Wearing a ring on the left hand; allowed by AR 670-1 but not by an NCO. How would you handle it?

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 25 Jan 2015 21:45:58 -0500

I wear a ring on the pointer finger of my left hand. It's sterling silver and isn't even as big as a class ring. However, a SSG from my unit is constantly telling me to take it off because it is not a wedding ring. I tell him AR 670-1 states in section Jewlery that a soldier my wear a total of 2 rings; 1 on each hand, and a wedding band set is considered 1. It also states that rings must be conservative in taste and not extreme. Nowhere in the Regs does it say a soldier can only wear wedding rings. My ring meets all requirements but he still yells everytime he sees it. How can I educate him more or resolve the situation without taking off my ring and without getting chewed out?

Response by COL Jason Smallfield, PMP, CFM, CM made Jan 25 at 2015 9:54 PM

COL Jason Smallfield, PMP, CFM, CM — Sun, 25 Jan 2015 21:54:10 -0500

Recommendations:
- Confirm / deny with a senior NCO that your reading of AR 670-1 is correct.
- I would also recommend that you check your local unit SOP. Some MOSs and/or branches such as Armor that work around heavy vehicles, machinery, or equipment may have something as part of a safety issue not as part of an Army Regulation uniform issue. Easy to tear skin off a finger or a finger off if a ring gets caught and your body weight pulls you down.
- After above (if confirmed), ask the SSG to show you in AR 670-1 or unit SOP where it states that you are out of compliance. I would tell him that you are not questioning his authority but that you are trying to educate yourself and the best place to get educated is out of the source documents themselves.
- If above does not work and you feel strongly about it, I recommend seeing your PSG then 1SG if need be.
- Good luck.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2015 10:39 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 25 Jan 2015 22:39:58 -0500

Wear it.

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Jan 25 at 2015 10:40 PM

TSgt Joshua Copeland — Sun, 25 Jan 2015 22:40:39 -0500

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member , can we get a photo of the ring in question? Why do you wear it on the index finger vs the ring finger?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2015 11:04 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 25 Jan 2015 23:04:00 -0500

COL Jason Smallfield, PMP, CFM, CM has provided the best answer by far from what I've seen, but consider the following.

As I'm sure you've heard at some point there's an Army saying that goes something like "a leader can add to but can't take away" when it comes to regulations/policies. As far as I know this statement is not backed up officially by any regs (beyond of course the most liberal interpretations of regs generally covered by the "magic bullet"), but it's the culture of the Army and if you're going to fight it you're going to be fighting an uphill battle all the way. You might win, you might not, but take a moment to consider the negative attention you'd be inviting on yourself and the potential fallout that might entail.

Also consider that the exact verbiage used in AR 670-1 per your own research is that rings "must be conservative in taste and not extreme." What is and is not conservative or extreme is relative, and therefore up to a leaders discretion. After seeing a picture of the ring in the response you provided to TSgt Joshua Copeland all I'll say is that an argument could be made that its design and size could be construed in violation of regulation.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Jan 25 at 2015 11:27 PM

CSM Charles Hayden — Sun, 25 Jan 2015 23:27:48 -0500

SPC Cody Voye, Just follow the reg! And when your ring gets hung up on something and you lose your finger - cite the reg to the medics! The military is a hazardous profession, respect it!

You might even save a dated copy of the regulation, all of the reports you can get from the medics and photos for the VA.

Response by PO2 Stephen Brinkley (Scott) made Jan 26 at 2015 12:05 AM

PO2 Stephen Brinkley (Scott) — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 00:05:08 -0500

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member I don't want you to take this the wrong way, but could one of the reasons you are having issues is because you push the envelope? I completely agree with COL Jason Smallfield, PMP, CFM, CM when he stated to take it to your senior NCOS. But I have to be honest with you, if you keep pushing the envelope, it could back to bite you. Sometimes no matter if it's in the regulations it's just better to roger up and take it off. Later you can go back to them and talk about it. If you are dead set on wearing it, understand that there are many ways to have it removed, first one would be a safety concern and if they throw that in your face 9.9 out of 10 you won't have a leg to stand on. Good luck!

