When is it "okay" to correct soldiers for uniform regulation violations?

SPC Dale West — Sat, 28 May 2016 23:38:56 -0400

If I Didn't Think I Could Be Anymore Shocked About West Point Well I Just Was... I Checked An ID For Some Slob (For A Better Term) Of A "Supposed" Captain In His "Sort Of" Dress Blues. No Cover, Shirt Untucked, No Jacket, No Tie And Last But No Least No CAC Card.. Good Example Of A Shitbag That Can't Even Follow Uniform Regulations

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made May 28 at 2016 11:40 PM

SGM Matthew Quick — Sat, 28 May 2016 23:40:38 -0400

When said violations occur/are witnessed.

Response by SPC Dale West made May 28 at 2016 11:53 PM

SPC Dale West — Sat, 28 May 2016 23:53:08 -0400

The Enclosed Photo Is The Officer In Discussion

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2016 12:32 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 May 2016 00:32:13 -0400

When he or she is not IAW. Tact and discretion is always the rule of thumb.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2016 1:32 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 May 2016 01:32:33 -0400

When correcting anyone of such a senior rank, always remove your ID tag and license plate when you complete your asschewin.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2016 7:19 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 May 2016 19:19:27 -0400

The correct answer would be ANY TIME ANY PLACE is acceptable to make a uniform violation.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made May 29 at 2016 7:33 PM

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen — Sun, 29 May 2016 19:33:32 -0400

Anytime, even if offender outranks you. Probably need some discretion in this case, but if the individual is made aware of the infraction they will be grateful to you.

Response by Maj John Bell made May 29 at 2016 7:36 PM

Maj John Bell — Sun, 29 May 2016 19:36:03 -0400

Just out of curiosity, how did you identify his commissioning source?

Response by SMSgt Matthew Hoyer made May 29 at 2016 7:42 PM

SMSgt Matthew Hoyer — Sun, 29 May 2016 19:42:31 -0400

sounds like you poached someone who isn't in the military...or just had one hell of a night in Tijuana.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2016 8:09 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 May 2016 20:09:13 -0400

Utilize tact and general military authority to correct deficiencies.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made May 29 at 2016 10:37 PM

CSM Charles Hayden — Sun, 29 May 2016 22:37:59 -0400

SPC Dale West It is an up-hill battle. Sisyphus, (sp), experienced a similar struggle!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2016 6:09 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 May 2016 06:09:08 -0400

All uniform violations shoulder be corrected. Sometimes the correction just requires more tact is all.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2016 7:00 AM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 31 May 2016 07:00:55 -0400

On the spot! ASAP, regardless of rank or position. AR 670-1 is not a discretionary type of thing. If you feel you can't fix the issue and you're on base. Seek someone senior to you or call an MP for assistance if need be. But put the phone away and soldier up tactfully to correct the deficiency. But never let a service member fail even they should know better if you can interject or prevent it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2016 7:41 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 31 May 2016 07:41:16 -0400

As soon as you see the violation. I don't care what rank you are wearing...wrong is wrong and there is no other way around it.

Response by CW3 Susan Burkholder made May 31 at 2016 7:49 AM

CW3 Susan Burkholder — Tue, 31 May 2016 07:49:41 -0400

If he didn't have ID how did he get back on post? Curious what you mean - you checked ID? It seems you would have had training in how to handle some of these situations. Was this a graduation related event? It doesn't excuse the violation- but if by chance the "supposed" captain was drunk, coming back from some kind of formal evening event..... he won't remember any of it the next day....(including any corrections you made) You can find some comfort in the fact that many soldiers experience behavior induced career purgatory at these events; he probably was one......

Response by SPC John Louiso made May 31 at 2016 7:57 AM

SPC John Louiso — Tue, 31 May 2016 07:57:36 -0400

I love to hunt down phonies! You just can tell.

