What are your thoughts on fidget spinners for promotional items through retention?

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 08:53:31 -0400

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Aug 8 at 2017 12:24 PM

SGT Dave Tracy — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 12:24:25 -0400

SWAG is SWAG, but for younger people who are now or will soon consider joining up, its a generational touchstone and be more relatable and of interest as far as SWAG goes. Nothing wrong with using it.

Now if you're thinking about going with Army POGs or Pet Rocks as promotionals, you may be juuuuuust a bit behind the curve...
;-)

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2017 5:36 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 17:36:38 -0400

I don't think it's worth it. Just my personal opinion.

Response by Marie Meyers made Aug 8 at 2017 5:42 PM

Marie Meyers — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 17:42:57 -0400

I purchase swag for our company, I find that more people prefer useful items over things that are novelty. Reviews are very positive for adhesive card holders, hand sanitizers, mints, car chargers, or portfolios. Even backscratchers - I guess people like the usefulness of these items. :)

Response by Cpl John Barker made Aug 8 at 2017 5:58 PM

Cpl John Barker — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 17:58:59 -0400

Privates love that stupid shit, make a special fidget spinner that does a "whirring" noise for after they sign their contracts, numbers would go through the roof even better than we started handing out free crayons

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2017 6:03 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 18:03:46 -0400

I was previously a recruiter. It all depends on who your audience is and what the quality of the SWAG is. I would give out lanyards for days, but kids would stop taking them because they were made so cheap. They much rather preferred the Marines lanyards. I think if you were able to personalize the spinners a bit (ex. engrave the name, unit, year, or just something specific to retention in general such as "This we'll defend") Soldiers may be more interested in keeping them as they would keep a coin. This is all moot if the thing is 95% plastic though, as I'm sure most things you order from the Army's swag store is, but it's who you know! Good luck SFC Janicki!

Response by SFC Christopher Taggart made Aug 8 at 2017 9:04 PM

SFC Christopher Taggart — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 21:04:09 -0400

Just another gimmick, I think Sergeant...but if it works to bring in new recruits, why not.

Response by PFC Jonathan Albano made Aug 8 at 2017 10:07 PM

PFC Jonathan Albano — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 22:07:55 -0400

Assuming the target audience to be my generation (millennial) you will find quite a few who will bite, however, there are a good number of us who can't stand those things.

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Aug 8 at 2017 11:05 PM

SGM Matthew Quick — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 23:05:27 -0400

GREAT IDEA! Publicity items promote something (retention in this case)...these are extremely popular amongst younger/future Soldiers.

Get a 5-side spinner and have Soldiers spin for one of 5 reenlistment options. :)

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made Aug 9 at 2017 8:58 AM

SFC Joseph Weber — Wed, 09 Aug 2017 08:58:37 -0400

better as a recruiting tool I think. Retention should be more about pride in a unit or the Army itself.

Response by SSG Mike Wyche made Aug 9 at 2017 9:02 AM

SSG Mike Wyche — Wed, 09 Aug 2017 09:02:56 -0400

No privates might choke on them.

Response by SSG Jimmy Cernich made Aug 9 at 2017 11:48 AM

SSG Jimmy Cernich — Wed, 09 Aug 2017 11:48:05 -0400

No time for fidget spinners.In my day fidget spinners were wrenches,paper and pen,behind the computer,operating m60 chassis,cleaning my weapon,ironing my uniform,taking care of my boots,I'm not a fan of adhd I think it is a cop out for not paying attention to detail.Fidget spinners are toys for kids I don't see nothing wrong with that but to allow a so called adhd person to sit in class and play with one hinders attention to the teacher and other students.With that said a challenge coin would be better.

Response by SGT Jim Arnold made Aug 10 at 2017 4:18 PM

SGT Jim Arnold — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 16:18:38 -0400

all I got was a bumper sticker and a swift kick in the ass

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 10 at 2017 4:26 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 16:26:03 -0400

just another item that is going to get lost the next day . waste of funds.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 10 at 2017 4:50 PM

2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 16:50:17 -0400

Reenlistmemt bonuses, an extra week of leave, or something else of that nature. Something valuable to show him appreciation for staying in.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 10 at 2017 5:19 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 17:19:51 -0400

I would rather have a good pair of boots or two For re-enlisting. How about some new eye pro. Something I would actually use. Fidget spinners are for when you don't have anything to do.

