Académique Documents
Professionnel Documents
Culture Documents
Blue Book
Purpose
The Blue Book outlines the regulations
governing the Corps of Cadets and provides
broad guidelines for cadet standards and
conduct. Cadets adhere to the provisions of the
Blue Book at all times while on and off Post
including during furloughs. VMI Cadets are
subject to this regulation from the time they sign
the Matriculation Book and become a cadet until
relieved of duty at graduation. Violations of the
Blue Book that occur, for example during
summer furlough or off Post, may result in
subsequent action being taken for misconduct.
This book is not meant to be all encompassing
and for that reason it is inconsistent with the
code of personal conduct to have written rules as
the sole basis of determining professional
behavior. Any action detrimental to the Corps
shall be considered a personal conduct violation
and will be judged accordingly.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY & SECURITY ...................................................................................................................................... 1
CHAPTER 1 BARRACKS EVACUATION PROCEDURES ..................................................................................... 1
CHAPTER 2 DOOR LOCKING POLICY ............................................................................................................. 3
CHAPTER 3 ROOM OCCUPANCY POLICY ....................................................................................................... 4
CHAPTER 4 VISITORS.................................................................................................................................... 5
CHAPTER 5 WEAPONS .................................................................................................................................. 6
STATUS ................................................................................................................................................................ 9
CHAPTER 6 STATUS AND LIMITS................................................................................................................... 9
Annex A Post CQ Limits ............................................................................................................................. 14
Annex B Post Evening CQ Limits ............................................................................................................... 15
Annex C Daily Schedule ............................................................................................................................. 16
CHAPTER 7 STATUS CHECKS ...................................................................................................................... 17
CHAPTER 8 GIM (MEDICAL) STATUS AND PROCEDURES ........................................................................... 19
CHAPTER 9 PHYSICAL TRAINING TIME (PTT) & REMEDIAL PHYSICAL TRAINING (RPT) ........................... 22
ACCOUNTABILITY ......................................................................................................................................... 23
CHAPTER 10 ACCOUNTABILITY .................................................................................................................. 23
CHAPTER 11 LEAVES .................................................................................................................................. 27
CHAPTER 12 FURLOUGH DEPARTURE ......................................................................................................... 31
PRIVILEGES & PERMITS .............................................................................................................................. 32
CHAPTER 13 PRIVILEGE OVERVIEW ........................................................................................................... 32
CHAPTER 14 AUTOMOBILES ....................................................................................................................... 33
CHAPTER 15 PERMITS ................................................................................................................................. 34
Annex A First Class Permit ........................................................................................................................ 35
Annex B Weekend Leave Permit ................................................................................................................. 37
Annex C Academic/Class Day Permit ......................................................................................................... 39
Annex D Visit/Dine by Invitation ................................................................................................................ 41
Annex E Visit with Date Permit .................................................................................................................. 43
Annex F National Guard/Reserve Weekend Permit .................................................................................... 45
Annex G Religious Services Permit ............................................................................................................ 47
Annex I Optional SRC Permit ..................................................................................................................... 50
Annex J Cup Competitions Permit .............................................................................................................. 51
Annex K Cadet Special Duty Permit ........................................................................................................... 54
CONDUCT .......................................................................................................................................................... 56
CHAPTER 16 DEMERITS .............................................................................................................................. 56
CHAPTER 17 SPECIAL REPORTS, FORM 24S ................................................................................................ 58
CHAPTER 18 OFFENSES .............................................................................................................................. 61
CHAPTER 19 BARRACKS CONFINEMENT ..................................................................................................... 75
CHAPTER 20 PENALTY TOURS .................................................................................................................... 76
CHAPTER 21 CONDUCT PROBATION ........................................................................................................... 78
CHAPTER 22 ACADEMIC PROBATION .......................................................................................................... 79
CHAPTER 23 SUSPENSION & DISMISSAL ..................................................................................................... 80
CHAPTER 24 DRUGS, ALCOHOL & TOBACCO ............................................................................................. 81
CHAPTER 25 SEARCHES .............................................................................................................................. 83
CHAPTER 26 MILITARY COURTESY ............................................................................................................ 84
CHAPTER 27 NEW CADETS ......................................................................................................................... 86
CHAPTER 28 MARRIAGE & PARENTHOOD .................................................................................................. 88
CHAPTER 29 PROFESSIONAL RELATIONS .................................................................................................... 89
CHAPTER 30 ROOM ORDERLY .................................................................................................................... 92
CHAPTER 31 ROOM & ROOMING ASSIGNMENTS ........................................................................................ 93
CHAPTER 32 ROOM ORGANIZATION ........................................................................................................... 94
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SUMMARY
Cadets on the scene ensure the alarm is sounded
After Taps, all arches are immediately opened
The Corps forms in Crozet Hall for accountability
1. OVERVIEW: Cadets first on scene to a fire or other life threatening event such as a gas leak
and the cadet guard team are responsible for executing the barracks evacuation procedures.
