Is it "ok" to go in to a "breastaurant" in uniform?

TSgt Joshua Copeland — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 22:16:59 -0500

2 parts question:

Does your service have a rule against it?
What is your PERSONAL opinion?

What is a "breastaurant"? Places like Hooters, Bikinis, Tilted Kilt, Heart Attack Grill, etc.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 4 at 2015 10:32 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 22:32:26 -0500

Chicken Strip-Club.

Kay Eff See-Through.

McDoubleDees.

Okay. I've added this to my vocabulary, TSgt Joshua Copeland, and my list for future business plans. Thanks.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 4 at 2015 11:03 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 23:03:58 -0500

We represent our Service and our Country, and I do not feel that it is in good taste. Do I have a problem with those establishments no, but the issue is the perception from the public seeing a service member or for that matter any uniformed public service member in those establishments.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 4 at 2015 11:16 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 23:16:11 -0500

For the Army AR 670-1 Ch 4 para 4-3 c.(2)
"Personnel may not wear the combat uniform in off-post establishments that primarily sell alcohol. If the off-post establishment sells alcohol and food, Soldiers may not wear the combat uniform if their activities in the establishment center on the drinking of alcohol."

Additionally, service members in the combat uniform will not sit at the bar
area of a restaurant where the primary purpose of the bar is the selling of alcohol.

Hooters is a restaurant, you can't ban service members from a run of the mill eating establishments without applicable reasoning. I don't particularly eat at Hooters or 'breastaurants". However if I was in invited to eat their by a friend and they're paying for everything, damn skippy I'll be there. I don't turn down free food!

EDIT:
***For clarification, I have never ate at such an establishment while in uniform during duty/off duty hours. For me it projects the wrong image. You might have caught me at a Golden Corral or at Chipotople for lunch but not a place like Hooters.

Response by PO3 John Jeter made Jan 4 at 2015 11:32 PM

PO3 John Jeter — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 23:32:29 -0500

I wouldn't prohibit members from getting a meal at one of these establishments. If their actions or demeanor are offensive and cause complaints however, I would drop the righteous wrath on their heads. If I were a local commander I would encourage these establishments to report any unseemly behavior as well....... If you want to leer, ogle, and drool, do it in civilian attire.

Response by 1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 5 at 2015 9:15 AM

1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 09:15:55 -0500

Only if it guarantees a discount.

Response by Sgt Adam Jennings made Jan 5 at 2015 9:59 AM

Sgt Adam Jennings — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 09:59:23 -0500

I am absolutely against wearing any uniform, whether combat or service, into any establishments like that. You want them to know you're military? By all means, wear one of those nifty moto T-shirts they sell at the exchange, PC, NEX, or whatever exchange you have.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Jan 5 at 2015 10:00 AM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 10:00:51 -0500

Even if SMs are technically able to wear their uniforms to a place like Hooters, they absolutely should not. No way.

Response by SSG Tim Everett made Jan 5 at 2015 10:44 AM

SSG Tim Everett — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 10:44:09 -0500

Personally speaking, when I wore a uniform I never went to those establishments. Not because I felt it was unprofessional, but because none of them ever did anything for me. Hooters? Meh. Okay short shorts, push-up bras, and tight shirts. Zippity doo. Tilted Kilt and other establishments did not exist at that time.

Response by SSG Christopher Parrish made Jan 5 at 2015 10:56 AM

SSG Christopher Parrish — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 10:56:31 -0500

I wouldn't, but then again I don't go to places like that for personal reasons. I am married and have daughters, no one is as sexy as my Wife nor as precious as my girls. Another reason I don't go is "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart."

Response by SSG John Erny made Jan 5 at 2015 11:00 AM

SSG John Erny — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 11:00:51 -0500

Well this is a subject we will have to keep abreast of..........

Response by TSgt Kevin Buccola made Jan 5 at 2015 11:00 AM

TSgt Kevin Buccola — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 11:00:15 -0500

Yes if you are picking up a to go order...

My question is this - How much time do y'all get for lunch? Are these establishments on base?

If you are in uniform at dinner time, you either work a swing shift, working late or just trying to get a discount or you are trying to get noticed. Not trying to upset anyone but think about it.

