A Fish Story? Paratrooper Who Completed Final Jump With Pet Fish Receives UCMJ

2015-04-28T22:08:59-04:00

Army SPC Matthew Tattersall, the Paratrooper who gained fame just last week for celebrating his final training jump by bringing his pet fish along with him and filming the experience on a Go-Pro camera, has now faced the wrath of the UCMJ for his stunt.

More punishment for paratrooper who jumped with fish

The paratrooper who jumped with his pet fish has received an Article 15 and will serve 12 days of extra duty.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Apr 28 at 2015 10:35 PM

2015-04-28T22:35:30-04:00

I want to go on a tirade. I really do. Just because of the shear stupidity of it, but words are failing me.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Apr 28 at 2015 11:03 PM

2015-04-28T23:03:56-04:00

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member, I think it's a total load! I jumped with a camera off and on much of the time I was on jump status, to include many of the jumps I made with SFTG at Fort Bragg! Granted it was only an Instamatic, and it was small and inexpensive, but we didn't have GoPros in the early seventies!
Social media was his problem. He should have waited until he left the service before going public!
Here's a photo I took while under canopy when jumping with the 20th SFG(A) at DZ Castellanos, Camp Blanding, FL on 10OCT70. We jumped a Lockheed C-141 Starlifter, taking off from NAS Jacksonville.

SPC Margaret Higgins, saw your post about your photographer's coffee cup. I took this photo, among others, while jumping!

Response by SPC Larry Boutwell made Apr 28 at 2015 11:13 PM

2015-04-28T23:13:12-04:00

Dont see what the big deal is..... Any one get hurt? Did they say not to bring a fish? Was it against the rules?..maybe he should have put a pt belt on that fish.... I bet

Response by SPC Larry Boutwell made Apr 28 at 2015 11:13 PM

2015-04-28T23:13:21-04:00

Command would approved the fish if it had pt belt....lol

Response by SPC Todd Hanson made Apr 28 at 2015 11:34 PM

2015-04-28T23:34:22-04:00

He could have fought it but he's getting out and didnt care.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Apr 28 at 2015 11:39 PM

2015-04-28T23:39:42-04:00

MAJ Paul Hoiland, There is only one appropriate comment ! "AIRBORNE"

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Apr 29 at 2015 12:15 AM

2015-04-29T00:15:02-04:00

My heart goes out to the parents of the fish in question. Where was the airborne physical? I want to see the jump record of said fish. Did the fish receive a "GO" on performing a PLF prior to the jump? Where is the secondary water containment device should the primary fail? I demand justice. Has the ACLU and the SPCA filed a lawsuit yet?

Response by COL Ted Mc made Apr 29 at 2015 12:47 AM

2015-04-29T00:47:09-04:00

I wonder if the foreign liaison officer who we chucked out of our aircraft while doing a training jump is going to be forced to give back his jump wings.

[PS - Yes we did make him wear a parachute "Everyone has to wear one LT. It's a safety rule."]

Response by SSG Arnie Jones made Apr 29 at 2015 12:52 AM

2015-04-29T00:52:39-04:00

From the Mechanized, Non-Airborne Infantryman... I am happy that no American Flags were burned in protest on the local college campus. Go Airborne! Can the Fish now apply for VA Benefits for PTSD?

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Apr 29 at 2015 1:00 AM

2015-04-29T01:00:48-04:00

Not having the same level of exp many of you have, from my inexperienced perspective, this seems like a waste of time and tax payer money to prosecute. I know we need to maintain discipline but if every infraction is persecuted then that's all the military is going to be doing. Is it really that big deal?

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2015 1:28 AM

2015-04-29T01:28:23-04:00

Doing anything that would risk injury, death, or cause a safety violation is strictly prohibited while conducting airborne operations. He broke the rules, was dumb (had the balls) enough to record and post it on social media, now he pays the price. Looks like he got a company grade Article 15 and the commander was extremely lenient on him, which in my opinion he should have been.

The kid is a paratrooper and made a great last jump he will remember for the rest of his life. I would have definitely recommended light punishment if I was his CSM and probably told the kid that what he did was pretty cool.

Airborne!

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Apr 29 at 2015 1:42 AM

2015-04-29T01:42:10-04:00

"No brass, no ammo, no goldfish SGT Airborne!!!"

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Apr 29 at 2015 3:27 AM

2015-04-29T03:27:37-04:00

They had to do it because they already busted a student from SCUBA school last week....

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2015 7:58 AM

2015-04-29T07:58:56-04:00

Uhm, doesn't leadership have bigger fish to fry? Or were they just bored? And give the fish his damn jump wings already!

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made Apr 29 at 2015 11:49 AM

2015-04-29T11:49:39-04:00

I'm thinking the wing pinning would probably kill the fish.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Apr 29 at 2015 12:07 PM

2015-04-29T12:07:49-04:00

Captain Sobel approves of this leadership decision.

Response by PO1 Seth Crotser made Apr 29 at 2015 12:38 PM

2015-04-29T12:38:14-04:00

Probably the dumbest thing to punish. There are a lot of WTF moments that the military can have and I think this is one of them.

Response by SGT Jeremiah B. made Apr 29 at 2015 12:49 PM

2015-04-29T12:49:56-04:00

I understand the safety concerns and why his command may have felt that UCMJ was appropriate. However, I have to say - a 1,000 word essay and a very minimal company grade AR15 right before ETSing? Totally worth that epic selfie. His only mistake was not waiting a couple of weeks to post it.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2015 1:06 PM

2015-04-29T13:06:46-04:00

Was a composite risk management sheet filled out to itemize jumping with a fish?

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2015 6:50 PM

2015-04-29T18:50:52-04:00

Sorry, doesn't pass the smell test for this old NCO. Yep, I get it. Voluntarily leaving serviceable aircraft while still in flight is a dangerous activity that requires ones complete and undivided attention. Should this young man suffer some repercussion? Absolutely. But rising to the level of NJP is a bit far IMNSHO. I'm fairly certain his sergeant or LT could have found a way to keep it in house with some remedial training exercises. They just need to be creative so the word gets out. Just my $.02 worth.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2015 7:10 PM

2015-04-29T19:10:39-04:00

What's wrong with that? I jump out the aircraft with my fish all the time. But I wouldn't jump out with my bowling ball or a bag of cement, LOL

Response by SFC Walter Mack made Apr 29 at 2015 7:19 PM

2015-04-29T19:19:16-04:00

The hard line approach that I see some taking on this topic is a great reason for a good Soldier to leave the Army. Keep running them off by being unreasonable. I have done far worse as a young Private, but my leadership was wise enough to educate me without UCMJ.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2015 8:29 PM

2015-04-29T20:29:09-04:00

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2015 8:31 PM

2015-04-29T20:31:33-04:00

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2015 9:34 PM

2015-04-29T21:34:18-04:00

I'll admit the first time reading this story brought a smile to my face. While I don't condone safety violations in any form or fashion, it's also good to see such a high level of esprit de corps in a young troop. I think his leadership chose the right course of action. He should be punished for the safety violations, but minimally. Plenty of troops have done dumber things and gone on to be successful.

If I were him I'd have the picture framed.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2015 11:09 PM

2015-04-29T23:09:02-04:00

I don't even know what to say to this

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2015 12:06 AM

2015-04-30T00:06:42-04:00

I about fell out of my chair when I seen the pictures online. Seems like a great paratrooper with a sense of humor! Also took his Company Grade like a champ. Hopefully he gets some good recognition also, because that's pretty good stuff in my book.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Apr 30 at 2015 12:10 AM

2015-04-30T00:10:29-04:00

Maybe he should have waited to release the photo after he left the Army.

Response by SGT Chip Hutchings made Apr 30 at 2015 12:19 AM

2015-04-30T00:19:35-04:00

Let's see if I remember the phrase we used so often. "If your not cheating your not trying, and if you get caught your not trying hard enough". I am sure this young trooper would not do anything to risk the safety of his fellow paratroopers. Considering that the photo was in daylight tells that it was probably a Hollywood jump with little risk. Hope he gets it blown up into a huge picture and hangs it on his wall for all to see. All the way Airborne!

