What is the craziest thing you’ve seen happen during formation?

RallyPoint News — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 17:08:37 -0400

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Response by SFC Terry Wilcox made Aug 15 at 2022 8:18 PM

SFC Terry Wilcox — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 20:18:02 -0400

ME! Being there. I almost never attended formation.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Aug 15 at 2022 10:36 PM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 22:36:47 -0400

I saw a 2LT come to formation without his beret. He had no cover on at all. He had misplaced his beret and just decided to come to formation anyway. Let’s just say the 1SG had fun with that one…

Response by PO1 Robbie Bell made Aug 16 at 2022 12:00 AM

PO1 Robbie Bell — Tue, 16 Aug 2022 00:00:16 -0400

My battalion had a fund raiser that awarded the winner the “commander for a day”. The winner took control at Morning Quarters and declared that salutes were replaced by high 5’s. Hilarity ensued for the rest of the day!

Response by MSG Thomas Currie made Aug 16 at 2022 4:07 PM

MSG Thomas Currie — Tue, 16 Aug 2022 16:07:46 -0400

1ID(Fwd), Augsburg Germany. New Commanding General had just arrived. I don't know whose idea it was (based on other things I suspect it was the new CG himself) but someone decided that for the Change of Command ceremony we would do both a dismounted and mounted pass in review.

First the usual formation and change of command on the parade field, then the usual dismounted pass in review. Then as each unit reached the end of the parade field they would mount their vehicles and conduct a mounted pass in review along the road circling the parade field. By the time the first unit made it around the parade field the reviewing party would have turned around to watch the vehicles.

As you might expect there was a full week of practice. Unfortunately there was never one giant practice with everyone mounted at the same time.

The first part of the change of command was fine, the dismounted pass in review was fine, the tank battalion was the first unit to mount their tanks and drive around the outside of the parade field, followed by the two infantry battalions in their M113s

The problem came when the lead tank had gone all the way around the parade field and was coming to the end only to discover that there was a line of M113s still waiting there -- no one had bothered to figure out that an entire mech infantry brigade in single column was longer than the perimeter of the parade field!

I suppose we could have tried to have the two parts of the column pass alternately between each other like Shriner's motorcycles but that takes practice and no one had practiced what to do. Some quick thinking staff officer saw the problem and ran out to direct the lead tank down a side street instead of going straight as originally planned.

That saved the review from becoming a giant C.F. but there was one small problem. That side street just off the parade field had been used for VIP parking for important guests (mostly local officials) There were cars (mostly big Mercedes) parked on both sides of the street... without enough room for a tank to fit between them. Faced with an officer screaming "Go Go Go" the tank drivers did exactly what they were told and drove down the middle of the road, scraping the side of every car on the street.

I have no idea what that actually cost, but I do remember that our budget for just about everything was very nearly zero for the rest of the year.

Response by SPC Timothy Ruhnke made Aug 17 at 2022 6:47 PM

SPC Timothy Ruhnke — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 18:47:23 -0400

In basic training they asked for a volunteer. For KP duty! I took one step back acting like the smart guy from New Jersey. The drill Seargent said everyone about face, and I was out front and the drill Seargent said we have our volunteer!!! it was the best move I ever did. thank you SFC. Freeman

Response by CPL Jason Blackwood made Aug 17 at 2022 6:55 PM

CPL Jason Blackwood — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 18:55:33 -0400

Someone passed out after standing for so long.

Response by PO1 Mark Liddle made Aug 17 at 2022 6:57 PM

PO1 Mark Liddle — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 18:57:06 -0400

Sister ship, just down the pier, called away a real world fire during our morning formation. On the day that the CHENG decided to pull a personnel inspection. Flying Squad members heard the call over the other ship's 1MC, and realized that they would normally respond with our fire fighting squad....but the inspection?? CHENG said, "GO!!", and they took off, in "salt & peppers", strapping on their OBA's, to help out if needed.
When they got back, we found out that the OBA's had been (inexpertly) treated by the DCPO, and every one of them left huge black marks on the wearer's white uniform shirts! Luckily, our CHENG was a "Mustang", and got the CO to pay for everyone's replacement uniform shirts!

Response by PO3 Bobby Quisenberry made Aug 17 at 2022 7:03 PM

PO3 Bobby Quisenberry — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 19:03:27 -0400

While in morning formation in USNCB-1 in Guam 1973, We witnessed a caped man running across the roofs of the buildings in front of us with goggles and shaving cream on his face so he wouldn't be recognized. It was SEABEE Man! A real morale booster for us 6 1/2 day workers building camp Covington, the SEABEE Base in Guam. He had shown up at various times like at the outdoor movies one time where we had showed movies on a huge plywood screen we made. During a cowboy cliff scene, a rope came over the screen and down came SEABEE Man who announced, "I'm SEABEE Man" at which time everyone through their beer cans at him and gave chase. No one ever caught him because he had been a high school track star! He went to the officer's club and ran in sliding down their long chow table, yelling he was SEABEE man while spaying the officers with a water fire extinguisher and then they gave chase. He wound up with a medal for lifting morale and spirits over that long deployment of 8 months.

Response by SP5 Kimberly Smallwood made Aug 17 at 2022 7:20 PM

SP5 Kimberly Smallwood — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 19:20:14 -0400

One morning we were running in PT formation. Specialist Scott pooped on himself and kept running because he didn’t want to fallout of the run.

Response by SrA Ron Book made Aug 17 at 2022 7:53 PM

SrA Ron Book — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 19:53:25 -0400

I saw 7 airmen pass out pretty much at the same time in formation.and a moment after that a C130 ran off the end of the runway into the bay at Keesler AFB

Response by MSgt Mark Carragher made Aug 17 at 2022 7:55 PM

MSgt Mark Carragher — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 19:55:19 -0400

I was in basic training in 1983 at Lackland AFB, all the student flights were called to the tarmac. As we faced the control tower the commander called us to attention, and we waited 10 minutes (which seemed longer). Then the commander called us to about face and to our surprise the space shuttle was on top of a 747 behind us. Then he a gave a speech about how important we were to the country defense. That has always stuck with me and my 26-year career. MSgt Mark Carragher (retired).

Response by SSG Irineo Flores made Aug 17 at 2022 7:57 PM

SSG Irineo Flores — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 19:57:57 -0400

A bird shitted on my DS face.

Response by PO2 Dan Sherman made Aug 17 at 2022 8:12 PM

PO2 Dan Sherman — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 20:12:12 -0400

A sailor passout and fall of pier.

Response by SGT John Wettstein made Aug 17 at 2022 8:15 PM

SGT John Wettstein — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 20:15:26 -0400

One morning in PT formation at Ft Benning in 1977 while doing push-ups a skunk decided to see what we were doing. Of course when one of the guys in 3rd platoon saw it he yells "SKUNK". This ofcourse scared the hell out of the skunk. So you can guess what happened next...everyone starts getting up and

Response by SPC Benjamin Prouty made Aug 17 at 2022 8:17 PM

SPC Benjamin Prouty — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 20:17:28 -0400

One time my 1SG yelled "Zonk!". All the people on profile/crutches were magically cured of their ailments as they ran to avoid PT. The end.

