What is wrong with our troops today? What are your thoughts on this problem child?

2014-02-25T18:13:10-05:00

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Feb 25 at 2014 6:44 PM

2014-02-25T18:44:36-05:00

I can understand young Soldiers 'running and hiding' from saluting the flag (many don't know or appreciate customs and courtesies), but blatantly disrespecting the very thing you swore to protect and boasting about it on social media?  This brings things to another level.<br><br>This young lady should not be a Soldier for very long...there are consequences for your actions and disrespect and dishonorable behavior to the flag should reflect in a dishonorable discharge.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2014 6:50 PM

2014-02-25T18:50:46-05:00

Embarrassing and unprofessional. I think the current backlash will already ensure she never does it again. I think the chain od command can come up with some good corrective training to further square this Soldier away. I do not see UCMJ needing to be used here. I think it can all be ahndled in house.<br><br>With the photo going viral it makes you wonder if the matter will be allowed to be handled in house. I think this is a perfect case of the issue being blown way above the level needed to fix it. Higher HQ has egg on their face and they will want to send a message to show this behaviour is unacceptable.<br><br>As a Leader I would love to sit down and talk to this young Soldier to ask why she felt it was acceptable. Once she started talking I am sure I could go far enough down the rabbit hole to make her understand her error and ensure it would never happen again.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2014 7:18 PM

2014-02-25T19:18:19-05:00

i know crappy soldiers isn't new to the army but i noticed the trend is becoming more popular now for some reason i don't know if its how these people are brought up in life or if the drill sergeants are not tough enough on soldiers anymore but its gotta stop we need to make the consequences or their actions more of a reality. im personally getting sick and tired of hearing about this people but something has to be done its stunts like this that breaks down the Army's imagine, im sure her chain of command will take "good care" of her

Response by CW2 Joseph Evans made Feb 25 at 2014 7:34 PM

2014-02-25T19:34:46-05:00

Nothing new under the sun. The difference is that Social Media gets stupidity a larger audience than it ever used too.
The problem here is the attention mongers. As long as we keep publicizing stupid, people will just get stupid for their 5 minutes of fame. So, stop glorifying their shame and a lot of this stuff will go back to dumb just being dumb rather than grandstanding for effect.

Response by SSG Laureano Pabon made Feb 25 at 2014 7:36 PM

2014-02-25T19:36:11-05:00

The link I placed here is another area I found the same information and it says this:

(NCOs, Please remind your Soldiers about the proper use of Social media both in and out of uniform. Making
derogatory comments and posting pictures that may offend others can come back to haunt them.)

Personally: I can see that there is a lack of understanding on how information is being used to these SM. I don't think they are aware of the consequences that follow by advertising these acts. Perhaps they are just young kids, with out experience, but I'm sure that after getting a full awareness package (When there chain of command finds out) they will know better next time.

here's the link I spoke about above: NCO support

http://www.ncosupport.com/military-news/soldier-social-media.html

Soldiers and Social Media

NCOs, Please remind your Soldiers about the proper use of Social media both in and out of uniform. Making derogatory comments and posting pictures that may offend others may

Response by SFC Anabel Cepero made Feb 25 at 2014 7:39 PM

2014-02-25T19:39:06-05:00

I just don't get why anyone thinks this is ok. Clearly this soldier knew she was wrong for posting it, as she stated to "keep all the that's disrespectful/rude comments to yourself". Wrong is wrong, but if you're going to do it anyways don't be as ignorant as to post it on a social media site. <div>This ridiculousness keeps taking attention away from all the good soldiers are doing. It also gives soldiers a bad name. Unfortunately one bad apple is all it takes.</div><div><br></div><div>It takes about the same effort to hide, snap a picture, post it, and put a heading on it; as it would've to just stand there and salute the flag. You're a soldier be proud, if not get out! </div><div><br></div><div><div>With that being said, the comments people have been putting on these photos are equally wrong. Yes these soldiers are clearly misguided, but that doesn't mean they deserve death threats. Those comments are equally as disrespectful and to bring racial slurs into is never ok! There is a professional way to get a point across and none of it involves profanity and hatred. These soldiers as well as the profession as a whole need to be educated on why this is wrong. </div></div>

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2014 7:42 PM

2014-02-25T19:42:57-05:00

What's wrong with Soldiers today is exactly the same thing that was wrong with them yesterday. Only now there's the internet, with Soldiers posting anything and everything, and then there's people who are looking for these incriminating photos and posts so they can spread it around.