Response by CPT Chris Loomis made Jan 5 at 2015 12:44 PM

CPT Chris Loomis — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 12:44:43 -0500

(Jokingly)

Can I just get the addresses to all these places so I can go in civvies? PLEASE.

LOL!

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Jan 5 at 2015 2:58 PM

TSgt Joshua Copeland — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 14:58:01 -0500

If you are a recruiter and are "zone canvassing" you can go just about anywhere in uniform :)

Response by SPC Christopher Smith made Jan 5 at 2015 5:40 PM

SPC Christopher Smith — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 17:40:54 -0500

I love the not in good taste comment I have seen over and over again. I didn't realize being on World News shooting at an enemy was in good taste. What I am actually hearing is, certain people do not like the idea of entering into establishments like those and because of this they don't want anyone else to do so. As long as the SM is not drinking in uniform, causing a scene, or in some way shape or form breaking a regulation, leave them be.

I personally believe I should be able to enjoy some decent food, and a good scenery while in uniform. Although I have not entered one in uniform yet, doesn't mean I won't in the future, unless there is a new regulation against it.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 5 at 2015 5:51 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 17:51:59 -0500

I'm going to say no. If it is commonly referred to as a "breast"aurant...I think common sense prevails here. Put any inappropriate workplace conversation noun in the front of "aurant" and you should come to the same conclusion.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Jan 5 at 2015 6:45 PM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 18:45:28 -0500

I must exercise good judgment and not patronize restaurants such are bars, and places where the waitresses run around in skimpy clothing like Twin Peaks and Hooters while in uniform. I do not want to create the perception I am consuming alcohol beverages or supporting some crazy subjecting women to the perverted needs of men agenda. Also, people take pictures so I don't those to end up on FB pages like Army WTF or MP WTF. I have ate at family restaurants on occasion for dinner, but I prefer to change into a civilian attire such a zoot suit.

Response by MSgt Rob Weston made Jan 5 at 2015 8:05 PM

MSgt Rob Weston — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 20:05:36 -0500

Might look like a boob if you went in uniform (pun intended)

Response by SFC Dan Sorrow, M.S. made Jan 5 at 2015 8:14 PM

SFC Dan Sorrow, M.S. — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 20:14:46 -0500

As a senior NCO, I was required to enforce regulations and SOP's (policy). Although the reg's stated it was prohibited, local policy often allowed it during lunch periods (of course, when I first went in, there was a two-beer limit during lunch). I retired in 2000 and it was common place to see soldiers, airmen, and marines at off post eating establishments in Aberdeen, Maryland and surrounding areas.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 5 at 2015 8:25 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 20:25:48 -0500

I don't care if the public doesn't want to see mil members at these establishments. I don't care if these members want some food while pretty girls serve it to them. As long as the soldier is behaving him/herself in public, who are we to take away more from them. I know we are held to a higher standard. So do they. So does everyone. That's why this is even coming up. If two soldiers were being harassed at hooters by a group and they stood up bravely to defend themselves, which led into an altercation, they would receive an article 15 and leadership would try to push them out of the army. We ask these soldiers to be brave, we tell these soldiers to be proud, we teach these soldiers to fight for what's right, we demand these soldiers to be cowards when they are pushed to their limits. This is a true story. Two soldiers were at hooters. A group of drunk belligerent men started talking smack to them because one of the waitreses was giving more attention to these guys. The waitress happened to be married to one of them. The soldiers were not drinking. The belligerent men approached and started taunting them. The two soldiers ended up fighting those guys. Cops came and released the soldiers to their command. They were not even charged. The military leaders thought these soldiers were representing the Amy in a bad manner and punished them for it. I seriously don't get it. I want these kids to be honest and honorable and brave. Yet they can't stand up when a drunk wants to call them names and physical push them. Did we really want them to turn the other cheek?

Response by MAJ Jim Woods made Jan 5 at 2015 9:40 PM

MAJ Jim Woods — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 21:40:54 -0500

Uhhhhh...........No? Not OK in uniform. Just my opinion. But then I don't go there anyway.