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Apr 30 at 2015 1:33 AM

2015-04-30T01:33:32-04:00

Where is the Soldier's doggone eye pro?

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2015 1:03 PM

2015-04-30T13:03:40-04:00

I think it was funny and agree with a very light punishment. I the the SPC is a funny dude and his command got it right.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2015 1:27 PM

2015-04-30T13:27:31-04:00

I believe he knew that he could receive punishment for his actions and has accepted it like a man. He created a very awesome memory of his last jump in uniform, no one was harmed, not even the fish! I know that doesn't make it right but it appeared he took what precautions he could and was able to take the discipline he expected to receive. I personally think an Art 15 may be excessive, and not sure what it really had done other than the extra duty since he is separating. You make your bed, just be ready to sleep in it. I wish him good luck in his future!

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Apr 30 at 2015 1:28 PM

2015-04-30T13:28:15-04:00

Talk about a command with pet peeves!

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2015 4:50 PM

2015-04-30T16:50:21-04:00

I think he was punished more for the photo ending up all over social media than the actual safety violation. What he did was dangerous but not something that nearly every paratrooper has done at least once since the days of cheap disposable film cameras. I think 12 days extra duty is a fair, light punishment because he got caught.

Response by SGT Chris Reese made Apr 30 at 2015 7:06 PM

2015-04-30T19:06:46-04:00

This is Great!!!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2015 7:31 PM

2015-04-30T19:31:34-04:00

He earned it. What he did was dangerous and although it ended well it is hard to watch out for other jumpers holding a fish and mugging for the camera. They let him off easy.

He should be shaking chutes for Airborne School, FT Benning for 3 months.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2015 7:41 PM

2015-04-30T19:41:17-04:00

I'm sure he's kicking himself for not waiting until after he was out to post the video. At the same time, though, I'm sure that while doing his extra duty only two words come to his mind: "Worth it."

Response by PO2 David Hagwood made Apr 30 at 2015 10:31 PM

2015-04-30T22:31:41-04:00

I'm sure people have done more dangerous things while jumping. I'm pretty sure this is at the bottom of the list in dangerous. I guess someone always feels like a message needs to be sent. I guess in this case the message is don't bring your pet fish when you jump.

Response by PO3 John Jeter made Apr 30 at 2015 11:14 PM

2015-04-30T23:14:37-04:00

I have to approve of this event without approving the act of breaking the safety rules. I'm not informed enough about parachuting to know if this was actually dangerous or not. However, the high spirit, the inventiveness, and the total positive attitude about the consequences tells me they are losing a good troop. This will be one of those stories that will be around forever......."Do y'all remember that crazy so and so that jumped with his pet fish?" followed by chuckles and head shakes........ I'm willing to bet that directly after he received his article 15 and left the room there were laughs and chuckles all around. Discipline was upheld, the forms obeyed, and a new inspiration was created. It will take some real work to equal or surpass this one........

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 1 at 2015 2:07 AM

2015-05-01T02:07:47-04:00

May be I am terrible but really, was it really that bad. I have seen guys jump with their spurs (far more dangerous).
I saw guys riding donkeys in Iraq. I would be annoyed more than anything. You can jump a water bottle. You can "Go Pro" a jump. So what if the guy had a fish. What if he got hungry while looking for his Airborne items". Seriously that is his Airborne Buddy. Does any one know the history of mascots the accompanied Paratroopers on Airborne Operations?

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 1 at 2015 2:30 AM

2015-05-01T02:30:07-04:00

Someone invite SPC Matthew Tattersall to rally point.

Response by CH (MAJ) William Beaver made May 1 at 2015 8:09 AM

2015-05-01T08:09:40-04:00

Seemed like a stunt Gomer Pyle would have pulled. You know , just for Goober.

Response by MAJ Craig Clark made May 1 at 2015 8:24 AM

2015-05-01T08:24:07-04:00

I commanded in the 82nd and cannot believe they are giving UCMJ action over jumping a fish in a water bottle. Back in the 90's it would have been nothing more than a laugh and something to talk about around the BN AO. Way too serious and I'm not sure how it was a safety issue other than when he took the bottle out to snap the photo during the ride down and that is stretching it. Paratroopers have been snapping pictures for years and although it is a "safety violation" it never warrants UCMJ. Think there is more to the story and this might have been the icing on the cake for SPC Tattersall. Could also be he was told specifically not to do it and ignored the directive too.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made May 1 at 2015 8:31 AM

2015-05-01T08:31:26-04:00

I think the story just gave him additional attention...which is all he wanted in the first place. My guess...and it is only a guess...SPC Tattersall's chain of command will not be deeply sadden to see him go?

The only think I actually cared one way or the other about in the whole story was that I disagreed with SPC Tattersall, in that I do not think the fish needed to be punished.

Response by SPC David S. made May 1 at 2015 12:04 PM

2015-05-01T12:04:32-04:00

Army being Army in dishing it out - You break rules you get in trouble. However Hollywood, day, and no canteen; how else is Willy going to earn his Airborne Wings? Also how is this any more dangerous than jumping with a service dog?

Response by Cpl Peter Martuneac made May 1 at 2015 12:34 PM

2015-05-01T12:34:06-04:00

Honestly that kind of Article 15 would be more like a badge of honor. Last jump, brought a fish, and became famous.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made May 1 at 2015 6:24 PM

2015-05-01T18:24:48-04:00

Let's see ... 12 days worth of extra duty versus a story that will be told by paratroopers for centuries ... no question, I wish I'd have done it! AIRBORNE, SPC Tatersall!

Speaking of risky behavior, I got my Silver Wings in 1976. If they caught you with a beret on your person before your 5th landing, you were DOOMED ... dogged until you dropped out, and I wasn't at Benning ... I was at an SF-run school. But yes, I had my beret on every drop and put in on when I finished the 5th one.

On my 8th jump, I took a camera and was happily filming everything in sight. It was also my first jump with a -1C (steerable chute.) If you aren't paying attention, you are actually accelerating towards the ground. I was knocked unconscious, drug halfway across the DZ, broke my glasses and my camera.

The sky, even more than the sea, is terribly unforgiving of even the slightest mistake. Words to live by. But if I didn't want to live on the edge, I would have remained a civilian.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made May 2 at 2015 12:33 AM

2015-05-02T00:33:17-04:00

We HAVE to get this guy on RallyPoint.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 2 at 2015 3:55 AM

2015-05-02T03:55:51-04:00

Yes, this was not a bright decision. Regardless of the timing around the recent deaths while using the T-11 parachute. But did I crack a smile for this kid? Yes, I think we all did. But, we have rules in place, especially for airborne operations. I know we bend rules, but when Soldiers put it out there on social media (for the entire world to see), then I feel that the chain of command is forced to take action. As a jumpmaster myself, I'm just wondering how the jumpmaster performing the JMPI missed a fish in a water bottle. The bottle must have been in his cargo pocket. Does anyone know what happened to that Jumpmaster Team? They can potentially be de-certified as jumpmasters for this.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 3 at 2015 3:19 PM

2015-05-03T15:19:51-04:00

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-2850142/Incredible-video-reveals-moment-thrillseeker-freefalls-plane-WITHOUT-parachute.html

Response by SGT Alfred Cox made May 3 at 2015 4:08 PM

2015-05-03T16:08:08-04:00

no comment.

Response by SGT Alfred Cox made May 3 at 2015 4:08 PM

2015-05-03T16:08:33-04:00

no comment

Response by SSG Leonard Johnson made May 3 at 2015 4:26 PM

2015-05-03T16:26:39-04:00

Hahahaha I've always said if I got promoted as many times as I got demoted I would be Sergeant Major of the universe. however, this article 15 I would have to say would be worth it ;) ..... this would be definitely one for the memory books :-) this kid needed to be in the army back in the days with me. we would have had a blast and our first sergeant and Commander would have then banging their heads against their desk and their feet against our butts...hahahaha

Response by SSG Brian Kresge made May 3 at 2015 5:05 PM

2015-05-03T17:05:43-04:00

I'm sure it was the kind of punishment meted out by his company commander and 1SG with a shake of the head and a smirk. As long as his fish doesn't starve while he's on ED, no worries.