Response by PO3 Bertrand Reed made Aug 17 at 2022 8:23 PM

PO3 Bertrand Reed — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 20:23:42 -0400

My CPO coming to quarters drunk and we literally had to hold him up. Don't know how he got drunk cause we had been out to Sea for weeks.

Response by SGT Talma Brown made Aug 17 at 2022 8:26 PM

SGT Talma Brown — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 20:26:17 -0400

The squad leader announcing (dishonestly) that all were present or accounted for, when over half of the platoon was absent, and she didnt know where they were. Those of us who were present, busted out laughing at her.

Response by Sgt James Curran made Aug 17 at 2022 8:27 PM

Sgt James Curran — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 20:27:35 -0400

While at Parris Island on Drill Field Drill Instructor gave the command, column right, march and he turned left and continued on for a short period and obviously not one of the 87 Platoon Members broke into tears.

Response by SPC Michael Bertram made Aug 17 at 2022 8:42 PM

SPC Michael Bertram — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 20:42:06 -0400

During A.I.T. 3 platoon were in formation waiting on awards. Everyone was cutting up.
Our staff sergent was a mean looking Vietnam vet with eye cocked off to the side.
He turned around and yelled GET DOWN !
The platoon beside us got down, ready to do pushups.
It was the only time I ever saw him smile. He even laughed a little to himself.

Response by SPC Jay Moore made Aug 17 at 2022 8:44 PM

SPC Jay Moore — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 20:44:15 -0400

I'd have to say it was watching two guys that were standing next to each other fall asleep and both fall down at the same time

Response by PO3 JamiSue Moore made Aug 17 at 2022 8:45 PM

PO3 JamiSue Moore — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 20:45:19 -0400

Someone passed out, hit face first losing a tooth but earned a stripe for remaining in parade rest.

Response by CPL Steven Statz made Aug 17 at 2022 8:48 PM

CPL Steven Statz — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 20:48:20 -0400

While serving at Ft Rucker (1971) our company was out for review (broke starch) on a typical Monday morning after a hectic weekend that our dayroom was visited by a high ranking officers daughter that had a specific grudge with someone on our post that gave her VD.
Well, a week later a high number of our group that must of enjoyed themselves with this gal, apparently we’re out on sick call, I assume receiving treatment (shot in the ass).
After roll call was completed and our 1st Sargent advised the company commander of the missing troops was asked why so many were missing?
His answer was classic, he said that it seems we have a MORALE ISSUE!
Our group broke out with laughter that was likely heard in Dothan!

Response by MSgt Matthew Stogsdill made Aug 17 at 2022 8:48 PM

MSgt Matthew Stogsdill — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 20:48:33 -0400

I was the NCO in charge of my flight for K9 school, being a SSgt over Marines, Airmen, Seabees and a Coastie. Well, one day we went out for a night on the “Town” at an undisclosed establishment and partied all night till 3 am for a “leadership building event…”At 330 am we got back to TFL and I thought we’ll Formation was at 0445, I could take a nap, before heading to Medina of Lackland. I woke up at 430, in panic mode! I jumped in my truck and booked it to the Medina side of Lackland. (Was a 15 min hauling drive!) As I drove up I turned off my lights and coasted with the engine off behind the formation. Looking on, I saw my Private Marine standing lead of my squad and reported in “All present and accounted for…” I never was noticed for missing formation and our team grew closer. That was a back watching group, and I never drank again for that! Not my proudest moment for sure

Response by PO3 Christopher Reyes made Aug 17 at 2022 8:54 PM

PO3 Christopher Reyes — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 20:54:55 -0400

Standing for Dress white inspection and caught a fellow Seabee as she was about to get Inspected.

Response by SP6 Robert Banuelos made Aug 17 at 2022 9:05 PM

SP6 Robert Banuelos — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 21:05:49 -0400

On funeral detail, we were formed up away from the service awaiting our cue to play taps and do the gun salute. One guy in our group farted really loud and a few family members looked back at us and we all tried not to laugh.

Response by SPC Brian Wagaman made Aug 17 at 2022 9:17 PM

SPC Brian Wagaman — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 21:17:41 -0400

While in a change of command formation a pvt pulled out a bag of Cheetos and started to eat them. When the Sgt Major asked what he was doing.. the pvt offered the Sgt Major a bite.

Response by PO1 Gregory Poole made Aug 17 at 2022 9:19 PM

PO1 Gregory Poole — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 21:19:58 -0400

1983 Our Seabee Battalion (NMCB-1) while deployed to Rota Spain, had a small detachment of about 60 - 75 guys, which I was part of, that went to Sigonella Sicily... In the Alfa company yard is where we held morning quarters, Durning morning quarters one of our troops (a construction mechanic we knew as Ben) decided he had to use the restroom/ Head, which was right next to where we were holding quarters... As our OIC was starting to pass down the plan of the day, Ben who was know to be able to fart on command, now started making sounds that was like a person having a painful $hit... and got louder and louder as we are all trying and failing to hold back our laughter, Our AOIC who was trying hard to put on the next rank, tells the OIC to wait as he goes to the door of the restroom to tell him to keep it down... that did not work, instead he yells back as loud as he can " I CAN'T , The $HIT IS STUCK IN MY A$$ AND WON"T COME OUT " we are all rolling by this time, as he continues on for another minute or so, then we hear the echo of the toilet flushing through the tin wall of the building a big sigh and Ben walking out with a grin as he loudly says "Sorry but it Hurt", knowing that he did that show on purpose but there was nothing that could be done about it... he got back in formation , quarters ended a few minutes later Ben got a verbal counseling and we had a good laugh for the rest of the deployment as we would stand in formation and Ben would let out farts to remind us of that day.... it was a great deployment.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2022 9:30 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 21:30:20 -0400

One of my boys (small body trying to be big body) busting out some cheeseburgers out of his PT jacket during a run day telling our NCO he was trying to get big not small with that cardio.

Response by MAJ Anthony DeStefano made Aug 17 at 2022 9:30 PM

MAJ Anthony DeStefano — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 21:30:53 -0400

At Basic Training D-5-3 Fort Dix NJ 1983: Assistant Drill Sergeant removed his “Smokey the bear “ hat and threw it like Odd Job threw his bowler like a frisbee at a soldier sleeping while standing in formation the hat struck the trainee at the junction of the nose and forehead…knocked him out cold!!!

Response by Sgt Nicholas Angotti made Aug 17 at 2022 9:31 PM

Sgt Nicholas Angotti — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 21:31:37 -0400

Into my 5th week of bootcamp (Pendleton), I was dealing with a major hemorrhoid problem. The Corpsman gave me specific instructions on how to deal with symptoms and flare ups, along with ointment to be applied to the delicate area before intense exercise, which was always.

