Record PT Test

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 May 2014 10:32:37 -0400

I signed an initial counseling recently that seemed a bit off. One part said the you'll have a record APFT within 30 days of arrival. That's all well and good. But then it says if you fail, you'll receive another record APFT within 1 to 15 days. Another part of the counseling stated two failed records is grounds for chapter (which is true.) However, according to reg, if a Soldier fails a record, they have to be given 90 days, and if a record is given prior to that deadline, there must be a request in writing by the SM and authorized by the CO.

As a team leader, I want to ensure my Soldiers know their rights and the regs so they don't get hemmed up under false pretenses. I did legal actions in my last unit and Soldiers often didn't know the rules themselves, and wouldn't take advantage of the assistance provided to them. Is there grounds to go higher with this concern? How would you address this, or would you at all?

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2014 1:43 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 May 2014 13:43:04 -0400

Ask your NCO to explain your concern and confusion. Any NCO worth their salt, will explain it to you. What makes them think that a Soldier will be able to pass the APFT 1 day after they failed the previous one? You absolutely should address this with your leadership, start with the NCO whom gave you the counseling and find out where he is coming up with that standard. If that does not work move up your NCO Support channel and find out. But go armed with correct information from the regulation, not what somebody told you or what you have done in the pass. Don't forget about policy letters and local installation regulations. Look it all up.

When you quote regulations do not say according to the REG, list what regulation and what chapter and what paragraph you are pulling your information from.

For Example AR 350-1 Para 1-24(e)5 states

- Soldiers who fail a record APFT for the first time or fail to take a record APFT within the required period will
be flagged in accordance with AR 600–8–2. In the event of a record test failure, commanders may allow Soldiers to
retake the test as soon as the Soldier and the commander feel the Soldier is ready. Soldiers without a medical profile will be retested no later than 90 days following the initial APFT failure. Reserve component Soldiers not on active duty and without a medical profile will be tested no later than 180 days following the initial APFT failure.

So basically you have 90 days to retake the APFT, however it can be taken anytime the CDR and the Soldier feels they are ready.

Response by SGT Brian Gibbs made Dec 22 at 2014 2:56 PM

SGT Brian Gibbs — Mon, 22 Dec 2014 14:56:01 -0500

Yes... address this with your NCO. Don't sign anything in the military that seems off or you know its incorrect. I was part of a unit that thought they could make up their own amendments to the regulations. If you know your regulations its your responsibility to make sure these issues are corrected so that other soldiers aren't affected by the mistake.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 24 at 2014 12:36 AM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 Dec 2014 00:36:52 -0500

Am I off here, I though you had to pass a PT test to get out of basic training? If that is the case where is the problem.

I do agree that there has to be some remedial PT in there to correct the deficiencies from the first PT test and then have the requisite time in order to re-test.

If you can't pass the PT test I don't know what to tell you besides to do more PT.

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Dec 26 at 2014 6:19 PM

SGT Michael Glenn — Fri, 26 Dec 2014 18:19:28 -0500

Depends on where your stationed. I know Ar is doctrine in MOST places, but if your in a foreign country like Germany you fall under USAREUR regulations that wind up superseding AR regs when the chain wants them to and dont when it serves the command better that way, bunch of bull you ask me as its literally impossible for a soldier to really get a grasp on what you can an cannot do.