Response by SFC William Brown made Aug 10 at 2017 5:56 PM

SFC William Brown — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 17:56:11 -0400

childish crap

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Aug 10 at 2017 6:28 PM

LTC Stephen C. — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 18:28:27 -0400

I'm really old school, SFC Private RallyPoint Member. I don't see why they should be an item of "need" in any circumstances, and especially as promotional items for the military.

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Aug 10 at 2017 7:19 PM

SFC Jim Ruether — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 19:19:38 -0400

Absolutely stupid! These are toys and were designed to keep autistic kids entertained for long periods of time. I see them as a tremendous waste of money myself!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 10 at 2017 10:00 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 22:00:57 -0400

What is going on? Really?

Response by SPC Paul Golden made Aug 11 at 2017 1:18 AM

SPC Paul Golden — Fri, 11 Aug 2017 01:18:29 -0400

Fidget spinner, eh, maybe not. I daresay make it job specific, if possible. Example, give MI Soldiers laser pointers. I found lasers to be helpful in certain command briefs. Although battery packs are always useful in today's environment given the amount of technology floating around.

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Aug 11 at 2017 7:44 AM

SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM — Fri, 11 Aug 2017 07:44:50 -0400

Next thing they be getting is IPHONE 8! sponsored by VERIZON WIRELESS, So they can talk all day during Basic and AIT.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 11 at 2017 8:24 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 11 Aug 2017 08:24:13 -0400

WTF!! That pretty much sums up my thoughts on the subject.

Response by 1SG Dennis Hicks made Aug 11 at 2017 11:16 AM

1SG Dennis Hicks — Fri, 11 Aug 2017 11:16:37 -0400

If you use critical thinking about this then you can see the recruit (FUTURE SOLDIER /FCS) arriving at Basic/AIT/OSUT and playing with his or her spinner as a DS walks up, this will not end well and is a wast of money. Buy them a good pair of running shoes for PT if you want to help them so they don't have to spend their money on the crappy sneakers available where they go. :)

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 11 at 2017 1:16 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 11 Aug 2017 13:16:45 -0400

I mean whatever they want to do for recruitment things. Anything that advertises is going to get used. I'm sure there have been ridiculous promotion materials in the past worse than fidget spinners.

Response by Sgt Dana Peters made Sep 29 at 2017 11:03 AM

Sgt Dana Peters — Fri, 29 Sep 2017 11:03:04 -0400

I'm actually a manufacturer of custom engraved stainless steel military spinners as well as other products. I can tell you right now, people don't just throw our products in a drawer and forget about them. They are conversation pieces, and commemorative items that will last a life time as our customers will tell you. Take a look at our site http://www.milspin.com

Milspin - Weapons-Grade Military Spinners

We specialize in custom metal products for the military community including Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Coast guard.

Response by SPC Gary Welch made Aug 23 at 2018 6:08 PM

SPC Gary Welch — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 18:08:49 -0400

This is the stupidest thing I have ever heard all I got when I enlisted was the chance to serve my country and an all expenses paid trip to Germany and other places no bonus and a worthless college thing

Response by Sgt Charles St John made Aug 23 at 2018 9:59 PM

Sgt Charles St John — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 21:59:03 -0400

I have no words....

Response by Michael Urdak made Aug 23 at 2018 10:54 PM

Michael Urdak — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 22:54:03 -0400

Honestly from what I seen or heard is the amount of out processing non-trainees with the most majority are kids with discipline issues. I have no place to speak but the military needs to stop taking kids that are looking for “easy money” because once they’re in there they say it’s too hard and get chapter out. That’s just my opinion.

Response by SGT Sean Moore made Aug 24 at 2018 2:23 AM

SGT Sean Moore — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 02:23:12 -0400

Just when I thought I’ve heard it all.

Response by SPC Rick LaBonte made Aug 24 at 2018 6:39 AM

SPC Rick LaBonte — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 06:39:58 -0400

WTF???

