for my liking.

Response by 1SG Dennis Hicks made Jun 4 at 2018 4:16 PM

2018-06-04T16:16:16-04:00

I wish the Army would have done that all ten of my service stripes would have been blood red and I would have worn them with honor, I don't trust someone who have never made ANY TYPE of mistake, they are a lighting rod for a really bad one coming I would guess.

Response by CAPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 4 at 2018 4:16 PM

2018-06-04T16:16:50-04:00

Some of my best sailors were “red strippers”, but I appreciate the gold strip program. Continue both...keep the tradition alive.

Response by LCpl Mike Burkhart made Jun 4 at 2018 4:25 PM

2018-06-04T16:25:02-04:00

If you don't have anything on your Page 11...then you ain't Shit! Fuck them gold stripes!

Response by PO1 Mike Meehan made Jun 4 at 2018 8:21 PM

2018-06-04T20:21:13-04:00

It doesn't gain you anything other than gold stripes. I got 'em and it didn't help me get promoted....

Response by PO2 Rich Pratt made Jun 5 at 2018 5:59 PM

2018-06-05T17:59:40-04:00

If the Navy wanted us to behave they wouldn’t give us a medal for doing it.

Response by PO1 James Davenport made Jun 5 at 2018 6:53 PM

2018-06-05T18:53:42-04:00

I had gold stripes, but being a BM you can be assured that I was no angel. Sometimes I didn't get caught, sometimes I had a LPO or Chief that valued my work performance and knowledge enough to get stuff squashed. Gold stripes don't necessarily mean someone is a goody goody two shoes.

Response by LCpl Darrell J. Farley Jr. made Jun 6 at 2018 1:43 PM

2018-06-06T13:43:14-04:00

As a Marine and as a civilian employee of the Navy, I have known Petty Officers and Chief who had both. A Chief Petty Officer with red stripes tended to be more understanding of subordinates that make MINOR infractions.
Gold stripes were viewed as kiss assess. More likely to send you to mast for minor infractions.

Response by CPO Bruce Hebert made Jun 6 at 2018 3:25 PM

2018-06-06T15:25:36-04:00

As a CPO that wore both red and gold, I believe that gold was an achievement to be proud of and worn proudly.

Response by Lt Col George Roll made Jun 6 at 2018 6:05 PM

2018-06-06T18:05:49-04:00

In the AF you screw up you do not get a Good Conduct Ribbon for that 3 year period. Experienced Members can "read your ribbons" and. Tell if you have had a lapse in good behavior during your career.

Response by PO1 Bruce Crow made Jun 6 at 2018 7:56 PM

2018-06-06T19:56:14-04:00

I worked my butt off to wear gold. Yes people make mistakes but there are consequences for them

Response by SFC Ronald Bowers made Jun 6 at 2018 7:56 PM

2018-06-06T19:56:41-04:00

We don't have Red/Gold in the Army, but as a 5x article 15 recipient

Response by CPO Larry Bordenkecher made Jun 6 at 2018 10:55 PM

2018-06-06T22:55:04-04:00

I always had some extra admiration for those who got busted for something or another but still stuck with it.

Response by PO2 Leonard Matelski made Jun 7 at 2018 1:07 AM

2018-06-07T01:07:23-04:00

In the Navy if after 12 yrs service and good conduct throughout you get the gold stripes
It’s a way to show and be seen as a sailor who has his priorities straight.

Response by PO1 Pete McElroy made Jun 7 at 2018 7:20 AM

2018-06-07T07:20:57-04:00

More first exposure to this was my first exposure to the Navy, while at Bootcamp one of the “CC’s” had JUST had his gold taken away, before we got there, and made it his mission to take it out on us.

Response by SCPO Chuck Inman made Jun 7 at 2018 7:38 AM

2018-06-07T07:38:56-04:00

Doesn’t mean he is a bad Saolor. Should not be judged by that.

Response by GySgt Felix Salmeron made Jun 7 at 2018 7:42 AM

2018-06-07T07:42:01-04:00

The only
Meaning to the stripes is time in service and should just stay that way. In the corps it’s a ribbon that you add stars to. Same thing. What counts is your rank and your leadership skills.