Response by SFC Jimmy Hernandez-Benitez made May 31 at 2016 8:10 AM

SFC Jimmy Hernandez-Benitez — Tue, 31 May 2016 08:10:45 -0400

It is your duty as a soldier to correct any misuse of equipment or the use of the uniform innapropiated. Keep doing the right thing always

Response by 1SG Raymond Swift made May 31 at 2016 8:27 AM

1SG Raymond Swift — Tue, 31 May 2016 08:27:49 -0400

You should Always correct when noticed!

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2016 8:39 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 31 May 2016 08:39:56 -0400

Immediately. All Soldiers regardless of rank are authorized via General Authority to make on the spot corrections. Do it with tact and respect (highly recommended that you ask to speak to a higher ranking person 'on the side' to avoid the perception of 'calling them out' even when you feel they deserve it). A good Soldier/leader will thank you. A sad sack will lambast you. In the end, you'll have known you did the right thing.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2016 9:05 AM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 31 May 2016 09:05:24 -0400

I would want someone to tell me as soon as they noticed I had something wrong going on. If I notice it on someone else I address it as soon as possible. Make sure you're correct and respectful and you won't have any issue.

Response by COL R. Bruce Chisholm made May 31 at 2016 9:10 AM

COL R. Bruce Chisholm — Tue, 31 May 2016 09:10:46 -0400

"You can always inform the brigade commander he has a booger on his nose. You don't have to tell him in front of the brigade formation."
Be respectful and tactful whenever doing an on the spot correction regardless of rank.

Response by 1SG Albert Harshman made May 31 at 2016 9:20 AM

1SG Albert Harshman — Tue, 31 May 2016 09:20:49 -0400

Anytime you see a uniform violation, correct it. Be tactful when dealing with superiors. I once corrected a Major wearing his hat inside the PX. I told him I needed his help in enforcing the uniform policy and that I could not correct an enlisted soldier if he saw an officer violating the same policy. The Major quickly corrected his problem and informed me that it was him that had written that specific Division policy and actually thanked me.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2016 9:23 AM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 31 May 2016 09:23:56 -0400

Ouch...are you sure that he was in the US Army?

Response by 1SG Albert Harshman made May 31 at 2016 9:29 AM

1SG Albert Harshman — Tue, 31 May 2016 09:29:10 -0400

Any time you spot a uniform violation. Use tact and diplomacy when dealing with superiors. I once corrected a Major wearing his hat in the PX by asking him to help me in correcting violations. I stated that I could not correct an enlisted soldier if he (the Major) was violating the same. He actually thanked me and informed me that he had written that particular Division policy and was glad that I was helping to enforce it. 24th ID, Ft Stewart.

Response by PFC Claude Cooper made May 31 at 2016 9:43 AM

PFC Claude Cooper — Tue, 31 May 2016 09:43:42 -0400

I never understand why soldiers find it necessary to correct other soldiers on Army regulations, i had no idea that the military is enlisting and commissioning kindergarteners, people are clearly aware of military regulations, and some choose not to abide by them. People are told not to drink and drive they still do, not to speed they still do, we has human beings know wrong from right and we choose which path to follow, you correcting anyone doesn't prove a point. I never read the army regulations reason being i was never in long enough , i follow by example which lead to me doing the rights and as a private the last thing i wanted was an NCO in my face about Army regs, but the none compliance start with leaders they're responsible for setting the tone on compliance and conformity of the modern military.

Response by LTC Roderic Hewlett made May 31 at 2016 9:50 AM

LTC Roderic Hewlett — Tue, 31 May 2016 09:50:41 -0400

The advice on correction and tact is right on. Remember, the uniform reflects on our service as well as the individual. If people see soldiers, airman, marines, and sailors in disrepair - they may draw the conclusion that the military is in disrepair. You are taking care of your military and helping restore the dignity of a fellow at arms - it is a valuable service. Do remember "an ounce of honey" since you probably do not know the circumstances that caused the individual to be improperly dressed - may have lost someone close, etc. If on the other hand the member becomes belligerent, then catch the name and unit and report it.