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2018 10:52 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 10:52:16 -0400

I make it a point to always have a Soldier's family around if possible so the spouse can weigh in with qiestions and such. Many times they bring their children along as well, and giving a little trinket to the kids can often show them that you are actually counseling and helping them to make the best decision instead of "getting a number" as is often the perception.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2018 10:54 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 10:54:21 -0400

As long as you retain good soldiers who cares. Times change. Adapt and overcome.

Response by 1SG Gary Bacon made Aug 24 at 2018 11:54 AM

1SG Gary Bacon — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 11:54:58 -0400

could come in handy for 1SG to keep from breaking someones neck....smh.
lol

Response by PO1 Michael Bruner made Aug 24 at 2018 12:34 PM

PO1 Michael Bruner — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 12:34:52 -0400

Ooooo! Shiny!

Response by SCPO Andrew Harris made Aug 24 at 2018 12:37 PM

SCPO Andrew Harris — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 12:37:44 -0400

WTF!!

Response by SGM Ronald Cheatom made Aug 24 at 2018 1:41 PM

SGM Ronald Cheatom — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 13:41:46 -0400

My dedication to duty, and my desire to contain, control, and destroy, our enemies, is what kept me in. My toys, were the tools of my trade, as a professional soldier/ infantryman.

Response by PFC Phil Granish made Aug 24 at 2018 2:36 PM

PFC Phil Granish — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 14:36:44 -0400

One more thing to add to the list of reasons I am so glad I got out when I did

Response by SFC Dan Monnell made Aug 24 at 2018 2:59 PM

SFC Dan Monnell — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 14:59:37 -0400

Keep treating them like children. That’s why the Army has zero discipline.

Response by Sgt Garret Smith made Aug 24 at 2018 3:04 PM

Sgt Garret Smith — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 15:04:44 -0400

That might be one of the dumbest things I’ve heard of

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2018 4:49 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 16:49:47 -0400

So as a Recruiter I have to say that most of our target audience is between the ages of 17-21. These kids love these things. A lot of people have ADHD and it’s useful for them, myself included. Others are just following a trend and it works for us. But with that being said over the last 2 years I’ve enlisted around 20 or so in my small area and I’ve never had the necessity of giving these out. RPI’s are great for table display presentations and catching someone’s eye. Besides that it’s not a fundamental resource.

Response by PO1 Mark Hutchins made Aug 24 at 2018 5:10 PM

PO1 Mark Hutchins — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 17:10:40 -0400

This whole idea is just amazing me. This is like going to the Docs and getting a sucker because you were good. Sounds more practical for a 4 year old. I am Deep old school I geuss. This is Buttercup Stuff.

Response by PV2 Mark Zehner made Aug 24 at 2018 5:42 PM

PV2 Mark Zehner — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 17:42:06 -0400

X box would be better lmao!!!

Response by SSG Marshall Paul made Aug 24 at 2018 5:45 PM

SSG Marshall Paul — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 17:45:06 -0400

I joined for the jump boots. Even tho' I had to buy them.

Response by Cpl Rc Layne made Aug 24 at 2018 6:48 PM

Cpl Rc Layne — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 18:48:20 -0400

Same thing I think of kids having them. Not much.

Response by SGT Jon Creager made Aug 24 at 2018 9:58 PM

SGT Jon Creager — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 21:58:49 -0400

What to hell a fidget spinner? I have words but some lefty here would get pissed.

Response by SSG Kenny Gomillion made Aug 24 at 2018 10:07 PM

SSG Kenny Gomillion — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 22:07:31 -0400

RIP real men. We will be missed

Response by SGT Jared Kennamer made Aug 24 at 2018 10:10 PM

SGT Jared Kennamer — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 22:10:31 -0400

When I ETS'd way back when, I saw that I had 3 conferences with my retention NCO. I never knew I had a retention NCO. I guess that's why I got out and finished up in the National Guard.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Aug 24 at 2018 10:53 PM

CSM Charles Hayden — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 22:53:55 -0400

SFC Private RallyPoint Member Are y’all ttelling me that the U S Army no longer hurries up - - and WAITS?

Waiting for an aircraft is when I learned to take a quick nap - now if I had had a fidget spinner?

