Chewing gum in uniform?

[HGjunkie]

Considering this is a thread for any questions...

Can you chew gum in uniform? I don't while at say, meetings, but I do if i'm at a bivouac or doing some sort of training. I heard it from my old Sq. but never bothered to look it up. Sounds more like an urban legend.

[manfredvonrichthofen]

Not, While in formation, chewing gum is not allowed. In uniform, so long as you are not talking to someone of a higher rank/grade, I wouldn't think it a problem there. I would however suggest you use common sense while in uniform, don't chew it while the public is able to see you, just because sometimes it looks rather unprofessional. Also, don't chew it anywhere someone might see it as disrespectful. 

[HGjunkie]

Yeah, that's kind of what I figured. I don't find it a problem during say, a bivouac when you're out in the woods or doing something active, but seems to be a general no-no during more formal settings.

[manfredvonrichthofen]

Yeah, that's kind of what I figured. I don't find it a problem during say, a bivouac when you're out in the woods or doing something active, but seems to be a general no-no during more formal settings.

I don't know if I would do it during active training either... just seems to be a bit of a choking potential.

[a2capt]

So, if two of you are of equal rank/grade then chewing gum is allowed during a conversation. Otherwise, there is always someone higher, involved, be it initiating or replying. ..and even when "out in the woods", in uniform you're probably on some related activity and ..

easier not to bother.

[SarDragon]

Chewing gum = sucking your thumb by proxy.

[ColonelJack]

Chewing gum = sucking your thumb by proxy.

I never thought of it that way ... I'll be revising my classroom policy on gum-chewing.  (I teach 6th grade; I allow gum chewing as long as they don't pop it or leave it stuck under a desktop.  Now I'm reconsidering that.)

Jack

[PHall]

Not, While in formation, chewing gum is not allowed. In uniform, so long as you are not talking to someone of a higher rank/grade, I wouldn't think it a problem there. I would however suggest you use common sense while in uniform, don't chew it while the public is able to see you, just because sometimes it looks rather unprofessional. Also, don't chew it anywhere someone might see it as disrespectful.

You got a reg cite for that?

[DakRadz]

According to knowledgebase, the regs do not specifically address this issue. They do, however, require you to maintain a professional appearance in uniform.

I also think that any CC (and likely C/CC) could prohibit gum in uniform for those under their command. But it would have to be their own action, not a "follow the regs" reasoning.

[Eclipse]

There was a time when chewing gum was considered somewhat rude and boorish.

[cap235629]

There was a time when chewing gum was considered somewhat rude and boorish.

In my universe (read anywhere I am standing) it is a gum free zone.  I HATE GUM!!!!

[RVT]

There was a time when chewing gum was considered somewhat rude and boorish.

During WW2 it was the characteristic of US troops that made the biggest impression.  German, Italian and even Russian troops always seem to bring it up in interviews conducted 60 years later - that American troops were always chewing gum.

[DakRadz]

There was a time when chewing gum was considered somewhat rude and boorish.

In my universe (read anywhere I am standing) it is a gum free zone.  I HATE GUM!!!!

I agree with you both. Plus, I stopped almost completely after a good friend figured out she had arthritis of the jaw- it was either caused in part or just extremely aggravated by chewing gum. Jaw makes a loud pop frequently.

[Stonewall]

I think it would be silly to say "no gum chewing in uniform" when we (the military as a whole) allows people to smoke in uniform.

Chewing gum in formation is a no-go.  But unless your squadron leadership has a specific rule on chewing gum in uniform, then it's up to you.  Personally, I don't think a CAP weekly meeting is the venue to be chewing because you're in sort of a tight space.  But driving to/from a meeting, out on an FTX, launching rockets or even flying, I say go for it.

Heck, I never run without gum in my mouth.  During every PT test in the past 19 years I've chewed a piece of gum, especially during the run.

[Daniel]

Chewing gum = sucking your thumb by proxy.

I actually suck on my gum when I chew it

more to the point, you can chew gum without bother others or looking unprofessional. Actually most of the time when I'm chewing gun people don't know

[cap235629]

chewing a gun is horrible for your health..... just sayin...       

[Майор Хаткевич]

chewing a gun is horrible for your health..... just sayin...       

Hopefully he used ORM!

[HGjunkie]

...chewing a gun...

Wait, what?