Response by PO3 James Carter made May 31 at 2016 9:52 AM

PO3 James Carter — Tue, 31 May 2016 09:52:16 -0400

Anytime, anywhere..and of course like everyone else is saying, if you see a superior officer or NCO THAT IS 'wrong' just use your military bearing and tact. When I was stationed in Korea, I was walking in the parking lot of the main PX area and a man was walking toward me, turned out to be a major but as I saluted him I noticed no insignia on his cap. I excused myself so to speak and stopped him and mentioned it to him, he took his cap off to look, I don't know whether he believed me or not but when he saw it missing, he said thank you soldier shook my and walked to his car, which was where I think he was going. I was always told even if you were out of uniform you could make spot corrections and the like. You just had to identify yourself..

Response by SPC Louis Gillespie made May 31 at 2016 9:53 AM

SPC Louis Gillespie — Tue, 31 May 2016 09:53:16 -0400

Listen that uniform is a work of art ! The soldier wearing that uniform knows very well that it MUST be MAINTAINED at ALL TIMES. Any infractions must be brought to the attention of the Soldier and must be acknowledged to the soldier bringing it to the attention and corrected at once. War time exceptions must be considered however when not in that condition there are NO EXCEPTIONS !!

Response by SFC Phillip Wiley made May 31 at 2016 9:54 AM

SFC Phillip Wiley — Tue, 31 May 2016 09:54:48 -0400

In accordance with Field Manual 7-22.7 ***The Noncommissioned Officer Guide *** general military authority exists whether you are on duty or NOT, in uniform or in CIVILIAN attire and REGARDLESS of rank, duty position, or location. One of the most effective administrative corrective measures is on-the-spot correction.

The correct time is when the deficiency is seen. (Think of this as training a puppy, you do not react to improper behavior days later but at time of incident) Be the point of the spear and direct but courteous.

Correct the Soldier's failed performance, never the person/ soldier; give one correction at a time then ensure that correction is understood before moving on to the next deficiency; when the correction is over, it is over (Don't continue to bring it up). If the correction is not taken care and they are seen later, then it is a new on-the-spot correction repeat and rinse until desired effect is acquired.

Response by CPT Chris Loomis made May 31 at 2016 10:07 AM

CPT Chris Loomis — Tue, 31 May 2016 10:07:39 -0400

On the spot and immediately in a professional and considerate manner.

Response by CPT Aaron Bengtson made May 31 at 2016 10:25 AM

CPT Aaron Bengtson — Tue, 31 May 2016 10:25:14 -0400

You always have the authority to correct any soldier regardless of rank on the uniform. But as many others have said, tact is necessary. For example, when I was stationed at Fort Benning, there was a standing order by then MG McMaster to correct anyone on or off post regardless of rank (to include the general himself) who wasn't wearing the uniform correctly. I watched a female major walk from her car into Starbucks without wearing her cover. I politely pulled her aside and corrected her on it. At first, she seemed to be okay with the correction, then got into a hissy fit about my correcting her, demanding to know my name, rank, and unit and why I thought as a mere captain that I could correct her on her uniform and accused me of harassing her. Nothing came of it, but even if you are extremely tactful about it, you can still come across some hard cases who don't like being corrected. Just maintain your military bearing when things like that happen. And always try to pull the soldier aside if there are others around so as not to embarrass them.

Response by CW3 Stephen Mills made May 31 at 2016 10:37 AM

CW3 Stephen Mills — Tue, 31 May 2016 10:37:58 -0400

I'm just guessing from your mention of a CAC card and checking his ID, unless you are on gate duty you thought you had a case of stolen valor.

The time to correct a uniform violation is at the time of the infraction, but.....

Without knowing the circumstances I would check AR 670-1 before you jumped all over someone for not wearing a cover, jacket in dress blues. A cover isn't worn for evening attire and the jacket can also be removed under certain circumstances, Shirt tales become untucked easy enough and some times the more appropriate correction is to let the individual know that their shirt tale is untucked.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2016 10:38 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 31 May 2016 10:38:56 -0400

As long as it is done tactfully, it is a duty we are entrusted to do. On the spot corrections are never wrong.