Response by Brian Hupp made Jun 7 at 2018 8:18 AM

2018-06-07T08:18:53-04:00

I knew an HM1 who was a damn good guy and d knew his stuff. He told stories based on which time he got what rank. Example: this one time, I just got third class for the second time........

Response by PO1 Barbara Matthews made Jun 7 at 2018 10:10 AM

2018-06-07T10:10:25-04:00

I got to wear gold service stripes while I was in. It looked nice. I had a couple of senior Petty Officers that were the red ones along the way. I'm the kind of person that usually gives people the benefit of dought. If I don't know their whole story I
have the same respect for them as I do anyone else until the prove me wrong.

It's easy to get labeled "dirt bag" over over mistake. Years of good service go out the window in a flash. If a Sailor can still hold
his or her self up and still wear a sharp uniform in spite if red service stripes then he or she earns some respect there.

Response by CWO4 Gene A. made Jun 7 at 2018 10:28 AM

2018-06-07T10:28:40-04:00

True, everyone makes mistakes. However, as in life, choices are made, not mistakes. Keeping your nose clean keeps your record clean. Thus, acquiring the gold. Making a bad choice doesn't make one a looser. However, red than becomes the reality. Good sailors are found in both categories.

Response by COL Thomas F. made Jun 7 at 2018 3:07 PM

2018-06-07T15:07:01-04:00

When I was a young private in the late 80's, my NCOs told me, if you didn't have an Article 15 in your file and demoted at least once, you weren't doing something right. Obviously, back then it was easy to bounce back with hard work and humility. Today, I wouldn't give that advice. Any bad mark can kill your career. As far as the gold and red? I go back to my old NCOs manta. The guy screwed up somewhere along the way. He apparently paid his dues. If it was really serious, he wouldn't be here. Its not up to me to judge him again. As long as his honest with me, hard working, and keeps his nose clean, what do I care what he did. Just better make sure those stripes are on straight.

Response by PO1 Tim Dawson made Jun 7 at 2018 4:47 PM

2018-06-07T16:47:12-04:00

Retired with gold, and yes it’s earned!

Response by PO2 Thomas Tutton made Jun 7 at 2018 5:14 PM

2018-06-07T17:14:06-04:00

Get caught get red , get away get gold.

Response by CPO Tom Kilgore made Jun 7 at 2018 5:56 PM

2018-06-07T17:56:30-04:00

Those are not free. CPO Retired and I wore them proudly

Response by SPC Charles Batchelor made Jun 7 at 2018 8:47 PM

2018-06-07T20:47:17-04:00

It's stupid but I'm Army, we don'thave sepetate rank insigna.

Response by PO1 Jay Lax made Jun 7 at 2018 9:45 PM

2018-06-07T21:45:42-04:00

Had a Master Chief with 24 years and red stripes. Some little e-3 asked him how that was possible. His reply was "mast dumb ass"

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2018 10:16 PM

2018-06-07T22:16:55-04:00

When I saw a CPO with over 12 years and red stripes I had more respect for them and they were generally better leaders.

Response by MSgt Gene Drozd made Jun 8 at 2018 2:07 PM

2018-06-08T14:07:57-04:00

I see the vote icon for every service should adopt this option? I don't think so, it's ok to step on your dick but not to mark time on it. Semper Fi

Response by CPO Mike Sordelet made Jun 8 at 2018 2:08 PM

2018-06-08T14:08:44-04:00

I came into the navy under the 3X6 program, instead off regular navy I was USNR, the program was 3 years active followed by 3 years inactive reserve's. (a recruiters good deal... NOT ). At the end of my first 3 years active, I tried to reup for 4 years regular navy, but because I was under contract I was only allowed to reup for 3 years. I then got out with 6 years active with no good conduct medal. I came back in after 2 years as a E-4, made Chief 7years later, but I couldn't wear gold till I had 18 years in, no mast, never in trouble, just didn't meet the regs because I listened to a recruiter when I was 18 years young.

Response by Sgt John Garrett made Jun 8 at 2018 2:28 PM

2018-06-08T14:28:01-04:00

As a Marine, all of our service stripes are the same. I don’t understand why anyone would wear a different color service stripe.