The issue and remedy easily swept through the platoon. On a particular early morning muster before a 50 mile forced-march, the DI is moving through rollcall, and shouts out my name; I am not there. On the third time he adds, “Where is ______?”; and like a Greek Chorus in snappy unison the entire platoon shrieks, “Greasing up his A_ _ hole sir”, as I stumbled into position.

Response by SPC Gary Symons made Aug 17 at 2022 9:34 PM

SPC Gary Symons — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 21:34:19 -0400

When I completed basic training at Fort Ord, California in December 1966it was very warm. The graduation seemed like it lasted for hours and my mother had taken a Greyhound Bus from Compton to see me graduate. I knew if I locked my knees standing at attention I might lass out. I did find but the last hour every 5 minutes their was a fallen soldier and the graduation kept going like everything was okay. After the 10th guy hit the pavement, the Drill Sargent over the the PA system said in his deep outdoor voice; folks, “10 pins down makes a strike”.

Response by AN Daniel C Begay made Aug 17 at 2022 10:02 PM

AN Daniel C Begay — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 22:02:45 -0400

Sarge's fly was down during the entire drill, this is during HS JROTC

Response by LTC John McKinney made Aug 17 at 2022 10:17 PM

LTC John McKinney — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 22:17:32 -0400

When I was a new Private in Germany, our Sergeant was assigning duties for the week. He came to one soldier with unpolished boots, unstarched and wrinkled fatigues and extra long hair. That soldier was given duty to work for the Installation Detail. The work would include picking up trash, painting rocks and other exciting events. The put his hands on his hips and complained "Sergeant, I had that duty last week!". The Sergeant never looked up as he replied "You're the only one dressed for it! The rest of the company had a good laugh.

Response by Sgt James Houston made Aug 17 at 2022 10:20 PM

Sgt James Houston — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 22:20:31 -0400

When I was in Basic training, we had stopped marching for some reason unknown to us trainees. We stood at attention for a few minutes when all of a sudden, the training sergeant called my name he said in a loud gravelly voice "Sam Houston bring us up one of our cigarettes". I thought I was in trouble but as it turned out it only meant that my cigarettes were renamed our cigarettes.

Response by PFC Thomas Toth made Aug 17 at 2022 10:35 PM

PFC Thomas Toth — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 22:35:08 -0400

Hard to remember, that was too many years ago

Response by MSgt Daniel Smith made Aug 17 at 2022 10:52 PM

MSgt Daniel Smith — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 22:52:41 -0400

A new CC landed in theater. So every is scrambling to put on the dog & point show...we form up. He walks up the 1st rank NCO & by this time the nco had gutted his bigA$$ swamp donkey (which is making him very queasy @ this point). And as he went to offer his briefing...pukes outward & all over the new CC, FC, & himself. Everyone had to leave, change & PT till the nicotine rid itself of our disgusting-ness. Looking back it was priceless! I still chuckle & it was almost a decade & a half ago!

Response by Cpl Craig Howard made Aug 17 at 2022 11:02 PM

Cpl Craig Howard — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 23:02:00 -0400

I was in formation for inspection in Dress Alphas after joining a new unit, just after the 1st Gulf War. The SgtMaj was the one from my old unit that our Colonel had fired. While the new CO and XO were asking about all of my new ribbons, the SgtMaj went nuts that I had not earned most of what I was wearing. They pulled my SRB while we all stood in formation. The CO had the SgtMaj apologize to me right there. He was livid.

Response by SP6 Charles Cummins made Aug 17 at 2022 11:19 PM

SP6 Charles Cummins — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 23:19:15 -0400

At basic training in Fort Leonard Wood one of our drill sergeants pov was parked next to a light pole with a guide wire. He jumped in his vehicle quickly and spun it around so quickly that he over corrected the turn of his car from flooring it that he rn the vehicle right up the guide wire with both front wheels off of the ground. With the pov stuck there, immediately gets out and announces half right face as almost every single person in the area ( including other drill sergents ) were all laughing. The most epic "dumb" move I've ever witnessed

Response by Sgt Rusty Tuney made Aug 17 at 2022 11:21 PM

Sgt Rusty Tuney — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 23:21:46 -0400

The craziest thing I have seen happen in formation was while stationed in Iwakuni, Japan, the Sargeant in charge of morning inspection and formation was stumbling around with his walk up and down the line because he was tripping on acid for the first time in his life. the Sargeant was rambling out loud nonsense about the current OIC when the Gunny walked out of the office and interrupted the crazy speech and asked the Sargeant to step aside and have a word with him. The Gunny said he agreed with much that was said about the OIC but the Sargeant should not be expressing his views with the junior Marines. It took all day for the MATCU Unit to stop laughing about it.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2022 11:24 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 23:24:16 -0400

While in boot camp at Ft. Sill, Ok., we had to wait our turn to eat. We waited outside in our ponchos because of the rain. The wind and rain really started kicking up and pretty soon our ponchos were blowing parallel to the ground. One of the section leaders asked our drill Sargent if we could find shelter. She got so irate at the question we had to do half-right face and pushups for a half-hour. Come to find out later it was close to an F1 tornado and the female drill Sargent was disciplined and lost rank.

Response by Cpl Wayne Culbreth made Aug 17 at 2022 11:35 PM

Cpl Wayne Culbreth — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 23:35:36 -0400

We had an inspection by the base commander and the soldier was so nervous he forgot his name!

Response by SFC Donald Prater made Aug 17 at 2022 11:41 PM

SFC Donald Prater — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 23:41:16 -0400

During a Flood Mitigation mission for the state of Louisiana My Unit and various other Engineer units from other Battalions deployed to Southern Louisiana where large bodies of water especially The Mississippi River were expected to crest . Well During this Mission, I was chosen by General Moncondoit to be the acting 1sg for Company area. This was happening during the Month of November with Veterans day fast approaching. The General wanted to honor some Local WWII Veterans, other Civilians from Foreign Wars. This was carefully orchestrated by him . My job was to bring the more than 100 soldiers to Attention & then Parade Rest then turn formation over to the Next ranking higher officer in which was a Major. The Major , with the formation now at Parade Rest in front of him , gives the incorrect command of " Present Arms" , the soldiers knowing that was a incorrect command stood fast without movement. The General went into action , ran to front of formation in between the Major & Formation and Loudly and with a Earpiercing sound " ATTENTION!.. and saved the Day & the embarrassment in the presence of War Veterans. Good thing that General was once an NCO in his earlier Military career. Lol.

Response by PO2 Joan MacNeill made Aug 17 at 2022 11:42 PM

PO2 Joan MacNeill — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 23:42:27 -0400

On deck for morning quarters, our XO was announcing an upcoming United Fund drive. Then he said "You WILL donate!" We all kept straight faces at this foolish command, and watched his face fall apart as he realized how illegal and unenforceable that was. No one liked him much anyway, especially in comparison to the previous one, who was deeply loved.