Response by LTC Yinon Weiss made Feb 25 at 2014 8:06 PM

2014-02-25T20:06:22-05:00

Why does it seem like most social media problems are being found on Instagram? Same thing with the burial honor guard team last week. <div><br></div><div>Post something stupid on Instagram and you'll be on the front cover of MilitaryTimes and RallyPoint. How many more times is this going to happen?</div>

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made Feb 25 at 2014 8:08 PM

2014-02-25T20:08:14-05:00

Good thing she is not MY Soldier. I'd have her ass chaptered out fast as thought. A good OTH discharge will fix her butt and possibly deter others.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2014 9:07 PM

2014-02-25T21:07:51-05:00

Social media has become a bit of a monster along with today's culture in TV and everything that has come about over the last 10 years or so. Most people have a certain level of respect that they afford to those around them. as of late showing blatant disrespect has become the new cool thing to do and unfortunately, unless there is a large culture change in the country and in the NCO leadership, there will be more of this to come as new recruits join.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2014 9:09 PM

2014-02-25T21:09:45-05:00

Freakin nasties!  

Response by CSM Michael Poll made Feb 25 at 2014 9:12 PM

2014-02-25T21:12:16-05:00

I guess I am wondering why we are pasting this stuff all over the place ourselves?  We are the biggest contributer to pushing this photo over the net.  We all know what a Soldier, Sailor, Marine, Airman or Coast Guardsman think about this.  We all are embarrassed and pissed, but we spread it further. 

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2014 9:14 PM

2014-02-25T21:14:31-05:00

Not saying it's right, but she took wrong to another level of wrong.

Terminal Lance - Terminal Lance #82 “These Colors Don’t Run”

This is not meant to be a criticism of Colors itself, but rather the reaction from the average Lance Corporal. I fully understand the purpose of Colors, and I respect it like anyone else. That said, I...

Response by SSG V. Michelle Woods made Feb 25 at 2014 9:16 PM

2014-02-25T21:16:49-05:00

I believe "soldiers these days" are a reflection of their leadership so we should turn that finger right back around and point it at ourselves.

She was wrong for avoiding to salute and she was wrong for posting about it. Stupid mistake made by a stupid private. Nothing more. Correct and CM.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2014 9:26 PM

2014-02-25T21:26:12-05:00

I believe this is a systemic problem, and something that needs to be dealt with at the root of the problem. Forget that she posted this and we found out about it, the issue is larger than this. I can't remember the last time I actually saw someone stop and salute the flag at retreat period. Growing up as a Marine Brat, I remember driving on Camp Lejune and seeing cars lined up on the side of the main Highway into post and getting out to salute the flag. When I was stationed at Bragg early in my career this was a practice, but I'm not sure about now. My last two duty stations I have watched as people keep driving and it kills me as I stand there saluting the flag! I want to drop my salute and yell at the individuals but then I wouldn't be paying my respects to the nation. I regularly stop and salute the flag at retreat if I am outside. I'm not saying I am better than anyone else, but we need to start reintroducing our service members to the proper customs and traditions. We all need to be accountable. As for the use of Social Media, this is just the Service Members newest way of getting caught, I say let them do it, and then use it against them to hold them accountable.

Response by SPC Christopher Smith made Feb 25 at 2014 9:26 PM

2014-02-25T21:26:45-05:00

Much butt hurt I sense from this event. Really you are only mad because she was bold enough to post it online. Don't act like you have never seen a bunch of people running at 1658 for the closest door. Hell I've seen Flag Officers running for a door or two since I've been in and I'm pretty new to the Army. They will kick her out for disrespecting the flag, conduct un-befitting of a soldier, she will get discharged "Dishonorably" not because she didn't salute, but only because the Military loves knee-jerk reactions to the highest level. Add that with staff cuts, why not throw her to the wolves.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2014 10:26 PM

2014-02-25T22:26:25-05:00

When I was a Joe, my Sergeant caught some of the day shift guys running to their vehicles to avoid saluting. He made the entire squad form up outside at 1645. We stayed at attention until we got to salute. The soldiers who made the mistake were charged with giving a class on customs and courtesies. We did this for a week and for the following weeks the Sergeant would keep an eye on the guys getting off shift. It was good corrective training for privates making private mistakes.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2014 10:45 PM

2014-02-25T22:45:27-05:00

This isnt the first time something like this has happen in the history of America. I dont understand how a soldier can be so stupid, to post mess like that on the internet.

Hid in a car to not be seen

Posted it online for the world to see???

Response by SSG Robert Burns made Feb 25 at 2014 11:49 PM

2014-02-25T23:49:29-05:00

Instead of us and the media constantly posting this garbage how about we post something about how to properly honor the flag, why it's honorable?  How to educate your troops about it.<div>Not one sentence in this whole article about why what she did was wrong.  We focus on the negative instead of the right.</div><div>Maybe instead of focusing on sexual assault we should be focusing on how to honor our women.  Focus all of our energy on the positive.  We teach about how to handle the wrong but are poor at promoting the right.</div><div><br></div>

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2014 1:44 AM

2014-02-26T01:44:55-05:00

I think this goes to the general societal issue where it is okay or even cool to do the wrong thing. A lot of people, especially the younger generation, like to show off when they're "getting over" or otherwise flouting what used to be societal norms.