Response by PO2 Brian Trager made Jun 8 at 2018 4:03 PM

2018-06-08T16:03:08-04:00

I know a great Master Chief going on 30+ years of service wearing red. He is one of the best sailors in the Navy. He made a mistake as a very junior sailor. He over came that mistake and proudly wears rhe rocker and two stars. BZ i say!

Response by CWO4 John Cox made Jun 8 at 2018 5:40 PM

2018-06-08T17:40:00-04:00

We used to have that distinction in the Coast Guard. A lot of the guys I worked for with red hash marks were people who weren’t afraid to stand up for what they believed. We had a BMC on a Station I was on with red hash marks who was also a Baptist minister!

Response by PO2 Smash Spurrier made Jun 8 at 2018 5:49 PM

2018-06-08T17:49:19-04:00

In the Navy today(well at least as of 10 years ago) the chiefs mess threw everyone under the bus that was not E7+. Luckily that never happened to me(one and done, E5 in 2, they literally made me test for E6 even though I would be out before results were out). I saw them trying to get kids in trouble for the same things that the chiefs probably didn’t get in trouble for because the chiefs of their junior sailor days kept discipline at the lowest level possible. Maybe that comes from the officer level holding chiefs accountable... but probably not. That being said, they sort of “teach” that red stripes after 12 means dirtbag, but from my view that is really not the case. It’s just a case of poor senior enlisted leadership culture in the Navy.

Response by CPO John Dupee made Jun 8 at 2018 6:36 PM

2018-06-08T18:36:24-04:00

HA! I was THAT guy! Retired in Red at 22. Had a WHOLE lot of fun as the Honors Boatswain's Mate at the GTMO Navy Bithday Ball 2002. There I in my Whites NO GOLD. You could hear people whispering "What's up with Chief Dupee? He's out of uniform..." TOO FUNNY

The RED was an HONOR

Response by PO2 Donald Marcel made Jun 8 at 2018 7:20 PM

2018-06-08T19:20:53-04:00

It’s kind like the warfare pins. It when from something of honor to get off my back pin.

Response by Capt Ron Lane made Jun 8 at 2018 7:45 PM

2018-06-08T19:45:42-04:00

The survey left out the option of the Navy using only red striped.

Response by MSgt Nestor Cruz made Jun 8 at 2018 9:42 PM

2018-06-08T21:42:41-04:00

So, what is the official interpretation of the red stripes and the gold according to the official navy regulation?

Response by LCDR Robert Turner made Jun 8 at 2018 11:15 PM

2018-06-08T23:15:56-04:00

It was common in the 80s when I made Chief to see four red service stripes. Since I made Chief before 12 years I was a two red stripe Chief with a red crow. In some circles I was casually associated with those who made mistakes early in their career but not so bad as to not make Chief.

As time went on I observed fewer red stripes. Today we may have reached the point where more Sailors can avoid trouble - red striped Chiefs need not exist unless they make Chief early.

Response by SCPO James Dunigan made Jun 9 at 2018 12:40 AM

2018-06-09T00:40:07-04:00

I detest the attitude of “just did not get caught.” Bull... I worked hard for my rank and worked hard this keep a clean record. Not that I was perfect but I never had a Captains Mast. Just because others did not obtain them do not distract a single thing from those Sailors who earned gold. I knew a lot of good Sailors with over 12 who wore red but I knew a lot of those who wore red who were dirt bags who blamed everyone else for that but themselves.

Response by CPO Dennis Laurion made Jun 9 at 2018 12:53 AM

2018-06-09T00:53:54-04:00

In 1974 the Coast Guard switched from Navy Crackerjacks to Bender Blues that looked like Air Force service dress with Navy rating badges. We wore Air Force ties, wooly pully sweaters, Ike jackets, and raincoats. We also wore Navy blue work jackets, black work jackets, dungarees and or utilities overlapping until we got our own blue work uniforms. Good conduct chevrons and hash marks didn't survive the change. Chiefs lost khakis but got gold chevrons and hash marks. Rates E-4 through E-6 wear red on their left sleeve.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2018 2:40 AM

2018-06-09T02:40:27-04:00

Red means youve been there, youve walked the shoes without being a butt shark, people who warrant gold far down tge line have always played it safe or just never been caught that my opinion on that...