Response by A1C Frank Fiorello made Aug 17 at 2022 11:42 PM

A1C Frank Fiorello — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 23:42:51 -0400

In Japan 1955 a Master Sgt who was intoxicated was dragging his foot locket.. He was yelling at the First/Sgt that he stole is whiskey both men were drunk.. They both were stripped of rank and place in the stockade.Every morning at formation we could see them marching tp the Mess hat under MP supervision.. So Sad!!!

Response by PO3 Adam Hunt made Aug 17 at 2022 11:43 PM

PO3 Adam Hunt — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 23:43:45 -0400

The young man next to me passed out and busted his chin. The amount of blood was frightening. He ended up with a few stitches.

Response by PO2 Joan MacNeill made Aug 18 at 2022 12:03 AM

PO2 Joan MacNeill — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 00:03:12 -0400

High school PE classes sometimes have military aspects. One day at roll call, Gomer comes running up late, saying "I had to take a leak." To the teacher's "That doesn't cut any ice." the response was "But it sure melts it!"

Response by SA Don Kalashian made Aug 18 at 2022 12:03 AM

SA Don Kalashian — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 00:03:41 -0400

Boatswains mate 1st class jake edenfeild goes to twirl the ends of his mustache ,his eyes pop out n he turns the coolest shade of red, he started hollering and running below deck, someone had shaved half of his mustache in the middle of the night. So dont ever fall asleep around me

Response by SPC Juan Romero Jr made Aug 18 at 2022 12:32 AM

SPC Juan Romero Jr — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 00:32:58 -0400

This was a formal formation for the change of division commander on Camp Casey, ROK (Republic of Korea) or South Korea for those that don't know. Anyhow, it was a sweltering day and although we were in our BUDs we were sweating buckets. People kept falling out due to the heat or just passing out.
The ceremony was supposed to be no longer than 40 or 45 minutes but it sure seemed a lot longer than that. All I kept telling myself is not to lock my knees or else I'd be the next one flat on my face. When all of a sudden a heard a commotion behind me in formation. I kept my head looking forward. Then I heard somebody say, " he's bleeding like a stuffed pig!". I then had to turn around and see one of my buddies with his hand completely wrapped in a white cloth and it e as full of blood, his blood.
What had happened was that a somebody directly in front of him was going to pass out and my buddy's quick thinking made him grab at that person's bayonet. A very combat ready and sharpened bayonet. And because it was so sharp my bud just bled like crazy. It's a good thing there were ambulances and medics ready to patch him up. What had happened was not as stupid a move as most people initially thought. My buddy took the pain to save another whose face could have been badly cut if not for him. I was still devastated for him.
Needless to say, after that ceremony bayonets were no longer required during change of command. It was a hard lesson to learn.
My bud had to get a lot of stitches but he was all right in the end.

Response by PVT John W Johnson made Aug 18 at 2022 12:35 AM

PVT John W Johnson — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 00:35:31 -0400

a drill Sergent threw a 2by 4 at a guy who and broke his arm he didn't know his left and right he threw it like it was a spear

Response by SGT Michael Brand made Aug 18 at 2022 2:40 AM

SGT Michael Brand — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 02:40:20 -0400

In Army BCT, we had been standing at attention for a long time, and, all of a sudden, another trainee near me just toppled over and bumped into a few other people near him as he went down (like dominoes)! Apparently, he fainted because he had locked his knees while standing for such a long time, which caused a blood circulation problem.

Response by PO1 Timothy Wright made Aug 18 at 2022 4:11 AM

PO1 Timothy Wright — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 04:11:35 -0400

Sgt Perry had this small fart machine the size of a pager on the back of his belt that he hid under his uniform. He had a remote button in his hand, and every time he pressed to remote, he would rip a fart. He stood in front of us and started to push the remote and just stood there like it wasn't him. The whole back row was in tears from laughing before he disclosed the prank.

Response by CW3 Dale Nesselroade made Aug 18 at 2022 6:08 AM

CW3 Dale Nesselroade — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 06:08:18 -0400

6th WOC Battle of New Orleans
November 18, 2018
Sometime around May 1969

“In 1814 we took a little trip”
Our barracks containing about 50 Warrant Officer Candidates, (WOC’s), were actually very nice. They had comfortable beds, a sink, lockers, and three desks for the occupants of each room. However, life was rough 6 and sometimes 7 days per week. So, when we were given a break, no matter how many minutes or hours it lasted, it was to be enjoyed.

“Along with Col Jackson Down the Mighty Mississippi”
About half way through our Ft. Wolters Texas experience my stick buddy (we shared the same flight instructor) and I were singing in the shower on a Saturday morning. It was a day off from the strict training and discipline so we were feeling good. We were singing Johnny Horton’s song “Battle of New Orleans”.

“Yeah They Ran Through the Briers and They Ran Through the Brambles
And They Ran Through the Bushes Where a Rabbit Couldn’t Go”
Unfortunately, our TAC officer (tactical, the guy that was always on or back about something) happened by and heard us! Oh boy! “How dare you sing while in MY shower room! Finish up NOW, he said! I want you both to get outside standing in front of the company formation, wearing only your skivvies and YOU WILL sing your song to them!”

“We Fired Our Guns and the British Kept a-commin”
Well, let’s have a bit of fun. My buddy grabbed a guitar and we both ran outside and stood in front of the formation, both singing loudly, him strumming, and me dancing. This being a Saturday, there were visitors in the nearby parking lot that included some wives and girlfriends! The show was on!

“There Wasn’t Nigh as Many as there Was a While Ago”
There we were, standing there in our underwear, which were wet because he didn’t give us time to towel off, singing at the top of our lungs that song that I can never forget. Very soon we drew a crowd. The 4th and 5th WOCs were ordered out to attend our “punishment”! The wives and some girl friends were cheering and horns were honking! Tac Officers were yelling! And we kept SINGING!

“We Fired Once More and They Began to runnin”
We had a ball and the formation (and the ladies) laughed and hooted at us. Even the hard-nosed TAC officers had a grin.

“On Down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico”
If we couldn’t laugh now and then we wouldn’t have made it through the course.

“Hut, Hut, Three, Four”
Dale Nesselroade

Response by SGT Andrew Hyde made Aug 18 at 2022 6:18 AM

SGT Andrew Hyde — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 06:18:33 -0400

Our unit, the 256th BCT, had just gotten back from a tour in Baghdad in 2005. We were practicing for a coming home celebration. They had a military band unit show up which we could tell most of them had not served in combat, not even sure if they had been through basic training.
The event planners did not tell all of us newly returned combat veterans that they were going to fire a powder load out of a cannon during the practice for the ceremony. When they did ever single knee in the formation buckled and a few even yelled incoming.
The band members started laughing at our involuntary reactions, that is until several thousand soldiers looked at them with a death stare. None of them would even look our direction after this!

Response by PFC Theresa Maher made Aug 18 at 2022 6:50 AM

PFC Theresa Maher — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 06:50:50 -0400

Six weeks into AIT at Jackson, in a Monday morning formation, the DS called me out shouting "is that lipstick I see on your face, Private?!" I stepped forward and replied "Yes, Drill Sergeant. The Private read in Cosmopolitan that lipstick is a preventive device. The Private is merely protecting US Army property, Drill Sergeant!" I stepped back into formation with a straight face and enjoyed the undertones of chuckling from all the Drills who were present.