Just look at the number of pictures and videos on social media where people celebrate doing stupid things (the "Jackass" mentality) or even causing harm to others (people showing off when they commit crimes, to include the recent "Knockout Game" popularity).

What this young Soldier needs is a good counseling, perhaps some NJP. People posting death threats and other violent responses are just as bad and ignorant as, if not worse than, the lack of judgement this young and immature individual showed. Personally, I feel that she might not be mature enough for the responsibility of being a Soldier at this time, and may be in it more for selfish reasons than for service to something bigger than herself. But since she's already serving, hopefully she can be salvaged and turned into both a better Soldier and a better person, and this situation used as a learning opportunity for her and others with the same mindset.

Response by SGT Chris Hill made Feb 26 at 2014 5:51 AM

2014-02-26T05:51:03-05:00

This Soldier, among others recently, have brought attention on themselves by their actions. Yes, I'd say at some point in my time served, I have avoided saluting the flag for whatever reasons, but the extent would be not leaving the building until it's over. This Soldier intentionally posted herself for trouble! I do not understand the ideas of some Soldiers thinking that there isn't any reaction for their actions, she addressed the idea that she would be called out on it, thats admitting to fault! How idiotic?! Then to go on and say "idgafffff"? That tells me that you dont care about the uniform you wear, you dont understand the purpose and meaning behind saluting our nations flag, your so incredibly lazy that while those who have been shot at, killed for that flag, you cannot get your lazy self out of your vehicle and render the salute. She needs to be kicked out, it's that simple. If she is retained, she should recieve a severe punishment. Make her an example of upmost disrepect!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2014 9:54 AM

2014-02-26T09:54:37-05:00

This lack of respect for the uniform, country, and sacrifices made by all our brothers and sisters in the armed forces in service to our country disturbs me.

My generation somehow developed this false sense of entitlement. Breaks my heart.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Feb 26 at 2014 10:20 AM

2014-02-26T10:20:29-05:00

My thoughts on this "problem child" as well as the other one's we have seen conduct themselves in such a disgraceful manner recently is that they are the biggest POS that I have had the displeasure of seeing in public display. This is a result of a lack of self-discipline on the part of individuals that have no sense of pride in their country or it's symbol or the sacrifices of those that have come before them. They, unfortunately, are a direct reflection of the period in time and the societal culture from which they come. They are members of a generation of self-entitled individuals that are all about themselves and the rest of us be damned. I disagree with some that say it is a reflection of their leadership, I never understood that point from when I served and was a TC/PSG/NCOIC; my Soldiers were properly trained, disciplined and led so when one of them screwed the pooch, ie. DUI, etc, it was a reflection of their own stupidity and lack of self-discipline/intelligence, not their leadership. This Soldier, and I hesitate to use the term because she doesn't deserve it, posted another one after the original posting and it was brought to her CoC, she doesn't get it and never will based on her response, she's a self-serving attention whore that shouldn't have the privilege of defending this country of ours, much less wearing the uniform of a US Army Soldier!

Response by SPC Dustin Johnson made Feb 26 at 2014 11:29 AM

2014-02-26T11:29:13-05:00

She's not fit for service! As one Vet said in another group, "If she won't even salute the flag, she most definitely will not put her life on the line for it!"

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2014 11:32 AM

2014-02-26T11:32:00-05:00

As dumb and disrespectul as this Soldier's actions were, I would like to think/hope that this behavior is correctable. First off, no one is perfect. I will admit that I have made plenty of dumb mistakes myself in years past (not quite this bad, but still...). Had my leaders crucified me for my actions rather than helping me correct them, I probably wouldn't be where I am now. That being said, I feel a major attitude adjustment is required for this Soldier to develop further. To be a Soldier and not respect the symbol of our nation and the ideals it represents that hundreds of thousands of our brothers and sisters have bled, killed and died for is a shame. There is nothing professional about it. Saluting the flag is an honor and a privilage, not an inconvenience. Maybe this Soldier is too young and inexperienced to realize this yet, but I hope a little professional development by her leaders educates her on how misguided and dishonorable her actions really are.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2014 11:38 AM

2014-02-26T11:38:44-05:00

I wonder if some volunteer work at some veterans organizations would be benificial as corrective training for this misguided Soldier... It might help show her the error of her ways if she hears first hand from some of the older generations who fought in WWII, Korea, Vietnam, etc. I bet they have some good guidance on how important our flag really is and what it meant to them when they were Soldiers. I find it extremely humbling to watch the old warriors who can barely walk rise to their feet and salute the colors as they pass.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2014 12:14 PM

2014-02-26T12:14:08-05:00

As unprofessional as this is, it does not warrant a DD, BCD, or even OTH discharge. What she did was disrespectful, immature, and showed a gross lack of decision-making skills, but it was not a criminal act. What she needs (and I'm sure by now has probably received) is a closed-door extended meeting with the 1SG and some paperwork. I have no idea what this E-3's history has been (good troop or bad), but if she has been a good worker and just had a monumental brain-fart that day, a giant ass-chewing and some extra duty may improve her attitude. If she is a problem troop then that's a different story. We may be a one-crime-and-out military, but if we are becoming a one-mistake-and-out military most of us would have been gone a long time ago.   