[JeffDG]

Hopefully your commander isn't this strict:

http://movieclips.com/watch/blazing-saddles-1974/boy-is-he-strict/

[SarDragon]

Tick-tock. Tick-tock. Tick-tock.

[Fly Boy]

One of my pet peeves, chewing gum in uniform. If I catch anyone chewing it during a meeting or activity, I ask them to spit it out until they do. Problem solved.

[DakRadz]

Actually most of the time when I'm chewing gun people don't know

...chewing a gun...

Wait, what?

:clap:
Outstanding catch, sir.
HGjunkie, this is what he was talking about. Chief made a mis-typo

[HGjunkie]

Dangit, didn't see Chief's typo. 

[DakRadz]

Dangit, didn't see Chief's typo. 

Just to indulge SarDragon (with both his tick-tock and his grammar powers)- did you catch your typo?

[HGjunkie]

Yes.   :angel:

[Krapenhoeffer]

Seriously? Anything that makes breath smell less horrid is a good thing.

Obviously, you're not going to be chewing gum while at a meeting or during any away from squadron activity that requires Blues.

However, if it's a FTX, Rocket Launch, Cyber Patriot, or mission, I'll have a big thing-o-gum (and/or breath-mints) that I will hand out.

Professional appearance includes professional breath.

[Eclipse]

This:


or



Not this:

[Krapenhoeffer]

I brush my teeth after meals, I swear!

However, that doesn't change the fact that after the Sacred Caffeinated [Bitter] Elixir, my breath stinks.

Same goes for Cadets after they sneak in Mountain Dew.

[The CyBorg is destroyed]

During WW2 it was the characteristic of US troops that made the biggest impression.  German, Italian and even Russian troops always seem to bring it up in interviews conducted 60 years later - that American troops were always chewing gum.

I read a story from an RAF nurse attached to an RCAF bomber station in England that "the Yanks were always coming up to us saying, 'any gum, chum?'  We got so bloody sick of it that we started passing them Feen-A-Mint gum!"

But seriously, folks...and speaking as a non-gum chewer...

If someone is chewing a small piece of gum unobtrusively, I don't have a problem with it though I think it doesn't look good in formation.

However, I would draw a line at someone chewing a big honkin' wad of Bubble Yum noisily, popping bubbles that sound like pistol shots, or blowing bubbles the size of something Montgolfier would have thought of.

[raivo]

I wouldn't do it in CAP; people do it on the RM, but generally only in their workcenter. And even then, if I worked on an ops floor or somewhere high-visibility like that, I probably wouldn't. I would certainly not do it around my squadron commander, and not out in public (ie, the BX parking lot) either.

In CAP, whenever you have occasion to wear the uniform, you're in a situation where you'd be "on parade"; for that reason, I'd say don't do it.

[Krapenhoeffer]

Bubblegum =/= Wrigley's Spearmint.

If you're discrete about it, I don't mind.

Starbucks mints? For shame...

[USAFgirl]

I think it is just very unprofessional.
I do not chew gum in uniform and I do not believe that anyone should.

[HGjunkie]

From what i've gathered from this thread, it falls under commanding discretion wether or not gum chewing is allowed or not, so long as you don't give an unprofessional appearance.

It won't give me heartburn if someone is chewing at an activity other than squadron meetings (in fact I couldn't care less), but there is no chewing gum in my Sq. during meetings.

[JWilson]

Hopefully your commander isn't this strict:

http://movieclips.com/watch/blazing-saddles-1974/boy-is-he-strict/

Well there was this one time...

In all seriousness there are studies that show chewing to increase mental capacity, and as someone afflicted with ADD i find it to be a good way to get rid of "overflow activity" (the reason some people bounce their legs when they sit) it helps me focus on a task and as long as you don't chew obnoxiously or have a half-dozen pieces in your mouth I really see no problem with gum chewing, with the exception of standing in formation of course.

[JWilson]

Seriously? Anything that makes breath smell less horrid is a good thing.

Obviously, you're not going to be chewing gum while at a meeting or during any away from squadron activity that requires Blues.

However, if it's a FTX, Rocket Launch, Cyber Patriot, or mission, I'll have a big thing-o-gum (and/or breath-mints) that I will hand out.

Professional appearance includes professional breath.