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made Jan 6 at 2015 3:39 AM

PO1 Rick Serviss — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 03:39:08 -0500

Absolutely. I live near a base and I see military eating in uniform at Hooters all the time and Twin Peaks supports the military with a free lunch on Veterans Day. Breastaurants aren't stripper bars. There's nothing wrong with going to any restaurant just because you think they have the best wings around.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2015 11:19 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 11:19:13 -0500

Is it allowed? Yes. Is it a good idea? No

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Jan 6 at 2015 11:41 AM

SGT Michael Glenn — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 11:41:30 -0500

I Guess SSG Garza hit this one on the head !!!! now put the drink down and move away from the bar !!!!!!!! hehehehe

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Jan 6 at 2015 12:03 PM

SGT Michael Glenn — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 12:03:25 -0500

I was stationed in Germany,lived an hour away from post, had just gotten off duty and my wife had picked me up, I was in civies and we decided to stop off at MCD's for a fast dinner before shopping ( it was X mas) while eating , a group of 4-5 soldiers tromped into the place in uniform, yelling ,screaming and still throwing snowballs at each other inside the place !!! I sat and watched as they threw snow at employees and made rude comments to other patrons and finally got up when they were approached by the store manager and they tore into her as well.I walked up to them and asked if they were having fun as I showed them my ID card.One looked at me and silently walked away and sat down, the others got all tough like and started getting in my face asking if I was enough to handle the rest and to shut up and mind my own business.what ensued is a stand off between them and I ,my giving a lecture to them about pride and the uniform and how they were destroying all that . the manger had since called the Polizie who had called the MP's who were coming through the door as it looked like it was about to get ugly. All were taken out with out even getting to order and Im sure they learned about proper behavior from their chain, one would hope at least.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2015 12:35 PM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 12:35:08 -0500

If you're wearing your camis out in town for anything short of a life threatening emergency, official command function*, or you're driving home, I don't care if your regs say it's cool or not, but you look like a bag of ass. Drives me up the wall every single time I see the local Army or Airforce guys doing that. Change into service dress if you wanna go off post in uniform. You'll get way more girls (or guys if that's your thing) with a uniform that's designed for looking good any way.

*Ex: My funeral detail would have a driver/armed security escort and that Marine would be in camis. Perfectly appropriate. He's working, and should be in the working uniform.

Response by SPC Stephanie Oanes made Jan 6 at 2015 2:32 PM

SPC Stephanie Oanes — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 14:32:49 -0500

What I want to really know, is how come there aren't restaurants where male servers run around in ranger panties serving food? I'd be there everyday.

Response by PO2 Katie Benson made Jan 6 at 2015 3:06 PM

PO2 Katie Benson — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 15:06:05 -0500

I have never heard the term "breastraunt" that's funny!!!!

Response by CW2 Joseph Evans made Jan 6 at 2015 3:10 PM

CW2 Joseph Evans — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 15:10:18 -0500

If you wouldn't take your Grandmother/Mother-in-law/daughter to eat there, you probably shouldn't be wearing your uniform there, regardless of how good the cherry pie is.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2015 3:10 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 15:10:19 -0500

It should be as long as you are not drinking in uniform

Response by MSgt Tim Parkhurst made Jan 6 at 2015 3:46 PM

MSgt Tim Parkhurst — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 15:46:38 -0500

This is easy. Every uniform has its purpose. The Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform is for combat, not enjoying liberty out in town. If you want to wear a uniform when you're out and about, put on your service uniform (Service "C", etc). If that doesn't appeal to you, all branches of the service are fairly generous in allowing the wear of civilian attire. The wear of certain uniforms at a so-called "breastaurant" is allowed with exceptions. However, in some locales, some of these establishments have garnered a reputation that doesn't mesh well with service standards. Specifically, a Twin Peaks restaurant in Jacksonville, NC was placed off limits to all service personnel because it had become a place where local prostitutes were plying their trade. In this case, no serviceman should be there (although it's tough to enforce!), whether in uniform or not. Regardless of its legality, patronizing an establishment with a local reputation like that sets a poor example and displays a tolerance, if not an outright endorsement, of the exploitation of women and sexual misconduct. This is both my service policy and my personal opinion.

I understand this question is aimed primarily at the Army and Air Force, but we all know they have equivalent service-type uniforms. Combat uniforms are for combat. Flight suits and work coveralls, etc, are for work. The appropriate wear of all our uniforms presents a professional appearance and instills a sense of pride and attention to detail, if the officer and NCO leadership makes it so. Otherwise, the "uniform of the day" just becomes another burden on the little guy passed down from the boss.