Response by SFC Jeff Gurchinoff made Jan 26 at 2015 12:31 AM

SFC Jeff Gurchinoff — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 00:31:34 -0500

What purpose does the ring serve? If you are wearing it just because your interpretation of AR 670-1 says you can and it has no other significance you are certainly not doing yourself any favors- from a safety standpoint or a career standpoint. You may actually need your leadership someday... best to stay in their good graces. I knew a SGM with half a ring finger because his wedding ring took it off. I've known MANY soldiers that for no good reason had an overwhelming desire to push the buttons of their leadership. You have all the free time in the world to wear that ring while out of uniform, if it has no significance I would drop the issue before you escalate your troubles any further. It may be an "Army of One" but you still have to work as a team.

Response by MAJ(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2015 12:53 AM

MAJ(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 00:53:05 -0500

It is not a battle worth fighting. It's jewelry. The ring, in my opinion, is in a grey area. "Conservative" is in the eye of the beholder. In your case, it is in the eye of a superior. Take it off. Having to be constantly told to take it off can be construed as a lack of respect; which is far more offensive than the ring itself.

Response by PFC Michael Dunfee made Jan 26 at 2015 12:46 PM

PFC Michael Dunfee — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 12:46:38 -0500

When I was in it was simple, rings on during formations. off when I hit duty time. After seeing one guy almost lose his finger, I decided it wasn't worth my finger or my ring.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2015 1:05 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 13:05:21 -0500

I'm not a big jewelry guy. I don't wear necklaces even off duty, because that's not me. Having said that, this particular ring is a LOT less flashy than some of the West Point bling I've seen on some officers... I don't know why everyone's saying this ring isn't conservative.

Having said that, this isn't the hill you want to die on. Take your SSG's actions as how NOT to be as a leader, take the ring off when off duty, and wear it all the time when off. Seriously. It's not a wedding ring, therefore it's not worth fighting over, even if you're right.

I mean, I even remove my wedding ring when I know I'm going to have my hands in the guts of a computer. A 14 year old me was working in the guts of one of the first IBM PCs (yeah, I'm old, shut up), and left the PC itself plugged in. I touched something I shouldn't have, and it blew my ass halfway across the room. That day I learned a very healthy respect for electricity. Imagine the outcome if I'd had a ring on at that time.

There are only three times I'd ever fight this battle:

1. If someone objected to my class ring, as a lot of West Point bling is a LOT more flashy. My class ring is from the University of Maryland University College, and has an emerald in the center (my birthstone). It's gold, and I got it when I graduated in 2001 with a Master's of Software Engineering. I wear it on the ring finger of my right hand.

2. If someone objected to my Masonic ring. It is very conservative. It's a dark grey, with the square and compass etched into it. My wife gave it to me as an anniversary present. I wear it when I don't wear the class ring.

3. If someone objected to my wedding ring. It's a plain gold band.

If I'm working with machinery or have my hands in the guts of a computer, the rings come off and go in a secure pocket.

If I'm in formation, all but the wedding ring would come off.

If neither of those situations are happening, but I have a senior leader demanding I remove rings, I would ask what the issue is, and point out that I'm entirely within regs. If the leader continued to be insistent, I would remove the class (or Masonic) ring and put it in a pocket, and just put it back on when that senior leader was out of the area. Why poke the bear?

Now, because of what my wedding ring represents, absent any safety issues, THAT is a hill that I am willing to die on. In my twelve and a half years of active duty and thirteen years of Reserve duty, I've only had ONE senior leader demand I remove my wedding ring.......that was a demand for uniformity, and when I pointed out that he wasn't requiring this of anyone else in the platoon, and other platoons did not enforce this...he quickly backed down. Plus, a well placed "Excuse me, Sergeant, but are you ordering me to compromise my integrity by pretending not to be married? I don't want to misunderstand your orders, so I execute them properly" works wonders.....

Response by SGT Richard H. made Jan 26 at 2015 1:46 PM

SGT Richard H. — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 13:46:14 -0500

I would suggest just going with what's most important to you. If it's the ring, then go down fighting. If it's your standing with your CoC, then maybe consider just wearing the ring when out of uniform.

Honestly, If you want to make an issue of it, he could probably make the argument that wearing a ring on your index finger is faddish, since rings are traditionally worn on the "ring finger".

