30 Shocking Rules And Secrets Of Life In The US Army

1. The infamous grog bowl is as disgusting as it sounds!

Image source/SandboxxYou may have been to a party before where they have a punch bowl, when the military get involved it becomes a whole lot worse. When the military throw a party, each member must add an ingredient to the "grog bow", and give a reason for their choice. A classic will be hot sauce, because of the deserts units deploy to.

2. Do NOT cheat!

Image source/Divorce LawyerThe U.S. army isn't the best place you want to be cheating on your partner, especially when it can lead you to be kicked out altogether. While this isn't a unique law just for the military, it is highly frowned upon, however it is very hard to prove and usually doesn't go punished.

3. Don't take a dip without permission

Image source/Daily MailObviously you will not get in trouble if you accidentally fall off, but if you just fancied a cool down in the sea, expect there to be some repercussions. If you want to take a plunge, make sure you have permission to avoid and bad-conduct discharges. You may get away with it if the corporal liked your dismount however.

4. No drinking alcohol with prisoners

Image source/Skillset MagazineWhile this may seem obvious to us all, it must have took place previously in order for it to become a rule. Prisoners are not allowed to be given booze by a standing guard. The consequences can be pretty serious, resulting in confinement for 3 months and a fine of two-thirds pay for 3 months.

5. Swearing is banned

Image source/ Business InsiderIt's hard to imagine that this rule is fully obeyed at all times, but it is a crime in the eyes of the U.S. army to swear on duty. According to the manual. "Indecent language is that which is grossly offensive to modesty, decency or propriety, or shocks the moral sense, because of its vulgar, filthy, or disgusting nature."

6. No hands in pockets

Image source/Luke Air Force BaseThis rule originates from the idea of it being 'unprofessional' and 'scruffy' to have your hands in your pocket. Whilst this may seem bit extreme for many, it is a strict rule that must be obeyed. Hands must also be out of pockets in order to be able to salute if needed.

7. Haircuts needed weekly

Image source/MilitaryFor the normal audience, weekly haircuts seem a little overkill, but when you're part of the U.S. army, appearance is essential. Soldiers will have short, buzzed hair, as it is easier to maintain during war and it develops a sense of belongingness, as all members have the same haircut.

8. Do NOT walk on the grass

Image source/Defense NewsYes you read that right, those who serve in the U.S. army are not allowed to walk on grass, especially if its anywhere near official departments. They can train on it, they can mow it, but they can't walk on it, certainly if you're in the marines. I didn't know grass was so dangerous for our troops to walk on.

9. Walking and talking on the phone is banned

Image source/PixelsProbably one of the most annoying military-wide regulations, but nether less must still be obeyed. Those serving in the U.S. army are forbidden from walking and talking on the phone. Similar to why there is no hands in the pockets, soldiers are believed to look unprofessional and they must be ready to salute at any moment.

10. Everyone has to wear reflective belts

Image source/We Are The MightyA soldier, in reflective gear? As bizarre as it seems, all members must be wearing reflective gear everywhere they go. This would make sense if they're working on the side of the road, but if they're out training in the woods, is it really necessary?

11. Straggling isn't allowed

Image source/Business InsiderIf it came down to a war time situation, a person straggling behind could be the difference between life and death. So when it comes to this matter, the U.S. army don't take matters lightly. If you're continuing to straggle, you can suffer reduced pay and even be confined for three months.

12. Not allowed to wear unauthorized items

Image source/We Are The MightySince President Barrack Obama signed the Stolen Valor Act, wearing unearned military awards and decorations is illegal. Because of this, soldiers have to be careful and aware of what they wear in public to make sure they stick to the act. They can still wear their uniform in public, as long as they are not profiting from it.

13. Strictly no duelling!

Image source/Royal British LegionSome of you may be familiar with the old cow boy films where they would challenge one another to a duel, despite how cool it may seem, if you're enlisted in the army duelling is banned. In the army now, it is more than outdated for two soldiers to be fighting off their differences, especially when the punishment can result in dishonourable discharge and financial repercussions.

14. Don't mention its your birthday

Image source/Inc. MagazineIn the military, hazing is really frowned upon. Any type of initiation or harassment aimed at the troops is a major offence under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Expect a terrible surprise if the unit discovers its your birthday, you will probably regret them finding out, especially if you were the idiot to tell them.

15. Don't ask questions

Image source/Performance HealthWhen you're in the military, if you want any chance of lasting, don't ask questions. Whilst us everyday folk may wonder, "why are we running up the same hill for the 11th time?" Soldiers on the other hand must just carry on, no matter how mundane and gruelling it is.