Digital photography still hadn't hit its stride in the early/mid-1990s when I was an active duty paratrooper. I can only imagine the kinds of shenanigans we'd have caught on camera, because I (fondly) remember the shenanigans we didn't capture on camera.

Airborne!

Response by SGT Leon Brimm made May 3 at 2015 6:20 PM

2015-05-03T18:20:03-04:00

Good for him, that's hilarious! But yeah he deserves it..

Response by SSG Scott Burk made May 3 at 2015 10:13 PM

2015-05-03T22:13:28-04:00

Maybe if he waited until his ETS to post the clip he wouldn't be in trouble.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 3 at 2015 10:25 PM

2015-05-03T22:25:39-04:00

Having a sense of humor in the military is more dangerous to your career than jumping out of an airplane with a fish these days.

Also, having a social media account in the military is more dangerous to your career than jumping out of an airplane with a fish.

Response by SGT John Turner made May 4 at 2015 12:40 AM

2015-05-04T00:40:08-04:00

How did they stop laughing long enough to give and Article 15??

Response by SSG Greg Rivera made May 4 at 2015 1:06 AM

2015-05-04T01:06:55-04:00

Maybe it was the heavily tattooed gills on the fish

Response by SSG Greg Rivera made May 4 at 2015 1:10 AM

2015-05-04T01:10:12-04:00

Maybe it was the heavily tattooed gills on the fish

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made May 6 at 2015 3:29 PM

2015-05-06T15:29:59-04:00

Sounds like he went fishing and caught a whopper.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2015 11:54 AM

2015-05-08T11:54:25-04:00

Well, I'm not airborne so I don't know the risk of having a water bottle with a fish in it on a jump. As of right now I would say there were people doing things that were a hell of a lot more stupid.
The army might want to rethink its priorities

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2016 2:07 PM

2016-02-03T14:07:21-05:00

If they want to punish somebody it has to be whoever did JMPI, a fish and a gopro, How this two items made it to the plane? It might wasn't the smartest and safe way to jump but also it wasn't the best JMPI, that's why our paratroopers are getting hurt while training and they keep blame the equipment and not the person inspecting the equipment.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 5 at 2017 4:11 PM

2017-07-05T16:11:00-04:00

back in the 80's I knew a guy, that when he was in 82nd, he jumped with his Guinea Pig.
he tied it to a Parachute from a 4.2 inch Flare Round.... he would throw it out the door first and jump after it.

Response by MSG Johnathan Mathes made Jul 6 at 2017 12:02 AM

2017-07-06T00:02:29-04:00

Love the humor... lol

Response by SGT James Belcher made Jul 6 at 2017 9:26 AM

2017-07-06T09:26:30-04:00

I am so glad technology was not around when I was coming up...I would have never got past PFC. An article 15 for this is just over kill, especially if by all accounts he is a good troop and about to ETS. I would have done it anyway knowing I was going to get a company grade though...as I sure he would still do it after this.

Response by SGT Jim Arnold made Jul 6 at 2017 12:39 PM

2017-07-06T12:39:23-04:00

me being an unapologetic leg, I don't get what he did that was wrong? isn't those cameras hands free devices? I sure the fish didn't complain

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 6 at 2017 1:08 PM

2017-07-06T13:08:21-04:00

Black Hats let him through? Well, hes an E4...they got all kindsa hiding places.
Even still though, what about the Jump Master? He didn't see him?
Also, I know he coulda got someone killed with an entanglement, but the odds of that seemed pretty low...why didn't they just scuff the shit out of him? So quick to paperwork a guy, these days.

Response by PFC Sheila Harrison made Jul 8 at 2017 3:05 PM

2017-07-08T15:05:28-04:00

Yeah, but they won't lock berghdal? Bullshit

Response by SSG William Jones made Jul 13 at 2017 8:46 PM

2017-07-13T20:46:11-04:00

Dang!!! Y'all MUST have landed in the Guiness Book of Records for this thread!!! This series of posts should have its own unique MOS identifier cause a veritable career has been created from the "flying fish" story. Per the McDonald's commercial... "I'm lovin' it"!!!

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Jul 14 at 2017 1:41 AM

2017-07-14T01:41:04-04:00

Interesting MAJ Private RallyPoint Member since decades ago an unnamed classmate of mine jumped with a hamster in his BDU pocket for all five jumps so the hamster would be secretly eligible for jump wings.
FYI SSG William Jones

Response by SGT Robert George made Jul 14 at 2017 2:54 AM

2017-07-14T02:54:03-04:00

They probably wanted to meet the fine trooper up close !!! LOL !!!

Response by Sgt Martin Querin made Jul 14 at 2017 11:45 AM

2017-07-14T11:45:35-04:00

The punishment wasn't for doing it, it was for being dumb enough to post it. Take your picture, show it to your brothers in arms, or your family and friends when you get home. Other than that I think sharing a defining moment in your military career with your pet...maybe this kids only friend, is tight. Hooah soldier from this former Marine. Just keep your craziness on the DL you knucklehead.

Response by CSM Richard StCyr made Jul 14 at 2017 12:34 PM

2017-07-14T12:34:27-04:00

How'd that get past pre jump inspection.....In a training environment.
I'm so thankful we didn't have internet or go-pros in my youth.

Response by SPC Robert Coventry made Nov 2 at 2017 12:48 AM

2017-11-02T00:48:12-04:00

I think if the fish was cool with the tandem jump then it is OK. Gold fish have a memory span of 15 seconds so he doesn't even remember, terrible witness during the investigation

Response by SP5 Billy Anderson made Jul 7 at 2018 11:02 PM

2018-07-07T23:02:16-04:00

HOOOAH

Response by CPL Ricardo Young made Jul 8 at 2018 8:16 AM

2018-07-08T08:16:32-04:00

What sounds funny to me is why is the Army sending him to jump school shortly before ETS ??? Wouldn’t that slot only be given to someone with few years of active service left??? Why spend the money on a guy that’s about to walk?? That’s the only part that smells fishy to me

Response by MSG Danny Mathers made Jul 8 at 2018 11:09 AM

2018-07-08T11:09:25-04:00

You got to be kidding me me! Politicaly incorrect, harmful to feed fish? The army has went from army strong to army weak since BHO was CINC!

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 8 at 2018 11:40 AM

2018-07-08T11:40:47-04:00

Never let it be said that Brass has a sense of humour!!!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 8 at 2018 1:10 PM

2018-07-08T13:10:19-04:00

Response by MSgt Oliver Wright made Jul 8 at 2018 5:13 PM

2018-07-08T17:13:54-04:00

It’s the generation. At least he is Airborne and not antifa..

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 8 at 2018 7:30 PM

2018-07-08T19:30:36-04:00

Fucking legend... I’m of the belief that if it’s bad ass enough we should just let it go. That fish has more jumps than me though

Response by SSG David Stafne made Jul 9 at 2018 12:38 AM

2018-07-09T00:38:30-04:00

Up until the mid-80’s NCO’s and CO’s could make corrective action for minor errors without UCMJ; then the Lawyers got involved.

Response by CSM David Draughn made Jul 9 at 2018 4:41 AM

2018-07-09T04:41:33-04:00

This soldier’s stunt was a dangerous ill-disciplined act. He deserved the punishment he received. Was this a Summarized, Company or Field Grade Article 15?

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Jul 9 at 2018 9:24 AM

2018-07-09T09:24:08-04:00

Way too PC, silly maybe even dumb- but not earth shattering. Who ever took the photo was stupid too, At 800 AGL, not much time to play around.

Response by SSG Allen Probus made Jul 9 at 2018 11:34 AM

2018-07-09T11:34:48-04:00

Wow. Nice job troop

Response by 1SG James Taylor made Jul 9 at 2018 12:59 PM

2018-07-09T12:59:13-04:00

Not thinking on his part, could have been worst

Response by PO2 Scott Surbrook made Jul 9 at 2018 2:18 PM

2018-07-09T14:18:21-04:00

This is epic and priceless! Totally worth it...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 9 at 2018 2:22 PM

2018-07-09T14:22:06-04:00

So I guess we are to feel sorry for him for blatant disregard of his training and discipline standards. After he knows everything about everything after 5 jumps.