Response by SPC Jerry Doc Daugherty made Aug 24 at 2018 11:36 PM

SPC Jerry Doc Daugherty — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 23:36:40 -0400

I'd want a cash bonus! Not a spinner!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2018 11:37 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 23:37:34 -0400

dumb

Response by SGT James Shelhart made Aug 25 at 2018 12:00 AM

SGT James Shelhart — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 00:00:36 -0400

if they are so figety, maybe the 1st sgt's grass could use some more attention.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2018 1:15 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 01:15:16 -0400

I would see it as a waste of my time to recieve one.

Response by SGT Tj Casiano made Aug 25 at 2018 2:06 AM

SGT Tj Casiano — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 02:06:27 -0400

i got a t-shirt back when the slogan was "Army of One"

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Aug 25 at 2018 5:30 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 05:30:34 -0400

These promotional items have always been intended to capture the eye of the junior Soldier, if the item is what the younger generation likes and it meets the requirements for purchase then certainly. Keep in mind that the CSM and Commander have a vote. Thank you for your service.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2018 7:22 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 07:22:37 -0400

Does a tide pod come with the fidget spinner?

Response by SSG Lon Watson made Aug 25 at 2018 9:31 AM

SSG Lon Watson — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 09:31:18 -0400

I know a good retention incentive.....RANGER SCHOOL!!!!

Response by CSM John Mead made Aug 25 at 2018 9:41 AM

CSM John Mead — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 09:41:57 -0400

You're kidding, right?

Response by SGT Rob Baker made Aug 25 at 2018 9:59 AM

SGT Rob Baker — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 09:59:03 -0400

You guys are funny... what a snow flake Army we have today.. when we reenlisted our big thank You was No CQ for a month. If you were to entice me today it would be nice for an all expense paid week in a tropical island

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2018 10:20 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 10:20:58 -0400

I favor some sort of memorabilia that has a purpose... For me was a huge coffee mug.

Response by SGT David Smith made Aug 25 at 2018 11:24 AM

SGT David Smith — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 11:24:30 -0400

are you freaking serious

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2018 11:53 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 11:53:41 -0400

I got a few back packs and t shirts. What’s the difference?

Response by CPL James A Robinson made Aug 25 at 2018 1:07 PM

CPL James A Robinson — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 13:07:42 -0400

Absolutely ridiculous. If they reenlisted for a fidget spinner I wouldn't want them in a LP/OP or fighting position with me. Is this what our military has come to? Grow up Troop.

Response by SSG James Noone made Aug 25 at 2018 1:24 PM

SSG James Noone — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 13:24:36 -0400

Can it double as a Chinese throwing star?

Response by SSG James Noone made Aug 25 at 2018 1:25 PM

SSG James Noone — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 13:25:31 -0400

Can it double as a Chinese throwing star?

Response by MSgt Edward Hayes made Aug 25 at 2018 2:25 PM

MSgt Edward Hayes — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 14:25:05 -0400

Boot camp is where children are turned into fighting men and women. Trinkets are just part of the advertising and promotion to get those little buggers to sign up. It is called “Awareness “!!!!

Response by SN Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2018 2:28 PM

SN Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 14:28:09 -0400

Why is this a thing? The choice to stay is not one that can be made clear with a fidget spinner.

Response by SGT Jason McVey made Aug 25 at 2018 3:45 PM

SGT Jason McVey — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 15:45:09 -0400

I’m going to put that down as a reason I am not re-enlisting. Seriously there’s truth to that.

Response by SSG Brian Carpeneter made Aug 25 at 2018 3:53 PM

SSG Brian Carpeneter — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 15:53:10 -0400

What a waste of funds. All o ever got was a discharge certificate and a re-enlistmrnt certificate plus a poloroid

Response by SFC Michael Arabian made Aug 25 at 2018 4:51 PM

SFC Michael Arabian — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 16:51:39 -0400

I think every time I re enlisted I might have gotten a unit coffee cup if I was lucky

Response by SP5 Patrick Oxford made Aug 25 at 2018 4:54 PM

SP5 Patrick Oxford — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 16:54:53 -0400

I got a reenlistment bonus. It was less than $500 and an primary MOS change school 16E2P. Four more years

Response by Cpl John Grier made Aug 25 at 2018 6:28 PM

Cpl John Grier — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 18:28:18 -0400

Sgt. Major shipped me over; just because I loved the Corps

Response by SFC Edwin Watson made Aug 25 at 2018 6:43 PM

SFC Edwin Watson — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 18:43:38 -0400

Like any other profession, as personnel shortages increase, the standards of personnel decreases. Police departments have even been hiring convicted felons and issuing them firearms!!

