Can cadets dawn dress whites during Fleet Week and "party" in bars when on leave? I'm in NYC and see Navy cadets around town.

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 May 2016 01:23:28 -0400

Military Academy Cadets in bars in uniform

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2016 1:40 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 May 2016 01:40:26 -0400

just making sure. If it's ok, then I will end it there. If it isn't- why are these young adults going around town like they deserve better treatment. Either way- they are a representation of the United States Military. they should know better and if they want to "party", they should do it without the additional attention as if they are better than anyone else.

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made May 29 at 2016 1:56 AM

SGM Erik Marquez — Sun, 29 May 2016 01:56:47 -0400

"Either way- they are a representation of the United States Military. they should know better "
If they are as you say Cadets, than actually, no they likely do not know better.. that's why they are cadets and not seasoned officers. Those cadets need to be led, mentored, instructed, taught...like say by a senior NCO that KNOWS BETTER.
But I like that you're ASKING first before just jumping, thank you, well done. I cant answer the question though, Id say call the Academy in question and ask the leadership. Should be a simple and quick phone call.

Response by PO1 Michael G. made May 29 at 2016 11:42 AM

PO1 Michael G. — Sun, 29 May 2016 11:42:12 -0400

Are they behaving inappropriately (i.e. excessive drinking, loud or boorish behavoir, damaging property, harassing other patrons)? If they are, it's not really a question of being a cadet or midshipman, that type of behavior is inappropriate for any service member, especially in uniform.

If your question whether or not cadets and midshipmen are allowed to don their dress uniforms for liberty, then yes they are. Also, how sure are you that they are cadets/midshipmen? I can't imagine that there are that many of them in NYC for Fleet Week for their summer cruises.

Response by Maj John Bell made May 29 at 2016 12:25 PM

Maj John Bell — Sun, 29 May 2016 12:25:45 -0400

My comments are based on my attendance at Annapolis from 78-82. In some cases the uniform may be mandated for liberty.

Liberty in uniform was encouraged if the "clothing" matched the activity. e.g. Dress Whites on a water slide, BAD IDEA. Summer Service Whites at a Baseball game, good to go. Although Navy Whites are the greatest stain magnet known to man. Wrapping yourself in Saran Wrap probably would not fly.

Drinking in uniform, off base...? OK, but assume the Superintendent and the Commandant are at the next table, and act accordingly. Nurse that beer, and don't have many. Hint - three probably equals many.