Response by Sgt Daniel J. Daly made Jul 9 at 2018 5:52 PM

2018-07-09T17:52:14-04:00

I think a repermand by his Platoon Sergeant would have been all that was necessary.

Response by Sgt Daniel J. Daly made Jul 9 at 2018 5:54 PM

2018-07-09T17:54:14-04:00

I think a repermand by his Platoon Sergeant would have been all that was necessary

Response by GySgt Bill Rice made Jul 9 at 2018 6:49 PM

2018-07-09T18:49:59-04:00

Some of the things we worry about just amaze me

Response by Capt David Bays made Jul 9 at 2018 6:50 PM

2018-07-09T18:50:50-04:00

This story makes me wonder...how many young men and women saw his video on social media and thought about joining the Army and jumping out of airplanes. That is advertising the Army cannot pay for.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 9 at 2018 10:01 PM

2018-07-09T22:01:05-04:00

I see a legend.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Jul 10 at 2018 6:33 AM

2018-07-10T06:33:15-04:00

Hmm .. endangering a innocent creature..? The Dpca will love this..
I’ll be up for humanitarian of the year award thinks SGM...

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Jul 10 at 2018 6:35 AM

2018-07-10T06:35:22-04:00

That was spca.. stupid word correct ! About as naive as a certain senator..

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Jul 10 at 2018 6:39 AM

2018-07-10T06:39:33-04:00

Was just surmising that a S.O.B. (Stuff on bunk)inspection to make sure only authorized equipment was included..
so I think this should be shared with Soldier’s Platoon leader...

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Jul 10 at 2018 6:45 AM

2018-07-10T06:45:52-04:00

A L.O.C. Would of made an impression..
it’d Be gone in 6 months.. Art 15 is a bit deep for bringing the unauthorized jump partner..

Response by CPT Jeff Robinette made Jul 10 at 2018 8:45 AM

2018-07-10T08:45:40-04:00

Why video a stupid stunt like this?
I knew guys that "jumped" equipment, buck knives and the sort. But this is just stupid. Why video this?

Response by Sgt Frank Staples made Jul 10 at 2018 10:59 AM

2018-07-10T10:59:00-04:00

Oh well, as an Air Force weather weenie the only plane I ever jumped out of was sitting on the tarmac at Pope Air Force Base!

Response by Cpl Steve Masters made Jul 10 at 2018 12:48 PM

2018-07-10T12:48:44-04:00

Well done
We need a million just like you
Balls !!!!

Response by SSG Peter Anderson made Jul 10 at 2018 1:36 PM

2018-07-10T13:36:26-04:00

Safety first people always!
It's to bad that this troop is ending his career with an article 15, that didn't have to be except for the fact that some Captain's OER would have reflected a negative point for not enforcing discipline, possibly causing a pass over to Major, which would/could have ruined the Captain's career !

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 10 at 2018 2:23 PM

2018-07-10T14:23:53-04:00

It’s interesting how it’s generally the “I miss the old army” guys here that are talking about how the article 15 is a just decision, when in al reality, the old army could care less about stupid and cool tricks like this considering their priority was camaraderie, rifle marksmanship, and whether you can run that 2 mile or not

Response by SPC Stan LaCount made Jul 10 at 2018 4:53 PM

2018-07-10T16:53:26-04:00

What about Bob?

Response by SGT Tom Vog made Jul 10 at 2018 5:02 PM

2018-07-10T17:02:53-04:00

I remember when our old CO, Capt Reed gave a Jungle school certificate to Sgt Kuklis’ pet rock. The name on the certificate........Sgt. Rock.

Response by SFC Kenneth Kreps made Jul 10 at 2018 6:07 PM

2018-07-10T18:07:00-04:00

I guess they need me to return to active serve, so I can continue teaching leadership. Somebody is dropping the ball.

Response by CPT Robert Kus made Jul 10 at 2018 6:25 PM

2018-07-10T18:25:24-04:00

That's full Airborne aquatic...promote to positions of increased responsibility

Response by SGT Layne Jeffery made Jul 10 at 2018 7:13 PM

2018-07-10T19:13:51-04:00

Where is PETA on this? Do fish lives not matter?

Response by CSM Jay F. Lovelace made Jul 10 at 2018 9:40 PM

2018-07-10T21:40:18-04:00

I say kudos to this young Paratrooper!

If I was his CSM, I would chew his ass out for being reckless but I would tell him to carry-on. We were all young paratroopers at one time and we all did some crazy stupid shit, so who are we to criticize or chastise anyone else for doing stupid shit that we used to do when we were his age!

Response by PVT David Swanson made Jul 10 at 2018 10:56 PM

2018-07-10T22:56:16-04:00

FAA rules not just UCMJ. If I'm in the air with you I trust you to take it seriously. I'm a Tanker who became a USPA jumper to clear my head. Not cool.

Response by SGT Louise Hawthorne made Jul 10 at 2018 11:39 PM

2018-07-10T23:39:40-04:00

Safety, safety, safety. That troop's recklessness could've easily become a catastrophe. Additionally, he advertised. That action encouraged others to follow suit. Stupid he was. Stupid does deserve the Article 15.

Response by SPC Lance Neidecker made Jul 11 at 2018 1:00 AM

2018-07-11T01:00:31-04:00

Rules are rules.... but funny as hell none the less.

Response by LCpl Aaron Freeman made Jul 11 at 2018 1:02 AM

2018-07-11T01:02:05-04:00

Proof positive, that some just don't have anything better to do, than to harass the nonrates... A$$h@tß!

Response by 1SG Uwe Mueller made Jul 11 at 2018 1:47 AM

2018-07-11T01:47:03-04:00

Petty, yes, but extremely necessary in order to dissuade ever ongoing "top this" stunts while falling at terminal velocity. First a fish, then a dog, and eventually some idiot and his/her pet goat create a robot too large to blame on an overweight ruck. I would opt for a letter of reprimand and a stern lecture regarding poor decisions. Give that soldier his wings, send the fish to go find Nemo.

Response by SSG Pennell Jester made Jul 11 at 2018 2:15 AM

2018-07-11T02:15:21-04:00

When you are preoccupied with your little stunt for attention you are not paying attention to detail and endangering other soldiers. Doing stupid shit even as trivial as filming yourself on a jump with your pet fish "millennial pet" can cause epic failure. I've seen to many stupid mistakes lead to serious injuries and death. Not to mention public opinion of someone who has no military bearing posting on Social Media makes other military professionals look bad. There is a time and place for being a clown and this wasn't it.

Response by SSG Alan Necessary made Jul 11 at 2018 7:21 AM

2018-07-11T07:21:11-04:00

Rules are rules. Especially in the armed services.

Response by LCpl William Perry made Jul 11 at 2018 7:27 AM

2018-07-11T07:27:51-04:00

Being a Marine grunt vet all I can say is OUTSTANDING! Loved it!

Response by Shane George made Jul 11 at 2018 9:17 AM

2018-07-11T09:17:15-04:00

Did the fish get it’s jump wings ?

Response by TSgt John LaBelle made Jul 11 at 2018 9:26 AM

2018-07-11T09:26:48-04:00

Wouldn’t have wasted the time and ink. Would have gave him a coin and with .50c he could get a cup of coffee in my office.

Response by MSG Joe Santiago made Jul 11 at 2018 10:06 AM

2018-07-11T10:06:37-04:00

That fish will be the new face for airborne recruitment..lol.

Response by 1SG Gary Bacon made Jul 11 at 2018 10:40 AM

2018-07-11T10:40:41-04:00

As cool as it may seem, I could certainly see this getting out of hand as young soldiers decide to try to start one up each other. Better to nip it in the bud now. Gotta give an A for inguinity though.

Response by 1SG Mark Reed made Jul 11 at 2018 10:45 AM

2018-07-11T10:45:30-04:00

Some times the Army needs a sence of humor. Glad they didn't burn him to bad for his stunt. Let's not forget. The its kid volunteered to serve his country while others his age are avoiding work or responsibilities all together. One of my pet peeves while serving was a leader that was UCMJ happy. A informal written reprimand would have been good in this case. Hope the kid has a great career and he took the term flying fish to new heights

Response by PO2 Ron Hemphill made Jul 11 at 2018 10:45 AM

2018-07-11T10:45:53-04:00

This soldier's life must really suck if the only one he has to celebrate his qualifying jump with is a freaking fish.