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2015 3:09 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 15:09:21 -0500

As a spc. Myself I would listen to your ssgt. There could be other reasons such as the mos. You are in could be a chance of injury if something happens
You have to look at the broader picture of regs.

Response by SGT Steven Eugene Kuhn MBA made Jan 26 at 2015 3:19 PM

SGT Steven Eugene Kuhn MBA — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 15:19:44 -0500

I will be honest here: Is it really worth the trouble? Wearing a ring is making a statement unless it is a class ring or wedding ring, in uniform you are NOT an individual...otherwise why would you fight to wear it?

Take it off and wear it off duty, a ring can be the end of a finger in many a situation ; combat, training and sports, to name a few.

Prioritize the importance of the battles you wage, this is definitely not a priority and in my humble opinion the NCO is in the right asking you to take it off, why?

You wrote it yourself: "It also states that rings must be conservative in taste and not extreme"
This is left open to interpretation and when it comes to that, the highest ranks interpretation county, period.

Steady on,
Steven

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2015 6:39 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 18:39:18 -0500

It says you're a 12B. I'd ditch the ring for safety reasons. You are right, look at mason rings, recruiting rings, and west point rings. I've battled a lot of leaders in my career because I knew I was right. Cite the reg, with paragraph and line if you feel you need to prove a point. At the end of the day though, rings are a hazard in our line of work. Be smart, not stubborn.

Response by SFC Vernon McNabb made Jan 26 at 2015 6:54 PM

SFC Vernon McNabb — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 18:54:13 -0500

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member, if you are wearing your ring while conducting any type of duty where the ring could pose a hazard, remove it for your safety. If you're wearing the ring in the office, formation or anywhere that doesn't pose a risk, by all means, you are correct to wear your ring. I have been in Army Aviation for 25 years (NG and AD), as a mechanic and crewchief on Blackhawks. Whenever I am performing maintenance or crewing, I remove my wedding band for safety. Get with a SNCO whom you both know, and refer to the regulation, and tactfully request a reason for why you are being yelled at for not being in violation of the regulation.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 28 at 2015 1:35 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Jan 2015 01:35:01 -0500

We as NCO's we are there for the soldiers period. When i was a lower enlisted anytime i had an NCO approach me and tells me what i do i would do it. If I had a question or wondered why i was being corrected i asked that NCO respectuflly to explain to me. Likewise we learn good or bad from each other regarless of the situation. (I feel like we create friction for no reason where we could solve it right away through effecitve communication)

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Jan 29 at 2015 1:43 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Thu, 29 Jan 2015 13:43:27 -0500

First let me say that rings are a hazard in some occupations. If you work in some specialties or in some areas, rings may be prohibited for your safety. If this is true the SSG is trying to save your finger and maybe your life.

If you work in an MOS or area were the ring is not a safety factor then it's time to consider if it's the ring that's the problem or a symptom of a bigger problem. Look at yourself first and then the SSG. Are you squared away in terms of job performance, training, and military appearance? Always? Okay, so if you're doing well in these areas, then it's the SSG's problem, not yours. You are faced with a barrier. You go around, over, or through. Without knowing more information I can't provide detailed advice. If the SSG isn't in your chain of command, then talk with your supervisor first. If the SSG is in your chain, then consider the unit first sergeant or CSM. They may have great insights as to how to handle the situation. If the encounters rise to the level of harassment, then you can try the complaint process after you have tried the chain of command. Good luck.

And, sometimes people are just A-holes you have to put up with. Take off the ring and hope the guy PCSs soon.

Response by PO3 Thomas Francis made Jan 29 at 2015 2:15 PM

PO3 Thomas Francis — Thu, 29 Jan 2015 14:15:05 -0500

All the common sense has been laid at your feet. The only thing that looks to be done is educating your SSG on giving orders. for instance instead of just saying take the ring off; he could launch into a war story. Nice ring, sure is shiney. Back in the day knew a guy who wore one just like it. AS shiney as it was it became a great target, dude got is hand shot off. Then there was the other guy who was climbing over a high wall. His ring got caught on the way down, stripped the flesh from the bone. Had to field ambutate his finger to free him. Nice ring.

Hope you'll let us know what you decided to do.