Response by 1SG Alan Bailey made Feb 26 at 2014 12:51 PM

2014-02-26T12:51:47-05:00

<p>I have read alot of post blaming Drill Sergeants and AIT platoon sergeants, I was a Drill Sergeant for 3 years, and it does not matter how much you preach things how much extra corrective training you give, you cannot get every bad weed out or enforce standards that should have been part of Home training. I agree to an extent that as NCO we are responsible for our Soldiers, but we cannot be with them 24 hours a day and we all want to be adults. </p><p>Now, as a parent if we do not teach our kids right and wrong we have failed them before they get out on there own. Some good Home Training goes a long way! </p>

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2014 12:59 PM

2014-02-26T12:59:59-05:00

Soldiers these days....

Response by SSgt George Brown made Feb 26 at 2014 1:11 PM

2014-02-26T13:11:32-05:00

She needs to be dishonorably discharged. If she does not want to salute our flag, she can go somewhere else, BUT YOU KNOW WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN, the courts will be on her side and will outlaw saluting the Flag.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2014 4:39 PM

2014-02-26T16:39:17-05:00

okay, so someone did beat me to it when I posted this just now. RP, I love the feature that disables you from commenting on a duplicate discussion and instead directs you to the original discussion. VERY cool. Could another feature be added to allow the duplicate poster to delete their topic? Or better yet, before the question actually posts, pop up a warning that says "There is already a discussion like this, are you sure you want to start this topic?" Just a couple of suggestions. Thank you!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2014 4:44 PM

2014-02-26T16:44:46-05:00

What is wrong....many things. Just to name a few are lax standards in Basic and AIT...Society as a whole, since it does reflect on the Army as a whole...and the degradation of the powers of a NCO...no more wall to wall counselling, strict rules on corrective punishment, and the overall "nicer" Army. I know things went too far in the past in some circumstances...as a Private, I had "weapons racks" fall on me in the arms room...but I did learn...now there is no fear, no respect for tradition, and no accountability from new soldiers.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2014 5:31 PM

2014-02-26T17:31:38-05:00

I think the fact she posted it was a cry to get attention number one so mission accomplished, she thought no one could find her yet AKO has a directory which is easy to type her last name and contact her command. Her pity me attitude now is just a cover because she has all eyes on her disrespect to our nations colors. She should be discharged dishonorably w/o question because the thirty seconds it takes to show respect to our colors she couldn't show so show her the door in a quick fashion.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2014 7:37 PM

2014-02-26T19:37:23-05:00

what is the problem with our troops these days? society is at one of the lowest moral' levels it has ever been, no integrity, society as a whole is lacking in a lot of areas. Once they are in the military, most still have no parental guidance, just NCO/ Officers to show them what is right. How can we continue to blame Soldiers for doing stupid things (which of course we all believe they are extremely dumb for doing in the first place) when we have leaders doing this... ---> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=noWwyq9Auyc. Not to mention that we have SR's and Leaders who are still getting DUI's, beating their spouses, so on and so on. I DO believe a lot is on the Soldier because I do not and will not ever say it is the leaders fault a Soldier acts a certain way because you can't control someone... But how can someone constantly say it is just the JR's who are "out there" acting stupid, when SR's are doing dumb things as well, just not always making it into FB? Is this what we mean by "lead by example"?

Soldier Suffers Seizure After Alleged Hazing Incident

Twenty-two-year-old Sgt. Phillip Roach suffered a seizure after an alleged hazing incident at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. The video is graphic.

Response by LT Jessica Kellogg made Feb 26 at 2014 8:24 PM

2014-02-26T20:24:48-05:00

Unfortunately, I believe this article and discussion may just play into what she wanted.

She wanted attention (otherwise she wouldn't have posted anything) and now she's getting it.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2014 9:30 PM

2014-02-26T21:30:59-05:00

She take this to the civilian world. Because I believe the underlying issues are troubling and quite frankly, we need to screen out haters and inform the prospective troop that this is real. It is not a game. We may kid around here as I know I do. But I will never be intentionally rude to people. If you get there my stricter side may evolve.

This is our future and she is not representative of the dedicated youth that populate our manpower.