Response by Sgt Luke Brock made Jul 11 at 2018 10:50 AM

2018-07-11T10:50:20-04:00

Response by SPC Tom Dardas made Jul 11 at 2018 12:51 PM

2018-07-11T12:51:01-04:00

I'm here to tell you a story,
'bout a land that God forgot,
And it's about a fishy,
Who's story will not...
Airbooooorne.... rangerrrrrr

Response by SSG Brian Carpenter made Jul 11 at 2018 12:56 PM

2018-07-11T12:56:04-04:00

Poor paratrooper can't follow instructions during training. I would not have been leniant I would have taken rank and made him miserable for awhile. No excuse for insubordination period. What the hell is wrong with you'll saying he only deserved light punishment? I am so glad I retired if I was his CSM or the School CSM it would have been his ass. Come on NCO's get your shit together before there is no place for you in the Army.

Response by CPT Thomas Cofield made Jul 11 at 2018 1:20 PM

2018-07-11T13:20:22-04:00

Since when do they allow fish at Airborne School? Did he hide it the whole time? And who is that attached to a fish?

Response by SGT Larry Stacey made Jul 11 at 2018 2:00 PM

2018-07-11T14:00:44-04:00

Why?? There was a 1sgt in the 1/504th inf., at Ft Bragg N.C. that had a BIG sugar beet in a jar. It looked like a big blob of chewing tobacco. He would pick out a trooper in the co., to carry it on a jump and woe, woe, woe on the trooper that brought it back broken. They would be required to eat the beet, ugh. So what's wrong with jumping with a goldfish anyway? And taking a pic wh OP ke coming down has been done for ages!! I'll got some great pictures of the other guys floating gently to the ground.

Response by MSgt Rick Pierce made Jul 11 at 2018 2:30 PM

2018-07-11T14:30:26-04:00

Better to ask forgiveness than permission sometimes. Glad CO was lenient, but hope the young Soldier learned a lesson.

Response by LTC Michael Garrison made Jul 11 at 2018 3:20 PM

2018-07-11T15:20:38-04:00

Good grief. Aren't there more serious issues out there?

Response by LTC Russ Smith made Jul 11 at 2018 3:56 PM

2018-07-11T15:56:12-04:00

Clearly PETA must be notified and an AR 15-6 investigation is in order. There should be infinite manhours devoted to this....(sarcasm) Article 15? Really? How about you make him scrub latrines, run up a hill over and over, pull fire watch five days in a row? Sigh.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 11 at 2018 5:33 PM

2018-07-11T17:33:57-04:00

Let me see where I have room for a fish...

Response by SGT Eric Vazquez made Jul 11 at 2018 6:33 PM

2018-07-11T18:33:51-04:00

We have had "jump buddies" for as long as i can remember. This is not a thing to crazy over, especially when we have grunts out there that cant even change a tire on a car. #focusonotherthings

Response by SGT Jack Stevens made Jul 11 at 2018 7:06 PM

2018-07-11T19:06:14-04:00

It's an airborne thing, legs just wouldn't understand.

Response by CW3 Matt Hutchason made Jul 11 at 2018 7:30 PM

2018-07-11T19:30:52-04:00

Chance would have jumped too.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 11 at 2018 7:41 PM

2018-07-11T19:41:53-04:00

For the love of god can people stop saying “received a UCMJ”. It’s getting an article 15 or NJP.

Response by SGT Joshua Bressel made Jul 11 at 2018 7:58 PM

2018-07-11T19:58:29-04:00

I remember reading a nearly identical story, about a year ago. The difference? The last guy, was in the 82nd, doing his LAST jump, before he ETSed! A stupid stunt, at the END of your career, is far less stupid, than a stupid stunt, at the BEGINNING of your career!!!!! Also, the 82nd had a unit, with an alligator, as a mascot, and, like all airborne mascots, she needed to be jump qualified! Well.....unlike a dog, nobody is going to jump, strapped to a gator, so they made a special harness, and pushed her out. When she landed, she chewed through her harness, and escaped. She grew to an impressive length, and read seen, from time to time, arounf Ft Bragg, for a LONG time!

Response by PO2 Karl Lehn made Jul 11 at 2018 8:34 PM

2018-07-11T20:34:53-04:00

I think its something that didnt require any Article 15. It was a goldfish for Gods sake. I can't see any endangerment there. Maybe a good ass chewing from his 1st Sergeant.

Response by SPC Jack Simpson made Jul 11 at 2018 8:40 PM

2018-07-11T20:40:52-04:00

5days KP. Then forget it.

Response by CPT Lee Gruber made Jul 11 at 2018 10:21 PM

2018-07-11T22:21:50-04:00

Love it !

Response by SPC Rob White made Jul 11 at 2018 10:38 PM

2018-07-11T22:38:51-04:00

Doesn’t matter what the rule is you break it you pay you may not agree with them but you agreed to follow them when you signed the dotted line

Response by SFC Robert Farley made Jul 11 at 2018 10:44 PM

2018-07-11T22:44:41-04:00

I’m pretty damn jealous!!! Why didn’t I think of that!!! He should get a plaque made with the picture and the Art 15!

Response by SGT Michael Becker made Jul 11 at 2018 11:20 PM

2018-07-11T23:20:54-04:00

Whoever recommended the UCMJ is a douche canoe that doesn't have any friends. Their significant other is also getting slammed my Josey and his friends.

Response by PV2 Mark Zehner made Jul 12 at 2018 12:04 AM

2018-07-12T00:04:23-04:00

Just found out the fish didn't enlist!!!

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2018 2:05 AM

2018-07-12T02:05:12-04:00

FLYING FISH!!! That’s Amazing!!!

Response by SFC William Dinwiddie made Jul 12 at 2018 3:37 AM

2018-07-12T03:37:04-04:00

Lmfao

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2018 3:49 AM

2018-07-12T03:49:16-04:00

Airborne - So simple, a fish can do it.

Response by SPC Nicholas Seay made Jul 12 at 2018 7:24 AM

2018-07-12T07:24:16-04:00

What specific reg did he break? He should have waited until after his ETS to post it

Response by PV2 Carlos Molano made Jul 12 at 2018 7:49 AM

2018-07-12T07:49:32-04:00

Did the fish get it's jump wings?

Response by Maj Chuck Chatham made Jul 12 at 2018 10:25 AM

2018-07-12T10:25:22-04:00

Kinda stupid to waste the time processing an article 15 for this.

Response by SGM Tom Keyser made Jul 12 at 2018 11:32 AM

2018-07-12T11:32:47-04:00

Follow the rules because you must, be lenient because you can.

Response by CSM Andrew Perrault made Jul 12 at 2018 3:16 PM

2018-07-12T15:16:23-04:00

Dumbass no discipline.......maybe not UCMJ, BUT he would feel PAIN!!!! and extra duty..........

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2018 3:44 PM

2018-07-12T15:44:26-04:00

Well played Specialist... well played.

Response by SSG Juan Serrano made Jul 12 at 2018 4:08 PM

2018-07-12T16:08:28-04:00

They recruit young men and then punish them for doing young men stuff. WTF?

Response by SPC Scott Currens made Jul 12 at 2018 5:08 PM

2018-07-12T17:08:55-04:00

Safety is always first. I can just here what went on in the UCMJ proceedings. Now what you did was cool but you not only endangered yourself, your fellow paratroopers, but also your pet. Lol

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2018 5:33 PM

2018-07-12T17:33:21-04:00

What rule did he break? Anyone know? I see troops on Facebook all the time jumping with a go pro. Is the fish a communist spy or what? What gives?

Response by SFC Robert Kohlberg made Jul 12 at 2018 5:49 PM

2018-07-12T17:49:23-04:00

It was a harmless thing. Some times we get to full of ourselves. Make the kid buff the floor once or twice.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2018 5:52 PM

2018-07-12T17:52:52-04:00

Fucking dumb

Response by SGT Thomas Bentley made Jul 12 at 2018 6:07 PM

2018-07-12T18:07:43-04:00

Okay they're a different breed those airborne mutherf*kers. I got out of the Army in 2007. Even then they seem to have lost the power of a summarized Article 15(an intensive counseling statement of sorts) They seem to just want to burn than correct now a days. Take away freedom short term, no loss of rank or money, and some remedial training or cleaning and embarrassment. And never ever follows you. But now it is more of what I can do to you than how can I teach you a lesson of what is not acceptable. Just my persona opinion.