Prompt and efficient action of first responding cadets is essential to help ensure the safety of all
cadets. Safety is paramount. Cadets do not take action that puts themselves or others at risk.
2. FIRST RESPONSE FIRE, GAS LEAK, ETC.
a. When a fire breaks out in barracks or any other situation requiring the evacuation of barracks, on
scene cadets and guard team cadets ensure barracks inhabitants are notified and the fire department is
summoned.
b. On scene cadets activate the fire alarm if no alarm is sounding. To activate the alarm:
(1) Find the nearest manual initiation device located throughout barracks (next to stairwells/each of
the four Arches and along the stoops).
(2) Pull down on the clear plastic cover.
(3) Push the black button marked push." Pull down on the white handle marked pull down."
c. Upon alarm activation:
(1) On scene cadets provide the guard team with details of the fire.
(2) On scene cadets either report to the senior cadet in the guard room or inform the courtyard
sentinel who then reports to the guard room.
(3) Information to be reported includes the location/severity of the fire, the number of injured cadets,
etc.
3. EVACUATION
a. If barracks is evacuated after 0600 and before taps, cadets not in barracks should listen for
instructions on the Post public address system. Cadets may be required to shelter in place or
report to Crozet Hall for accountability.
b. If Crozet Hall is not available as the evacuation location, listen for turn-out instructions and/or
instructions via the Post public address system
c. After Taps, the guard team immediately opens the arche and directs cadets to the formation location
d. Upon the outbreak of a fire, cadets immediately evacuate barracks. Cadets do not wait for the
sounding of the fire alarm.
e. Fire evacuation routes are as follows:
Old Barracks
Down southwest stairs and out Washington Arch
Down southeast stairs and out Washington Arch
Down Old Barracks Sally Port and out Jackson Arch
3-103 to 3-134
3-201 to 3-219
3-212 to 3-226
3-228 to 3-236
3-303 to 3-335,
3-403 to 3-435
3-337 to 3-341,
3-437 to 3-441
3-328 to 3-340,
3-428 to 3-440
3-312 to 3-326,
3-412 to 4-426
3-509 to 3-513
3-521 to 3-525
3C32-3C26
3C24-3C12
New Barracks
Down Tac stairs and out Marshall Arch
Down small Tac stairs (over entrance to concourse)
and out Marshall Arch
Down New Barracks Sally Port and out Marshall
Arch
Up staircase marked EXIT by room C9 and out
Marshall Arch
Third Barracks
Take the most direct, safest route through the 3rd Barracks Arch
Down southwest stairs and out the 3rd Barracks Arch
Down northeast stairs and out the 3rd Barracks Arch
Down the northwest stairs and out the 3rd Barracks Arch
Down the southwest stairs and out the 3rd Barracks Arch
Down the northwest stairs and out the 3rd Barracks Arch
Down the northwest stairs and out the 3rd Barracks Arch
Down the northeast stairs and out the 3rd Barracks Arch
Down the 5th stoop stairs, Down the southwest stairs and out the
3rd Barracks Arch
Down the 5th stoop stairs, down the southwest stairs and out the
3rd Barracks Arch
Up staircase at Fire Exit Door S03C and out 3rd Barracks Arch
Up staircase at Fire Exit Door S04C and out 3rd Barracks Arch
4. ACCOUNTABILITY
a. Upon evacuating barracks, cadets form in Crozet Hall in company areas.
(1) Prior to integration Rat platoons form the 4th platoon of each company and the Rat Battalion staff
forms as normal.
(2) All cadets on the GIM form with their companies.
(3) Cadets return to barracks only when instructed to do so by the Officer of the Day (OD).
b. The S1 staff ensures accountability is taken and missing cadets are identified.
(1) First Sergeants take accountability and immediately provide names of missing cadets to their
Battalion S1.
