My initial reaction is this is real.

1 - They are wearing a National Guard patch. As MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca stated, NG sets up recruiting booths at some of the strangest events. This was likely at a trade show/ community event, and the soldiers thought it'd be funny.

2 - Their M-4s have butt stock/ rack numbers on them from a label maker. I've never done this with my personal weapons, as I know how many I have, can count them immediately, and do not sign them out.

3 - Those appear to be M-68 optics on their M-4s. No one I know has bought an M-68 for their personal AR, and I would assume an airsoft player would represent something far more "high-speed" than an M-68.

4 - They are all showing signs of safe weapon handling, nobody is flagging anyone, and their fingers are not in the trigger well. Additionally, all the weapons appear to be clear, as there is no magazine inserted. Again, a faker/ poser would make these simple mistakes, giving them away.

5 - The SPC on the far right of the picture was likely the victim of a prank, and someone switched his unit patch to the right arm, and his flag to the left. His uniform is straight other than that, as are the uniforms of the other two. If it had not been a prank, someone would likely have fixed him.

6 - It is kind of funny. Sometimes we might need to lighten up. Would there be the same reaction if they didn't look jacked up? They are not being rude, insensitive (the opposite, actually) or degrading anyone.

2 Words - "Recruiting Opportunity"

In the NG you'd be surprised at the places we set up recruiting stations at. The beach in the summer, the mall, Old Home Day celebrations, you name it, any event, within reason, that a crowd will be gathering at. This doesn't surprise me in the least. Here's my surprised face :-|

Pushups. Now. Until I get tired.