I agree completely

[DakRadz]

During WW2 it was the characteristic of US troops that made the biggest impression.  German, Italian and even Russian troops always seem to bring it up in interviews conducted 60 years later - that American troops were always chewing gum.

I read a story from an RAF nurse attached to an RCAF bomber station in England that "the Yanks were always coming up to us saying, 'any gum, chum?'  We got so bloody sick of it that we started passing them Feen-A-Mint gum!"

And how many people took the time to Google this and realized that Feen-A-Mint gum is a laxative?

Dirty Brits.

(Yes, I necroed it. One free pass per quarter?)

[jeders]

During WW2 it was the characteristic of US troops that made the biggest impression.  German, Italian and even Russian troops always seem to bring it up in interviews conducted 60 years later - that American troops were always chewing gum.

I read a story from an RAF nurse attached to an RCAF bomber station in England that "the Yanks were always coming up to us saying, 'any gum, chum?'  We got so bloody sick of it that we started passing them Feen-A-Mint gum!"

And how many people took the time to Google this and realized that Feen-A-Mint gum is a laxative?

Dirty Brits.

(Yes, I necroed it. One free pass per quarter?)

Oct to Dec of the same year, not really necroposting. That said, I do hope that the Yanks got wise on that one fast. That could have some real issues with readiness. 

[AngelWings]

Even though I'm only a C/ab, because I can't run fast but I can run very long, I know the ins and outs of uniform regs. Simple answer is yes. You are allowed to. The miltary does worse IE smoke cigarettes. It only is a problem for those who believe we have enough time on earth to worry about meeting very small, stupid, and rather useless regulations. If it ain't in formation(poses a health risk, and it ain't part of the 3 things you can do at attention), during a military or public event(considering that it isn't before or after the important parts), or during rigourous exercise, it's 100% ok. People find it a big problem, but for what? Does it accomplish that much? If you're in CAP, your probably not stupid, so you know what you should and shouldn't do. People also advocate that you cannot use the BDU pockets to hold stuff, so they show how much coomon sense they have. Chewing gum is better than stressing out over regulations that exsist because of someones definition of professionalism. It ain't hurting anybody, professionalism is acheived by service, not by excesive regulations that show that you are dehumanized and have no common sense in the first place, and you are doing better than any smartas* because you ain't stressed out.

[manfredvonrichthofen]

Even though I'm only a C/ab, because I can't run fast but I can run very long, I know the ins and outs of uniform regs. Simple answer is yes. You are allowed to. The miltary does worse IE smoke cigarettes. It only is a problem for those who believe we have enough time on earth to worry about meeting very small, stupid, and rather useless regulations.

You know what? You are right, you are only a C/AMB, but you are wrong about knowing the ins and outs of uniforms Regs. Yes the military smokes, but they do it within regulation, you can smoke, but you are not allowed to smoke in uniform while walking. The thing you are wrong about is that you must abide by every very small, stupid, and rather useless Regulations. YOU CANNOT TAKE REGULATIONS AND PICK THEM APART OBEYING ONLY WHAT YOU WANT. Being that you are a new cadet I would for the time being listen to what those who have been around longer, and asking questions.

[DakRadz]

Even though I'm only a C/ab......... Chewing gum is better than stressing out over regulations that exsist because of someones definition of professionalism. It ain't hurting anybody, professionalism is acheived by service, not by excesive regulations that show that you are dehumanized and have no common sense in the first place, and you are doing better than any smartas* because you ain't stressed out.

Gum chewing is not specifically addressed by the regs, per KB.

You must still keep a professional appearance.

If your commander says no gum, that's not something to argue about- it isn't that unreasonable.


So because the military wants to look sharp (and that's wear our uniform standards are based), they are dehumanized and have no common sense? You might want to check out the number of vets and patriots on this board.

[manfredvonrichthofen]

You might want to check out the number of vets and patriots on this board.

+++++2

[HGjunkie]

I can't tell if littleguy's been ripped to shreds or not.

First off,

Littleguy, Welcome to CAP and CAPTalk!

Second, as others have said, Professionalism is objective. If your commander tells you not to chew gum, don't get in an argument. It will get you nowhere. Remember the old saying, "Salute and execute."
Being a C/AB, you have chosed to be a part of CAP and it's missions. The mission you're in now is the cadet programs. Knowing the uniform manual in and out is not all that is required to be a cadet. Knowing the 52 series of regulations, the AF D&C manual, and Customs and Courtesies are also all important. Also, study up on those leadership books NHQ mailed you. They are extremely worthwhile to read.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask. Again, welcome to CAP!