After a career in the Corps, and working closely with members of all services, I still can't figure out why other branches allow their "combat" uniforms to be worn on liberty to begin with. It's giving in to an attitude of "I want it the way I want it, and I want it now", and convenience over propriety in the extreme. At the end of a typical workday, I've never known a Serviceman who didn't have time or a place to change over into civvies before heading home. If you are wearing combat utilities out to lunch during the work day, then you have time to change into civvies. I don't know any major installation that doesn't take at least 15 minutes of driving time to get on or off base during lunch hour. So take a couple minutes to get out of your combat uniform first.

For Marines, our answer is to allow limited wear of the combat uniform off base when traveling to and from work. No stopping for gas or matters of convenience. If your destination is chow, how about eating on base where it's not an issue? Chow is a crutch anyway ;). The chow hall sucks? Maybe you should be fighting to make it a better place to eat instead of wearing the very uniform that many of your brothers bled and died in out to the local Hooters. In my day, eating at the chow hall was considered a privilege. It's also convenient, since every unit or base has one or more. And, interestingly enough, it provides immeasurable opportunities for NCO's to exercise leadership or simply observe their Marines (or soldiers or airmen, etc) outside of work. We're winding down from the entire Force being at war to a basically peacetime force. I've been through this routine several times, and I can tell you that you should be looking for opportunities for junior leaders to be in front of their people. Many of you will scoff, but something as simple as close order drill, or moving a platoon to the chow hall will become important again.

I also read a response from junior officer who may benefit from some senior SNCO advice. NEVER, EVER use as your justification for allowing an objectionable behavior, the fact that someone else allows an objectionable behavior, therefore, my pet objectionable behavior shouldn't be a problem. Two wrongs don't make a right! If you think standards are becoming lax or overlooked in other areas, fix them. It's your responsibility as a leader. Don't ever use it as an excuse to allow other standards to be overlooked. As an officer who may someday make policy, you should have an eye toward raising the bar, not lowering it. When I became a Master Sergeant (E-8), a wise colonel told me that my loyalty was no longer to individual Marines or even to the unit. My loyalty was to the institution. That's not saying that Troop Welfare isn't still half of the leadership equation, because is certainly is. As an officer, you set the tone. What you allow will be taken advantage of. What you diligently enforce will become the standard.

Response by SGT Timothy Byrd made Jan 6 at 2015 3:51 PM

SGT Timothy Byrd — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 15:51:51 -0500

Honestly it doesn't really matter if your in uniform or not because you can usually pick out who is in the military even in civilian clothes so you will be judged regardless by those that don't approve of certain eating establishments.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2015 5:05 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 17:05:07 -0500

NO, IT IS NOT OK TO EAT AT A “BREASTAURANT” WHILE IN UNIFORM.
Reasons why:
1. It is arguably a violation of Army Regulation 670-1, that expressly forbids eating in an establishment in uniform where the primary activity is drinking. You can eat there, you can even have a beer, but if your activity is to drink beer and ogle, you are wrong.
2. Perception. A whole lot of people will take notice that a uniformed Soldier – we do stick out – is patronizing an establishment of this type. This brings potential discredit to the uniformed service, and as such is wrong.
3. It is hard for me to imagine that this was a pit stop “to and from” military duty. If you are not performing a military duty, you shouldn’t generally be in uniform. See #2.

I am not here to legislate your morality, but by God if you bring discredit upon my unit due to your determination to do something that is questionable at best, I have a spate of quality corrective training to help you get your head screwed on straight.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2015 5:50 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 17:50:03 -0500

I could'nt see any issues in it either. Strip Club is a big no no. but eating some wings and drinking a beer why not? You can go to a bar in your ASU's , so what the big deal with a little chicken and a bottle of beer?

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2015 7:14 PM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 19:14:25 -0500

When I was stationed at MacDill AFB while I was in the Air Force we use to go down to Hooters and would order take out from them on a lot of the Sunday football games. It wasn't until we got a new Wing Commander that he actually signed a policy letter saying we couldn't go while in uniform.

