Would you counsel or reprimand a soldier for something they posted on RallyPoint?

There are some great entries in this discussion already. &nbsp;A few of my thoughts ...<div><br></div><div>We can have frank, open, and honest conversations among members of various ranks in person or online. &nbsp;Our organizations are better if this is true and it requires leaders who set the correct climate and servicemen and women who are willing to participate.<div><br></div><div>Whether in person or online, if we keep in mind that we are professionals and conduct ourselves as such, the danger of "crossing a line" is greatly reduced. &nbsp;If we are afraid of saying anything because it may be misconstrued we are doing ourselves and our service a disservice. &nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>If I say or write something out of line, inappropriate, or unprofessional I should be corrected. &nbsp;Correction doe not always have to be in the form of a written counseling or necessitate punishment. &nbsp;In many cases it can be a comment to the individual. &nbsp;If I realize I've said something that should not have been said, I can apologize for it and if possible delete it. &nbsp;If it is flagrant unprofessionalism or violates the UCMJ then appropriate action must be taken but I can think of very few instances, especially here on RallyPoint, where this would be the case.</div><div><br></div><div>A "strong disagreement of opinions" does not equate to something to counsel someone about. &nbsp;The only time this would be a problem is in an organization after a decision has been made and people are still arguing about it. &nbsp;At that point it's time to accept the decision. &nbsp;But in online forums such as this, there is absolutely nothing wrong with differing opinions ... as long as they are presented professionally and do not violate regulations.</div></div>

Good question... First, comments made on social media can be used against you, and you can be counseled, or worse. Second, I agree, it is important to promote a positive atmosphere, and yes, lines can be crossed. Baiting people is wrong. Anything outside of a face-to-face conversation (and even those aren't safe) can be taken out of context. Everyone should bear in mind that we're supposed to be professional at all times... even online.&nbsp;

Just becasue we have freedom of speech doesnt mean we have freedom from the consequences of that speech.