Response by LCpl Jason Keiser made Aug 25 at 2018 7:15 PM

LCpl Jason Keiser — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 19:15:29 -0400

A fidget spinner saved the world

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2018 8:26 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 20:26:31 -0400

They gave me a stress ball with little liquid pellets. The pellets were squished so many times it looked like a rubber full of jelly before I threw it out. Now I just say to myself 11 mo until retirement!!

Response by PV2 Michael Wolf made Aug 25 at 2018 8:46 PM

PV2 Michael Wolf — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 20:46:11 -0400

Waste of money

Response by SPC Brian Prate made Aug 25 at 2018 9:08 PM

SPC Brian Prate — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 21:08:54 -0400

Just stick with a company coin ffs

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2018 10:03 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 22:03:11 -0400

What a moronic idea. Army retention is supposed to entice skilled, experienced soldiers to stay on, and not make toys for retards.

Response by TSgt Rudy Adame made Aug 25 at 2018 10:31 PM

TSgt Rudy Adame — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 22:31:18 -0400

If it’s good for retention , use it.

Response by SGT Shane Gregory made Aug 26 at 2018 12:42 AM

SGT Shane Gregory — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 00:42:25 -0400

I got a beer coozie.... and IT WAS MULTICAM!!!!!!

Response by SSG Jess Peters made Aug 26 at 2018 3:56 AM

SSG Jess Peters — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 03:56:13 -0400

Just a handshake and back to work.

Response by SPC Travis Grizzard made Aug 26 at 2018 6:16 AM

SPC Travis Grizzard — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 06:16:58 -0400

My spinners

Response by SPC Bryan Richardson made Aug 26 at 2018 8:07 AM

SPC Bryan Richardson — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 08:07:22 -0400

Ha I know the general in the picture 96-97.. I knew him when he was a Colonel and the Regiment commander for 160th SOAR.

Response by SGT Aric Lier made Aug 26 at 2018 8:11 AM

SGT Aric Lier — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 08:11:46 -0400

ok heres a promotional idea.... if a soldier is wanting to re enlist, why not do something that adds value, like school options choice of duty assignments etc. I may have stayed in.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2018 8:58 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 08:58:34 -0400

Why not something useful? Soldiers notebook\dayplanner with their name on it, backpack, portable multiuse charger for electronics, earbuds, styled cac reader, or the hats, shirts, or gym towles that actually get used.

Response by PO1 Eric Justice made Aug 26 at 2018 12:46 PM

PO1 Eric Justice — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 12:46:27 -0400

Possibly the most expensive fidget spinners in the world, considering SRB's can range from $5k - $150k.

Response by SGT Ken R made Aug 26 at 2018 1:29 PM

SGT Ken R — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 13:29:10 -0400

I reenlisted 3 times for a ride in a Blackhawk helicopter. 3 lying full of crap Company Commanders, I never did get my ride....

Response by SPC Fred Harrington made Aug 26 at 2018 2:05 PM

SPC Fred Harrington — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 14:05:22 -0400

Re-upped in 91. All I got was 10 minutes of artificial pleasantry and a handshake from a commander I couldn’t stand...

Response by CPL Brandon Kling made Aug 26 at 2018 2:24 PM

CPL Brandon Kling — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 14:24:48 -0400

i was gonna say, i received a duffle bag for re-enlisting, and here it is, ten years later and the bag still is in great shape.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2018 2:41 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 14:41:51 -0400

When recruiters go to middle schools it might be a good idea, just to keep the odea of the military in their mind but if a kid wants one who's a senior in highschool, we have some issues.

Response by SgtMaj Kenneth Dillon made Aug 26 at 2018 4:52 PM

SgtMaj Kenneth Dillon — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 16:52:00 -0400

We're lettin you stay. That's your reward.