[spaatzmom]

Even though I'm only a C/ab, because I can't run fast but I can run very long, I know the ins and outs of uniform regs. Simple answer is yes. You are allowed to. The miltary does worse IE smoke cigarettes. It only is a problem for those who believe we have enough time on earth to worry about meeting very small, stupid, and rather useless regulations. If it ain't in formation(poses a health risk, and it ain't part of the 3 things you can do at attention), during a military or public event(considering that it isn't before or after the important parts), or during rigourous exercise, it's 100% ok. People find it a big problem, but for what? Does it accomplish that much? If you're in CAP, your probably not stupid, so you know what you should and shouldn't do. People also advocate that you cannot use the BDU pockets to hold stuff, so they show how much coomon sense they have. Chewing gum is better than stressing out over regulations that exsist because of someones definition of professionalism. It ain't hurting anybody, professionalism is acheived by service, not by excesive regulations that show that you are dehumanized and have no common sense in the first place, and you are doing better than any smartas* because you ain't stressed out.

My condolences for what is about to befall you by others who have been in CAP longer than you have been alive.  Oh by the way spell check is a good way to make your post more professional along with the non-use of slang such as aint

[Tim Medeiros]

Even though I'm only a C/ab, because I can't run fast but I can run very long, I know the ins and outs of uniform regs. Simple answer is yes. You are allowed to. The miltary does worse IE smoke cigarettes. It only is a problem for those who believe we have enough time on earth to worry about meeting very small, stupid, and rather useless regulations. If it ain't in formation(poses a health risk, and it ain't part of the 3 things you can do at attention), during a military or public event(considering that it isn't before or after the important parts), or during rigourous exercise, it's 100% ok. People find it a big problem, but for what? Does it accomplish that much? If you're in CAP, your probably not stupid, so you know what you should and shouldn't do. People also advocate that you cannot use the BDU pockets to hold stuff, so they show how much coomon sense they have. Chewing gum is better than stressing out over regulations that exsist because of someones definition of professionalism. It ain't hurting anybody, professionalism is acheived by service, not by excesive regulations that show that you are dehumanized and have no common sense in the first place, and you are doing better than any smartas* because you ain't stressed out.

Oh great and wise purveyor of all things regulatory with extreme emphasis on uniforms.  I prostrate myself before you and humbly beg for you to provide your reg cite.  I wish to not be constrained by this "professionalism" of which you warn, please, enlighten me with your references so that I may bring them to my commander should he question my method of not being "stressed out".  I await your answer oh knowledgeable one.

[MICT1362]

Even though I'm only a C/ab, because I can't run fast but I can run very long, I know the ins and outs of uniform regs. Simple answer is yes. You are allowed to. The miltary does worse IE smoke cigarettes. It only is a problem for those who believe we have enough time on earth to worry about meeting very small, stupid, and rather useless regulations. If it ain't in formation(poses a health risk, and it ain't part of the 3 things you can do at attention), during a military or public event(considering that it isn't before or after the important parts), or during rigourous exercise, it's 100% ok. People find it a big problem, but for what? Does it accomplish that much? If you're in CAP, your probably not stupid, so you know what you should and shouldn't do. People also advocate that you cannot use the BDU pockets to hold stuff, so they show how much coomon sense they have. Chewing gum is better than stressing out over regulations that exsist because of someones definition of professionalism. It ain't hurting anybody, professionalism is acheived by service, not by excesive regulations that show that you are dehumanized and have no common sense in the first place, and you are doing better than any smartas* because you ain't stressed out.

I'm not sure whether I want to write you papers for being certifiably insane, or if I want to give you instructions on how to ask to have your post removed before everybody else gets ahold of you.

Choices, choices...

