How do phones and active duty status work (assuming you're not on a battle deployment)? Will you be allowed a phone?

Cole Onyx — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 02:17:43 -0400

If so, is it issued or can you buy your own. This is outside of your work phone, if you're job calls for it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 3 at 2018 3:01 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 03:01:44 -0400

Yes, you buy a phone, just like anyone else. Being in the military is a job. With some strict rules. But buy phones, cars, etc. that stuff is normal.

Response by SPC Michael Dillon made Jul 3 at 2018 4:47 AM

SPC Michael Dillon — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 04:47:58 -0400

If it's not issued, you don't need it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 3 at 2018 6:07 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 06:07:38 -0400

Turning of the ringer in formation is a good point to remember! Some areas they are a no-go depending on security requirements but soldiers have cell phone just like everyone else...

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 3 at 2018 11:02 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 11:02:51 -0400

You can have a phone and internet access on deployment. You won't get a signal overseas however, but where you can find WIFI, or if you buy a phone over there, you can use it just like one you'd get over here. I talk to my buddies on deployment every day.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Jul 3 at 2018 11:55 AM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 11:55:37 -0400

It depends on where you work and what your supervisors want. If you work in an area where classified information is handled, then phones are prohibited. Some buildings have little lock boxes outside the secure area where people can leave their phones, some don't and you'll have to leave the phone in your vehicle or at home. Similar rules for anyplace the phone might create a hazard. Otherwise your supervisor will tell you the rules for your workplace. Overall, I would say to plan on not using your phone except for personal critical situations or emergencies during your work hours.

If the Government wants you to have a phone, they will issue you one. You don't really want this because it becomes a tether between you and your workplace. It makes it too easy for your boss to send you a text saying he needs and answer to a question before you get up tomorrow morning. Happens in the civilian world too.

Response by SGT Tony Clifford made Jul 3 at 2018 3:05 PM

SGT Tony Clifford — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 15:05:13 -0400

You will buy your own phone. Most units require you own a phone. When I got to the 14th EN BN, I was required to sign out of the barracks stating where I'd be and for how long until I had a means of being contacted.

Response by SFC Kelly Fuerhoff made Jul 3 at 2018 3:44 PM

SFC Kelly Fuerhoff — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 15:44:58 -0400

You don't get issued a cell phone for personal use. No. You buy your own. Hell I got one in AIT.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Jul 3 at 2018 4:06 PM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 16:06:49 -0400

There are very few who are issued phones for work accept for senior personnel and high level drivers, and certain specialties. You are of course authorized a personal phone. There are restrictions on there use for various reasons, but you will be well informed when those occasions exist.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Jul 3 at 2018 4:48 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 16:48:46 -0400

1. Unless you are something special- you get 0 gov't phone. If you where in my unit- you would not have your phone- in the field, or forward of the FOB, or on your phone during any duty hrs. . You want to use your phone you would use it on YOUR time, not mine.