16. Showering in flip-flops

Image source/New York MagazineAccording to one battalion, there are only two types of people who shower without flip-flops on in community showers, the idiots or those trying to catch gangrene. You have no idea what the person before you has done in the shower, even more so in the army, so only a fool wouldn't keep flip-flops on.

17. Nobody carries umbrellas

Image source/UnsplashOne of the unwritten rules of the army is you can't use umbrellas, which makes sense when you try and think of a time you ever saw a soldier with an umbrella. God help any soldier who would decide to bring one out into the field, I would hate to witness the sergeants reaction.

18. The Court of Neptune

Image source/Library of Congress BlogsFor centuries sailors have held ceremonies for when their vessels cross the equator. Known formally as "Crossing the Line", but sailors refer to it as  "The Court of Neptune", the ritual consists of sailors who have never crossed the equator before to perform for "King Neptune", the ships captain. No matter what the performance was like, they are punished by eating something rancid, normally a spicy item of food.

Image source/U.S. ArmyYou may have picked up on a few of these traditions all circulating around who is the most alpha, this one is no different. Troops are not allowed facial hair, except for a very thin moustache. The contest begins at the start of deployment, where they all are clean shaven, and the person with the best moustache by the end is the winner, which is declared at any random time.

20. Eating Fast

Image source/IndiatimesIn the military, your schedule is normally extremely tight, leaving you limited time to eat. As your time for eating is cut short, being a fast eater is a must. Soldiers learn to eat fast otherwise its a choice between going hungry or facing up with the sergeant major, who won't take eating as an excuse for being late!

21. Learn to sleep anywhere

Image source/GreatistMilitary personnel can pretty much sleep anywhere, in any weather and any surface. This is a secret that soldiers must master in order to maintain sanity. They also must be able to awake rapidly and coherently, which was essential when two U.S. service members stopped a gunman aboard the Paris-bound train.

22. Must have good manners

Image source/Modern War InstituteAlongside the no-swearing policy in the army, soldiers must also be very polite and well mannered. This comes from a well drilled routine of respect towards one another, and towards those in charge. You can usually tell who is an ex or current serviceman by their over usage of "sir" and "ma'am".

23. Walking fast

Image source/U.S. ArmyOne thing you will definitely not get away with in the U.S. army is walking slow. Military personal walk with a purpose, as if every time they walk they are walking into the pentagon to meet the president. If you're ever out in public and see somebody walking briskly and purposefully, they are most likely military.

24. The army doesn't leave after you resign

Image source/U.S. Embassy in GeorgiaAs all ex-servicemen know, you never really retire from the army. You will always be held to high standards, whether thats your family expecting you to be in great shape, or your coworkers expecting you to lead a task and handle stress. The responsibility of the army is expected to stick with you forever.

25. The government waste a lot of money

Image source/Washington TimesNumerous sources tell us that after spending time in service, you realise the amount of waste the army goes through. With such a high budget to play with, why fix things when you can replace them? Whether its eggs being wasted in the morning, or assault rifles being thrown away because they're jammed, we know there is an awful amount of waste.

26. You won't be rich

Image source/EntrepreneurDon't join the army if you want to be rich, spoiler alert you won't be. Whilst some people may join for a bonus or to pay off student loans, which is a great benefit, the take home money is actually low. Whilst the memories and experience are priceless, if you're only concerned about money, the military is not your best option.

27. The army is not adult daycare

Image source/PBSA misconception that people may think is that the army serves you, it's not true, you serve army. Those who join the army thinking its adult day care are just putting themselves and others at risk of danger. Whilst there are huge perks that only the army offer, they come with great responsibility and sacrifice.

28. Everyone carrying a radio is a target

Image source/U.S. ArmyAmerican soldiers are trained to target enemies with radios in an attempt to eliminate adversary's command networks. Unfortunately, the enemy has also figured this tactic out, and has started to implement the same tactic. This means anybody carrying a radio is a huge target.

29. Weapons malfunctions can be deadly

Image source/The National InterestWithout proper maintenance, every weapon is capable of failing, and often resulting in the death of the soldier operating it. One unfortunate example was when an artillery crew in Afghanistan got a horrible surprise to find their howitzer's recoil mechanism gave out during a firing mission.

30. "Danger close" is only used when it has a 0.1 percent chance of incapacitating you

Image source/Task & PurposeYou have probably heard the phrase "Danger close" used in movies from time to time. It's correct term is usually used with artillery observers yelling it on radio when they need bombs or artillery. If the rounds have a 0.1 percent chance of killing friendly troops, then it is referred to as "Danger close."

31. Clear your mind

Image source/Military.comThe army technique for falling asleep is renowned because it is claimed that it can make you fall asleep in two minuites. And the trick is very much like yoga. Clear you mind, relax each and every facial muscle, drop your shoulders and then mentally work down your body relaxing each and every muscle whilst thinking clear your mind.