-Paramedic

[Hawk200]

Even though I'm only a C/ab, because I can't run fast but I can run very long, I know the ins and outs of uniform regs. Simple answer is yes. You are allowed to. The miltary does worse IE smoke cigarettes. It only is a problem for those who believe we have enough time on earth to worry about meeting very small, stupid, and rather useless regulations. If it ain't in formation(poses a health risk, and it ain't part of the 3 things you can do at attention), during a military or public event(considering that it isn't before or after the important parts), or during rigourous exercise, it's 100% ok. People find it a big problem, but for what? Does it accomplish that much? If you're in CAP, your probably not stupid, so you know what you should and shouldn't do. People also advocate that you cannot use the BDU pockets to hold stuff, so they show how much coomon sense they have. Chewing gum is better than stressing out over regulations that exsist because of someones definition of professionalism. It ain't hurting anybody, professionalism is acheived by service, not by excesive regulations that show that you are dehumanized and have no common sense in the first place, and you are doing better than any smartas* because you ain't stressed out.

Oh, yeesh.

For starters, service includes a requirement to obey regulations and the orders of officers above you. Complying with a lot of regulations is a matter of practicing common sense, sometimes the pubs are common sense in origin. For the ones that aren't, you read them carefully, then practice them as learned. You'd do wise to learn that.

Based on your post, I'm not really convinced that you are a C/AB for the reason of not being able to run.

[AngelWings]

Well Hawk, its not because I can't run, its because my speed ain't fast. Everything Else I passed.
To all of you, my remarks were not about disobeying regulations, but rather using your brain to decide whats important or not. People believe I'm insane because I ain't to the whole spend every second of every day stressing, yes, stressing over certain regulations. A day you spend alot of time worrying about nothing could be a night when your life ends. It is a pity really that I am being targeted for supporting chewing gum, anyways. I have been well in compliance of the 52 series of regulations, or atleast everyone I've seen from other squadrons thinks so. If I'm insane for defneding someones choice to do something that ain't even like drugs or alcohol or even tobbaco, then I believe everyone should be insane. I know and comply with regulations, much bigger difference than agreeing with them. Anywho, you all should get to know that I am not a C/amn because I can't run in a alotted time. I've lost a great deal of weight, what like 20 pounds, went up 3 minutes from my 1st PT time of 15:32 and I do more to comply with regs than most. I simply am using a forum to voice my opinion about something that does actually affect me (5 gum is a luxury that helped me lose some weight without missing flavor.) Also, its a thing that I've seen with my own squadron being told not to chew gum at all while in uniform. From that alone I'd assume that it is in the Regs. Also, I'm in some ways insane, which makes me very well fit to fly and shoot someone down or be shot at without cracking down and worrying about my family to the point where I have no ability to think.

[cap235629]

Well Hawk, its not because I can't run, its because my speed ain't fast. Everything Else I passed.
To all of you, my remarks were not about disobeying regulations, but rather using your brain to decide whats important or not. People believe I'm insane because I ain't to the whole spend every second of every day stressing, yes, stressing over certain regulations. A day you spend alot of time worrying about nothing could be a night when your life ends. It is a pity really that I am being targeted for supporting chewing gum, anyways. I have been well in compliance of the 52 series of regulations, or atleast everyone I've seen from other squadrons thinks so. If I'm insane for defneding someones choice to do something that ain't even like drugs or alcohol or even tobbaco, then I believe everyone should be insane. I know and comply with regulations, much bigger difference than agreeing with them. Anywho, you all should get to know that I am not a C/amn because I can't run in a alotted time. I've lost a great deal of weight, what like 20 pounds, went up 3 minutes from my 1st PT time of 15:32 and I do more to comply with regs than most. I simply am using a forum to voice my opinion about something that does actually affect me (5 gum is a luxury that helped me lose some weight without missing flavor.) Also, its a thing that I've seen with my own squadron being told not to chew gum at all while in uniform. From that alone I'd assume that it is in the Regs. Also, I'm in some ways insane, which makes me very well fit to fly and shoot someone down or be shot at without cracking down and worrying about my family to the point where I have no ability to think.

I would say that you are immature and have delusions of grandeur.....

Flying and shooting someone down or getting shot at are NOT part of the Civil Air Patrol experience......