Response by Sgt Adam Jennings made Jan 29 at 2015 4:14 PM

Sgt Adam Jennings — Thu, 29 Jan 2015 16:14:28 -0500

Look, being a Marine I don't know how Army Regulations are written. But every Marine Corps Order, same as your regulations, I've ever seen ends with at the discretion of the command. In other words, they can make the order more restrictive but never less restrictive. The order is the bare minimum. So, just like the Army we have jewelry regulations as well. If you wear a ring it has to be on your ring finger, one on each hand. If the command sees fit to restrict that order further to keep good order then they can.

Remember, this is from a Marine POV, so that's how our orders/regulations are written. Are AR's written to allow the command to tighten up regulations at their discretion as well? If so, you have no ground to stand on if it's a command policy. Just a thought.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2015 2:50 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Jan 2015 14:50:48 -0500

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2015 5:32 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Feb 2015 05:32:18 -0500

It also says in AR 670-1 that the command structure has final say in the matter. If the SSG who is saying this is part of your chain of command, you have to follow his directive, regardless what 670-1 says. Also he is giving you an order that is neither immoral or illegal, therefore it is a direct order that he is perfectly able to give you. Being that it is a direct order, you as a soldier must follow said order.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2015 11:13 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Feb 2015 23:13:13 -0500

If it were me i would take of the ring then in private ask him why it is so important that you take the ring off. He might have a legitamate reason.... Sorry for my spelling. If the nco has a valid reason such as the ring is shiny and will give you away in the field then keep it off if he has no good reason keep in mind the nco dosent have to tell you anything and the problem persists keep the ring off and request a meeting with the commander to gain clairity on the issue. No matter what do what your chain of command says its not worth messing up your carrer over a ring bro you will get a new dity station in a few years anyway and a new nco

Response by MSgt Michelle Mondia made Feb 3 at 2015 11:40 PM

MSgt Michelle Mondia — Tue, 03 Feb 2015 23:40:36 -0500

Guess you're gonna have get married then...each day wear it on a diffrent finger, confuse and confound them.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 28 at 2015 8:27 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Feb 2015 20:27:50 -0500

You can take the ring off for Drill Weekend and AT, or get used to answering to Private again.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Feb 28 at 2015 8:30 PM

SFC William Swartz Jr — Sat, 28 Feb 2015 20:30:15 -0500

After seeing the ring in question, I would recommend getting the opinion of someone higher in "the food chain" as to whether they feel it meets the "conservative" jewelry allowed in 670-1. I will also say that after seeing some of the other responses to the ring, it's probably a good thing I didn't have anyone of the responders as a superior while I was in and wore the silver skull ring that I often wore!! Sheeesh....fashion Nazis ....lol

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 28 at 2015 9:10 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Feb 2015 21:10:03 -0500

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member Can you provide the part in AR 670-1 that says 1 ring on each hand?

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 28 at 2015 11:20 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Feb 2015 23:20:44 -0500

My 1st question is "what was the reason he told you take it off?" You failed to mention that. Without know the reason I would say, Specialist...take off the damn ring! You're an E4, he's a SSG! Have you asked him why he's been on you to remove the ring? If not, then you should have instead of posting in RP. If you've asked and did not like the answer (most likely case) then go to your PSG and/or 1SG.

If you chose not to take it to them, then you most likely already know their answer, However apparently he's chosen to try to keep it at his level and take it higher himself. Apparently you like being an E4 and have no aspirations of going higher.....at least not with this SSG in charge!

The AR is a GUIDE! Your education comes from your unit leaders! If you doubt him...go ask the next above him! One day you may be in his position yelling over and over again at an E4 for he same thing....just not in your present unit! You're setting yourself up to be an E4 there for quite some time!

Is it worth it?

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made Feb 28 at 2015 11:31 PM

SPC(P) Jay Heenan — Sat, 28 Feb 2015 23:31:06 -0500

Pick you battles bro...even if you are 'proven correct', all you have managed to do is put yourself in this NCO's sights. Believe me, eventually, he will find something legit that you are slippin' on and you will find yourself on the carpet.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Feb 28 at 2015 11:43 PM

COL Charles Williams — Sat, 28 Feb 2015 23:43:34 -0500

I agree with COL Jason Smallfield, PMP, CFM, CM below. That said...