Response by LTC Peter GrzywaczI made Jun 9 at 2018 4:28 PM

2018-06-09T16:28:42-04:00

When I first went on AD in the 60s just about every NCO E7 and above had stories about when they were busted multiple times. Didn't seem to affect the way I thought of them.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2018 5:53 PM

2018-06-09T17:53:55-04:00

If someone has still advanced with a red mark, then I respect them more because they are damn good at their job!

Response by HA Jace Gallagher made Jun 9 at 2018 9:07 PM

2018-06-09T21:07:04-04:00

Lmao I went to Mast twice in my first term XD I dont think it's a serious deal to have red stripes because the Navy punishes for the smallest mishap. I consider mine a badge of honor because I put an Army sergeant in his place because he almost got a friend killed. Well worth it

Response by SFC Kenneth Kreps made Jun 10 at 2018 8:05 AM

2018-06-10T08:05:40-04:00

Albeit there are many military traditions that we hold proud. And, I'm not real f a familiar with navy traditions, but I've always believed that effective leadership still holds that punishments should be private, and accolades public. To have to wear a stripe that signifies a mistake should not be.

Response by PO3 Robert Wallace made Jun 10 at 2018 12:32 PM

2018-06-10T12:32:57-04:00

It really doesn’t mean much, I have seen gold hash’s on pure F.Us who thought that their shit didn’t stink, but their peers totally ignored them and their comments.

Response by PO3 Terence Snyder made Jun 10 at 2018 7:31 PM

2018-06-10T19:31:36-04:00

Matters not to me. I got a One WEEK
Early out & Got NO STRIPE !!!!’

Response by PO3 Paul Pawlicki made Jun 10 at 2018 8:01 PM

2018-06-10T20:01:43-04:00

Red is the measure of a man who would lay his life down for you. Don’t get me wrong, many “gold” would as well but it certainly is no measure of loyalty.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Jun 10 at 2018 9:42 PM

2018-06-10T21:42:17-04:00

Firstly I'm not Navy but My Dad was. ( I was Air Force) Seems to Me that maybe red stripes up until 12 years service then Gold Stripes 12 and over ? The Gold would then represent experience and not be branded as at some point You made a mistake. Its human nature to make mistakes, that's what We do, as long as it corrected and We learn from it why should a person be branded forever ?

Response by PO2 Hauke Powers made Jun 11 at 2018 9:02 AM

2018-06-11T09:02:32-04:00

To me, the gold / red service stripes meant toeing the line as far as your behavior, deportment, and well-being in the USN..I thought is was a mark of distinction for a Naval serviceman to be entitled to wear the gold service bars. It showed others that one can be a GOOD sailor and still be human and approachable Petty Officer. I never had a bad feeling for those who went out with the red stripes ,either...One was really no better than the other except in the fitness report...which was confidential to prying eyes...and let's face it, one's service stripe colors never changed the fact that they were GUNG-HO Sailors...God bless you all !!

Response by PO1 Howie Nash made Jun 11 at 2018 12:49 PM

2018-06-11T12:49:28-04:00

Gold means you followed the rules. Red means you didn't. .... Fortune favors the Bold. The game players can now be permitted to go home and play with your toys.

Response by SMSgt James Yearsley made Jun 11 at 2018 7:14 PM

2018-06-11T19:14:10-04:00

Retired USAF here- what are service stripes?