Response by SPC Robert Passini made May 31 at 2016 10:45 AM

SPC Robert Passini — Tue, 31 May 2016 10:45:23 -0400

I agree that the matter should be handled tactfully and respectfully. However, in my opinion, the most important thing to do before you go off correcting others is to make sure you have yourself squared away. I found that each NCO I worked for had different priorities about Army Regs. There were regs they liked and ones they didn't. I worked with a couple NCO's who were just livid if your boots weren't polished to a high shine and your uniform was not starched stiff. Yet they ran around with completely non-reg haircuts. I had one NCO that said your boots should be no more than brush shined and told us that starched unis were against regs. I would have had a hard time correcting anyone because I was always in a state of uncertainty as to whether I was regulation.

The thing that always got me hot under the collar were the soldiers who, upon hearing the base speaker system click on, would run for cover before Retreat began playing. The same ones who would dart inside if they saw an officer coming. They would expend 10 times the energy beating feet out of the area than it would take to just turn and salute. For my personal amusement, I was the asshole that would yell "Group, Attention" as they were preparing to unass the AO. I found that to be hilarious. I really enjoyed the Military Courtesy aspect.

Response by LTC Mark Beattie made May 31 at 2016 10:45 AM

LTC Mark Beattie — Tue, 31 May 2016 10:45:37 -0400

It's ALWAYS OK to correct uniform regulation violations.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2016 11:01 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 31 May 2016 11:01:01 -0400

"CAC Card" is redundant. Sorry, had to be said

Response by CPT Jack Durish made May 31 at 2016 11:13 AM

CPT Jack Durish — Tue, 31 May 2016 11:13:44 -0400

When I first reached Hawaii after my tour of duty in Vietnam, I was stationed at Tripler Army Medical Center as the Special Services Officer. One day I was tasked to brief a new group of interns on the locations of the various military golf courses available to them (well that and other recreational facilities). Keep in mind that I was a lieutenant at the time, a graduate of OCS, and they were all newly minted Captains. Imagine my surprise when I discovered that they knew nothing. NOTHING. Salute? March? Well, of course not. These were highly educated, though novice, practitioners of the medical arts. However, my first impression was of their uniforms. They had been "supplied" (at their own expense) with a variety of "pieces" including Class A, B, C, and D uniforms which they mixed and matched as the mood struck each individual. Yes, I could have provided a brief lesson on which piece went with each uniform, but I was a real smartass. Instead, I accepted their "superior" judgment and marched them forth on a tour of the hospital and environs. I didn't limit the tour to a post recreational facilities. No, I took them everywhere. Why should I hog all the entertainment for myself. There were many doctors, nurses, and corpsmen in need of entertainment and that was my job, wasn't it?

Response by SGT Shawn Schweinberg made May 31 at 2016 11:48 AM

SGT Shawn Schweinberg — Tue, 31 May 2016 11:48:33 -0400

If the uniform isn't to 670-1 standards then correct the service member. Always use tact and show respect. Doesn't matter what the rank is but your professionalism is a must.
When my company commander was wearing his head gear wrong I corrected it on the spot. No one told him because they feared telling the boss. But he looked silly and anyone walking up would spot the head gear malfunction. I corrected the issue out of respect for the commander. Didn't do it just to correct a company commander.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2016 12:13 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 31 May 2016 12:13:33 -0400

Alway. Spot corrections should take place immediately, professionally and respectfully. One cannot control how a peer or superior will respond however. As a Specialist I found when I was corrected it was degrading but I made them and remembered them. I now find myself looking over my uniform regardless of duty to ensure it falls within AR 670-1. Many do not take kindly to corrections that is their problem. If one ignores deficiencies one becomes part of the endless cycle. Never hesitate to make the correction and Charlie Mike.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made May 31 at 2016 12:32 PM

LTC Paul Labrador — Tue, 31 May 2016 12:32:59 -0400

On the spot. Just make sure you are using tact....even with lower ranking individuals....