Response by SGT Celeste Brodeur made Feb 26 at 2014 9:52 PM

2014-02-26T21:52:50-05:00

The attitude of a lot of the younger generation these days. Not only is she disrespectful, but she thinks it is something of which to be proud instead of ashamed. She is bass-ackwards.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2014 9:54 PM

2014-02-26T21:54:51-05:00

I see people doing shuffle that all the time running inside to miss the flag or acting like they don't hear it while they drive down the road , has nothing to do with how her ds treated her or leader ship some soldiers just don't give a damn at all shoot she could just be putting on a front and not really hiding in her car while the flag is going off, lol I know the perfect corrective training, flag detail for 6 months lol

Response by SGT Robert Riley made Feb 26 at 2014 9:55 PM

2014-02-26T21:55:46-05:00

Having diagnosed her behaviour, It would be safe to say that PFC Sheffey has Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD) comorbid with Antisocial Personality Disorder (APD) according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, ed. 5 (DSM-v).HPD has a pervasive pattern of attention-seeking behaviour and excessive emotions, excessive sensiitivity to criticism or disapproval; low tolerance for frustration or delayed gratification, a need to be the center of attention. This explains the SM's attitude about the entire affair. APD is defined by some of the following symptoms, failure to conform to social norms with respect to lawful behaviors as indicated by repeatedly performing acts that are grounds for arrest;consistent irresponsibility, as indicated by repeated failure to sustain consistent work behavior or honor financial obligations;lack of remorse, as indicated by being indifferent to or rationalizing having hurt, mistreated, or stolen from another. There might be evidence of conduct disorder in earlier childhood but those records might be sealed. I am bothered that her NCOs haven't done anything curtail this SM's self-destructive behaviour and it is apparent that she does not want to be in the United States Army or there maybe something more to her actions.

PFC Sheffey, if her NCOs care, can be rescued and with proper guidance turned into a first class soldier instead of the undisciplined creature we see behaving irresponsibly on social media.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2014 9:58 PM

2014-02-26T21:58:54-05:00

Put her on Flag Detail for the rest of the Quarter. Mandatory American History classes and American Military War History lessons. Maybe, just maybe, she'll end up getting the bigger picture. It's one thing to hide, it's a completely different animal to then flaunt a blatant disrespect of a Military Tradition.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2014 10:31 PM

2014-02-26T22:31:39-05:00

I have seen this all too often with more recent soldiers who have joined. I even had a roommate who liked to break near every TRADOC rule before he got to my room. He had the same "I just don't care (to keep it PG)" with just about anything after being in the Army less than a year. It honestly baffles, but you have to ask yourself where the attitude was birthed and where it was allowed to grow and everything points to basic training.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 27 at 2014 5:53 AM

2014-02-27T05:53:06-05:00

I have seen this often. Personally I don't think there is a problem with the soldiers
per se; the problem lies in how today's generation is raised. When I was younger if I back talked I got smacked in the face, no questions asked no CPS involvement. While some people today might see this as abuse it made me into a man that respects himself first and others. Today's "time-out" way of raising kids is just creating a society where young individuals have no respect for a lot if things because there were no real consequences for their bad behavior as they were growing up and these same individuals are the ones joining our ranks.

The Army doesn't change you, it only enhances what you already have if you are a "go getter" it is going to show, the same if you are a "douche" (pardon the expression) since a human is the one wearing the uniform it doesn't really matter what the Army is trying to do your values are your own and unless you as an individual recognize there is a problem in the way you behave nothing is going to change.

I'm always willing to work with soldiers that show promise sometimes these soldiers "the ones with the broken wings" as I like to call them fly the highest when you invest time in them but sadly some others are just not meant to be in the Army and in my opinion if you are one of the soldiers that are just in the Army to earn a paycheck and produce carbon dioxide then we don't need you.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Feb 27 at 2014 7:18 AM

2014-02-27T07:18:28-05:00

This Soldier and many others just like her reveal something that I think we all know deep down. As an Army, we do a great job of taking the Soldier out of the streets, but we do a horrible job of taking the streets out of the Soldier. A lot of our Soldiers are still "back on the block" and have no business being in uniform...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 27 at 2014 9:15 AM

2014-02-27T09:15:32-05:00

What Honor or Intergity?? This is the third issue that has gone viral due to internet postings. Not only has the papers grabbed this, but TV News Cast has made it World Wide. In both cases, CNN, WNBC and CBS have shown this and this just rips me hard. It shows just how our Younger Generation of Soldiers do not care about the Country THEY raised their right hand for to Serve, Protect and Defend.

From MIA, Funerals to Rendering Honors the questions being asked are; Where was the Chain of Command and What are THEY going to do about it? Who else saw this and JUST STOOD BY and let it happen? They too need to be punished for letting it happen. Yes, some of these pictures might have been taken “Years” ago but it still doesn’t matter, it’s still WRONG.