Response by PO1 Ron Booth made Jun 12 at 2018 8:06 AM

2018-06-12T08:06:15-04:00

26 years both regular and Reserve I retired with gold. Yes, I was no angel and I have to credit it to not get in caught especially during the salad days of my first and enlistment

Response by CPO Paul Cooper made Jun 12 at 2018 11:47 AM

2018-06-12T11:47:56-04:00

In my day we referred to them as hash marks, ,one hash mark for every 4 years served. If you managed not to go to mast when you reached 12 years of service they became gold . Now that does not mean an individual did not have diseplenary actions taken upon them during that time, they just did not go to mast. I think no less of a fellow sailor just because they have red hash marks after 12 plus years of service. Also it is 12 conservative years of service with no njp, so senior leadership could possibly have red at 12 years, but if they stayed in long enough they could earn the gold.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 12 at 2018 8:45 PM

2018-06-12T20:45:24-04:00

It is what it is. I mean, it's more of how many chevrons you have when you put on gold. If you're wearing two instead of three it's a little embarrassing. Other than that nobody cares. Though a Red Chief will turn a head or two even more so for senior or master, they tend to get a touch more respect for the red on their arms in a chew out session but their still a chief in the end.

Response by PO2 Michael Marie made Jun 13 at 2018 12:56 AM

2018-06-13T00:56:45-04:00

I wasn’t in long enough for my good conduct to matter apparently. Honestly, though, just because the math added up to gold and I saw red instead, I didn’t see that sailor as any less. It made me mildly curious at best.

Response by PO2 Chris Vogt made Jun 13 at 2018 11:37 AM

2018-06-13T11:37:55-04:00

I knew a SCPO who wore red stripes. Had massive respect for the guy. He was old school Navy.

Response by PO1 Frank Reiffenstein made Jun 14 at 2018 12:48 PM

2018-06-14T12:48:56-04:00

I think the Military in General is so afraid of offending anyone they want want to make sure someone who doesn't care if the get busted or not,but then crys because they don't have gold. Stop the participation mentality anf reward the people that have earned such.

Response by PO1 Jack Howell made Jun 14 at 2018 2:14 PM

2018-06-14T14:14:58-04:00

It depends on the severity of the offense and what he’s done since then.

Response by SFC Randall Atchison made Jun 14 at 2018 4:49 PM

2018-06-14T16:49:16-04:00

Not all who wear red stripes are bad. The criteria states you must have 12 years of continuous good conduct to qualify for gold stripes. If you had a break in service and came back in, the 12 year time clock starts the day you re-enter the service.

Response by PO1 Eric Booker made Jun 15 at 2018 2:07 AM

2018-06-15T02:07:40-04:00

If you rate gold, you just didn't have enough fun in the Philippines...

Response by PO3 David Davis made Jun 15 at 2018 8:43 AM

2018-06-15T08:43:19-04:00

The current service stripes are fine. Military is about feeling. It's about regulations

Response by Cpl Bill Johnson made Jun 16 at 2018 7:57 AM

2018-06-16T07:57:29-04:00

We expect our military people to be saints when our job is to kill people in the name of our country. Think about that. People who expect zero defect behavior from those you have trained to kill aren't thinking clearly.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2018 9:39 AM

2018-06-16T09:39:33-04:00

I personally think that senior enlisted with red stripes have grit and determination. They did not let a mistake in the past allow hem to lose focus on their future success. They overcame speed bumps in their career and I respect the hell out of that.

Response by SPC Stan LaCount made Jun 16 at 2018 10:36 AM

2018-06-16T10:36:24-04:00

I think the red stripes bestows more distinction.

Response by MSgt Dan Calhoun made Jun 16 at 2018 12:19 PM

2018-06-16T12:19:53-04:00

Side question based on this post. Is there a way to see if an individual is authorized the gold stripes vs. Red stripes on discharge paperwork? My grandfather retired after 28 years in the Navy back in 1966. He is not here to ask so I have no way to know for sure. I can make assumptions based off of his GCMs but do not want to add the wrong thing to a shadow box. I have already received everything the national archives has. I am thinking of using a khaki rank insignia to be safe since this would have been an authorized uniform back then.

Response by CPL E Cox made Jun 16 at 2018 1:39 PM

2018-06-16T13:39:03-04:00

Had a CSM tell me he didn't think anyone who didn't have an article 15 shouldn't be an NCO. True

Response by PO1 Christopher Flavin made Jun 16 at 2018 6:24 PM

2018-06-16T18:24:14-04:00

I was allowed to wear gold but kept wearing red because they were cheaper

Response by SSgt Pete Pope made Jun 16 at 2018 10:21 PM

2018-06-16T22:21:44-04:00

I had a NJP at 3 yrs 3mos. If I had stayed in, I would have to get to 16 years for the gold stripes. So I would have been one of those with over 12 and red stripes.