Response by MSG Robert Wise made Jul 12 at 2018 6:59 PM

2018-07-12T18:59:52-04:00

So what was the punishment for? There is so much crap you jump with and they hammered him for a water bottle? This guy needs to go to selection.

Response by SPC David Sumrall made Jul 12 at 2018 9:08 PM

2018-07-12T21:08:12-04:00

Never leave evidence!!!

Response by SFC Hector Sanjurjo made Jul 12 at 2018 9:28 PM

2018-07-12T21:28:39-04:00

The fish was hydrated and attended the Safety Briefing? Did the fish get his wings too? The Army of One mentality.

Response by MSG Richard Boucher made Jul 12 at 2018 9:29 PM

2018-07-12T21:29:09-04:00

And if the bottle had slipped out and killed someone? There are reasons for many rules. He broke them and flaunted it.

Response by SPC Steven Carroll made Jul 12 at 2018 11:29 PM

2018-07-12T23:29:42-04:00

I will never understand a fish jumping out of a Perfectly good plane.

Response by Cpl Michael Stillfried made Jul 13 at 2018 12:05 AM

2018-07-13T00:05:46-04:00

He can jump out of an aircraft carrying weapons and ammunition, but when we do it with a fish someone could get hurt?!? Bwahahaha gotta love government logic!

Response by SPC Michael B. Gudger made Jul 13 at 2018 12:10 AM

2018-07-13T00:10:27-04:00

Retard

Response by CPL Jared Peay made Jul 13 at 2018 12:39 AM

2018-07-13T00:39:31-04:00

Smoke him . Make him do jump school again.

But ucmj? That's To much.

That's why I got out. To much dumb shit.

Response by SPC Robert Aiken made Jul 13 at 2018 4:54 AM

2018-07-13T04:54:05-04:00

I think it's a waste of time and money. They should have kept it on a platoon level punishment, counseling statement and some extra duty. Article 15 could effect his career down the road over a little stupid incident.

Response by SPC Greg Campbell made Jul 13 at 2018 8:21 AM

2018-07-13T08:21:51-04:00

I got a Co grade Art 15 for tossing a duffle bag on a truck. Nailed our napoleon complex knee high to a grasshopper buck sgt dead square in the chest. Had a few words before the incident. Well, had to visit with the CO with my platoon daddy. Top was standing in the corner trying not to laugh, platoon daddy was openly chuckling, CO had a smile on his face, I was worried. Best part was the 2days I got for extra duty. Buck was turning all kinds of colors he was so pissed. Great comments on a great Army story, but some of you need to get your panty knot out of your ass. I failed to mention no one liked this dude, didnt have to buy a beir for a month

Response by SFC Allen Hendricks made Jul 13 at 2018 10:10 AM

2018-07-13T10:10:34-04:00

Flying fish did he get his wings?

Response by SGT Marc Gatliff made Jul 13 at 2018 10:31 AM

2018-07-13T10:31:18-04:00

ARRGHHH, really UCMJ appalled by the waste of paper

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 13 at 2018 11:29 AM

2018-07-13T11:29:33-04:00

He deserves the AR15 (period)

Response by SFC Larry Jones made Jul 13 at 2018 4:06 PM

2018-07-13T16:06:23-04:00

You're all cracking me up. I have been retired for 23 years and I see the Army is just as petty as it ever was. I got away with a lot of stuff in my day, but I knew how to stay out of the limelight. Tip of the hat, young soldier.

Response by PO2 David Girten Jr made Jul 13 at 2018 6:43 PM

2018-07-13T18:43:27-04:00

Just read the article...it was a nice pick me up

Response by PO2 Patrick Dwyer made Jul 13 at 2018 7:38 PM

2018-07-13T19:38:54-04:00

My Navy Chief told me there were only 2 things that fall from the sky. Bird **** and damn fools and asked what I was. This followed a weekend sky diving session where I injured my knee on landing. He threatened an article 15 destruction of Government property but never did. This was 1971 and chutes were not very controllable compared to nowadays.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 13 at 2018 8:29 PM

2018-07-13T20:29:14-04:00

I went to osut with tattersall lol.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 13 at 2018 9:33 PM

2018-07-13T21:33:33-04:00

Good jump!! Bad performance on the goldfish’s part. Next time swallow the goldfish on the way down! Need the protein for the ass chewing!

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 13 at 2018 9:41 PM

2018-07-13T21:41:53-04:00

That’s hilarious. I’d take a company grade for that.

Response by SGT Brian Lorkowski made Jul 13 at 2018 10:24 PM

2018-07-13T22:24:46-04:00

Rules are there for a reason. It seems more and more people are not choosing to follow rules or even laws. I would expect more from the recruits these days.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2018 12:53 AM

2018-07-14T00:53:50-04:00

Would pinning airborne wings on the fish be considered hazing? Just a

Response by SSgt Robert Atkinson made Jul 14 at 2018 1:56 AM

2018-07-14T01:56:13-04:00

My definition if light punishment; I got a speeding ticket once (driving over 15mph on the alert pad,) during aircraft launch! My First Shirt said, “Stick out your hand, Airman!” I did. He slapped it and said “Now get back to work!”

Response by 1SG John Ginn made Jul 14 at 2018 2:16 AM

2018-07-14T02:16:55-04:00

Never show up your unit with something like that. Could have waited after his next duty station before releasing his video. A letter of reprimand is a minimum.

Response by Cpl Jim Canning made Jul 14 at 2018 7:19 AM

2018-07-14T07:19:02-04:00

Sad, without preparation or training that poor fish made a jump. It will probably suffer from PTSD now and they will have to study the fish to determine the effect of the jump on it, causing it to be separated from his owner, causing more stress and it will die alone from stress in a VA facility. Sad, sad, sad....

Response by SFC Antonio Nieto made Jul 14 at 2018 9:04 AM

2018-07-14T09:04:07-04:00

That sounds fishy

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2018 9:38 AM

2018-07-14T09:38:24-04:00

I don't believe this was article 15 worthy, maybe a counseling and a pt session with big his 1st line

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2018 11:39 AM

2018-07-14T11:39:45-04:00

The military is one of the most ridiculous places I have ever seen. Who gets punished for shit like this?

Response by CPL Eddie Delagrange made Jul 14 at 2018 2:13 PM

2018-07-14T14:13:02-04:00

Paratroopers are supposed to be a little bit out the box, glad he got a slap on the wrist! Are blood wings still outlawed ? U had to bribe my black hat with a 5th of JD behind closed doors to get min...

Response by CPL Robert Crain made Jul 14 at 2018 2:15 PM

2018-07-14T14:15:35-04:00

Company Grade Article 15. I'm glad they kept it in house. He will recover.

Response by SFC Jimmy Rivera made Jul 14 at 2018 2:16 PM

2018-07-14T14:16:11-04:00

The fish has four more jumps to go. Will be the first fish paratrooper.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2018 3:06 PM

2018-07-14T15:06:24-04:00

I guess it can't be any worse than all the leadership out there pencil whipping APT for the fat fucks so to make the units stats look good or acceptable.
Granted he should have hid video till a later date, plus lots of paratroopers ha e taken pics on the decent. Nothing new.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2018 3:26 PM

2018-07-14T15:26:53-04:00

Guess we found Nemo!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2018 5:24 PM

2018-07-14T17:24:58-04:00

It seems that lieutenant shinny-side has survived and is not injured, this paratrooper a A.A.M, if you ask me.

Response by SGT Ken R made Jul 14 at 2018 11:08 PM

2018-07-14T23:08:14-04:00

Could have just left the kid alone and not been jerks about it. And they wonder why all the good ones wanna get out as soon as they can. I guess that unit had absolutely no other problems to deal with so they chose this to waste time and resources on....