After 16 years of Service, watching the Military change from an “In your face, break you down build you up mentality to a Kinder, Gentler Military. Could this be a cause for the effect of why our Younger Generation is acting like they do? I don’t know, it’s only speculation. Buy yes, I have been called that “Rouge, Hot Head, Go against the Flow, and Toxic NCO”. I’m not sorry for how I trained my Soldiers, lead them in Combat, Fought for a Bad or Good Soldier who made a mistake who I KNEW could do a better job than their counter parts.

And I too have made mistakes, learned from them and grew into a BETTER NCO. All due to my Leaders gave me just enough rope and I fell. So now I ask my fellow NCO’s, Junior and Senior (Officers included), are you apt to see an On The Spot Correction and correct it or just WALK AWAY? Even with these incidents being under investigation (and/or completed) what actions and how quick would you react?

Note: For you Marines out there, YOU are the only branch I know of who HAS NOT CHANGED your ways. So please do me a favor USMC….. DON’T CHANGE!

Response by 1SG Frank Rocha made Feb 27 at 2014 2:31 PM

2014-02-27T14:31:43-05:00

If you are indoors during reveille or retreat your required to stand at attention while either one is sounding. How many can you honestly say actually follows that part of it?  I know I do, in fact many times I walk outside so I can salute the flag, but then I had pride in service and country built in long before I joined the service. Saluting the flag outside is too easy, hiding from it just shows a lack of discipline, which can be easily resolved with some effective leadership (easy for a true leader that is). Kicking a soldier out for something like this would be like throwing your car away when the tire goes flat. Sometimes the easy thing to do is the wrong thing to do. I'm shocked to see so many knee jerk negative responses to this. <br>

Response by SGT Thomas Sullivan made Feb 27 at 2014 2:38 PM

2014-02-27T14:38:58-05:00

If you are a representative of the US Government however directly or indirectly, there should be cause/effect for any and all actions you take. If you rose your hand and pledged allegiance to you country and your service/swore an oath to uphold the constitution etc, then you must be ready for the consequences of your actions. Did this soldier do anything Illegal? Technically her action is punishable by UCMJ, but does that make it Illegal? I don't know. Does her involvement in social media show disrespect, absolutely, but then again, according my right to freedom of speech, I can show as much or as little disrespect as I want to anyone I want, I just have to be prepared to face the consequences of said actions in the long term.

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made Feb 27 at 2014 2:58 PM

2014-02-27T14:58:15-05:00

Makes my stomach turn every time I see this. I deployed four times, lost 20 some-odd friends in Iraq and come back to this POS in MY Army? Sorry - I don't think so. Let her go flip burgers someplace.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 27 at 2014 3:01 PM

2014-02-27T15:01:20-05:00

She needs to get the hell out of the army and quick. There is NO need for this bullcrap "I do what I want on the internet" attitude.

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Feb 27 at 2014 3:18 PM

2014-02-27T15:18:51-05:00

I see the problem as we in leadership positions usually don't see our joe's do this because they know better. If they where around their leader they wouldn't do it for the most part. With that being said I have seen that what the leader does the joe's will also follow, and if that is the case it needs to be brought to that leaders CoC. Me being a SPC in a team ldr spot, I don't get the respect as a CPL. But that is another ball of wax altogether. For instance I salute the flag when I walk past it in front of my armory, I see Officers and NCO's and Jr enlisted alike pass under it without rendering the proper salute. I have questioned my leaderdhip about this and just continue to do the right thing. Hopefully that passes do to the lower enlisted and makes the highes see and then do the right thing. If I see my joe doing it the I correct him. I think that Us as NCO's not being able to smoke the piss out of them is taking the athority of the NCo away. Most Joes dont care if the get wrote up because in the guard they will still get promoted any way.

Response by SFC Matthew Parker made Feb 27 at 2014 5:02 PM

2014-02-27T17:02:26-05:00

Wow, what a no brainer this is, Art 15 the soldier and take her rocker. 30 days restriction and extra duty. Reassign to Old Guard in DC, TDY if you can, and put her in a supply room. Let her visit Arlington cemetery on a clean up detail and lets see how she feels then.

This was no different than the hundreds of soldiers who don't step outside at 1700 or duck inside to avoid the flag. Her comments about not caring make this different and she is now the poster child for every NCO to point to who complains basic is too easy and young soldiers are not disciplined enough.

Leadership challenge Sergeant, that's all.

Response by CMDCM Gene Treants made Feb 27 at 2014 6:05 PM

2014-02-27T18:05:44-05:00

The most unfortunate aspect of this is the impact this will have on the young Soldier herself. WHat she did was disrespectful, yes. Posting about what she did was absolutely stupid, without a doubt. I do not see this as a offense that should have her shot at dawn, dismissed from the service, busted a paygrade, or even fined.