[AngelWings]

No I'm not immature. Ask any USAF person who has seen me. Even 1 F-16 pilot finds me impressive and is willing,if I do good in school to write me a recomendation letter, but thats over the internet. I'm in CAP so I can prepare for a life in the military and serve my community(list of events I've done: Security details, parades, 2 races, Wreaths across America, and recruitment[2 recruits recruited so far.]) Assuming immaturity is ridiculous. Whats even more ridiculous is that these drones of attacks for what: my first ammendment. I'm being called insane for christ-sake for saying its OK to chew gum in uniform when nothing important is happening, and I guess imaturity includes living life to the fullest, and now I'm being told not to be faithful, seek my goals, prepare for what might happen in the future if said goals are achieved, and to assume that people here would have an IQ high enough to automatically know I want to be a fighter pilot. What type of people are you? Certainly enough you guys are stiffer than a wood glued BDU. Let me guess, if a cadet you know made a video with other cadets, in uniform just like the USAF, dancing and joking around to Ke$ha, it would make you extremely angry. I'm here for the USAF auxillary part, what are you guys here for?

[Tim Medeiros]

I'm here for the USAF auxillary part, what are you guys here for?

The oath I took back in August 1999 pretty much sums up why I'm here.  "To server my community, state and nation."

I'm not here for the USAF Auxiliary part, I'm not here for the uniform, or any of the benefits, other than volunteer service.  Which as a senior member now includes imparting my knowledge of leadership, followership and the like to those willing to listen.



By the way, I'm still waiting my reg cite

[SABRE17]

have you ever heard the quote "its not what you say but how you say it" ?

they way you are presenting your ideas in both ineffective and unprofessional and needs to stop this instant before our commander gets an email.

[spaatzmom]

No I'm not immature. Ask any USAF person who has seen me. Even 1 F-16 pilot finds me impressive and is willing,if I do good in school to write me a recomendation letter, but thats over the internet. I'm in CAP so I can prepare for a life in the military and serve my community(list of events I've done: Security details, parades, 2 races, Wreaths across America, and recruitment[2 recruits recruited so far.]) Assuming immaturity is ridiculous. Whats even more ridiculous is that these drones of attacks for what: my first ammendment. I'm being called insane for christ-sake for saying its OK to chew gum in uniform when nothing important is happening, and I guess imaturity includes living life to the fullest, and now I'm being told not to be faithful, seek my goals, prepare for what might happen in the future if said goals are achieved, and to assume that people here would have an IQ high enough to automatically know I want to be a fighter pilot. What type of people are you? Certainly enough you guys are stiffer than a wood glued BDU. Let me guess, if a cadet you know made a video with other cadets, in uniform just like the USAF, dancing and joking around to Ke$ha, it would make you extremely angry. I'm here for the USAF auxillary part, what are you guys here for?

Cadet,

While I applaud your desire to serve in the real military, at this present time, I don't see that panning out very well.  Whoever gave you the impression that CAP will prepare you for the military life did you a huge disservice, it has nothing to do with that. CAP is a voluntary support type of organization with its own rules and regulations, some of which the Air Force can nix at any time if they feel as though it would negatively impact them.

Are you aware that the military, many companies, and colleges monitor applicants entries in social networks such as Captalk and Facebook?  What you post wherever you post it, follows you well into your future.  Many people have been adversely affected by the random "thoughts" posted; be it not getting a job, firings, poor credit, not being accepted into schools, etc.

Chewing gum even while not participating at anything related to CAP can make the chewer look well childish, slovenly, immature, unprofessional, etc to those who are captive audiences.  It is like watching someone talk with their mouth full or chewing food with their mouth open .... something you might expect a 6 year old or younger to do until taught social graces, but not a teen or older.   Remember first impressions are often correct and if not they are nearly impossible to overcome without a boat load of work.

What you may deem as unimportant, someone else especially those higher in the food chain, may feel are very important.  The biggest thing is the respect factor.  If someone tells you no gum chewing, that is it NO GUM CHEWING especially if that person is in the chain of command.  They do not owe you or anyone else an explanation as to why.  Do not be shocked if you do not get the positions you desire in the future if you cannot follow the present rules.