Response by MAJ Michele Bretz made May 31 at 2016 1:54 PM

MAJ Michele Bretz — Tue, 31 May 2016 13:54:58 -0400

If you don't feel comfortable being tactful at the time, find out what unit the individual is with and provide your proof the the staff duty on charge or his/her commander!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2016 2:37 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 31 May 2016 14:37:51 -0400

Then he should have been corrected immediately, regardless of rank. We are all given General Military Authority to make on-the-spot corrections to anyone and everyone, regardless of rank, gender, sexuality, or creed based upon the infraction. If that person accepts the correction and fixes themselves, great. If not, I typically find the next-highest rank above them and point it out and explain that they would not listen to me. But as for WHEN it is okay (no quotations, because it is ALWAYS okay) to correct someone for a uniform reg violation, the answer is simple:
ALWAYS

Response by SGT William Ash made May 31 at 2016 3:49 PM

SGT William Ash — Tue, 31 May 2016 15:49:51 -0400

Like most everyone has said it is the responsibility of every soldier to correct deficiencies in others tactfully. Just remember when that captain tries to tell you that you don't have authority to correct him just refer to the page of AR670-1 where it is by order of the Secretary of the Army, you're acting under his authority.

Response by MAJ Scott Hamilton made May 31 at 2016 4:23 PM

MAJ Scott Hamilton — Tue, 31 May 2016 16:23:15 -0400

In accordance with AR 670-1, any soldier is authorized to make an on the spot correction of any soldier at any time a clear uniform violation is identified. That goes from E-1 to O-10. The only stipulation being that correction should always be done in a professional manner. If I had to guess, however, I would guess your violator was not, in fact, a serving soldier, and never had been.

Response by SFC Mamerto Perez made May 31 at 2016 5:17 PM

SFC Mamerto Perez — Tue, 31 May 2016 17:17:15 -0400

A uniform needs to be corrected regardless of rank in a polite way.
While still active, I went to visit a friend in that was in a Ranger Unit of a National Guard. I observe the Company Commander telling his men of being in uniform at all times, after he finish his speech, I salute him and notice that he had his brass wrong. Very politely, I ask him sir, not being disrespectful to you but your have brass the wrong way.

Response by SSG Brian MacBain made May 31 at 2016 6:04 PM

SSG Brian MacBain — Tue, 31 May 2016 18:04:16 -0400

SPC Dale West, always use tact and be respectful, both higher and lower ranks. My next question is why are you capitalizing first letter in every word?

Response by SGT Scott Moreland made May 31 at 2016 7:37 PM

SGT Scott Moreland — Tue, 31 May 2016 19:37:04 -0400

On the spot, with tact and respect for the rank being addressed. Keep in mind praise publicly, shame privately. If dealing with a drunken individual in uniform just call the MP's or local police and let them deal with it.

Response by SSG Jay Marchand made May 31 at 2016 8:59 PM

SSG Jay Marchand — Tue, 31 May 2016 20:59:45 -0400

It is proper to correct any soldier, anytime, anywhere. If they are out of uniform reff. AR 670-1. As a NCO, make that call on the spot.

Response by SPC Byron Skinner made May 31 at 2016 9:47 PM

SPC Byron Skinner — Tue, 31 May 2016 21:47:25 -0400

Sp4 I agree with PFC Cooper only I would put it as politically correct as he did. For get about it, no body like a snitch, after a thief a snitch is the worst thing a soldier could be… If the affair was at West Point I sure there was a Major or above with eyes in the area and she/he don't need and enlisted guys help in spotting an infraction of uniform…Logically there may have been a reason, such as he just had the shit kicked out of him and was a bit dazed. Again its none of your business.

Response by CPT Chris Newport made May 31 at 2016 9:57 PM

CPT Chris Newport — Tue, 31 May 2016 21:57:07 -0400

When you are of equal or superior rank. I see a lot of inappropriate wearing of the uniforms in public, especially at airports - especially concerning hats.

Response by MSG Dan Castaneda made May 31 at 2016 11:18 PM

MSG Dan Castaneda — Tue, 31 May 2016 23:18:53 -0400

I'm the worst at this. I never make corrections. I simply mind my own bussiness.