Seriously, as I stated elsewhere and Major Brad W. said, how many of us have not made any mistakes during our careers. This is a counseling session at her lowest possible level. However, by posting on the internet, SHE really screwed the pooch. This is now at the highest level and soon The Commander in Chief may have to make a decision on her case. Courts Martial and Drummed out of the Army for something that should have been handled at the lowest possible level.

She may have wanted attention from her peers. She is going to get that and more. Unfortunately, it may have more impact than the A** Chewing she really needed.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 27 at 2014 7:08 PM

2014-02-27T19:08:35-05:00

wow, did that just happen ???? Why do people join and then can't show some respect? S**t I'd be more than glad to be able to do that if I was in the position where I was on a base, in uniform, showing my respects, pride.

Response by LT Robert (Bob) Kroeger made Feb 27 at 2014 9:57 PM

2014-02-27T21:57:00-05:00

Dishonorable Discharge!

She doesn't deserve to wear the uniform. She also needs to be sent to Afghanistan to find out what it means to wear the uniform.

Response by SSG Willis Baker made Feb 27 at 2014 10:12 PM

2014-02-27T22:12:01-05:00

This would of never been know if was not for Social Media. This is a young kid with no respect for the Customs and Courtesies of the Military. She should receive an Art-15 and made to stand at the flag poll for 31 Retreats. Also, she should write an essay on Customs and Courtesies of the Military.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 28 at 2014 2:29 PM

2014-02-28T14:29:01-05:00

I think we should let her leadership handle this instead of crucifying her online.

Response by SrA Victor Michael Garcia made Feb 28 at 2014 3:26 PM

2014-02-28T15:26:56-05:00

I am a DAV Vietnam era Vet. I entered the US Air Force in July, 1968. In boot camp, besides the physical training, we had classroom instructions which included the Uniform Code of Justice and all the other Customs and Courtesies of the Military, such as standing at attention in the direction of the flag on base during evening taps and salute until it is lowered, respecting your Commanding officer and any officer, saluting appropriately, etc.

Now, the issue begs this question: if this is a true incident, then why hasn't her commander sent her to remedial training? Article 15 can be employed with the re-do of the basic training courses as a refresher, detail is a good thing as a reminder that this individual is in the Military and must respect the uniform the laws, Customs and Courtesies of the Military. Additionally, immerse this individual in the meaning of the Flag, to this Country, to all the Veterans who gave all in support of it. Then, if this individual does not agree, i would suggest a Dishonorable Discharge and no benefits.

Response by SSG Michael Burgett made Feb 28 at 2014 5:16 PM

2014-02-28T17:16:53-05:00

As a retired 20 year Army vet here is my view. The Soldier should be held accountable definitely but not removed from service unless this type of behavior continues. The CoC should also be looked at for the following reasons. Way too many young Soldiers are getting promoted to leadership positions way to early. They are being asked to be leaders but have not be taught how to lead. Also, in a lot of unit's the Senior leadership has been neglectful in their duties. I have had Soldiers for DUIs, burglary charges, assault and domestic charges who I was not allowed to chapter out even AFTER counseling and UCMJ action and the behavior continued. However, when the draw down began again good Soldiers whose only problem was weight were being put out because it was EASY. It's funny how for years Soldiers who were good Soldiers but fighting a weight problem were allowed to stay in because we needed them for their expertise and unit numbers but not are being pushed out. I loved being in the Army and all that it did for me. However, the last few years of my career were spent dealing with the 5% of problem Soldiers sometimes to the neglect of the 95% of the good ones. The military service in general has allowed this to take place. The atmosphere created over the last few years of my service is now being seen. We lowered standards across the board to get our numbers up for deployments and act all shocked that this is what we have to deal with now.

Response by PO3 Mark Mothersead made Feb 28 at 2014 5:49 PM

2014-02-28T17:49:34-05:00

The blatant disrespect she shows by posting the picture and comments is what irks me the most.

Response by MSgt Joe Corwn made Feb 28 at 2014 6:39 PM

2014-02-28T18:39:22-05:00

Very discouraging to see these troops flaunting their disrespect to our flag and traditions. We live in a very transparent world and they need to keep their poor attitudes off social media. If they don't believe in what they are doing, there are plenty of others out there to take their place and be proud to do so...

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 28 at 2014 7:42 PM

2014-02-28T19:42:35-05:00

She needs to understand the flag and what it stands for, she has no idea. Treat her as school child seeing how this is her current state of mind. Have her for one on a detail for the flag so she can learn to appreciate it. She needs to now understand it and do a full on research on the history of our countries flag. Minus well ban her from damn social networking, she is just shooting herself in the foot with her nonsense. Its now what she did, its HOW she did it and boasted about it. Thats what I would do at least if I was in an NCO position. She would be reading her report to her entire unit after 1700 on a Friday as well.