Response by Cpl Peter Martuneac made Jan 6 at 2015 8:16 PM

Cpl Peter Martuneac — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 20:16:43 -0500

How about everyone follow the Marines' example and not wear your uniform ANYWHERE off duty? Or if you must, wear your service uniform so you look professional.

Response by SPC Daniel Edwards made Jan 6 at 2015 9:58 PM

SPC Daniel Edwards — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 21:58:27 -0500

Been to Hooters twice. Ordered the same as I always do: chicken strip sandwich, fries and tea (I don't like to drink alcohol, sue me). Saw a couple of officers the second time. Nobody seemed to care. My NCOIC once treated my fellow soldiers to a restaurant with a bar. As long as no alcohol comes into the control of a SM in uniform, then what would the problem be?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2015 11:06 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 23:06:24 -0500

Keep it simple... If not on duty, not in uniform. When on duty, eat at an establishment not serving alcohol.

Response by TSgt Jackie Jones made Jan 7 at 2015 12:38 AM

TSgt Jackie Jones — Wed, 07 Jan 2015 00:38:26 -0500

Would it then be acceptable to work the "second job" in one of these establishments? We had to have a form filled out and approval from the CC in order to maintain secondary employment- so, would it be approved? Or do you go work there without approval. I've seen it happen. But I don't know how...

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2015 2:01 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Jan 2015 02:01:13 -0500

Generally speaking I would say that SMs should not go to one of these restaurants while in uniform.

However I would be a hypocrite if I said there were no exceptions. Myself with my commander and most of my unit did go to a Hooters while in Class A's. I was a young PL and we all traveled to Kansas City to conduct the funeral of one our Soldiers, who died in a ATV accident. After the funeral we needed to do something to bring the Soldier's spirits back up. Sure, there other things that we could have done or places we could have gone. But Hooters was a place that our lost Soldier really liked and in a weird sense we felt that we were honoring his memory amongst the unit there. Plus, the young Soldiers perked up by seeing the girls.

Now, things have change over the last decade plus. I would caution any commander from doing the same thing. It just fit the situation and time for us.

Response by SGT Jim Z. made Jan 7 at 2015 8:55 AM

SGT Jim Z. — Wed, 07 Jan 2015 08:55:50 -0500

I actually never heard them referred to as breastaurants.

As a previous person posted the Army Regulation that sums it up and of course there is always the commanders discretion and the Armed Forces Disciplinary Control Board aka Off limits control board.

I really do not care if the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, or Marines are abiding by the above regulations, rules, etc...

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2015 8:59 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Jan 2015 08:59:00 -0500

I'm going to say no it's not a problem, the big thing I see most people who call it a problem mentioning is the "objectification" of woman. If you see it as that, then you are actually objectiying them without realising it. 1. You are insennuating that the woman are the only reason to go there.
2. Yes a soldier may look but it's no different than in any other resteraunt if you see an attractive woman you are probably going to glance, it's human nature. As long as you are not just eyeballing the woman and just completely being a creep I see no problem. In other words self control
3. Most of these establishments have lots of tv's to enjoy a variety of different sports while you dine and talk where as most of the alternatives do not. Which from my experience is the main reason MOST guys actually go there.

Response by SPC Donald Moore made Jan 7 at 2015 10:19 AM

SPC Donald Moore — Wed, 07 Jan 2015 10:19:35 -0500

Back in 1994/95 (when I was stationed at Ft. Stewart) the base commander made it clear that he did not want soldiers to conduct business off base in uniform. A very brief stop to pickup something on the way home after work might be overlooked, but we were expected to change into civilian attire if we were going somewhere for a non-military purpose.

That may not be the guidance anywhere else, but I think it is the standard that all personnel should hold themselves to. A couple of the recent "stolen valor" videos come to mind.
Anyone that is anywhere outside a base in a military uniform should be questioned because it is not reasonable to parade that uniform around for non-military purposes.

Response by CW3 Thomas K. made Jan 7 at 2015 11:59 AM

CW3 Thomas K. — Wed, 07 Jan 2015 11:59:46 -0500

If it's OK to go to march in a Gay Pride Parade in Uniform, then on what moral standard do you use to base the decision to go to Hooters? http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/dc-politics/us-armed-forces-color-guard-to-march-in-gay-pride-parade-in-dc-called-a-first-nationwide/2014/06/05/32955202-ec26-11e3-b98c-72cef4a00499_story.html

Red, White and Blue, meet Rainbow — first U.S. military color guard approved for D.C. gay pride...