Response by LTJG C Mader made Aug 26 at 2018 7:21 PM

LTJG C Mader — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 19:21:35 -0400

a crate of jalepeno cheese spread

Response by SSG Ralph Watkins made Aug 26 at 2018 7:43 PM

SSG Ralph Watkins — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 19:43:30 -0400

The Army is pitiful. Us old-timers came in when the Army challenged you to serve the nation, change the world, & to improve yourself. Now, the Army just wants to appease kids to continue being kids in the Army. No wonder discipline & morale are so low.

Response by SPC Jonathan Fretwell made Aug 26 at 2018 7:44 PM

SPC Jonathan Fretwell — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 19:44:25 -0400

Fidget spinners? What are we recruiting here, Air Force recruits. This is the Army, we are grunts that thrive on stress, physical fitness, and beer. Okay, so all you can eat buffets work to. Seriously, really. First stress cards, than drop in standards, than political changes. We are grunts, treat us like crap, let us off the chain every now and than, and we will go kill something. That simple. Stop softening up soldiers, this is going to get us killed

Response by CSM Andrew Perrault made Aug 26 at 2018 8:59 PM

CSM Andrew Perrault — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 20:59:46 -0400

Waste of $$$$$$

Response by Tim Scheible made Aug 26 at 2018 9:06 PM

Tim Scheible — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 21:06:37 -0400

I got a tumbler(water bottle) and phone holder for my car, but would have really appreciated a 100 rounds of 5.56, a new cell phone, food, fireworks(couple of nice mortars to set off with my family as a goodbye) hmm maybe that's greedy but the next 8yrs of my life are set in stone so I don't really care

Response by SGT Joseph Johnston made Aug 26 at 2018 10:57 PM

SGT Joseph Johnston — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 22:57:48 -0400

Irrelevant. No one (at least no one that I would want in the Army) is making a re-up decision based on receiving a fidget spinner. When I left active duty, the Reserves offered me a large bonus and a way to keep my retirement points, but I was like, no thanks. But then they offered me an ACU backpack, and I was like "Sign my ass up NOW!"

Response by SGT David Nicholas made Aug 27 at 2018 12:00 AM

SGT David Nicholas — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 00:00:00 -0400

I have no words. I was a real soldier.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2018 8:36 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 08:36:02 -0400

What’s next, a pacifier & a blanky so they can take a nap!!

Response by 1SG Frank Boynton made Aug 27 at 2018 9:08 AM

1SG Frank Boynton — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 09:08:14 -0400

Fidget spinners. Yep go for it. Your obviously looking for children who have punk in their hearts and sugar in their vains, and they are stilled tied to their mama’s apron strings. And you wonder why Drill Sgt’s and Recruiters are like oil and water.

Response by SPC Russell T. Andrews made Aug 27 at 2018 9:37 AM

SPC Russell T. Andrews — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 09:37:16 -0400

How much longer will the stupidity be the norm ?

Response by MSG Edward Flint made Aug 27 at 2018 9:39 AM

MSG Edward Flint — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 09:39:49 -0400

Making the NCO's in charge of the soldiers job more difficult, to enforce inappropiate use of thease items while on duty and so on.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2018 10:24 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 10:24:27 -0400

Dumb. Who pays the idiots that come up with this crap?

Give me a rifle sling, or a gerber, or something non-retarded.

You know what you get when you graduate college as a gift?

A pen. A nice frucking pen. With a wooden box. You know what a pen does? It writes. Anything you want.

You know what a fidget spinner does? It confirms to your subordinates that thier higher ups are, in fact, stupid.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2018 12:03 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 12:03:11 -0400

For what

Response by Sgt Frank Staples made Aug 27 at 2018 2:41 PM

Sgt Frank Staples — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 14:41:45 -0400

If it will keep them off the cellphone...

Response by 1LT Charles Barnes made Aug 27 at 2018 4:22 PM

1LT Charles Barnes — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 16:22:59 -0400

Sorry for my confusion. I'm old. I don't know what I'm lookin at here. I see a picture of an NCO shaking hands with a kid who needs a haircut. I'm new to this, please explain.

