The Chief's Gorilla Guide for Looking Good in Uniform
The Chief’s Gorilla Guide For Looking Good In Uniform By Chief Master Sergeant Robert D. Chiafos CHIEF, IOWA CIVIL AIR PATROL ACADEMY Camp Dodge, IA 3rd Edition (Revised) January 2007 The Commander’s Responsibility Each commander needs to acknowledge and accept responsibility for the appearance of all individuals under their command. Every military unit has a uniform culture. Left undirected, and on their own, members of the unit will collectively and unconsciously set a standard for wearing the uniform. Once established, that standard will perpetuate itself. As new members come in they will observe the standard, and dress down or up to match it. In any unit where uniforms are not inspected regularly, or where the leadership fails to immediately confront individual violators; the standard will plummet like water seeking its lowest level. This is a serious breach of military discipline and the worst kind of leadership! Sadly, in some units, the senior members are the greatest offenders. No matter how bad the current standard is in your unit, it can be turned around. First, the commander must meet standards, if you don’t - correct it! You cannot conduct an inspection, or correct infractions, when the offenders look better than you do. Next, demand compliance from your Cadet Programs Officer, and all cadet officers and NCOs. When infractions are observed, use the chain of command to immediately confront and correct violations. When repeated correction fails, revoke the privilege of wearing the Air Force Uniform. Openly reprimand offenders and reward those who exceed the standards. Uniform inspections must be the first order of business at any CAP meeting, gathering, or other event.
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