It sounds like you are already at the point where you need to go to your PSG or 1SG, if you think this is such a big deal. That said, my experiences tell me you have to pick your battles. Is this a battle you want? I believe you are correct in your reading of 670-1, but I also believe that most folks consider the wedding ring the only left hand ring allowed. What will be the impact of you calling your SSG out, and the PSG or 1SG having to get involved?

If this is a big deal to you, then dig in and fight for what you believe is right. But, remember, there are always second and third order affects of the decisions we make.

In my view, which may be contrast to the AR, the two rings are the wedding ring, and a school type ring, but in most places I have been most Soldiers wear only a wedding ring, and many times not even that for safety and/or security reasons.

I only ever wore a wedding ring, and still only do, and that was only in garrison, when doing things where it did not present a safety hazard.

Response by Maj Kim Patterson made Mar 1 at 2015 12:16 AM

Maj Kim Patterson — Sun, 01 Mar 2015 00:16:06 -0500

Methinks this point has very little to do with the actual ring or the wording of the reg. I'm late to this discussion and have not seen said ring. Have you put in your papers for discharge yet? Because if you intend to continue with military service in a time of cutbacks, there are more important things to worry about. If we can't trust you to take care of your body parts (safety issue already covered,) how can we trust you with the bigger things? You have been in long enough to understand that rank has privaledges and responsibilities. You do not have to like the SSGT but you do have to respect and obey the rank. As a reference, check the wording of your Oath of Enlistment.

Response by MSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 1 at 2015 12:18 AM

MSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 01 Mar 2015 00:18:23 -0500

Doesn't matter if it's in the 670-1 or not. As your leadership and an Nco he can make the standard more restrictive if he chooses. Similar to haircuts in boot versus later in permanent party. I had an NCO who refused to let us wear the fleece or authorized "sneaker" or go fast boots. As leadership, it's his prerogative. But in case that's not adequate, check out some of the injuries of soldiers who caught there ring on a duece and a half's tailgate or other gear. It's not pretty. My advice? Do as you're being directed. Wear it in a chain or on your dog tags in your pocket.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2015 6:55 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 18:55:57 -0500

Per request, SPC Private RallyPoint Member.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2015 11:24 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 23:24:48 -0500

The regulation read as such:

AR 670-1, para 3-4a. "Soldiers may wear a wristwatch, a wrist identification bracelet, and a total of two rings (a wedding set is considered one ring) with Army uniforms."

The key words in this regulation are "may wear." You can add to the regulation, but never take away from. If the regulation says you're allowed to jump five feet, and I say, "you can only jump three feet," the regulation has not been violated, because the limit has not been exceeded. It's the same the other way around. If the regulation says you must (key word is "must") have two sets of ID tags, and I say you will have at least three, the standard is still met because the requirement is met.

SPC Cody Voye , I personally, would not make a big deal about it. Maybe if you posted a picture of the item in question and where you wear it, then maybe I would have a better idea of what we are talking about, exactly.

To realistic, is this really that big of an issue? If it was a class ring, one from Basic or West Point, I could understand the arguement and would fight for it in a heartbeat, as it represents brotherhood. However, is it not easier to just say "roger" and drive on?

Response by SSgt Jim Sommers made Mar 11 at 2015 2:53 PM

SSgt Jim Sommers — Wed, 11 Mar 2015 14:53:06 -0400

The SSG in question needs to get a life. He really needs bigger and better things to concern himself. ISIS may be at our doorsteps and he's worrying about your fingers. Sad, very sad. My condolences to you and your cohorts. I could see checking to see if your nails were "military length," e.i., a tad longer then looking bitten.

Response by SFC Cheri Kelley Miller made Mar 11 at 2015 5:17 PM

SFC Cheri Kelley Miller — Wed, 11 Mar 2015 17:17:40 -0400

Keep referring to the Army regs and VERY TACFULLY explain to him/her that unless it states very specifically the placement of where the ring shall be and the type of ring you are NOT in violation of any regulation if they continue to give you any problems refer to their first line and keep going further until it is resolved. Hopefully it doesn't go that far but if it does that is a valid IG complaint for harassment.