Response by CPT Jeff Robinette made Aug 27 at 2018 7:28 PM

CPT Jeff Robinette — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 19:28:33 -0400

I'm a bit more "Old School" than many today. I was happy to see a Soldier get a Pen and Note Pad for this purpose. Some of the newer high tech stuff is nothing more than junk.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2018 7:39 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 19:39:21 -0400

I fully concur with Marie Meyers about people preferring useful items. I've received positive feedback on the tumblers, blender/shaker bottle, portable chargers, backpacks, coolers, and some of the pens.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2018 8:40 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 20:40:19 -0400

wasnt that yeastetdays fad?

Response by SPC R Nolan made Aug 27 at 2018 9:44 PM

SPC R Nolan — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 21:44:28 -0400

How about not charging leave credits for days you would not be working anyway... that always bothered me.

Response by 1st Lt Henry Battersby made Aug 27 at 2018 9:59 PM

1st Lt Henry Battersby — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 21:59:19 -0400

I think about as much about them as I do the people who use them.

Response by CW3 Tom Sheahan made Aug 27 at 2018 10:13 PM

CW3 Tom Sheahan — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 22:13:10 -0400

Give them a gas card!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2018 10:33 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 22:33:26 -0400

Give me the station/unit/school of choice and sign my DA 31 and I'm happy.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Aug 27 at 2018 10:42 PM

CSM Charles Hayden — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 22:42:40 -0400

SFC Private RallyPoint Member I have 2 each Fidget spinners. Amazingly, one spins so long that I become impatient and shut it down!

Response by SGT Lee Renecker made Aug 27 at 2018 11:24 PM

SGT Lee Renecker — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 23:24:58 -0400

All I got was we'll send you to the E6 board No Thanks

Response by Cpl Jeffery Abbott made Aug 28 at 2018 12:37 AM

Cpl Jeffery Abbott — Tue, 28 Aug 2018 00:37:09 -0400

Who knows! They may come in handy in a Foxhole during a firefight! Lol

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2018 1:29 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 28 Aug 2018 01:29:00 -0400

It has no meaning or value...

Response by LTC Wayne Brandon made Aug 28 at 2018 8:41 AM

LTC Wayne Brandon — Tue, 28 Aug 2018 08:41:17 -0400

"When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things." 1 Cor. 13:11
When do we quit pandering to the soft side of an already suspect generation and begin promoting a highly organized, totally prepared, professional organization? There are a number of good alternatives suggested in the replies already so I will not be redundant. But I have been concerned over this trend for a long while. If a soldier needs something to help them settle down, PT or a special, essential detail is always a good alternative. (I can hear the booing already) consider this quote -
"Charlie didn't get much USO. He was dug in too deep or moving too fast. His idea of great R&R was cold rice and a little rat meat. He had only two ways home: death, or victory."
(Cpt. Willard - Apocalypse now)
When you don the uniform of the nations armed forces, it is time to put away childish things in favor of the creating and maintaining hard, determined, intelligent and mature warriors - today and always.

Response by TSgt Robert Danley made Aug 28 at 2018 9:10 AM

TSgt Robert Danley — Tue, 28 Aug 2018 09:10:48 -0400

It's been said before "you know your a Soldier/Sailor/Marine/Airman when a reenlistment bonus isn't the reason you stay in". And stupid little gimme's are right out. (I personally never received a reenlistment bonus in my career.)

Response by SP5 Anthony Guion made Aug 28 at 2018 7:39 PM

SP5 Anthony Guion — Tue, 28 Aug 2018 19:39:32 -0400

Unbelievable..

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2018 10:48 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 28 Aug 2018 22:48:48 -0400

wow just wow okay lets keep throwing money away not like we need it for anything

Response by PV2 Alonzo Symalla made Aug 29 at 2018 6:36 AM

PV2 Alonzo Symalla — Wed, 29 Aug 2018 06:36:38 -0400

Really? Toys? Makes sense. Already have made basic into summer camp. Instead of weeding out the those with anxiety and attention problems, let's give them toys.