(2) S1 Lieutenants crosscheck names of missing cadets with the computerized accountability records
(provided by the S1 Sergeant).
(3) Battalion S1s deliver consolidated accountability reports to the Regimental S1 Captain.
c. The S1 Captain provides this data to cadet leaders and the Commandants staff.
5. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
SUMMARY
Doors to cadet rooms in barracks are unlocked during normal day-to-day barracks operations
while school is in session
Cadet doors are locked during furloughs and when a large portion of the Corps is absent from
barracks
Cadets request exceptions to this policy from a member of the Commandants Staff during
business hours or from the Officer-in-Charge during the evening or on weekends
1. OVERVIEW: Doors to cadet rooms remain unlocked under normal circumstances while the
Institute is in session.
a. This policy encourages a strong class system based upon shared experiences by precluding
barriers to communication and interaction throughout the day.
b. The policy also acknowledges and reinforces the VMI Honor System by compelling members
of the Corps to enforce the system themselves rather than rely upon the locking of doors to
prevent thefts or cover up honor violations such as the intentional missing of formation.
c. Doors being unlocked enables Corps members and Institute officials to better monitor
barracks for situations of concern such as unauthorized Ratline activities or other
inappropriate activities.
d. Unlocked doors facilitate the Officer-in-Charge Midnight Inspection (OCMNI) conducted
each evening by the OC.
2. SCHEDULED LOCKING OF DOORS: All cadet room doors, or a subset thereof, are locked
during certain key events throughout the year when a large portion of one class or the Corps in its
entirety is absent from barracks. Doors are locked by Institute Officials and guard team members
as a key is required to lock doors when rooms are unoccupied. Times when doors are locked
include:
a. During the Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring and Easter Furloughs.
b. During Corps participation at inaugurals, Corps Trips, and FTXs.
c. During Ring Figure (2nd Class rooms only).
3. EXCEPTION TO DOOR LOCKING POLICY
a. A cadet is authorized to lock the door without prior authorization during times of emergency
when he or she feels under imminent threat including during an Active Shooter scenario as
detailed in Chapter 4 of the Blue Book. In these instances, cadets must contact the police via
9-1-1, the guard room at 464-7294 or the OC at 464-7293 after the door is locked.
b. Any cadet may request an exception to the door locking policy.
(1) Cadets request exceptions from any uniformed member of the Commandants Staff
during normal business hours.
(2) After business hours and on weekends, exceptions are made to the Officer-in-Charge.
(3) When practical, the exception is granted for a specific duration of time.
c. Exceptions to the door locking policy are made when a cadets roommates are absent from
post and there is no other room in which to spend the night (that is, a cadet is sleeping alone
in a room for the evening) or a concern exists that someone might enter the cadets room
without permission for the purpose of causing physical or mental harm.
d. Cadets granted permission to lock their doors tape a card stating Door Authorized to be
Locked by __________. If appropriate, the card should also state the duration the door is
authorized to be locked.
e. Exceptions granted for longer than one week are reviewed by the Assistant Commandant for
Cadet Government and/or the Commandant of Cadets.
4. The Assistant Commandant for Cadet Government is the point of contact for this chapter.
SUMMARY
No cadet is compelled to spend the night in barracks in a room alone
Cadets whose roommates are away from the Institute request permission to sleep in another
cadets room (or to have another cadet sleep in theirs) from a member of the Commandants
Staff or from the Officer-in-Charge
Cadets whose roommates have permanently departed the Institute either move into a new
room or have new roommates assigned to their room
CHAPTER 4 Visitors
SUMMARY
Visitors wanting to contact or meet a cadet report to the Visitors Center to
summon the cadet
VMI Alumni can only visit barracks between 0800 hrs and 1845 hrs, after
signingin at the Guard Room
1. OVERVIEW: VMI is State property. Visitors are welcome to visit facilities not specifically
intended for the sole use of cadets, faculty or staff.
2. VISITORS TO POST
a. Cadets must wear class dyke or better while escorting visitors on Post.
b. Visitor Center.
(1) Visitors report to the Visitor Center in Lejeune Hall to have a cadet summoned.
(2) Cadet orderlies ensure the cadet is informed the visitor has arrived.
(3) The orderlies inform the visitor if the cadet cannot be found.
c. Cadets may not visit with guests in academic buildings with the exception of Preston Library.
d. Post Visitation Hours: Daily from 0800 until Taps.
e. Visitors must depart Post no later than 5 minutes after Taps.