Response by CW4 Edmund Parowski made Jun 1 at 2016 1:37 AM

CW4 Edmund Parowski — Wed, 01 Jun 2016 01:37:45 -0400

Short answer: Anytime - especially in a garrison environment.

I am wondering what the situation was that you were called upon to be checking IDs. If you were putting this guy on a bus after a Dining-In, I would advise taking his information and reporting the incident to your superior. The captain in question was likely in no shape at that point to accept constructive criticism. If it was the middle of the day and he is trying to get access to the post, I would have denied him entry (no CAC) and told him that I was summoning the Sergeant of the Guard or Staff Duty Officer to resolve his issues. Improbable, but it would not be the first time that apparently drunk and stupid was used by an intruder to get past a guard post that didn't want to deal with the hassle.

Response by CW4 Ken E made Jun 1 at 2016 7:52 AM

CW4 Ken E — Wed, 01 Jun 2016 07:52:02 -0400

Anytime....but why is the first letter in every word of your post capitalized? I've seen this often with the younger generation, and I'm trying to figure out what the purpose is, since each word is not proper or a name.

Response by CPL John Debus made Jun 1 at 2016 8:35 AM

CPL John Debus — Wed, 01 Jun 2016 08:35:15 -0400

talk to the soldier ask him what is the regulation that governs the wear of the uniform, then be a leader and correct him/her tackfully , don't make an example out of him. now if that said soldier has an attitude then it time to be firm, and tell him/her to correct it immediately and take down his rnak name and unit, but if the soldier is being respectful have him correct the fault and go on with it. If it is a dress uniform again be a leader and inform that soldier and have him make the corrections.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 1 at 2016 9:44 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Jun 2016 09:44:28 -0400

Perhaps this cat was a faker?

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 1 at 2016 10:12 AM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Jun 2016 10:12:09 -0400

Regardless of rank you can correct violations of AR 670-1, just use tact in doing so with some service members, we all know the types.

Response by 1LT Tom Welch made Jun 1 at 2016 10:17 AM

1LT Tom Welch — Wed, 01 Jun 2016 10:17:58 -0400

talk to the guy, he knows better, treat him with the respect that goes with his rank, but dont pull any punches, offer to help him get his uniform corrected, this is one way to earn the respect of an officer, even a dirtbag. I personally dealt with this several times, the officer knows hes in the wrong, nothing wrong with pointing that out in a professional manner, now if I had been a CSM I would have been more blunt and less polite, but thats just me.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Jun 1 at 2016 10:25 AM

LTC Paul Labrador — Wed, 01 Jun 2016 10:25:28 -0400

Are you sure this dude is actually IN the military?

Response by SSG Michael Appel made Jun 1 at 2016 11:02 AM

SSG Michael Appel — Wed, 01 Jun 2016 11:02:56 -0400

The regulations do not have a "gray" area. You will never officially attain a rank that puts you above them. Others may be have less intestinal fortitude when it comes to correcting a deficiency on a higher enlisted or commissioned officer. That however does not make the correction out of line or wrong.

Response by SrA Paul Pfeil made Jun 1 at 2016 1:15 PM

SrA Paul Pfeil — Wed, 01 Jun 2016 13:15:37 -0400

I would say notification has been made. Good for you for calling him out right here rather then tactfully through your chain of command. My question is just how many regulations you just violated.

Response by COL Thomas F. made Jun 1 at 2016 1:44 PM

COL Thomas F. — Wed, 01 Jun 2016 13:44:30 -0400

Lesson learned, first always make sure the dirtbag is in the service. Back in the mid-90's when I was a young 2LT, my fellow 2LT (former Navy guy) saw some joker at a bar wearing Navy whites. My buddy tells me his shoulder boards are on backwards and some other Navy uniform items (I still don't know what) were all jacked up. So he goes over in a very military manner (while not on duty), and proceeds to square him away. I just sat back and watch and wondered where this was going to go as my buddy had a few too many and he was pretty unpredictable when that way. The "officer" says thanks, shakes my buddy's hand and proceeds to walk out onto the dance floor where is does his best lap dance routine on a young lady on a chair. Yep, turns out Maverick was a stripper at a party. That was quite the night.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 1 at 2016 4:07 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Jun 2016 16:07:37 -0400

