Can I order a Soldier to take down an unprofessional Facebook photo? | AskTOP.net – Leader Development for Army Professionals

Can I order a Soldier to take down an unprofessional Facebook photo?

I have a Soldier who posted a picture on his facebook page half naked with his pants below his waist line to where you can see his privates. I told him that this picture is inappropriate and he should remove it from his Facebook. I ordered him to take it down since it is disrespectful to others and does not represent the Army well. He told me there is no regulation that says he has to take it off... TOP what can I do?

The comprehensive guide to the Military Decision Making Process (MDMP)

While your actions may be well intended you have ventured into a grey area. The military services are currently struggling with how to address certain events that occur within the social media realm. These type of situations need to be addressed in concert with the commander and the JAG office. Not at the mid-grade leadership level. This issue may require a policy decision by the command.

I would encourage you to bring this to the attention of your chain of command. It may be necessary to provide them with proof in the form of a screenshot or other similar means.

I would caution you and suggest you do not proceed until your chain of command becomes involved. While I believe your concerns are most likely correct, your actions need to be coordinated through the chain of command. Depending on the details of the situation, his actions maybe punishable under the UCMJ.

I have attached a Social Media Handbook below for your review.

Follow us and never miss a post!

avatar
Mark is a Retired Command Sergeant Major with 26 years of military leadership experience. He held 3 military occupational specialties (Field Artillery, Nuclear Weapons Tech, and Ammunition Ordnance). Mark is one of the leading military authors in the fields of leadership, counseling, and training.

You might be interested in…

The comprehensive guide to the Military Decision Making Process (MDMP)

Disclaimer: Though all content posted on AskTOP.net is reviewed by our qualified subject matter experts, you should not make decisions based solely on the information contained in this post. Use information from multiple sources when making important professional decisions. This is not an official government website.

Leave a Comment

We will never publish or sell your email address, nor will we ever send you information you have not requested.