3. VISITORS TO BARRACKS
a. Only uniformed faculty and staff members, identifiable coaches and alumni can visit barracks
unescorted.
b. Non-alumni are not permitted in barracks unless escorted by a member of the Commandants
staff or uniformed faculty/staff members.
c. Alumni Visitation. Alumni must sign in inside the guard room for a visitors pass between
the hours of 0800 hrs and 1845 hrs daily. Alumni are not allowed to visit in barracks during
SRC or evening CQ (after 1945 hrs) without permission from the Officer in Charge (OC).
d. Alumni are not authorized to release rats from the Ratline. The only exception to this is if the
Alumni is personally accompanying the Rat from location to location.
4. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
CHAPTER 5 Weapons
SUMMARY
Cadets will keep positive control over VMI issued weapons at all times
Cadets are not authorized to bring personal weapons to VMI, with the exception of
the Skeet Club
Skeet Club members allowed to bring weapons to VMI must follow authorized
storage procedures as described in the Skeet Club permit
Lost or stolen weapons must be reported immediately to the proper authorities
Government and must be secured, safeguarded and maintained at all times; loss of a
weapon, including any major parts/components, is a serious offense/incident and must
be reported immediately to the cadet chain of command, VMI guard room, VMI arms
room and Commandants office (OC/TAC). In the event a VMI weapon is found on
post, the responsible individual should safely secure the weapon and transport to the
guard room for accountability and security.
d. A lost or stolen firearm is a serious offense. A lost or stolen firearm will be grounds for a
penalty ranging from Federal/State prosecution and/or a VMI penalty of dismissal to a
number five (5).
e. Loss of a bayonet is a serious offense and must be reported through the cadet chain of
command to the Battalion Operations and Training Sergeants or any Commandants staff
member.
f. Bayonets are only drawn from scabbards for cleaning and maintenance or as directed at
parades and formations.
g. Cadets must:
(1) Not bang rifles on the ground or stoop.
(2) Keep weapons on Post at all times unless participating in an approved VMI activity.
(3) Turn in issued weapons to the armory when directed.
(4) Inform the armory when a weapon has been damaged.
(5) Cadets must inform their company master sergeants when rifles and or bayonets have
been turned into the arms room for damage repairs for proper accountability.
(6) Cadets will immediately report a lost, found, or stolen firearm to a Commandant staff
official, officer in charge, and to the guard room.
2. PROCEDURES FOR LOST OR STOLEN FIREARMS,
a. Commandant staff officials and or Officer in Charge that has been notified of a lost or stolen
firearm will report the incident to the Commandant.
b. The first notified Commandant staff official or Officer in Charge will commence a log of
events; commencing with the time first notified of the lost or stolen firearm.
c. The first notified Commandant staff official or Officer in Charge will commence the
procedures in place for lost firearm.
d. Responsibility and timeline follows.
A. Responsibility:
1. Commandant
a. Ensure a 100% inventory of all weapons is completed.
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STATUS
CHAPTER 6 Status and Limits
SUMMARY
All Right status is determined by being in the right place at the right timeotherwise,
a cadet is Not All Right
Personal Status is directly tied to Cadet Daily Schedule, CQ Status and Limits
Four distinct CQ periods in the day (Morning, Afternoon, Evening, and After Taps)
Cadet door status card reflects a cadets status, 24/7 and is a certified statement
(4) All Duty. If on All Duty status, cadets are excused from all duties during a specific time
period, which may include academic classes and/or military duty. The following rules
apply to All Duty status:
(a) Only the Superintendent, Dean of Faculty, Commandant, or Institute Physician is
authorized to issue All Duty status.
(b) Medical All Duty status is authorized by the Institute Phyisican who will determine
the period of time a cadet will be in All Duty status.
(c) Guard team All Duty status is authorized by the Commandant.
[1] Guard team members who are assigned to All Duty guard positions sign out prior
to their guard shift/guard mount Guard miss class which has an automatic
sign in at 1700 at the end of the guard shift. These cadets are excused from both
military and academic duty during their guard shift.
(d) Cadets on NCAA permit:
[1] All Duty begins at the pre-game meal, four hours prior to time of game at home
and 60 minutes prior to departure for away events.