So rather than make the correction face to face, you felt the better course of action was to post your outrage to rally point along with a photo? In my opinion, that is just as unprofessional, if not more so, than the captain who is out of regs. As a young Soldier, I was taught to make corrections immediately, preferably one on one--did you miss that block of instruction? Social media shaming is immature, lazy, and shows a lack of personal courage. Grow up and behave like a Soldier.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 1 at 2016 10:41 PM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Jun 2016 22:41:49 -0400

Every time. It's an attention to detail and honor to the uniform. The question is how you would go about corrections. Harsh or just a hey man this is what's wrong and why

Response by SPC Jonathan Packard made Jun 2 at 2016 10:18 AM

SPC Jonathan Packard — Thu, 02 Jun 2016 10:18:59 -0400

Anytime a soldier is out of uniform it is proper. And it doesn't matter what the rank is. If you see it you say something. Remember every soldier has a responsibility to show respect for the uniform.

Response by SPC Amanda Clark made Jun 2 at 2016 3:01 PM

SPC Amanda Clark — Thu, 02 Jun 2016 15:01:03 -0400

On the spot.

Response by 1SG Billye Jackson made Jun 2 at 2016 6:22 PM

1SG Billye Jackson — Thu, 02 Jun 2016 18:22:02 -0400

At ANY TIME. I Cant believe someone didn't Jerk a Not in her Butt. I'm retired and Live in Ft Campbell AO, Have and will Continue to do so.

Response by CSM Thomas McGarry made Jun 2 at 2016 6:37 PM

CSM Thomas McGarry — Thu, 02 Jun 2016 18:37:07 -0400

As stated by others, when such violations are witnessed and should be done by whomever regardless of rank. On the occasions when someone corrected my uniform I would thank them and drive on

Response by CPL Wilfred Roberge made Jun 2 at 2016 11:05 PM

CPL Wilfred Roberge — Thu, 02 Jun 2016 23:05:10 -0400

Do it with class and tact and then if they give you flack ask them why are they looking at you "like your name is Willie Foo Foo and you have egg on your face" ask them "why are you looking at me like my name is Willie Foo Foo and I have egg on my face?" I just helped you if anyone should be looking at you like they have egg on thier face it should be you for being all jacked up!!!!!
i used to used that speech on ROTC Cadets on my college campus all of the time because I would catch them out of uniform, with one summer boot one winter boot, no cover, no cover so they thought it was okay to wear a Red Sox hat (I could keep the lst going) and then they try to pull rank on me trying to tell me they don't need to listen to me be cause they outranked me due to paygrade.... I said you are nothing more than a Private in my eyes and i am trying to help you, you should be greatful not an arrogant prick because you need to listen to your experienced soldiers and NCO's or you wil be lost once you get commissioned!!!!
Fast forward to last month's drill, we are in Formation our CSM is giving us a pep-talk and he see's a fat soldier from another unit walking 300 feet across the parking lot w/o cover, CSM starts yelling at the guy the guy yellls back and the CSM runs at the guy who was a Major and they exchange words.... CLASSIC!!!!!

Response by SGT Darryl Dykes made Jun 3 at 2016 3:07 AM

SGT Darryl Dykes — Fri, 03 Jun 2016 03:07:12 -0400

As a E-4 you should not correct a officer yourself.You should notifie you NCOIC and let him/her handle the situation. As for enlisted of same or lower rank you must correct them immediately; as for senior ranking NCO's you should respectfully say Sergent have you noticed that your uniform could use some attention.

Response by SGT Stanley Bass made Jun 3 at 2016 10:00 AM

SGT Stanley Bass — Fri, 03 Jun 2016 10:00:04 -0400

After reeding some of the comments. A correction should be made on the spot. what if there are a lot of Senior officers/NCO's there. You got two choices of doing it. Tell them right there, or ask them to step aside awy from the crowd and point it otu. so that they may step to another room and correct it if possible.