Response by Maj Sparky DePaolo made Aug 18 at 2022 7:30 AM

Maj Sparky DePaolo — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 07:30:03 -0400

While flying in formation in a T-38, we flew through a “flock” of balloons. We think they had been release from a celebration of some kind 12,000 feet below.

Response by SGT Rayburn Keltner made Aug 18 at 2022 7:32 AM

SGT Rayburn Keltner — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 07:32:20 -0400

Scratching in private area and getting caught by the DI.

Response by LCpl Angela Harris made Aug 18 at 2022 7:35 AM

LCpl Angela Harris — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 07:35:40 -0400

Some one trip because boots aren’t tied up

Response by CPL Eugene Decker made Aug 18 at 2022 7:51 AM

CPL Eugene Decker — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 07:51:33 -0400

A private whom had been drinking the night before passed gas during formation. While the oder was nearly ynbearable, no one broke ranks. When the oder reached the DI in front of the fornation - - the DI gave an order to break ranks and reform in anouther spot

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2022 7:58 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 07:58:33 -0400

We were standing in formation it had been about 30 minutes. A squirrel had jump off a tree and started running toward another. Two hawks who had been waiting flew down the fastest grabbing the squirrel. They started fighting over it and the first dropped it mid flight. It hit the ground and obviously injured, dragging itself trying to get away. One of the hawks was able to swoop down and grab it. It was one of the coolest things I have seen standing in formation.

Response by 1SG Jerry Harrell made Aug 18 at 2022 8:01 AM

1SG Jerry Harrell — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 08:01:24 -0400

We were standing at attention a very long time in formation wearing our dress uniform. One of the female soldiers started wavering as she locked her legs and she passed out. She fell out on her back and her cap came off her head. The soldier behind her reaced down and placed the cap on her head. I about busted at that action.

Response by MSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2022 8:26 AM

MSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 08:26:15 -0400

when In West Germany in 1988... We were at a BDE change of command in July/ August. Someone thought it would be a good idea to have fixed bayonets during the formation.
One of the Soldiers passed out and fell down during one of the speeches and since we were at "Close interval" there was a great bit of scrambling around so that no one would get stabbed as the soldier went down.
Looking back it is pretty funny

Response by SPC Rick Stahl made Aug 18 at 2022 8:35 AM

SPC Rick Stahl — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 08:35:39 -0400

Someone up front passed gas during a run formation. The guy beside me yells "Oh that smells raw" and the formation quickly and understandably grew wings as folks were looking to avoid the fallout.

Response by PO1 Richard KIrchoff made Aug 18 at 2022 9:09 AM

PO1 Richard KIrchoff — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 09:09:10 -0400

This occurred during an R&R in the Philippines in 1973on board DD943, third morning division formed on second level forward of the bridge, however one member of the division had a bit too much to drink the night before and not being able to find his compartment chose to clime atop the forward gun-mount (a 5 inch 54) so he was in height level with us: totally naked and his little sailor at full attention the division officer (LTJG) with a girl friend came round the corner to the surprising display before us all!! The lady giggled the JG was red faced embarrassed the rest of us tried as best we could not to breakout laughing. Obviously quarters were dismissed without inspection and so on.

Response by SrA Lisa Hunt made Aug 18 at 2022 9:16 AM

SrA Lisa Hunt — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 09:16:04 -0400

It was getting close to the end of boot camp for me. As I had been a part of the Chubby Chicken program, I had lost quite a bit of weight as a road guard. I was constantly having to readjust my belt or my pants would be falling down, especially with that damn canteen adding weight. One day we were marching/melting across a hot Lackland AFB, when my swamp-ass started pulling my pants down. At the first stop, I called out to the TI, "Ma'am, permission to adjust, Ma'am," and she said, "ADjust, Airman." I then repeated myself, "Ma'am, permission to ADjust, Ma'am," and she said, "ADjust, Airman!" I once again louder and clearer yelled, "Ma'am, permission to ADJUST, Ma'am!" She furiously ran over to me put her face an inch from my nose and screamed, "Damit, Airman, will you just ADjust!" I vaguely remember the yelling and expletives going on a little bit longer than that, but I think I blacked out for a bit. I stared ahead straight, very seriously, never breaking military bearing, and said, "Ma'am, I thought you correcting the way I pronounced "adjust". She moved and turned away from the whole formation with the speed of an F-16, hands on her knees to steady herself, and laughed so hard that I nearly peed myself as I ADjusted.

Response by Sgt Richard Matthews made Aug 18 at 2022 9:23 AM

Sgt Richard Matthews — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 09:23:06 -0400

Coming out in formation with only his boots an his cover over the boots.

Response by Sgt Richard Matthews made Aug 18 at 2022 9:26 AM

Sgt Richard Matthews — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 09:26:01 -0400

Rubbing it in to other people to show how short he is ready to leave his time in the service.

Response by SSG James Bynum made Aug 18 at 2022 9:36 AM

SSG James Bynum — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 09:36:15 -0400

Senior Field Leader propel brick into formation in basic training.

Response by CPL Robert Hill made Aug 18 at 2022 9:41 AM

CPL Robert Hill — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 09:41:17 -0400

While I was in Vietnam in 1962 things were very shaky because there were no strict procedures for different situations established such as how much military protocol was handled. The base commander at Tan son nhut airport (General Stillwell, The son of the famous Stillwell in WW ll was in command and instructed a new second lieutenant fresh from West Point to hold a formation and pick out a crew to go guard a ammo dump out in the jungle. While commanding a rifle procedure we all learned in basic training, he instructed the drill and one private didn’t look down into the open breech at the proper time to check for a round. The lieutenant asked him sharply “ is there a ‘hull’ in that rifle”. The confused private not familiar with Southern slang, said, after a long pause, hell yes, there’s a hole in that rifle”. The formation all broke up and laughed.

Response by SPC David R made Aug 18 at 2022 9:45 AM

SPC David R — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 09:45:47 -0400

My first day in basic training at Ft. Jackson was a new experience for everyone involved. As we got off the bus and we formed up into our first platoon formation it felt exhilarating and such a proud moment. That all ended once the drill sergeant started barking at everyone and approached each private with that stiff brim of his hat poking slightly into your head. He approached and did the same routine to a private named FORREST BLAIR and as soon as he stepped to the next private A STREAM OF PEE came down Blair's BDUs and puddled in front of him. He began crying and we all had to get down and do pushups for his error in formation. I would say that it is a shame to allow your child in such a setting that is NOT mentally fit for service! He was discharged after several mishaps at his A.I.T. post.

Response by SP5 Nakita Shaffer made Aug 18 at 2022 10:01 AM

SP5 Nakita Shaffer — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 10:01:35 -0400

I fell asleep in formation standing up in basic training!

