Posted on Aug 31, 2021
SPC Joseph Lappi
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If I was honorably discharged last year in March, and my wife graduates basic training in November, and I allowed to wear my dress uniform to her graduation? Or am I not allowed? I am unsure and want to dress within my limits.
Posted in these groups: Train2 TrainingBasic training logo Basic Training
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Responses: 7
MSG Intermediate Care Technician
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I recommend you do not. And here is why. No one would know that you ETSd and you would not be seen as a retiree. Therefore, pretty much everyone in uniform there would consider you as still serving and would expect you to follow all the customs and courtesies required/expected. Just imagine the possible reaction of the first Officer or NCO there at the graduation towards you if (when) you don't salute or stand at Parade Rest. It's just unneeded headaches. Plus, that day belongs to your wife. Wear your best civilian attire.
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CPT Staff Officer
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This is the best answer so far. Even if he did wear his dress uniform, as a SPC that ETS'd while still young is not going to "upstage" anyone in the cadre, and then consider possible prior service who are in BCT again.

He's at the exact wrong age to try and pull this off. Without a beer gut, or excessive facial hair or something else WAY out of reg, like the SFC mentioned he's going to get pegged for currently serving, and being pegged for a currently service SPC at Basic Training Graduation is not a safe zone.

He might end up getting assigned to a detail to pick up afterwards or traffic control to direct guests out of the parking lot.
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SFC Michael Hasbun
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This is your wife's graduation, not yours. Just wear something nice and let her have her moment. You don't have to try to upstage her...
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SFC Retention Operations Nco
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Wearing a dress uniform as a civilian is for retirees. It would be inappropriate for you to don your old uniform unless you were in the Reserves
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