Response by SSgt Christopher "TEX" F. made Mar 1 at 2014 12:08 AM

2014-03-01T00:08:15-05:00

Send that girl to Arlington National Cemetary and have her PERSONALLY go to each and every one of those white crosses and apologize to every one of those crosses and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 1 at 2014 2:25 PM

2014-03-01T14:25:30-05:00

We just had this discussion in WLC today. To me the the problem stems with a failure to properly mold and discipline the lower enlisted. NCOs don't make on the spot corrections anymore. Some are just like this enlisted girl who happened to stay in long enough to get promoted. Some just don't have the initiative to make the corrections or are afraid of the backlash. But I strongly believe the root of the problem is this mentality that someone else will take care of it. It just results in troops like these slipping through the cracks. It seems like everyone is scared to get these sub-par disrespectful soldiers out of the Army because they don't want to be THAT NCO. As someone is going to be promote right after WLC (just need those points) I can say that I'm going to take up the reigns and I will be /that/ NCO if I run across these kind of Soldiers. I love the Army and I don't want these kind of people running rampant in my Army.

Response by SSG Steven Wood made Mar 2 at 2014 4:43 PM

2014-03-02T16:43:39-05:00

Perhaps the duty day should officially end just like PT starts, with a company formation, accountability, and saluting the flag. If so many people are dodging into buildings or speeding off post to avoid rendering honors to our Flag, maybe we should reinforce it Army wide.

Response by CW5 Sam R. Baker made Mar 10 at 2014 9:40 PM

2014-03-10T21:40:17-04:00

I have to think back to the young male PFC while I was in Mosul in 2003. He was a 93P and at the time wore a smile and we had hope for him, but once we had 14 married soldiers sent back to rear "D" that all had fathered children by this busy fellow we lost all respect and hope. It is personal character flaw from parenting and upbringing and quite possibly folks that did not join to serve but collect a paycheck. I am sure this is not the the norm, but seriously we need to retain qualities honorable and purge the slackers. I am sure this young soldier had other evidence before her post that questioned her dedication and maturity.

Response by SGT James McCue made Mar 26 at 2014 12:41 PM

2014-03-26T12:41:44-04:00

While attending a short brief on best recruiting and retention practices two years ago, there was a section on how to address the various generations, including millennials (individuals born in 1985 or earlier).

The most jarring characteristic states that they expect reward prior to work or for little to no effort.

While this is a general assumption, there is an element in truth to this. With social media, the youth of the modern military gains that reward by gathering followers with little to no effort simply by posting a photograph or a tweet.

Focusing on the above article, the repercussions of the activities such as hiding from saluting the flag and posting it to Instagram is still a lesson that many people have yet to learn.

At one point, I had "discrediting" photographs on my Facebook page, and learned that those photos can cause trouble. The military as a whole needs to start expressing that these actions do have a serious negative effect.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2014 3:35 AM

2014-03-29T03:35:52-04:00

It is extremely disappointing to have these type of Soldiers
in our ranks. Her conduct is not only against Army values, it is un-American.
I do not understand what could be the reason for her unacceptable behavior. More
and more we read about this type of incidents in the media. What were they
thinking when they join the military?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 9 at 2014 12:19 PM

2014-04-09T12:19:37-04:00

Put her on Flag Detail for the next month or so and she'll have a whole new perspective

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Jul 4 at 2014 8:16 AM

2014-07-04T08:16:39-04:00

'nuff said

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 11 at 2014 2:53 PM

2014-09-11T14:53:07-04:00

Just because you are in the Army it doesn't make you a soldier. She is a perfect example of this. If he wasn't wearing a uniform you wouldn't even have guessed she was in the military. She doesn't display the Army values or any sense pride. To me she has failed to assimilate into the the Army culture. Many view their service as a job and not as service. And it looks like she good use a APFT. Maybe a bit on over on her BMI.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Sep 11 at 2014 5:07 PM

2014-09-11T17:07:31-04:00

Is there an update on this "soldier"?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 11 at 2014 10:01 PM

2014-09-11T22:01:47-04:00

lack of discipline, viewing it as a 9-5 job rather than service to the country.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Jun 25 at 2015 1:17 PM

2015-06-25T13:17:10-04:00

She's an idiot....as for today's Soldiers, there are far to many things to list and at the sake of hurting some feelings, I will just leave it at that!

Response by AA Joseph Moody made Aug 15 at 2017 9:41 PM

2017-08-15T21:41:29-04:00

....Edgelord.
I read this and I reread this and it looks like they were just trying to be edgy.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Aug 12 at 2021 10:47 PM

2021-08-12T22:47:35-04:00

The state of the nation!