Response by CN George Spak made Aug 18 at 2022 10:13 AM

CN George Spak — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 10:13:00 -0400

while in formation in the navy i witnessed a soviet ship in the mediterranean

Response by Cpl Alex Woolsey made Aug 18 at 2022 10:46 AM

Cpl Alex Woolsey — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 10:46:54 -0400

When I was stationed at 29 Palms Ca, we were standing in a retirement ceremony for the base commander. It was June or July and hot as hell. The CO talked forever. Suddenly, in the formation across from me one of the marines from the base band just dropped flat on his face. Corpsman didn’t skip a beat (pun intended) and ran out with a stretcher, put him on and ran back. The commander continued for another 15 minutes.

Response by SSG Roderick Stafford made Aug 18 at 2022 11:16 AM

SSG Roderick Stafford — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 11:16:33 -0400

It was a cold and rainy day at morning formation at Fort Leonard Wood Missouri. While waiting to be dismissed I turn to my right and notice a soldier standing in formation fast asleep. The Platoon leader also notice this sleeping beauty.When we were dismissed we all had something to talk about for the rest of the day.

Response by LCpl Timothy Dunn made Aug 18 at 2022 11:46 AM

LCpl Timothy Dunn — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 11:46:36 -0400

In boot camp one morning one of the recruits went a little crazy and came out to formation with his boxer shorts on his head and nothing else on.

Response by PO3 Gary Cockerham made Aug 18 at 2022 11:57 AM

PO3 Gary Cockerham — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 11:57:31 -0400

Crossing the Atlantic onboard the USS America during the Lebanon evacuation in the mid 70s, we went through some very rough seas. Water breaking the bow of a carrier rough. We mustered daily to take a head count and make sure there was no man overboard. For some reason, our squadron mustered in the forecastle, which is as all swabs know, all the way forward. It was very surreal to see all us airdales leaning to and fro as the bow pitched upward about 60 feet and then downward. No one wanted to be the loose brick that made all the dominoes fall, and through great determination and a quick muster we made it (several times!).

Response by SFC Michelle Mondrey made Aug 18 at 2022 11:58 AM

SFC Michelle Mondrey — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 11:58:16 -0400

During formation our first sergeant called a senior NCO to the front and put a toilet seat over his head and around his neck. He said this was his punishment for not cleaning it properly. I lost all respect for him after this stunt.

Response by MAJ Mark Bachman made Aug 18 at 2022 12:36 PM

MAJ Mark Bachman — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 12:36:50 -0400

SITREP: Fort Ord, CA. BCT H 2-3, August 1974

After our initial issue and prior to a uniform inspection members of my PLT were checking gig lines, shoe shine, etc. One of the first things to do upon issue of new uniforms was to eliminate all the stray strings dangling here and there. While in formation prior to Drill Instructor inspection we were double checking each other. A method to quickly eliminate stray threads was to burn them off with a lighter as quickly as you could before our DI appeared. As fate would have it a member of the PLT had some loose threads burned off in the nick of time with disastrous results. Standing at attention with our DI front and center a cry of fire went out from the rear of the PLT. Lol and behold that soldier’s field jacket started on fire burning a huge hole and destroying his jacket. Our DI had a field day on the entire PLT. A day I will never forget.

Remembering our DI: SFC Merritt and SFC Flug

Response by SFC Winora Hoyle (Retired) made Aug 18 at 2022 12:44 PM

SFC Winora Hoyle (Retired) — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 12:44:55 -0400

During an Army Open Ranks Inspection a Soldier dress shoes completely disintegrated with every execution of movement leaving bits, pieces and black marks of the Soldiers dress shoe in each executed move and positions in which they stood.

Response by A1C Karyn Elliott made Aug 18 at 2022 1:01 PM

A1C Karyn Elliott — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 13:01:54 -0400

Morning formation female Barack’s basic training on Lackland AFB and a swarm of bats came out of the rafters. You’ve never seen a group of women run in every direction so fast! TI included.

Response by SP5 Peter Faris made Aug 18 at 2022 1:59 PM

SP5 Peter Faris — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 13:59:56 -0400

At basic at Fort Leonard Wood, MO, in 1965, a recruit dropped his M-14 one too many times. The DI had him lock open the bolt, drop trou, and make love to the open receiver (praying that the bolt would not close on his Johnson). He never dropped the M-14 again.

Response by SP5 Peter Faris made Aug 18 at 2022 2:02 PM

SP5 Peter Faris — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 14:02:26 -0400

During Basic at Ft. Leonard Wood, MO, in 1965, another recruit dropped his M-14 one too many times. The DI had him lock the bolt open, drop trow, and make love to the open receiver (all the while praying that the bolt stayed open), while reciting "this is my rifle, this is my gun, this is for shooting, this is for fun." He never dropped his M-14 again.

Response by PFC Lawrence Mcneill made Aug 18 at 2022 3:11 PM

PFC Lawrence Mcneill — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 15:11:19 -0400

I was completely deaf at role call On firing range the day before I was not issued any earplugs. Remained deaf for two days. Very scary.

Response by Cpl Gene Miller made Aug 18 at 2022 3:15 PM

Cpl Gene Miller — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 15:15:17 -0400

A Marine standing rifle inspection with a loaded M-16.

Response by SGT Paulette Beale made Aug 18 at 2022 4:32 PM

SGT Paulette Beale — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 16:32:22 -0400

I remember when I was in South Carolina for basic training, we were in formation and the drill sergeant gave us the command of “make a hole” there was a huge cockroach walking thru.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2022 11:35 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 23:35:46 -0400

Back in the early '90s during final formation before being dismissed for 4th of July pass, one of our junior enlisted snuck up behind the 1SG & lit a pack of firecrackers & ran for dear life. Needless to say, the Soldier was "volun-told" to stay back while the rest of us enjoyed our pass!

Response by Capt Sylvia DeBorger made Aug 19 at 2022 3:35 AM

Capt Sylvia DeBorger — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 03:35:26 -0400

People passing out because of the excessive heat

Response by SPC Richard Streun made Aug 19 at 2022 9:15 AM

SPC Richard Streun — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 09:15:21 -0400

During the duty officer inspection before going on duty as an MP one of the MPs shot his big toe off with his holstered .45. After that he worked in the motor pool but was still called Barney.

Response by Cpl Charles McCanless made Aug 19 at 2022 11:13 AM

Cpl Charles McCanless — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 11:13:56 -0400

Standing in formation for inspection upon returning from Viet Nam, a young 2nd Lt and a salty old gunny were walking through the ranks when a fire siren sounded...a sound that meant "incoming" to the 50 or 60 Jarheads in formation. Everyone scrambled for safety, except the Lieutenant who was knocked down & trampled and the Gunny who was madly waving his arms and shouting "NO! STOP!"...which did absolutely no good. After everything returned to normal, the Lieutenant had left to change his uniform & the gunny just stood in front of us smiling and shaking his head.