Response by PO1 TheBee Ef A made Jul 14 at 2018 11:51 PM

2018-07-14T23:51:01-04:00

Back in the day, this would have just resulted in some remedial training. Make him wax the barracks floors, clean a head, PT the shit out of him or something. Things like this don't deserve permanent scars on his record.

Response by MSgt Don Smith made Jul 15 at 2018 12:51 AM

2018-07-15T00:51:57-04:00

Kudos! Troop now has a good story to tell at his next assingment as well as proof !
Go Fish !

Response by PFC Adrian Hazard made Jul 15 at 2018 1:01 AM

2018-07-15T01:01:02-04:00

Ohh ahh AIRBORNE!

Response by SPC Eric Hill made Jul 15 at 2018 3:55 AM

2018-07-15T03:55:00-04:00

Only reason he got in trouble was because of Social Media. Otherwise he's free and clear. Leniency should be shown as I've seen much worse get less punishment.

Response by SGT Kevin Dean made Jul 15 at 2018 12:29 PM

2018-07-15T12:29:58-04:00

Maybe the fish identifies with the flying fish variety and it needed to get its wings.

Response by HA Jace Gallagher made Jul 15 at 2018 12:39 PM

2018-07-15T12:39:15-04:00

Balls. Big balls.

Response by CPL Brian Lozier made Jul 15 at 2018 2:38 PM

2018-07-15T14:38:32-04:00

I'm sorry! That is funny! Go easy on him brass!

Response by GySgt Cecil Nelson made Jul 15 at 2018 3:37 PM

2018-07-15T15:37:40-04:00

Safety is important.

Response by SSG Robert Reynolds made Jul 15 at 2018 5:01 PM

2018-07-15T17:01:24-04:00

The rules are not to be interpreted but obeyed. When you are airborne you are an elite trooper. An article 15 was too light !

Response by SFC James L. Woodling made Jul 15 at 2018 5:45 PM

2018-07-15T17:45:28-04:00

He had the( balls ) to make the jump and he must have done so in a safe manner he completed the exorcise,..good job .

Response by MSG Michael Gatto made Jul 15 at 2018 8:29 PM

2018-07-15T20:29:20-04:00

He makes Bergdhul look like a girl Scott

Response by CPL Geoff Hathaway made Jul 15 at 2018 8:39 PM

2018-07-15T20:39:27-04:00

Did the fish have all the approved saft y gear ???

Response by Sgt James Yeah made Jul 15 at 2018 10:33 PM

2018-07-15T22:33:55-04:00

Who ever punished this guy is a fuggin douche

Response by Sgt Chad Umbach made Jul 16 at 2018 5:21 AM

2018-07-16T05:21:57-04:00

Are we f’ing serious? I was Marine infantry and don’t have jump wings but for fucks sake; A NJP for a water bottle with a goldfish? I’ve seen more boot soldiers load their ammo backwards in their magazine. Peacetime military likes to forget what is important and what is not. When we get bored we look for anything.

Response by SGT Bill Everidge made Jul 16 at 2018 11:59 AM

2018-07-16T11:59:41-04:00

I've seen some stupid stuff in my time, but wow lol I don't know why in the hell the Army would even burden itself with the paperwork required for a UCMJ. I'm thinking a verbal reprimand followed by a good laugh would be appropriate followed by NEVER DO THAT AGAIN!!

Response by 1SG Clifford Barnes made Jul 16 at 2018 12:45 PM

2018-07-16T12:45:39-04:00

Good

Response by SN Nancy Stewart-Nelson made Jul 16 at 2018 1:29 PM

2018-07-16T13:29:30-04:00

As I'm reading, the comments are Funnier than the article. I was Navy, My 1st husband (w)was a Submariner and my Husband now is 22 yrs Army and did jumps out of Helos with 101st. I have seen and heard some funny stories past 30 years, Especially in those MOS's ( Rates) that work hard and play harder. And let's face it 18-28 young dumb full of...
I can see why the command was lenient Maybe he was a outstanding Soldier , he made a mistake showboating and didn't want anyone to follow with a 1 upmanship.
Poor fish got stolen from The Coasties to go on a joy ride.
If the kid stays in he will probably make a Great NCO 1 day.. I have seen Officers do a hell of alot worse in embarrassing their command. Just my 2 cents worth

Response by SSG Chris Hendry made Jul 16 at 2018 3:53 PM

2018-07-16T15:53:24-04:00

I’d say his punishment should be cleaning company fish tank

Response by SFC Killo Serafin made Jul 16 at 2018 9:42 PM

2018-07-16T21:42:15-04:00

If the fish was in his pocket ! in his water bottle what the be deal . what they should be worry about is having RAG HEADS in our Military. they are lackey I am not their boss ! because heads would roll.

Response by SPC Nick Canale made Jul 16 at 2018 9:54 PM

2018-07-16T21:54:51-04:00

Outstanding

Response by SPC Kyle Williams made Jul 17 at 2018 3:06 AM

2018-07-17T03:06:12-04:00

Rule #1 when in the military. Wall off your social media so non ftiends cant see it. I made all my shit private, my 1sg didnt like it but there wasnt shit they could do.

Response by SGT John Kelly made Jul 17 at 2018 8:01 AM

2018-07-17T08:01:46-04:00

How do you pin Jump wings on a fish? Does that make it a flying fish?

Response by CPL Ib Rey made Jul 17 at 2018 11:11 AM

2018-07-17T11:11:53-04:00

Really

Response by CPL Ib Rey made Jul 17 at 2018 11:14 AM

2018-07-17T11:14:06-04:00

Really

Response by Sgt Keven Smith made Jul 17 at 2018 1:11 PM

2018-07-17T13:11:36-04:00

Sounds like something one of us JarHeads would do.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2018 5:02 PM

2018-07-17T17:02:34-04:00

Awe dang a fish is cooler than me now lol can’t even be mad at the guy though he went out with style in a way that’s meaningful lol and pretty funny

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2018 7:02 PM

2018-07-17T19:02:43-04:00

Nothing serious here, moving on.

Response by PO2 George Haskins made Jul 17 at 2018 7:23 PM

2018-07-17T19:23:10-04:00

From the picture, I can’t tell if it’s a beta, or black moor. Either way it would be a spy for a friendly country. I think they more concerned about being sued by the fish for hazardous duty pay.

Response by PO2 George Haskins made Jul 17 at 2018 7:25 PM

2018-07-17T19:25:35-04:00

I believe this story may be trumped up.

Response by SP5 Joseph Cool made Jul 17 at 2018 8:20 PM

2018-07-17T20:20:42-04:00

Jesus...Back in the mid 80s when I was in a scout platoon in the 82nd we had a pet turtle we pounded wings into and jumped with him all the time. Even used a flare parachute for him

Response by SPC Hector Reyes made Jul 17 at 2018 11:32 PM

2018-07-17T23:32:45-04:00

I see no reason that the fish can’t be jump qualified.......

Response by PFC Elijah Rose made Jul 18 at 2018 11:05 AM

2018-07-18T11:05:21-04:00

Response by SPC Scott Wheeler made Jul 18 at 2018 12:07 PM

2018-07-18T12:07:29-04:00

Cool

Response by SP5 Edward Marquardt made Jul 18 at 2018 12:52 PM

2018-07-18T12:52:30-04:00

You're in the Army son.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2018 1:18 PM

2018-07-18T13:18:57-04:00

F**k em if they can't take a joke

Response by Maj Charles Porter made Jul 18 at 2018 4:17 PM

2018-07-18T16:17:59-04:00

It's the typical atta-boy/ah shit moment. Good initiative, bad judgement. A wrist slap and soldier on.

Response by SFC Dennis Shibley made Jul 18 at 2018 5:47 PM

2018-07-18T17:47:43-04:00

He was just a little dinky day, I would have laughed at him and given him extra duty

Response by Sgt Gary Simpkins made Jul 18 at 2018 5:55 PM

2018-07-18T17:55:49-04:00

Did the fish survive?

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2018 7:53 PM

2018-07-18T19:53:36-04:00

Definitely not smart but kids nowadays aren’t like us old timers. UCMJ at Company level lots of extra duty to make this numb nut understand how dumb his actions were.