DoD approval for Capital Pride parade is a first nationwide, LGBT groups say.

Response by COL Ted Mc made Jan 7 at 2015 12:18 PM

COL Ted Mc — Wed, 07 Jan 2015 12:18:18 -0500

Considering the quality of the food served, I don't think that it is a good idea to go into places like "Hooters" at all.

Mind you, back in the dim distant past when I was a 2LT (NOT, as reputed with the XLVII Legion) my appetite was probably different.

Response by MGySgt Dale Cutts made Jan 7 at 2015 5:17 PM

MGySgt Dale Cutts — Wed, 07 Jan 2015 17:17:05 -0500

Come on guys, change out of your uniform before you go in, Its the right thing to do and
you know it.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2015 6:17 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Jan 2015 18:17:18 -0500

Been there for a divisional function, several times, the uniform part was optional for us, but why wear it if ya don't have to?

Response by MSG Mitch Dowler made Jan 7 at 2015 7:39 PM

MSG Mitch Dowler — Wed, 07 Jan 2015 19:39:30 -0500

I think political correctness has gotten us all a little uptight. When I was stationed in Germany we had a half day of athletics and recreation every week. One of the most popular things to do was go to the swimming pool or local beach. At the swimming pool most of the Germans just changed into their swim suits pool side publicly because it was cleaner than the locker room and there was an outdoor shower already there. At the beach most everyone changed at the beach and some put nothing back on.

No we should not have anyone going to strip clubs in uniform but let's not get too uptight either.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Jan 7 at 2015 7:57 PM

LTC Stephen C. — Wed, 07 Jan 2015 19:57:20 -0500

TSgt Joshua Copeland, many others have cited regulations, so I won't rehash them. To me, though, the very fact that the question is posed should give you the answer, regardless of regulation. I personally would not appear in such a place in uniform.

Response by Cpl Christopher Bishop made Jan 7 at 2015 8:56 PM

Cpl Christopher Bishop — Wed, 07 Jan 2015 20:56:36 -0500

The "old Corps" way was such that the only authorized time to wear a uniform off-base was while traveling to and from work/base, with refueling as the only exception. At least for camouflage anyway.

I have to wonder who is "hiding from whom/what" when wearing cammies "out in town" or what "battles they are fighting".

I also notice that most I see wearing cammies in public often appear to be the least physically-fit in general appearance. I guess these are the least-deployable types.

It should be noted, however, that since our lovely friends at the FDA approve a lot more of what are chemicals and less real food, that if you got the opportunity to go wherever to actually eat real food, that such opportunities should be taken. However I'd still question how much inconvenience is it, really, to change your attire before you go.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2015 9:56 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Jan 2015 21:56:35 -0500

TSgt Joshua Copeland We went to a pub today in uniform for lunch...on a college campus no less. I didn't feel out of sort because we were not drinking alcohol, but personally I think it looks unprofessional, but that is me, and as long as Big Army allows it, I will continue to do it.

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Jan 8 at 2015 9:56 AM

CWO2 Shelby DuBois — Thu, 08 Jan 2015 09:56:23 -0500

I don't like the way breast-aurants objectify women... do not wear your uniform to Hooters.
I don't religions...I am an atheist................................do not wear your uniform to church.
I am a school principal and don't like the military. ......do not wear your uniform to pick up kids.
I don't like the military in general................................do not wear uniform to parades.
Slippery slope you are on when you start picking and choosing.
If a uniform is authorized for wear on leave and liberty the only places you should not go are those on an officially designated 'Off Limits' by the CO. Other than than... have an opinion and keep it to yourself.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2015 12:59 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Jan 2015 12:59:49 -0500

I didn't even bother looking up regulations on this. I don't know much but my uniform is deserving great respect. I am a Warrior, therefore every object in the realm of my profession is inviolable. I think CPT Aaron Kletzing implied this.

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Jan 8 at 2015 7:05 PM

TSgt Joshua Copeland — Thu, 08 Jan 2015 19:05:21 -0500

To whichever admin added the photo...that is hilarious!