Response by SP5 Michael Weill made Aug 20 at 2022 4:53 PM

SP5 Michael Weill — Sat, 20 Aug 2022 16:53:03 -0400

E-4 came out of barracks in Korean DMZ with a

Response by SPC Tracey Washington made Aug 20 at 2022 6:39 PM

SPC Tracey Washington — Sat, 20 Aug 2022 18:39:50 -0400

My name is Tracey Washington. I was in Charley Company 239 Mad Dog Platoon Fort Jackson South Carolina month of August 1994 doing basic training. Drill Sergeants told us all not the eat heavy in the cafeteria. Some of them done it anyway. Later we were called to formation as requested with 2 full canteens of water. Everyone who ate too much looked very stupid knowing that we were made to run 2 miles after that meal. Anyway. while in formation. Drill Sergeant made us aware that he saw us eating healthy servings of chilly mack while we were in formation. He told us in formation to drink to full canteens of water. Everyone started looking at one another. Some of them already looked like something bad was about to happen to them. I started laughing. Because I figured out what the drill sergeants was up to. The 2 drill sergeants saw me laughing. Made me do 30 push-ups as punishment. While I was doing the push-ups 1 platoon member started throwing up. 2 seconds after that another platoon member grabbed the other guy that was throwing up by the shoulders. They were throwing up on each other's chest. I fell to my stomach before I could finish the 30 push-ups laughing myself to death. The whole platoon started laughing at me laughing at those guys making a mess of themselves. Even the drill sergeants were laughing at me. Drinking all that water made those guys throw up. It looked like a Godzilla fight with Mack and cheese. Tracey Washington. [login to see]

Response by AN Jerry Criddle made Aug 21 at 2022 11:04 PM

AN Jerry Criddle — Sun, 21 Aug 2022 23:04:15 -0400

Seeing an aircraft wing cutting into another wing.

Response by AN Jerry Criddle made Aug 21 at 2022 11:06 PM

AN Jerry Criddle — Sun, 21 Aug 2022 23:06:17 -0400

While serving on the America CV 66 , I saw an aircraft wing cut into another wing. That reminded me of a knife cutting through butter.....weird.

Response by PO2 Robert Kelly made Aug 22 at 2022 5:45 PM

PO2 Robert Kelly — Mon, 22 Aug 2022 17:45:37 -0400

At Ft Benning in ‘86, five weeks into training, one of the recruits snapped. He ran up to drill Sgt. presented with a near perfect attention and screamed in a really impressive drill voice, “NO!” Then ran across the parade field stripping off his clothes. Our last sight of him was running naked into the woods. Never saw him ag again. Always like to think he made it safely somewhere.

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Aug 23 at 2022 11:08 AM

SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 11:08:57 -0400

thanks for sharing.

Response by Maj Gwen Sheppard made Aug 23 at 2022 11:11 PM

Maj Gwen Sheppard — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 23:11:36 -0400

I was a third-class cadet at the Air Force Academy. It was the last uniform inspection formation for the seniors. They dressed up a manikin as a senior cadet, so it didn't carry a weapon. All 40 squadrons were out on the terrazzo deck. There were a lot of dignitaries walking around. It was a typical May Saturday morning, so it was very windy. A lot of cadets were taking a knee because most were up late preparing for the room inspection and getting ready for the uniform inspection. A big gust of wind came up and the 2 cadets holding the manikin let it go. If fell face first on the ground. As the Sergeants and Officers came running toward the squadron, the head of the manikin begins rolling in front of the squadron. Everyone tried to maintain military bearing while laughing at what had happened. It was hilarious at least for the cadets. Not so much for the Officers and Sergeants. It's been 40 years and I still laugh every time I think about that formation.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2022 6:45 PM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 Aug 2022 18:45:21 -0400

October 1992, Germany. I was a young PFC and had only been in the unit for a day and we had a hail and farewell for the outgoing 1SG. In formation the following morning our 1SG called fall in. The only thing everyone heard immediately after the fall in call was my Squad leader puking his guts out on over everyone's boots. We fell out to the back and continued puking and dry heaving. I thought to myself... This Army stuff might be fun after all.

Response by PO1 Brian McClean made Aug 25 at 2022 1:17 AM

PO1 Brian McClean — Thu, 25 Aug 2022 01:17:49 -0400

Once upon a time, I used to stand in formation at the White House, Arlington National Cemetary, and other places around the country. Most of the missions were 21-gun salutes for funerals, arrivals of foreign dignitaries, and major events such as the Inauguration and the funeral for the death of President Gerald Ford. Well, this one particular funeral we had for a fallen coastguardsman in Deltona, Florida.

For those who do not know, TAPS is played on a Bugle for funeral hours and memorial services. Ideally, this is played by a live bugle player. About that... so when there is not a live player, we bring a "fake" Bugle with batteries along to "play" TAPS. If for any reason the bugle malfunctions or has an issue the "fake" bugle player is supposed to flake or fall out.

We never had a situation where this actually had to happen, as we would check the batteries and make sure it works prior to going on the trip. Maybe it was that Florida humidity, or maybe the bugle we brought along was too old or we forgot to bring fresh batteries.

Our fake bugle player was a huge guy on this particular trip, about 6'6" and 210 lbs. I heard the beginning of what may be TAPS and then THUD! Huh? What was that? I was in a platoon and I just heard a bunch of snickering and go look to see that the bugle player had to actually flake and fall to the ground to cover for the bugle malfunction. It couldn't have happened to a worse guy, as he hit the ground like a ton of bricks. From the whole 2+ years, I was there, that was the first and last time I saw someone has to hit the ground for the bugle.

Mind you, this is a funeral, it took everything in my power not to laugh at all but even I chuckled a little. needless to say, we tried to train more REAL bugle players after that. At least the guy that had to fall, fell on some nice soft grass otherwise I'm sure he would have broken something. Even the most serious and real situations can have some comedy and of course, we never let the family and friends of the deceased know what happened and life carried on as normal, except taps was cut short. Never thought we would have to execute the backup plan, but there you have it. Thanks for reading.

Response by SSG Lonnie Morris made Aug 30 at 2022 12:44 AM

SSG Lonnie Morris — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 00:44:57 -0400

While in formation in Germany, my 1SG called everyone to attention and my phone alarm went off singing “I see your camel toooooeeee”! Everyone started laughing, I apologized and notified my 1SG, it was not towards her but it was just my alarm I had set to go off in error though she thought I planned the whole thing out!