Response by SSG Richard Reilly made Jun 3 at 2016 10:25 AM

SSG Richard Reilly — Fri, 03 Jun 2016 10:25:14 -0400

It is beyond ok it is your duty as a Soldier. However if they out rank you think about tact.

Response by CW4 William (David) Craig made Jun 4 at 2016 9:05 AM

CW4 William (David) Craig — Sat, 04 Jun 2016 09:05:25 -0400

I would agree that we always want our brothers in arms to look their best and conform to the appropriate regulations. So, if done right, it doesn't offend anyone. I can remember a major once stopping me and made a comment that something wasn't right with my uniform. The way it was done didn't embarrass me nor offend me since I knew he was helping me as a young warrant officer. Hope this helps.

Response by SGT Tim Fridley made Jun 8 at 2016 12:10 AM

SGT Tim Fridley — Wed, 08 Jun 2016 00:10:41 -0400

On the spot corrections are OK anytime and anywhere to anyone I still correct soldiers and I have been retired for 12 years

Response by SFC David Pratt made Jun 29 at 2016 3:07 AM

SFC David Pratt — Wed, 29 Jun 2016 03:07:36 -0400

Your obligated to make the correction; keep in mind there is a difference between command and general military authority. Meaning, address the issue but don't crush their nuts through physical exercise. If you are anxious to make corrections, talked a look at your command board and you will see that the standard bearers are setting a shitty example: nco's and officers.

Response by PO3 James Carter made Sep 4 at 2016 12:29 AM

PO3 James Carter — Sun, 04 Sep 2016 00:29:02 -0400

it's supposed to be 'okay' all the time...I did it a few times when I was in the military... I would take out my ID card to identify myself if I was off duty and tell the 'offender' what was wrong and how to go about fixing it.....I corrected a Colonel once and got a challenge coin out of it:)

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2017 1:43 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 12 Jul 2017 13:43:27 -0400

Why this picture? It's not a West Point graduation. Are there obvious uniform problems in the picture?

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Jul 12 at 2017 2:58 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Wed, 12 Jul 2017 14:58:12 -0400

YGBSM. Uniform violations should be mentioned when spotted and corrected. This captain might have been an impersonator or worse. I'm guessing you collected his unit of assignment information so you could talk with his XO or CO. Guy shouldn't disgrace the officer corps and US Army that way and get away with it!

Response by MAJ Albert McCaig made Oct 10 at 2017 9:33 AM

MAJ Albert McCaig — Tue, 10 Oct 2017 09:33:08 -0400

You haven't lived until as a captain you have to tell a two star general about a uniform defect. You darn sure do it discreetly. A good officer will appreciate it regardless of your rank if you do it discreetly.

Response by PFC Robert Rice made Oct 10 at 2017 1:33 PM

PFC Robert Rice — Tue, 10 Oct 2017 13:33:19 -0400

I believe anytime a soldier puts on the uniform that he or she should do so with the upmost pride. If they are found to be out of uniform or anything is out of place they are subject to correction. No questions asked!

Response by MSgt John McGowan made Oct 11 at 2017 9:49 AM

MSgt John McGowan — Wed, 11 Oct 2017 09:49:11 -0400

Yes you should correct them. A simple haircut is a uniform voliation. I had to direct a young Airman to get one and report back the next morning. He went to legal but didn’t get far. He got the haircut.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 19 at 2018 12:12 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 19 Mar 2018 00:12:32 -0400

The correct answer to this question is "always."

Response by SSG Jlmthec Norman made Mar 19 at 2018 11:31 AM

SSG Jlmthec Norman — Mon, 19 Mar 2018 11:31:45 -0400

Any time it is needed and can be done discreetly. I spent my career with Doctors and Nurses, most of whom were very appreciative of a "little help" with the uniform from even Junior NCO.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 11 at 2018 1:08 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 11 Jul 2018 13:08:54 -0400

Anytime just be tactful about it