Response by SGT Mark Fontenot made Jul 18 at 2018 8:04 PM

2018-07-18T20:04:33-04:00

He shouldn't have done it could have killed the fish

Response by 1SG Mike Turnipseed made Jul 18 at 2018 8:44 PM

2018-07-18T20:44:08-04:00

Good For Him!

Response by Cpl Vincent Infanti made Jul 18 at 2018 10:00 PM

2018-07-18T22:00:30-04:00

As always someone higher up got their panties in a wad...my last jump was cool but not as cool as his....

Response by SP5 Gary Smith made Jul 18 at 2018 10:35 PM

2018-07-18T22:35:16-04:00

I’ll allow it.

Response by SP5 D.l. Hannah made Jul 18 at 2018 10:48 PM

2018-07-18T22:48:56-04:00

UCMJ for the trooper or the fish...i am not sure the fish had a choice.

Response by SSgt Leuico Welch made Jul 18 at 2018 10:54 PM

2018-07-18T22:54:15-04:00

That must be one pretty awesome fish.

Response by HN Kurt Hines made Jul 18 at 2018 11:31 PM

2018-07-18T23:31:45-04:00

If he's crazy enough to jump out of a perfectly good airplane I would think they would give him a little lee way.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2018 1:31 AM

2018-07-19T01:31:57-04:00

I hope the fish got jump pay

Response by CW2 Guy Compton made Jul 19 at 2018 8:25 AM

2018-07-19T08:25:03-04:00

Definitely would have that Article 15 framed, and hung high up on my "I love me wall" next to the picture.....also framed of course.

Response by SGT Ian Poissant made Jul 19 at 2018 4:03 PM

2018-07-19T16:03:34-04:00

I don’t know, I feel this is reaching a little bit for the CoC. Does a bottle of water present any risk to the other jumps? No. What’s the precedent of this? None people have been jumping with gopros before and no CoC jumped anyone. I feel like there is some back story that we are missing to explain the article 15 for jumping with a beta fish in a bottle. Trust me I’ve jumped with a spitter in a magazine pouch before. No ones jumped my shit about it.

Response by SFC Donald Souza made Jul 20 at 2018 8:35 AM

2018-07-20T08:35:15-04:00

Did the fish have a back up shoot

Response by SPC Herb Jorgensen made Jul 20 at 2018 2:48 PM

2018-07-20T14:48:25-04:00

REALLY, Is the reality of our service now,that with in this world of social media,that a soldier can't celebrate his last jump.Now there are regs,yes WE ALL know,but a company grade ?Seriously?A little ass chew and maybe a day or two CQ,but shows the lack of a commander discretion.All said there maybe more ot the story.

Response by PO2 Hauke Powers made Jul 22 at 2018 6:52 AM

2018-07-22T06:52:52-04:00

I can see taking a lucky charm piece zipped up in the trousers or jacket..but a fish in a water bottle...hmmmm...how did the jumpmaster miss THAT one....he also should be held accountable....but...we ALL have seen jumps with military service dogs attached to body harnesses....no harm done...I feel a simple I WILL NOT DO THIS AGAIN,SIR...and perhaps a week in the chow hall or rigging shack should suffice,,,after all...it was ONLY a fish in a bottle....but the military legal beast is what it is, unfortunately....let's see how the poor trooper ends up...God bless him...me, personally, would have approached him upon landing and asked if the fish was jump qualified and a real sky soldier !!!!! I'm sure he would have grinned as acknowledged YES to both questions !!!!

Response by SPC Larry Boutwell made Jul 23 at 2018 7:47 PM

2018-07-23T19:47:14-04:00

Holy fuck 279 likes lol hot damn

Response by SGT Chas Brothers made Jul 25 at 2018 9:49 PM

2018-07-25T21:49:43-04:00

In this respect I was fortunate. Uncle Sam and I had an arrangement. For the MOS I was being recruited for, I requested heavily that I wasn't jumping out of a perfectly good aircraft. Uncle Sam made the concessions. Really ticked off my First Sgt. though who wasn't made privy to the details.

Response by MCPO Laura Pittington made Sep 12 at 2018 8:41 AM

2018-09-12T08:41:44-04:00

Who's on Matthew's side??

Response by PO1 Steven Bridge made Sep 22 at 2018 1:20 PM

2018-09-22T13:20:23-04:00

This happened in 2015, right?

Response by 1stSgt Jeff Blovat made Nov 25 at 2018 7:40 AM

2018-11-25T07:40:26-05:00

There’s something fishy here.....

Response by SSG Edward Joy made Feb 23 at 2019 1:24 PM

2019-02-23T13:24:24-05:00

I still can't figure out how this is a safety violation.

Response by CPT Tom Monahan made Feb 23 at 2019 2:02 PM

2019-02-23T14:02:29-05:00

I hope to Hod that it was only a summarized Art 15 with min restriction and extra duty. Perhaps researching the fish’s depth range.

Response by PO2 Seth Carron made Feb 23 at 2019 4:01 PM

2019-02-23T16:01:47-05:00

Ya know, I can't really get mad at either Tattersall or his command. Yeah it was kinda reckless, he could have dropped the fish, or his phone, or been distracted and had a mishap, but he didn't, and took steps to ensure some degree of safety. He probably knew that putting the stunt on Facebook was gonna land him in hot water, and he seemed to accept that, so I'll gladly leave him alone. His command seemed to be more upset with the recklessness itself than anything else, because it wasn't like it was yet another oui, or some other criminal incident. So they basically said, "dude, quit screwing around." Had he not put it up on Facebook, things might not have even made it past his sergeant. Who knows. Either way, this guy's gonna be old and grey, and telling his grandkids about this with a laugh because it has the classic sea story touch to it.

Response by SPC Jeffery Gardner made Feb 24 at 2019 12:05 AM

2019-02-24T00:05:44-05:00

Maybe its the army of today. You know sress cards and all but in the early eighties we did worse and just got some lutrien duty. Kids would never .ake the military in the 60 70 & 80s

Response by MAJ Geiter Dunn made Feb 24 at 2019 11:29 AM

2019-02-24T11:29:26-05:00

GoPros didn't exist when I went through Airborne school, but I would have liked to do some visual record of my qualifying jump. Way back then, we were told "nothing in your pockets" and the Blackhats would have definitely found a water bottle. But I've heard Blood Wings are not allowed anymore, so I guess if I had to choose between getting blood wings and being able to jump with a GoPro, I'm happy that I graduated Jump School when I did.

Response by SGT Darin Jenkins made Sep 16 at 2019 11:29 AM

2019-09-16T11:29:55-04:00

Really, UCMJ over this. Ridiculous

Response by SGT Darin Jenkins made Sep 16 at 2019 11:30 AM

2019-09-16T11:30:09-04:00

Really, UCMJ over this. Ridiculous

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 16 at 2019 4:40 PM

2019-09-16T16:40:24-04:00

Missing old days when Brass would say dont do it again but that was f-ing awesome. This Spc is my hero for today.

Response by PO3 Scot Fahey made Sep 16 at 2019 5:20 PM

2019-09-16T17:20:56-04:00

I have been retired for a while. what exactly is the UCMJ offense? so many to choose from, but jumping with a fish was not listed

Response by Sgt Dale Briggs made Sep 16 at 2019 7:09 PM

2019-09-16T19:09:19-04:00

Don’t see how it’s a big deal of any type, you jump with your rifle, you jump with your pack, he jumped with a bottle of water with a fish in it. Broke a rule I’m sure , there’s probably 1000 rules. It must have been well secured or the jump master would have taken it away. The proper punishment would be to make him do 1000 push-ups a day for a month. An AR 15 is over reach imo anyway.

Response by LTC Raymond Buenteo made Dec 20 at 2020 1:23 PM

2020-12-20T13:23:03-05:00

Lol. He deserves everything he gets. Stupid enough to jump with a fish then stupid enough to film it culminated with stupid enough to post it. Just rewards.

Response by LTC Raymond Buenteo made Dec 20 at 2020 1:30 PM

2020-12-20T13:30:32-05:00

The fish is not the issue. The real issue is soldiers always trying to out do one another. Let this go and some other kid will try and one up this and on and in until someone gets hurt or killed. The leadership must address the situation or pay the price when something happens during a like situation. It ain’t personal it’s just the game.