Can an NCO get into trouble if his girlfriend joins the military (in the same branch) and they continue the relationship?

2019-01-27T00:19:49-05:00

I have a Buddy whose been in the Army for a decent amount of time a little longer than I have. He is about to pick up his six. He has been in a relationship with his girlfriend for awhile. She recently joined the same branch. So my question is can he get in trouble since she is a private essentially and he is a NCO? Now keep in mind they were dating long before she joined.

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made Jan 27 at 2019 5:09 AM

2019-01-27T05:09:04-05:00

If he isn't in her Chain of Command, there's no problem.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 27 at 2019 1:43 PM

2019-01-27T13:43:59-05:00

Relationship was pre-existing so it shouldn't be an issue. This will especially hold true if they are in different units.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 27 at 2019 4:42 PM

2019-01-27T16:42:39-05:00

This is a pretty good question. You can find the answer in the regs on fraternization and the DA Pam that lists examples of situations.
Off the top of my head, when there is a change of status between two people (commission, promotion, going active) the couple has one year to get married or terminate the relationship.

Response by CSM Christopher Irwin made Jan 27 at 2019 7:34 PM

2019-01-27T19:34:15-05:00

For the "formal" answer look at AR 600-20 "Army Command Policy" (6 Nov 14). It stipulates very specifically fraternization policies regarding same and more important different rank relationships. regardless what you here - rely ONLY on what you read in the appropriate regulation!

Unfortunately, like most regulations, there is no way to capture the "eaches" regarding EVERY situation that may occur in relationships in a given unit or situation...Bottom line - Few, if any NCO will give a shit about PRIOR relationships so long as: 1. The two in the relationship aren't in the same food chain, and/or 2. It doesn't affect the good order and discipline of the unit/team in question. It's highly unlikely that she will snap link in to the same unit as he - especially considering the separation in times of enlistment...If they are in the Reserves or National Guard however, and happen be together post BCT/AIT, the same things will apply as stipulated above!

Response by SGT Mathew Husen made Jan 29 at 2019 2:38 AM

2019-01-29T02:38:16-05:00

Ok if in different units