[AngelWings]

Sorry to all for my recent bad attitude. Please forgive me. I've been going through a rough patch and any material posted is not reflective of my true attitude and personality. Please accept my apology. It has been some of the worst time of my life recently, and my brain has been fried by all of the things that are going on in my life, so I am not thinking clearly. I got off on the wrong foot, and personally believe that I've been mis-using my 1st ammendment here. I acted immature, and sadly I  can't erase that. My hero's would have personally have thought I was a joke with this bad attitude. My actions were uncalled for and couldn't have been worse.
I would personally like to say that I have been acting like a little kid and couldn't have ruined my image anymore. This is the 100% worst case scenario, and I couldn't have done anything worse to offend a fellow cadet, a wing commander, and all of you.
So please, don't use this has an example of me or my squadron, and please forgive me. I learned that I shouldn't take out any of my life stress or emotions on anyone and that I should always watch what I say. I feel horrible for even have thinking at that time that this was going to fly and would like to put this behind me. I love CAP and I have had only the best treatment from other CAP members. I hope all of you have a great holiday.

[cap235629]

Good luck and Happy Holidays!!!!

[AngelWings]

Thank you cap235629.

[HGjunkie]

Hey, don't worry about it. We all make mistakes, even i've made some posts that reflect upon me pretty bad. December isn't exactly my month of joy either. Happy Holidays!

[spaatzmom]

We all have personal issues that may or may not be worse than the person next to you.  It is such a subjective thing.  However, we all must set these issues aside when dealing with others.  I know not always an easy thing to do.  Do your best each day, hour, minute, or second to keep your head above water and nose out of trouble.  Don't post anything that in the clear light of day you would not want to see come back and bite you in the butt.

Good luck with your future endeavors inside and outside of CAP.

[Ron1319]

Littleguy, it sure seems to me like some of the posts in response to yours are way more out of line than anything you posted.  We're talking about grown men beating up on a kid for not coming across well, much it not the least bit helpful or productive.  This forum needs some rules, mainly when it comes to direct insults, such as questioning your sanity. 

Congrats on losing 20 lbs.  Keep running and I believe that CAP can be great preparation for the military.

[DakRadz]

You might want to go back and review his posts as to why exactly none were happy with him- to include me, and I'm the helpful cadink around here; I don't generally like seeing other cadinks get hammered.

I appreciate his apology, however, and will keep an open mind for his second chance. That's a good deal, IMO.

[wolfgang333]

Be advised if anyone regardless of who comes up to me with their breath on fire and attempts to engage me in conversation (I will) offer them a piece of gum. If they decline, I will not hesitate to tell them for what reason I'm offering and, advise them next time if you wish to have communication with me chew a piece of gum, have a mint or brush your fricken teeth prior. If in doubt, secure your breath and perform the latter. Carrying bad breath with self I consider being out of uniform, period.

[NCRblues]

Be advised if anyone regardless of who comes up to me with their breath on fire and attempts to engage me in conversation (I will) offer them a piece of gum. If they decline, I will not hesitate to tell them for what reason I'm offering and, advise them next time if you wish to have communication with me chew a piece of gum, have a mint or brush your fricken teeth prior. If in doubt, secure your breath and perform the latter. Carrying bad breath with self I consider being out of uniform, period.

Roger, I'm 5 months and a few days advised.... 

[SarDragon]

PM sent.

[ThatOneGuy]

I would think that if you were doing any kind of a public event (Airshow, color guard, things of that sort) then no it should not be allowed. It may give an unprofessional appearance to some people. Now way out in the woods, with only your squadron with you, or in a break room during an event (away from the public eye) then I personally see no problem with it. Some cadets use chewing gum as a way to sooth stress and calm down. Now as soon as they come back from the backwoods or leave the breakroom, then the gum needs to go out. Just my personal opinion. 

[Major Carrales]

I have let cadets chew gum on O-Flights followed by an inspection and throw it away ceremony.  The gum helps with airsickness and ear popping.

[The CyBorg is destroyed]

I personally do not chew gum, because I find it illogical to chew and chew and in the end not get anything out of it, but I acknowledge its uses for helping with ears popping.

I would not do it at any time in uniform, because you never know when you'll be called to attention, and chewing gum at the position of attention is a no-no.

[Major Carrales]

I would not do it at any time in uniform, because you never know when you'll be called to attention, and chewing gum at the position of attention is a no-no.

SWALLOW it!!!  THE PUNISHMENT IS BUILT IN!

[AngelWings]

I personally do not chew gum, because I find it illogical to chew and chew and in the end not get anything out of it, but I acknowledge its uses for helping with ears popping.

I would not do it at any time in uniform, because you never know when you'll be called to attention, and chewing gum at the position of attention is a no-no.

depends on the brand. There is B vitamin and such infused stride gum that taste interesting.