Response by SPC Martin Gradney made Aug 29 at 2018 7:55 AM

SPC Martin Gradney — Wed, 29 Aug 2018 07:55:57 -0400

The incentive when I joined was the G.I. Bill. The fact that I could get a free education was all I need to sign up. Fidget spinner though, SMH, what is going on

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2018 11:01 AM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Aug 2018 11:01:01 -0400

Nobody uses those anymore, the craze died out. I personally believe thats a bad idea. A flask would be a better idea if you had to get them anything.

Response by SFC Kenneth Kreps made Aug 29 at 2018 3:54 PM

SFC Kenneth Kreps — Wed, 29 Aug 2018 15:54:58 -0400

I think that's a crock of condensed horse manure! You want retention, how about giving these soldiers some real leadership.

Response by SSgt Gerald Davis Jr made Aug 29 at 2018 6:24 PM

SSgt Gerald Davis Jr — Wed, 29 Aug 2018 18:24:31 -0400

They get a bonus what more do these children need.

Response by SPC Thomas Moreland made Aug 29 at 2018 7:55 PM

SPC Thomas Moreland — Wed, 29 Aug 2018 19:55:02 -0400

I got 14k.... I was also was going to get a leather jacket with our unit Crest on it, never got that.... it's been 12 years now, I wonder if I can file a petition somewhere.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2018 2:14 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 30 Aug 2018 02:14:29 -0400

Do you really think a little gimmick toy or pen or sticker or button or sack is meant to be the defining line or turning point in a Soldier’s career? That a trinket will make or break someone’s continued service? Not even in the least.

Response by PFC Carol Cleaver-Hesser made Sep 3 at 2018 7:17 AM

PFC Carol Cleaver-Hesser — Mon, 03 Sep 2018 07:17:29 -0400

Twiddle your thumbs. You can't loose that and there is no added expense. Plus you have it all the time.

Response by SGT Tj Casiano made Sep 3 at 2018 10:11 PM

SGT Tj Casiano — Mon, 03 Sep 2018 22:11:05 -0400

Enlistment bonuses and the GI Bill seem to work fairly well on their own...

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2018 9:17 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 07 Sep 2018 21:17:19 -0400

Just pointless! Period.

Response by LtCol Paul Bowen made Sep 9 at 2018 1:42 PM

LtCol Paul Bowen — Sun, 09 Sep 2018 13:42:32 -0400

A disgusting waste of time and money.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2018 6:39 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Sep 2018 18:39:05 -0400

I actually like the fidget spinners... helps with my anxiety...

Response by MAJ Doug Mattox made Sep 12 at 2018 11:04 PM

MAJ Doug Mattox — Wed, 12 Sep 2018 23:04:14 -0400

Sorry, but WHAT?

Response by MAJ Doug Mattox made Sep 12 at 2018 11:04 PM

MAJ Doug Mattox — Wed, 12 Sep 2018 23:04:54 -0400

Sorry, but WHAT?

Response by MSG Biran Colwell made Sep 13 at 2018 11:37 AM

MSG Biran Colwell — Thu, 13 Sep 2018 11:37:59 -0400

So when did we start handing toys out to the Soldiers? You ether Reenlisted for an Assume Opportunity to better yourself and hopefully upward mobility or the Military was not for you and you went back to the Civilian Side of Life.

Response by MSgt Paul Persson made Oct 2 at 2018 1:40 PM

MSgt Paul Persson — Tue, 02 Oct 2018 13:40:04 -0400

If you need a f-ing fidget spinner you probably shouldn't be carrying a gun. smdh

Response by CW3 Susan Burkholder made Oct 24 at 2018 2:06 PM

CW3 Susan Burkholder — Wed, 24 Oct 2018 14:06:36 -0400

Is this an old post? Fidget spinners haven’t been a thing for a while.

Response by PO1 Eustace Bibby Jr made Nov 13 at 2018 6:49 PM

PO1 Eustace Bibby Jr — Tue, 13 Nov 2018 18:49:36 -0500

Can be a good tool for Members/Veterans with PTSD.

Response by SPC Bryan Richardson made Dec 31 at 2018 11:14 AM

SPC Bryan Richardson — Mon, 31 Dec 2018 11:14:57 -0500

How about giving them something that's actually useful like maybe a leather man or multi tool.