[2] When All Duty begins in the middle of a class period, cadets will complete the
class period prior to signing out/beginning All Duty. When All Duty ends in the
middle of a class period, cadets will sign in from All Duty prior to the start of the
class period and must attend the entire class period.
[3] NCAA athletes sign out All Duty-home competition for games on post.
NCAA athletes sign out NCAA-away competition in xxxxx (location where the
competition takes place) for games off post.
[4] Teams returning from away competitions between 2400-0200 hours have All
Duty until 1000; teams returning after 0200 have All Duty until 1200. This does
not apply to home competions. Exceptions must be approved by the Director of
Athletics, Commandant and Dean of the Faculty.
(e) Cadets must sign out and update the door status card.
(f) Cadets are authorized Hay Down.
(5) Limited Duty. If on Limited Duty status, cadets must attend academic classes, but are
excused from Physical Training Time and other activities scheduled during the afternoon
Military Duty period. The following rules apply to Limited Duty status:
(a) Only the Superintendent, Commandant, or Institute Physician is authorized to issue
Limited Duty status.
(b) Cadets on limited duty authorized by the Institute Physician will have on their
person a GIM slip that denotes their limitations. Cadets on medical limited duty do
not sign out.
(c) Guard team Limited Duty is authorized by the Commandant.
[1] Guard team members who are assigned to Limited Duty positions sign out prior
to the start of their guard shift/guard mount Guard attend class which has an
automatic sign in at 1700 at the end of the guard shift. These cadets are excused
from military duty during their guard shift but must attend academic classes.
(d) Cadets on NCAA permit: Limited Duty is authorized the day of an athletic event
until All Duty status begins. Limited Duty may start prior to the day of the event
with permission of the Commandant.
(e) Cadets must attend Commandants Training Time.
(f) Cadets must attend all events scheduled during Deans Time.
(g) Cadets must sign out and update their door status card.
(h) Cadets are authorized Hay Down.
c. Call to Quarters (CQ)
(1) There are four distinct CQ periods during the 24-hour duty day. They are:
(a) Morning CQ - 0700-1315hrs, Monday-Saturday
10
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outside one of the barracks arches during CCQ, but may not enter barracks until CQ is
announced.
(3) Taps CCQ. Cadets are All Right when:
(a) In their room
(b) Taking authorized late study in an academic building IAW evening CQ Limits
(c) When moving between academic buildings for authorized late study or to/from their
room and academic buildings for authorized late study.
(4) The barracks study room is an All Right location for upperclass cadets only during
Taps CCQ. Cadets must remain in the BSR until the status in barracks returns to CQ.
f. Release from Quarters (RQ). A period of time when cadets may take general permit (see
stipulations below) and visit off Post locations.
(1) RQ/GP is granted during the following days and times:
(a) Wednesday, 1215hrs to SRC.
(b) Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 1215 to SRC provided no academic or
military duty is missed.
(c) Saturday, completion of military duty to SRC and from completion of SRC formation
until 0100hrs (Taps).
(d) Sunday, 0700hrs to SRC.
(2) General Permit Eligibility: Cadets must have full class privileges to take general permit
with the following exceptions:
(a) Cadets whose only restriction is conduct probation may take GP on Wednesday
between 1215-SRC.
(b) Cadets on academic probation are eligible for GP provided they are on no other
restrictions.
(c) Rats are not eligible for GP except Sunday from 1200-1800 hrs.
(d) Cadets whose only restrictive status is having 19 PTs or less may take this permit but
may not miss any PT formation to do so.
(3) General Permit Stipulations.
(a) First class cadets with full class privileges are authorized GP Sunday-Thursday from
completion of SRC until 2030 and on Friday night from completion of SRC until
taps.
(b) Second class cadets with full class privileges are authorized GP on Friday night from
completion of SRC until taps.
(c) Cadets are authorized to depart Rockbridge County.
g. Not All Right" Locations. Acadet is Not All Right in locations designated Not All
Right" IAW Annexes A and B, Chapter 6. In addition, the following locations are also Not
All Right":
(1) Locked rooms and buildings.
(2) Male rest rooms to females and female rest rooms to males.
(3) Faculty and staff members offices, unless member is present.
(4) The roofs of all Post buildings, to include barracks.
(5) Construction and building renovation areas.
(6) Barracks storage rooms without authority.
(7) All fraternity/sorority/dormitory buildings at Washington and Lee University during
academic year unless having a legitimate invitation IAW the Washington and Lee
University Visitation Policy.