Response by SFC Michael W. made Jan 8 at 2015 9:34 PM

SFC Michael W. — Thu, 08 Jan 2015 21:34:29 -0500

My opinion is this...remember who and what you represent, period.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2015 11:44 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Jan 2015 11:44:22 -0500

Short answer; no, it is not okay.

Long answer; AR 670-1 Ch 4 para 4-3 c.(2) and most local installation policies will say wearing unifoms in places that do sell primarily alcohol shall not be visited in uniform. In addition, the military is a profession, not a job. Act professional, and change into civilian clothes if you plan on going to such a place.

Taking the example of Hooters, while I understand they are a "restaurant," they are famous of having a staff composed of mainly attractive, well-proportioned women who are flirtacious. To simplify, they are a coft-core strip club. Not acceptible in uniform.

Response by SFC Michael Jackson, MBA made Jan 9 at 2015 3:25 PM

SFC Michael Jackson, MBA — Fri, 09 Jan 2015 15:25:41 -0500

To restrict Soldiers from this establishments, I think you'd have to assume that they'd be unprofessional or undisciplined. I didn't know think that's a fair assumption.
I put this next to USO shows with cheerleaders and pop stars. Hooters or tilted Kilt outfits isn't any worse that. Is some cases, less revealing. The military often support these events w/o much concern for its image

Response by 1SG Rich Martinez made Jan 10 at 2015 12:16 AM

1SG Rich Martinez — Sat, 10 Jan 2015 00:16:43 -0500

To me it just sets a bad example to be in places like that in uniform.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 10 at 2015 12:51 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Jan 2015 12:51:54 -0500

The picture reminds me of Hotel California on TQ (Al Taqaddam Air Base)!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 11 at 2015 2:58 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Jan 2015 02:58:51 -0500

I think this issue really comes in to play with your personal feelings. I don't ever drink in uniform, I think it looks bad and honestly the guys that do drink in uniform get sauced so it looks even worse. It is personal preference here and if you are okay with it, I say more power to ya.

Response by SSG Stephen Arnold made Jan 14 at 2015 8:52 PM

SSG Stephen Arnold — Wed, 14 Jan 2015 20:52:23 -0500

I was expecting this to be a question about "gentlemens" clubs. ;)

Response by TSgt Aaron D. made May 27 at 2015 10:17 PM

TSgt Aaron D. — Wed, 27 May 2015 22:17:24 -0400

It doesn't matter, Hooters just banned all patches and colors from entering the building.

Response by 1SG Bill Farmerie made Dec 8 at 2016 6:09 PM

1SG Bill Farmerie — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 18:09:11 -0500

In the military, you follow regulations NOT opinions. Regulation (Army) allows it period. End of discussion.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2016 6:36 PM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 18:36:47 -0500

You know what? Why not put out a nationwide poll to settle this once and for all? Have we ever asked what the actual public thinks of these? We only ever assume it. I know literally 0% of any civilian population that would judge us negatively for going here in uniform. And then when we get the results, we tailor the rules.

Response by SSG Leon Drew made Dec 8 at 2016 9:20 PM

SSG Leon Drew — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 21:20:37 -0500

Yes it is the PC bullshit is getting ridiculous!

Response by Sgt Carlos Barrera made Dec 9 at 2016 8:58 AM

Sgt Carlos Barrera — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 08:58:14 -0500

which uniform?? Dress Blues?? BDU's(Army), alphas? Charlies?
You can take the time to get out of uniform and wear civilian attire; if you are that lazy, then stop whining!!!! If you feel you need to wear BDU's then you are just plain a disgrace to the military.

Response by SPC Darren Coffenberry made Dec 9 at 2017 4:12 PM

SPC Darren Coffenberry — Sat, 09 Dec 2017 16:12:48 -0500

Kind of the same concept of why military vehicles are not to be parked outside liquor stores...It shines a bad light on ALL the armed services , regardless of what branch you serve in.

Response by SSgt Harvey "Skip" Porter made Dec 9 at 2017 8:41 PM

SSgt Harvey "Skip" Porter — Sat, 09 Dec 2017 20:41:16 -0500

Personally I think it's unprofessional. Most but not all civilians respect the uniform and I think it sends the wrong message being in uniform in such an establishment.

Peace!

