[BGB] Sometimes the Marines just mock themselves....

[Thomas S. Ballou]

Hi All

I was talking to Adrian (a buddy of mine, currently serving in the 
Marine Corps)  and he related a story about being chewed out by a 
SgtMajor for being uncovered (not wearing a hat outside).  He also 
mentioned that he was chewing gum too...   Now per my recollections, 
there was no perscription against chewing gum, when I was in.   No, he 
said you can chew gum in uniform, you just can't chew gum and walk at 
the same time...   No Kidding

 From the Offical Marine Corps Uniform Regulations:

Ch 5 6.  Wearing the uniform should be a matter of personal pride to all 
Marines.  Marines will maintain their uniforms and equipment in a neat 
and serviceable condition and will, by their appearance, set an example 
of neatness and strict conformity with these regulations.

     a. Marines are known not just for their battlefield prowess, but 
for their unparalleled standards of professionalism and uncompromising 
personal conduct and appearance.  It is a Marine's duty and personal 
obligation to maintain a professional and neat appearance.  Any 
activity, which detracts from the dignified appearance of Marines, is 
unacceptable.  >>>>>The use of chewing gum, chewing tobacco, cigarettes 
or the consumption of food while walking in uniform or while in 
formation, ARE examples of activities that detract from the appearance 
expected of a United States Marine. <<<<<<

God knows if some Marine should fall off a curb while walking and 
chewing gum, why the entire Corps would have to shut down for a day for 
safety stand down.  :P

In fact it does make sense, but really sounds stupid.

-Semper Fi

--Tom