Response by SSG Harper Peterson made Mar 11 at 2015 7:12 PM

SSG Harper Peterson — Wed, 11 Mar 2015 19:12:20 -0400

Other than a wedding ring, the only other rings allowed by any service are Service Rings. As a Marine I am authorized to wear a Marine Corps ring (like a class ring) and no other jewelry is authorized. Common sense dealing with what we as military do on a daily basis, I didn't even wear that. As for Army, AR 670-1 explains what you can and cannot wear, and a wedding band/set plus Class Ring (e.g. Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, or West Point) or Service Ring. Others are NOT authorized.

Your Staff Sergeant was half correct, however ignorant on the details of the order and should re-familiarize himself.

Response by CW3 Craig Linghor made Mar 11 at 2015 7:21 PM

CW3 Craig Linghor — Wed, 11 Mar 2015 19:21:39 -0400

You should wear it on your thumb instead...lol. Happy I don't have to deal with stupidity anymore. Funny though.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2015 1:17 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Mar 2015 13:17:10 -0400

Print off the regulation and show it to him. Be professional about it of course. If he still sticks to his guns ask him to show you were it says this. This can be a learning experience for the both of you. If he is wrong and still pushes the issue take it up the chain. We can not go around making up our own rules just because we feel it is right. Hope this helps.

Response by PO1 Donald Hammond made Apr 23 at 2015 4:00 PM

PO1 Donald Hammond — Thu, 23 Apr 2015 16:00:24 -0400

Let me tell you from experience .... take the ring off when you are on the job. Rings can get caught in things and take your finger off with it.

I was an electrician so of course never wore my wedding ring. But one time we were pulling in and I put it on since I was going to be seeing her soon. Our CO decided to do a drill to get an officer his submarine quals. Part of it was doing an emergency blow. So we had a "casualty" to the submarine. All us good engineering types ran aft. Emergency blow. STEEP up angle. I grabbed for the bulkhead to stop my race and caught my ring on a screw. It damn near tore my finger off. Spun me around and I slammed into the deck really hard.

So to all, take the bling off when on the job.

Oh, and earrings. Egad. That must hurt when those get ripped out. Seen that happen in NON-combat situations. Or is working with mobs of little kids considered a combat situation?

Response by David Pitt made Oct 1 at 2016 1:14 PM

David Pitt — Sat, 01 Oct 2016 13:14:01 -0400

I stoped wearing my wedding ring when during a inspection I was getting down fuel cans when they fell smashing my hand and ring with it, it could of riped the flesh from my finger had not my battle buddy not been there to push them back In time

Response by SGT Alicia Brenneis made Oct 1 at 2016 1:59 PM

SGT Alicia Brenneis — Sat, 01 Oct 2016 13:59:30 -0400

I am not usually an advocate for "why" questions but in this case try asking him why he doesn't want you to wear it when regs say you can. Obviously approach the conversation with calm respect. He may have valid reasons like safety. Pick your battles. If you feel the need to stand firm then do so but remember there could be consequences or blow back later.

Response by SPC John Decker made Oct 1 at 2016 2:18 PM

SPC John Decker — Sat, 01 Oct 2016 14:18:09 -0400

Report him up the chain of command.

Response by SSG John Jensen made Oct 1 at 2016 2:26 PM

SSG John Jensen — Sat, 01 Oct 2016 14:26:11 -0400

a co-worker showed up for work after he got married and refused to take off his wedding band, oh this was in an automotive shop, the screaming went all the way to the top, and at some point it was discovered there was no regulation or policy banning the wearing of rings in the shop. Be careful of what you assume is a regulation, it might not exist. And Fred wrapped his wedding band in electrical tape every morning, just fine, thank you very much.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2016 2:50 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 01 Oct 2016 14:50:44 -0400

The far greater problem here is that of an NCO not enforcing Army Standards, but instead enforcing his own personal preference, as if it were an Army Standard.

Response by SSG Matthew Koehler made Oct 1 at 2016 3:44 PM

SSG Matthew Koehler — Sat, 01 Oct 2016 15:44:02 -0400

My father once gave me some sound advice before I joined the military. "Keep your mouth shut and do what you're told." I had a long 23 year career and topped off at E-6. I can understand both sides of the coin in this case. I could argue both sides as well. I can only say if you like the ring that much or its special to you, protect it. Dont get it scratched, damaged, or bloody in the line of duty. You wont get it replaced...