Response by PO2 Donald Schortmann Sr made Jun 17 at 2018 9:33 AM

2018-06-17T09:33:04-04:00

If the Navy wanted me to be a good boy, they would not award me the Good Conduct Medal!!!!

Response by SGT Marc Riordan made Jun 18 at 2018 2:45 PM

2018-06-18T14:45:51-04:00

I would have had gold, I never got caught.

Response by CPO John Best made Jun 18 at 2018 3:57 PM

2018-06-18T15:57:58-04:00

Your a Dumbass and got caught. That's what it means

Response by CDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2018 5:40 PM

2018-06-18T17:40:09-04:00

I like to see a E6 and above with red on!!

Response by PO3 Darin Scherer made Jun 18 at 2018 6:59 PM

2018-06-18T18:59:51-04:00

The Chief I respected the most had six red hashmarks.

Response by PO2 Steven Michaeli made Jun 18 at 2018 7:54 PM

2018-06-18T19:54:14-04:00

I served for 26 years so I have 6 service stripes, not gold. I started in the USAF, got out after 11 years. Went into the USA after being out for over 2 years so I lost my rank. After 6 years I wanted a bigger challenge so when my enlightenment was up I joined the USN and once again had to earn my rank back. Never got in trouble but since only 8 years was Navy I can’t wear gold

Response by LCDR Curt Gomer made Jun 19 at 2018 3:10 PM

2018-06-19T15:10:30-04:00

I was more proud of my red CPO crow, but happy to swap it for gold at the 12 yr point.

Response by CPO Walter Sinatra made Jun 19 at 2018 3:24 PM

2018-06-19T15:24:36-04:00

Dump all of the stripes. Your rank and position speak for themselves.

Response by SP5 Thomas Jameson made Jun 19 at 2018 4:34 PM

2018-06-19T16:34:00-04:00

If it was good enough for Red Forman, it should be good enough for you!!!

Response by PO1 Paul Rose made Jun 19 at 2018 7:34 PM

2018-06-19T19:34:03-04:00

I retired after 22 years. I did not get to put on gold stripes until after 20 years I wasn't until I got me 3rd consecutive good conduct award that I was told I could now put on gold stripes. Until then they were all red. Knowing a few people that had gold and how those gold stripes looked on the dress blues made me change my way of thinking. To Stay Out of trouble and get me my gold stripes. My son spent time in the Marine Corps. And told me that you get a stripe after 3 years now. Boy things have changed. Don't seem fair or worth the effort now

Response by PO3 John Wagner made Jun 20 at 2018 2:27 PM

2018-06-20T14:27:03-04:00

My “feeling” , or impression I suppose, was never negative against the Red Stripes.
I often found more senior Gold Stripes acted aloof. These were a young man’s impressions and not necessarily accurate nor would they be the same now.
At the time I often got the impression that some Gold strippers didn’t swing their arms very much so that folks might think that the hash marks on the sleeve were actually around the cuff.

Response by PO1 Lyle Brownrigg made Jun 20 at 2018 6:18 PM

2018-06-20T18:18:03-04:00

As a recipient and a current owner of gold stripes, it speaks to the character of my service to my country. This in no way takes away from those who have some bumps in their careers. They are good sailors, soldiers and airmen as well.

Response by CPO Mark Robinson made Jun 20 at 2018 10:20 PM

2018-06-20T22:20:30-04:00

I kept wearing red under the mistaken belief that 12 consecutive years would be affected by broken service. In reality you continue where you left off before getting out. I wasn't too crazy about spending that money on gold plus you seem to get more street cred when you wear red.

Response by PO2 Nathan Freytag made Jun 20 at 2018 10:28 PM

2018-06-20T22:28:52-04:00

Best Master Chief I had, 30 years of red stripes.

Response by CPL James Mellar made Jun 20 at 2018 11:57 PM

2018-06-20T23:57:50-04:00

I think the Army's version of the red stripes would be the presence of a Good Conduct Medal, but it isn't the same. I was in the Infantry, While I never received an article 15, but if I had it wouldn't have counted towards my good conduct medal, because my commander was an O-3. If I were in the Artillery though, then it would have counted because a CO for an artillery company is an O-4, which is a flag officer.