32. No time is private

Image source/UnsplashWhen you join the army...private time no longer exists. This included your time to defecate, urinate and shower. There will be no privacy so modesty is not something you are able to retain if you do join. It is just considered a normal part of army life.

33. Someone has to watch you pee

Image source/JoomIt is a part of the regular practice that somebody will perform routine checks on you when you are a part of the military. So, this means that somebody will watch you pee. You do not just get to submit a test. They literally have to sit and watch you to ensure you don't cheat.

34. Cherry Pies

Image source/cookpadYour superiors will recommend that you fill your cargo pickets with Hostess Cherry Pies first. Nobody knows how this particular tradition started but the U.S army have a love for cherry pie. Just incase you get hungry. It is very American after all...

35. Callsigns

Image source/U.S ArmyYes they are real just like in the movies however, it's not the same as each person having their own callsign. That's not exactly howe it works. They have unit designations, therefore, the name will have the callsign followed by the number such as 'thuderbolt 6'.

36. Blood Wings

Image source/SandboxxThis is essentially when sombody gets a promotion, everyone takes turns in the troops to punch it. And, the member usually agree to it. It hurts, but there's usually no malice in it and it is done in good spirits. It's definitely not official or seomthing the army like to happen.

37. There's a lot of competition

Image source/military.comAs we saw with the moustache contest - the people in the army pretty much turn anything into a competition and we really mean anything. For example, even weeing can be turned into a constest. Competition and proving who is more 'macho' is part and parcel of army life.

38. Pillow Fight

Image source/InsiderNow this sounds bizarre. But there was a case of a infamous pillow fight - The West Point pillow battle royale. It was a competition to see who was the best warrior. Yes, it sounds like a slumber party but it was actually banned in 2015 due to the injuries caused.

39. All weddings are in uniform

Image source/StirrepThis is to symbolise the protection that the person in the U.S military will provide for their new spouse and to signify that they are now a part of the wider army family. So, all those who are a part of the military must marry in their full army uniform.

40. Blasting Cap

Image source/wikimediacommonsA blasting cap is a small explosive device used to detonate a bigger explosive device. Whenever their is a new platoon leader, they take the officer's patrol cap and tape it to the end of the barrel. Then when the first round goes off the end of the barrel explodes.

Power in the army means responsibility for lives

Image source/NATOPeople join the army with a view to progress, to move up the ranks through promotions. And many seek more power in the army. But, the thing to consider is that each time you do gain power in the army you responsibility over people's lives and people's families always increases.

Identity theft is a threat

Image source/military.comThis is often not something that you even consider when thinking about being a part of the U.S army, but identity theft is a common threat. The social security number has to be used on every single bit of paper work and it can be very easy for someone to steal their identity.

It can be lonely for women

Image source/wikipediaWomen in the U.S army are much more common now than ever. But, for many it can still be a fairly lonely place because they are still a minority. And, the army is typically and still has very masculine orientated attitudes and views. This is something that has improved but still remains.

You are ALWAYS on call

Image source/Breaking defenceThe things about the U.S army is that once you join, you are always on call. Even when you technically not. There is always a possibility that you will be called. Even if you are away on vacation. The army has all your details of where you are staying to fly you back out if needed.

PT starts at 6.30

Image source/military.comRoutine as most people know is very rigorous in the U.S army. And, typically your day will start at 6.30 with personal training. Of course being a solider you have to be in top physical condition which has to be thoroughly maintained otherwise you are not considered fit for battle.

Sleep deprivation is common

Image source/BBCSleep depreivaion is a very hard thing which can make you feel sick. But in the army it is a common occurence and something that you have to accept at times will happen. This is why the U.S army have sleep techniques as we previously saw. It helps avoid the extent of sleep deprivation.

There's a LOT of paperwork

Image source/Military.comNow the army is not always all go, all action and battles. There is actually a LOT of paperwork involved. Which, is often not a side of it that those in the U.S army love. Things have to be thoroughly written down with fine detail, for example if you go on holiday every detail must be logged.

Healthcare is provided

Image source/goarmy.comIf you are a member of the U.S army their are of course a lot of sacrifices, but there are also a number of benefits. One of these included is free healthcare which you will receive and it will always be available to you whilst you are in the army whenever you need it.

It makes family life tough

Image source/military.comHaving a family life whilst in the army is tough because you never know when you might be called away, or how long for. Sometimes it can feel like you are abandoning your family but then some soldiers also feel that they would be abandoning their country by prioritising family life.

Life is unpredictable

Image source/PBSLife is totally unpredictable in the U.S army. And, experiences of individuals in the army end up varying so vastly that it is hard to ever summarise an experience. But the one thing that is true for almost all involved is that it is unpredictable and you never know what will happen next.