Question:

Chief,
Is there an instruction that will help me understand why MA’s wear their covers indoors while being armed up?

I’ve recently converted to MA and needed some guidance on where to look. I’ve googled and also searched through NAVCOPS.COM,But I’ve came up empty. I’ve also asked a few MA1’s around here and they don’t seem to know where to find such instruction.

Is this a Navy regulation or a command reg?

Any help would be appreciated,
Confused,
MA2(SW)CERVANTEZ, PEDRO R.

 


Answer:

Dear MA2 (SW) Cervantez:
 
According to Section 1101.4c.-d. (Indoor Wear and Special Circumstances) of Uniform Regulations of the US Navy,

"Indoors, personnel shall remain uncovered at all times unless directed otherwise by higher authority for a special situation/event.  Those service members in a duty status and wearing side arms or a pistol belt may only remove headgear indoors when entering dining, medical or FOD hazard areas or where religious services are being conducted.
   
A military cover may be removed when riding a bicycle on or off base.  A safety helmet is recommended.  Personnel may remove their cap or hat when traveling inside a private automobile or riding a bicycle off base.  A cover is mandatory when entering or within a military reservation, unless wearing the cap is impractical or hazardous."
  
It states "may only" and not "must" when entering a dining facility.  As an MA1 on active duty, I had a Seabee Master Chief call me on wearing my cover at the salad bar.  I correctly advised him of my status of being armed with the M9 and M16 A3. 
  
I hope this is of help.  Also, note that the Army and the USMC have the same requirement of those in a duty status and while armed/under arms.
 
MAC Robert Wootton, USN
Chief Master-at-Arms
Small Arms Instructor/Range Safety Officer 0812
Criminal Investigator 2002