Response by Sgt Dale Briggs made Oct 1 at 2016 5:35 PM

Sgt Dale Briggs — Sat, 01 Oct 2016 17:35:08 -0400

Is it really that important to wear it on duty? Wear it on your time and don't give him a reason to light you up whether it's regs or not, doesn't make sense to me, and I'd pick my fights better.

Response by TSgt Denise Moody made Oct 1 at 2016 6:28 PM

TSgt Denise Moody — Sat, 01 Oct 2016 18:28:15 -0400

If the ring doesn't constitute a safety issue, and you'll have to check with your SOP or consider whether you work around anything that a ring can catch on and rip your finger off, then show the SSG the appropriate reg. Don't just tell him, because you have said you've already mentioned the reg...show it to him. I had a similar problem oh so many years ago with the length of my finger nails. AFR 35-10 didn't mention length of nails, only color of polish :) So the TSG had to back down when I sent him to the regs.

Response by MSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 2 at 2016 12:15 AM

MSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Oct 2016 00:15:27 -0400

670-1 can be more restrictive. Not less. The reg allows you to wear a ring on each hand. That DOES NOT mean that the leadership is required to allow it. This is a large problem for young troops. They are under the mistaken impression that the reg dictates what their rights are and they can do whatever they want as long as it fits within the regs. That is NOT the case. Leadership can give a lawful order and require all to wear only one ring or even no rings. NOW, if leadership is only limiting YOU to one ring then you have an issue of discrimination. An example of this is basic training. The reg gives the standard for haircuts, however we all know that anything but a buzz is unacceptable regardless of what the reg says. Remember, it can be more restrictive not less. Commanders/Leaderships discretion. If I had a platoon wide standard of no rings (because they are dangerous A.F.) and you came at me with the reg about ring wear, I would commend you on your knowledge and then make you remove your ring after some remedial PT for failing to follow a lawful order.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 2 at 2016 12:38 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Oct 2016 00:38:37 -0400

I'm sure if it was a Masonic or West Point ring this would be a non issue

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 2 at 2016 12:41 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Oct 2016 00:41:00 -0400

I'm sure if it were a Masonic or West Point ring this would be a non issue

Response by James Adair made Oct 2 at 2016 1:35 AM

James Adair — Sun, 02 Oct 2016 01:35:01 -0400

seem like your CO is lacking in knowledge of army regs but, just keep in compliance pending your MOS or whatever the army calls specialty's

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Jan 31 at 2018 11:07 AM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 11:07:14 -0500

I don't know where Your SSgt gets His ideas, You can certainly wear the rings and not everyone is married. One ring per hand is reasonable and allowed. , I wore a wedding ring on My left hand and a college Class ring on the right. The only exception for safety reasons is working around machinery where the ring could be snagged and perhaps end up with an injury to Your person but that only applies while actually working at the time with the machines. Colonel Smallfield had some suggestions that a very valid, read His posting that He made here.

Response by CSM Richard StCyr made Jan 31 at 2018 12:00 PM

CSM Richard StCyr — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 12:00:31 -0500

Some training events and MOS tasks required that rings be temporarily removed for safety sake, which over rides 670-1 . That was applied for the duration of the task, then it was back to the standard in the 670-1.
Personally I always wore two rings, one on each hand as permitted by 670-1 and never had any questions. However Never gave the safety NCOs any guff when the CRM worksheet for a task required slick fingers either.
Some things we don't see in the conversation
-Are you working with mechanical equipment where a ring may be caught and draw your hand into it
-Are you working with exposed energized things where a ring could cause arcing from the equipment or device to you
-Are you working with an explosive device where the ring could discharge static or pinch the detonator
Those are all instances where safety would over ride the uniform reg.

Baring that talk to the PSG or 1SG. also there can often be differing ideas on what "conservative in nature is" without seeing the ring there's no way to tell if that's the sticking point. In that case see the 1SG.