Response by SFC Bill Snyder made May 15 at 2020 1:12 PM

SFC Bill Snyder — Fri, 15 May 2020 13:12:02 -0400

WOW, shades of Carrie Nation. Around military bases you see oodles of folks in restaurants that serve food and alcohol during meal times; all in uniform. One time while we were away from home my 2 granddaughters wanted to see what th full was about Hooters. They looked in , took a seat and had lunch. They said they see worse at the Pools in the Hotel and at the beach. Remember the time when you only saw tattoos on women was in a Carnival? Only sailors? Just recently saw a 1SGT at a Military Base with a bunch of Neck Tattoos. Different world today.

ps: they didn't like the food.

Response by LCpl Kenneth Auten made May 15 at 2020 1:13 PM

LCpl Kenneth Auten — Fri, 15 May 2020 13:13:55 -0400

Remember one thing. This Restaurant which my wife and daughter also love to eat at. The Pay both State and Federal taxes. They pay our salaries.

Response by Cpl Andrew Kimbel made May 15 at 2020 3:02 PM

Cpl Andrew Kimbel — Fri, 15 May 2020 15:02:45 -0400

I think the Marines have the best solution to this question: don't wear your cammies off base. Boom, problem solved. I've never understood why anyone would WANT to continue wearing them out in public anyway. It just screams "thank me for my service". When I was done for the day, I would go straight to my room, change into civilian clothes, and move on with my day.

Response by SCPO William Akin made May 15 at 2020 3:16 PM

SCPO William Akin — Fri, 15 May 2020 15:16:33 -0400

I remember FONDLY the '56' Club and Chiefs Club, Little Creek, Amphib. Base of the 1960's..
Which makes think this is a generational question...

Response by SFC Bill Vinopal made May 15 at 2020 3:27 PM

SFC Bill Vinopal — Fri, 15 May 2020 15:27:28 -0400

When you are hungry and it’s the only place around it doesn’t really matter. Get over it

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2020 4:14 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 May 2020 16:14:51 -0400

Army is the worst at wearing uniforms to the mall, to restaurants, and basically anywhere where you 100% had time to go home and change before visiting such establishment. I don’t blame the army per se. I blame the fact that the army attracts too many boots and they “demand respect” for their uniform.

Source: I have served exclusively in army towns despite being in the navy

Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made May 16 at 2020 6:52 AM

Lt Col Charlie Brown — Sat, 16 May 2020 06:52:16 -0400

Be sensitive to how it appears...that counts.

Response by CW5 Jack Cardwell made May 16 at 2020 7:32 AM

CW5 Jack Cardwell — Sat, 16 May 2020 07:32:36 -0400

Two part answer.

1. You did not specify uniform.
2. Should you be there in a U.S. Government vehicle, especially a tactical vehicle ?

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made May 16 at 2020 10:11 AM

SFC Ralph E Kelley — Sat, 16 May 2020 10:11:34 -0400

Yep

Response by SCPO William Akin made May 16 at 2021 5:10 AM

SCPO William Akin — Sun, 16 May 2021 05:10:50 -0400

Olongapo...Naples...San Juan...Saigon.. Gulf Juan, Reynolds Ave. Charleston, E Main St. Norfolk, 5th St. San Diego, a whole raft of places in NOLA...
I could go on, and on, and ON
Then again maybe it's a generational thing

Edit= Hell for that matter the 56 club Little Creek, NAB

Response by SSG Ralph Watkins made May 16 at 2021 1:22 PM

SSG Ralph Watkins — Sun, 16 May 2021 13:22:10 -0400

This is no longer my military. So glad to be out. I can see the issue with the alcohol & being in uniform. The pretty girls & all, that there is nothing wrong with that. Hooters itself tends to be a very pro-military company. The old Army not only was okay with men's misogyny but many units would bring in male strippers for the female troops. Funny thing is the amount of sexual misconduct wasn't any worse than today's prudish military. My one unit had a dining-in with two women exotic dancers come in. Our BC was a Mormon yet & the dancers were enjoyed by our female soldiers as well. I think today's military has become extremely repressive. No wonder morale is the bottom of the barrel. Years ago we had commands run by religious zealots that saw everything as evil. Today it's the PC movement that make so many things as evil. By the way, I was prude back in my day but I was okay with allowing others to enjoy themselves.