Response by PVT Cindy Dupree made Aug 30 at 2022 3:54 AM

PVT Cindy Dupree — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 03:54:03 -0400

A girl got caught smoking a cigarette, drill Sargent called formation and she thought she pinched off burning end and stuffed it in her side pocket, her pants started catching fire . She stated jumping and wildly slapping her pants to put out smoldering fire! Drill Sargent busted out laughing

Response by SP5 Jeffrey Johnson made Aug 30 at 2022 6:11 PM

SP5 Jeffrey Johnson — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 18:11:08 -0400

Ups

Response by SGT Marc Thomas made Aug 31 at 2022 5:37 PM

SGT Marc Thomas — Wed, 31 Aug 2022 17:37:41 -0400

A senior nco fell out during a looonnnggg change of command ceromony. He laid on the ground in perfect parade rest! Nobody came to help him, he just layed there :o

Response by SPC James Seigars made Sep 1 at 2022 8:55 AM

SPC James Seigars — Thu, 01 Sep 2022 08:55:42 -0400

Mine is a tragic/sad one. I was in Fort Campbell, KY. & we had been on a Battalion run not long after we came back from Iraq. We went to quick time March and one of the NCO’s who had been calling cadence went to the sidewalk to catch his breath while the rest of us all went into the parking lot for formation maybe 20 feet away. As everyone was cooling down myself and a couple of others went to check on him and bring him water. We found him passed out. So an ambulance was called & he was taken to the hospital where he passed away from a heart attack he had while running. That is the craziest thing I have seen happen anywhere. It just so happened that we were in a formation when it did.

Response by HN Branden Jenkins made Sep 1 at 2022 11:50 AM

HN Branden Jenkins — Thu, 01 Sep 2022 11:50:47 -0400

We where in formation and a sailor crapped his pants

Response by SP5 George Smith made Sep 4 at 2022 6:33 AM

SP5 George Smith — Sun, 04 Sep 2022 06:33:34 -0400

Not really crazy, but in the early ‘70s, at Ft Hood, 17th Engr Bn, Sat morning inspection for the Bn. The sun was already hot about 1000. My spit polish on my jump boots had melted and it was a flat black. But, that wasn’t the funny part. Bn Co came through HHC, our heavy equip section, and did the usual chit chat with each soldier. A couple of solders down from me the Bn Co stopped and asked Roger C Rogers (never will forget that name), who is the battalion commander? All he had to do was look at his name tag. That’s all you had to do Rogers, look at the Bn CO’s name tag. Rogers paused and stammered his response with Col Sanders. Get it? The only colonel Rogers could think about was Kentucky Fried Chicken’s Col Sanders. I forgot our Bn CO’s name, but it wasn’t Sanders. Our Co and 1st Sgt both controlled their snickering and eye rolling. The Bn Co kept his fatherly cool like all senior officers do and corrected Rogers by directing him to look at his name tag. It wasn’t crazy, but I’ll re-submit this entry when you have a context for dumbasses.

Response by CPL John Colacchio made Sep 8 at 2022 10:33 PM

CPL John Colacchio — Thu, 08 Sep 2022 22:33:52 -0400

Specialist John Colacchio

We had an inspection formation in the barracks. Spent all morning cleaning with anticipation of the room inspections. We stood in the hallway in dress greens looking to having the long weekend off. Everyone worked hard getting the barracks ready. I saw the officers coming there was a slight breeze coming down the hallway. Out of the corner of my eye I saw 3 dust bunnies coming marching out in formation into the hallway from under my bed. I was freaking out; in a loud voice I said get back where you belong. My room mates started laughing out loud. Our butter bar saw them marching back under the bed and wrote us a note on a pad of paper. We read it later it said enjoy your long weekend, great commanding you put the fear of God into those dust bunnies.

Response by COL Bill Gross made Sep 11 at 2022 12:53 PM

COL Bill Gross — Sun, 11 Sep 2022 12:53:55 -0400

Some background: In the 1970s FT Belvoir was the Engineer School House. The post was divided between the School Brigade and Troop Command. Troop Command oversaw the 91st Engineer Battalion, 902 Engineer Company (FB) and 77th Engineer Company (Port Construction). there was a need to provide details to the various courses being taught. Tasking for these details were called "white sheets." Focusing now on the 77th Engineer Company. It had a headquarters platoon and three line platoons. Headquarters was made up of the Orderly Room, Operations, Supply, Mess and the Diving Section. It was company policy that all sections, except the Diving Section would be exempt from "white sheets."

We were in morning formation. The Master Diver was an E7 and thus also PLT SGT for HQ Platoon. 1SGT Boyd calls out, HQs send me two men. By default it was expected that these would come from the Diving Section, non-exempt. PLT SGT Nugent felt this was the last straw. Instead of sending two divers he sent both the company clerks to report to 1SGT Boyd. Ole 1st SGT Boyd blew his top in fine fashion. It took about five minutes for him to regain his cool.

Response by RallyPoint News made Sep 12 at 2022 12:43 PM

RallyPoint News — Mon, 12 Sep 2022 12:43:52 -0400

Congratulations to PO3 Bobby Quisenberry, CPL Steven Statz, SFC Donald Prater, MSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member, and Cpl Gene Miller. You've all won a $100 Amazon gift card! An e-gift card will be sent to the email address associated with your RallyPoint account.

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Response by MAJ Anthony DeStefano made Sep 30 at 2022 4:51 PM

MAJ Anthony DeStefano — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 16:51:56 -0400

At Fort Dix in 1983, the assistant drill instructor saw a soldier sleeping in formation. He removed his Smoky hat and like Odd Job in James Bond films, he threw it like a frisbee at the soldier. It hit the soldier with force at the bridge of the nose, knocking him out cold!

Response by PO1 Terry Scott made Oct 24 at 2022 6:01 PM

PO1 Terry Scott — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 18:01:11 -0400

Stationed at USNRMC Balboa for Corps school, went to the hospital dining hall for breakfast prior to morning formation. This chow hall was huge! I swear you couldn't see from one end to the other and that's my story and I'm sticking to it. Got an omelet that needed ketchup. New bottle on the table that no one could open. Bottle in the left hand and smacked the bottom quite forcefully in an upward motion with my right. Didn't know my own strength. Cap and first two inches of ketchup gone. Gone! Nothing sailing through the air and no one bitching. Finished breakfast, ran to muster and fell in. Almost late a guy in my class showed up. His name for the record was Fruit. He had to fall in in the front row. Inspection starts and the officers and class leaders stop by him. Are you OK I hear. Yes, no problem. You need to go to sick call. But I'm fine. No! Your going to sick call. I was in tears. They thought he was rectally bleeding. Found the ketchup. Still haven't heard from the cap.

Response by Larry Mccoy made Oct 28 at 2022 7:27 PM

Larry Mccoy — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 19:27:20 -0400

I seen where the drill instutor was sleeping on the job and he got ripped off.

Response by SP5 Larry (Lawrence) Pitman made Nov 18 at 2022 3:46 AM

SP5 Larry (Lawrence) Pitman — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 03:46:07 -0500

November 1967 and it was week 3 of boot camp at Fort Ord. We were standing at attention on the assembly area in front of our barracks, C-3-3. Someone moved to adjust his rifle sling and the DI went berserk and yanked the guy out of formation. In the process, the guys steel pot came off and landed on the grass before the entire company. In his fury, the DI gave the helmet a swift kick. If I didn't know better, I would have guessed he had been the place kicker on his school football team. In horror, we watched the helmet head for the mess hall windows at warp 9. The angel assigned to look after raw recruits, was watching us that morning because the helmet "split the uprights"...that is to say, it hit, with a resounding clang, a 3 foot wide column of bricks, that separated 2 large glass panels.