Response by SGT Joseph Gunderson made Jan 31 at 2018 1:51 PM

SGT Joseph Gunderson — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 13:51:14 -0500

Pal, pick your battles. Understand that you may be entirely correct, and I am not going to deny the fact that you may be entirely correct, but is it something that is really worth possibly tarnishing the working relationship that you must have with that NCO? I really don't think so. Take it from a guy that has conducted my share of little battles against leadership, both at the lowest level and throughout the higher echelons, and it really is not worth it, bud. Save that fight ticket for something that really matters. If it is just a random piece of jewelry that you just wear because you want to and has no real significance passed that, what are you really missing out on by not wearing it during duty hours in uniform? You can try throwing regulations in the face of this leader, maybe you win and maybe you lose; maybe he drops the "add to but not take away" line that can be pulled out whenever it suits someone, you never know. I'm just thinking that your leader may have a reason for this that hasn't been expressed. Regardless of the why, just think about the importance of this fight and the possible repercussions of jumping into a regulation battle with someone who, presumably, has far more knowledge and experience than you possess. Just think about it.

Response by Maj John Bell made Jan 31 at 2018 4:59 PM

Maj John Bell — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 16:59:29 -0500

Ever see a finger de-gloved by a ring. I have. Neither I, nor my wife wear rings. I don't allow anyone to keep them on if they want to touch my horses and goats, even over the fence. I wouldn't wear one around anything that has energized moving parts, or weighs more than 15lbs and could catch the ring. They are safety hazards. I'll spare you the image if you don't want to see it, but if you need to, do a google image search.

I'd find the SSG and thank him if I was you.

Response by SFC Greg Bruorton made Jan 31 at 2018 8:03 PM

SFC Greg Bruorton — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 20:03:51 -0500

I had really wanted a diamond, as in First Sergeant recognition, but my soon-to-be wife guided me to a local jewelry store in Fayetteville for my wedding ring having three diamonds. Once, during a night jump while in the 82nd, the jumpmaster yelled out, "All right . . ., who's got the diamond ring on?"

As it turned out, my ring was emitting sparklies all across the ceiling of the C-130 so I quickly turned the ring around to hide the outburst of night visibility. Lessons learned.

Response by MSgt Edward Hayes made Apr 9 at 2018 5:22 PM

MSgt Edward Hayes — Mon, 09 Apr 2018 17:22:43 -0400

All orders are considered valid and must be complied with until the member can prove the order is invalid. An exception would an order that is illegal. You can
not be ordered commit a crime or commit murder or cause unwarranted harm to members or civilians. Let us face it if it is a matter of a ring or a hair cut, follow the order and then complain through channels.

Response by SPC Charles Batchelor made Apr 11 at 2018 11:12 PM

SPC Charles Batchelor — Wed, 11 Apr 2018 23:12:03 -0400

Talk to your COC about it, it's harrassment and tge NCO is nit following regs.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2020 11:40 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Jun 2020 23:40:53 -0400

If he outranks you just listen. It is a lawful order. Do you question every little thing asked of you if it's just a little thing like a mustache or ring? Just listen and leave it.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2020 11:42 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Jun 2020 23:42:36 -0400

If he outranks you just listen. It is a lawful order. Do you question every little thing asked of you if it's just a little thing like a mustache or ring? Just listen and leave it. And you should never try to "educate" a superior. You will lose over something this minor.

Response by SSG Brian G. made Dec 30 at 2020 10:29 AM

SSG Brian G. — Wed, 30 Dec 2020 10:29:36 -0500

3–4. Jewelry
Note. This paragraph is punitive with regard to Soldiers. Violation by Soldiers may result in adverse administrative action and/or charges under the provisions of the UCMJ
a. Soldiers may wear a wristwatch, a wrist religious or identification bracelet, and a total of two rings (a wedding set is considered one ring) with Army uniforms, unless prohibited by the commander for safety or health reasons.

The above is excerpted from AR 670-1 May 2017.

Check with your local unit/command to see if there is a prohibition due to safety or health reasons. If not then the NCO is ate up. The AR states you may wear up to two rings, it does not state one must be per hand. You could wear both on one hand. Just clarifying for you.

After verifying the above, ask the SSG to show you the regulation where it states what he claims. You are asking to educate yourself. You will want to have a copy of the pertinent AR on hand to show him in case he fails to have it.

If the problem persists get with your immediate chain of command and work it from there.