Response by Capt Stephen Loop made Jun 21 at 2018 12:39 AM

2018-06-21T00:39:00-04:00

I spent 10 years in the Naval Reserve before being selected for Officer Candidate School by the Air National Guard. I was never awarded a Good Conduct Medal because I spent 3 years in reserve status, 2 years on active duty, 2 additional years in reserve status, discharged upon graduation from college, then reenlisted for an additional 3 years in the reserves.

I always expected that Chiefs would have earned gold stripes, but I never really thought about the color of stripes below the rank of Chief.

Response by PO1 Michael Moe made Jun 21 at 2018 2:32 AM

2018-06-21T02:32:14-04:00

Who gives a fuck! One owns his or her stripes, no matter the color red or gold stand tall!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 21 at 2018 9:27 AM

2018-06-21T09:27:29-04:00

I think a point to note is, if it seen month or years after the incident to everyone, does the Sailor ever really get over it or do they just accept the fact that no matter how good they are today, everyone will know they screwed up?

Response by PO2 Edwin "Buck" Rogers made Jun 21 at 2018 6:22 PM

2018-06-21T18:22:23-04:00

Obtaining the priveledge to be able to wear gold in place of red is an honor. It's not that an individual got away with anything, it just shows that person had a conscience and they were taught the difference between right and wrong

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 23 at 2018 10:12 PM

2018-06-23T22:12:01-04:00

Mistakes happens the point is learning from it

Response by PO1 Robert Johnson made Jul 1 at 2018 2:56 PM

2018-07-01T14:56:45-04:00

Some seniors saw gold only as a sign that you hadn't got caught but many of us, myself included, saw it as a result of working hard to reflect honor upon ourselves and the USN. Navy rules and regulations are often complex and confusing so a sailor has to stay sharp, put forth his/her best efforts and stay current with those rules and regulations. That's a lot of responsibility to carry for 12 years (3 enlistments) so the Navy recognizes your diligence assigning gold status to your uniform. When I was in, it also gave you points on your evals and when being selected for promotion.

Response by PO3 Ian Favata made Jul 12 at 2018 6:55 AM

2018-07-12T06:55:48-04:00

It’s just another way to acknowledge exemplary service. Nobody is perfect and if you get a chit you lose the gold. It’s that simple. Having red isn’t dishonorable and you should be proud regardless of the color you wear if you finish honorably with your DD214.

Response by SSG Brian G. made Jul 15 at 2018 10:27 PM

2018-07-15T22:27:50-04:00

Really? The Navy does the whole scarlet letter branding thing to those that get out? That is seriously stupid, no offense intended to Navy folk. People make mistakes, the mistake does not define you, how you learn, grow and progress from that mistake however does.

Response by CPO Earl Osborn made Jul 26 at 2018 10:35 PM

2018-07-26T22:35:16-04:00

Never cared. My shipmates were there with because the Navy thought they were worth it. If they didn't rate gold or red, they became civilians.

Response by J. Parsons made Jul 31 at 2018 5:55 PM

2018-07-31T17:55:09-04:00

I'm always reading about some officer losing his command or his position due to a failure in judgement or some other infraction. It seems to me that if the Navy were just, there would be at least a few red-stripe officers running around.

Response by PO1 H Gene Lawrence made Aug 5 at 2018 6:19 PM

2018-08-05T18:19:04-04:00

I was medically discharged at 11 years 3 months. I so wanted to wear Gold. It was and is a matter of pride and honor in my book. No looking down on red just respect for achievement of a gold.

Response by CMDCM Dave Seitz made Aug 7 at 2018 6:26 PM

2018-08-07T18:26:14-04:00

As a retired (23 yr) CMDMC, it's a uniform policy, you don't wear what you haven't earned. Yes great warriors have made judgement mistakes and paid the price, however do I think less of a red stripper vs a gold stripper? No, I base my opinions on actions on the here and now. Mistake made, lesson learned move on. If you earn the privilege to wear gold at retire good on you, if not, do be it, but if you're able to retire red or gold, I look at it as a privilege to have served and able to reap the benefit of a retainer check each month. I personally like the regulation, and if a guy that retires wearing red gets asked why he's red and not gold look at it as a teaching moment to pass on to someone who may need to hear what not to do. Just my opinion.

Response by CPO James Till made Aug 26 at 2018 9:57 PM

2018-08-26T21:57:59-04:00

Made every rank of Petty Officer twice, still managed to get my anchors and retire as a Chief. Damn, I had a great time as a young man in the Pacific! Still managed to get my gold stripes in the long run but I had a lot of fun as a red stripe too! Bottom line is that you have to look back on your career and be satisfied with how you did.

Response by CH (CPT) Heather Davis made Sep 5 at 2018 5:33 PM

2018-09-05T17:33:50-04:00

I have served for over 34 years. We had a CSTX and on the exercise I was captured. This led to an intense reaction and left me with a GOMAR in my record. Believe it or not standing up for regulations and walking that thin line can lead to an Article 15.

Response by CPO David Marlowe made Mar 29 at 2019 6:02 PM

2019-03-29T18:02:42-04:00

Everyone thinks of you wore red stripes you had to have done something wrong. My best friend was a chief that wore red strips because he came over from the Army where he rode a tank in Vietnam. I know another chief that had broken service at the 10 year mark, where he got out for 6 months. And they both were top notch Chiefs.

Response by PO2 Bill Kuiper made Aug 23 at 2019 8:51 PM

2019-08-23T20:51:55-04:00

I'm fine with it. I would not make it a goal, though.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2019 9:48 PM

2019-08-23T21:48:14-04:00

The Navy is changing the regulation to make it so you get gold stripes at 12 years regardless of good conduct.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2019 1:20 PM

2019-10-18T13:20:43-04:00

Another option should be added, who cares?

Response by CPO Albert Kennison made Oct 18 at 2019 9:14 PM

2019-10-18T21:14:23-04:00

I wore gold when I retired, but the only difference was the color of the hash marks. When you retire the pay is the same, RED OR GOLD.

Response by CPO Albert Kennison made Nov 25 at 2019 5:41 PM

2019-11-25T17:41:59-05:00

It took me awhile to earn my gold stripes and hash marks. I feel that it should stay as it always has been. You have to have 12 years continuous good conduct, and it should remain. If not, then it like giving everyone a medal for participating.

Response by PO3 William Carrien made Apr 24 at 2020 4:40 PM

2020-04-24T16:40:00-04:00

If you want to judge the stripes, go ask a technical question. If you don't get the right answer, then you know why. Otherwise, he's done his time, a glitch means nothing.

Response by PO2 Chad Kilburn made Oct 27 at 2020 9:36 PM

2020-10-27T21:36:49-04:00

I don't know if this has changed but the Coast Guard does not give gold hash marks but to E-8 and over no matter the years but one GCM will be missing stars for us that went above and beyond and got caught.

Response by PO2 Chad Kilburn made Oct 27 at 2020 9:37 PM

2020-10-27T21:37:53-04:00

That's E-7 and above.

Response by MSG David Rogers III made Feb 28 at 2021 2:16 PM

2021-02-28T14:16:55-05:00

Wow, years later and tons of Reponses. Thanks all. Will this matter now that the policy changed?

https://www.stripes.com/news/gold-for-all-navy-ending-use-of-red-misconduct-uniform-stripes-1.574360

Gold for all: Navy ending use of red ‘misconduct’ uniform stripes

Starting June 1, all sailors over the 12-year service mark will be authorized to wear gold chevrons on their dress and service uniforms, a stark contrast to the red stripe worn by some senior enlisted sailors as a visible sign of misconduct.

Response by CPO Rob Carleen made Jul 21 at 2021 8:56 PM

2021-07-21T20:56:13-04:00

The Navy has been tampering with uniforms since I can remember…I’m 75, and my Dad was career Navy since 1040. They think it increases morale, but it usually ends up with crap fabrics and impractical items especially at sea. The worst was the ‘’bus driver’’ uniform of the 1970’s. Didn’t last long.