(8) All unauthorized locations IAW evening CQ Limits, to include Cocke Hall and King Hall
during CQ after taps.
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14
15
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SUMMARY
Formal validation of cadet status
Status checks support the principles of ethics, honesty and personal integrity
Responsibility for determining status rests solely and specifically upon the individual
cadet
1. GENERAL
Status checks are conducted throughout the day to ensure cadets are in an All Right location
IAW the Cadet Daily Schedule and CQ Limits. Status checks include:
a. Officer-in-Charge Midnight Inspection (OCMNI)
b. Daily Confinement Checks
c. Taps Status Check
d. Sunday BRC Status Check
2. OFFICER-IN-CHARGE MIDNIGHT INSPECTION (OCMNI)
The Officer-in-Charge (OC) physically checks cadet rooms between taps and 0545hrs. In the
event the OC cannot determine a cadets status, the OC will leave an OCMNI Status Report in the
room and the assigned cadets will report their status at the time of the OCMNI check.
a. Cadets will check the OCMNI sheet in Washington / Marshall Arches or in 3rd Barracks each
day to review if their room was checked by the OC.
b. If the OC checks a room and one or more cadets are Not All Right but have the door status
card improperly marked, they must place themselves on report via Form 24, regardless of
whether an OCMNI Status Report was issued.
3. CONFINEMENT CHECKS
Confinement checks apply to those on barracks confinement.
a. Five confinement checks are made daily.
b. The Commandants Office determines the confinement check times.
c. There is no advanced warning to alert cadets to the guard room turnout announcing a
confinement check.
d. Confinement checks occur separately from other status checks.
e. Cadets must be in an All Right location, as determined by their specific restriction(s), at the
time of the check.
f. Cadets must indicate their All Right status by initialing off on the confinement check sheet
by 1200 daily. Cadets will only initial off confinement checks for which they were All
Right.
4. TAPS STATUS CHECK
a. The check is made:
(1) Sunday Thursday evenings, 2330hrs
(2) Friday evening, 2400hrs
(3) Sunday morning, 0100hrs
b. The taps status check coincides with the turnout stating, The status in barracks is now
Taps/CCQ. The guard team will make 10, 5, 2 and 1 minute calls leading up to taps. In
order for cadets to be All Right for the status check, they must be in their room, taking
authorized late study in an All Right location or moving to/from an All Right location, i.e
returning to barracks from an academic building.
c. Cadets remain in their room until the guard room announces The status in barracks is now
CQ after taps.
d. Cadets properly signed out and within an All Right location IAW Annex B (Post Evening
CQ Limits), Chapter6, are All Right for the taps status check.
17
e. Cadets that are off Post and not in an All Right status, must return to their barracks room
and re-establish an All Right status prior to taps.
f. Cadets in a Not All Right status at taps must bone themselves using Form 24.
5. SUNDAY BRC STATUS CHECK
a. This is an accountability status check announced by the guard team on Sundays at 0700hrs.
The status check occurs when the guard team makes their announcement.
b. The guard team turnout is as follows: The time is now 0700hrs. At the beginning of this
turnout there was a BRC status check.
c. There is no formation.
d. Cadets properly signed out or within an All Right location IAW Annex A (Post CQ
Limits), Chapter 6, are All Right for the Sunday BRC status check.
e. Cadets in a Not All Right location must return to their barracks room by 0700hrs to reestablish an All Right status.
f. Cadets in a Not All Right status during the Sunday BRC status check must bone themselves
using Form 24.
6. The Deputy Commandant is the point of contact for this chapter.
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SUMMARY
The Institute Physician determines cadets medical status
Cadets medically unable to fulfill their duties may be placed on medical
leave, medical furlough or medically disenrolled from VMI
Cadets must have their GIM tags on their person at all times. This is an
inspectable item.
1. DEFINITIONS: The following chart defines every medical status in which a cadet may be
categorized. Each status entails distinct duties which cadets are excused from and restrictions in
which they must adhere. Details of a cadets status are available daily, via the computer, on the
infirmary accountability report. The Institute Physician is the only person authorized to alter
medical status.
MEDICAL STATUS
Infirmary
EXCUSED FROM:
All Duty (except as directed
by Institute Physician)
Shave Permit
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CADET MUST:
Remain in the infirmary
(except as directed by
Institute Physician)
Remain in barracks
room(except as directed by
Institute Physician)
Form with company and for
parade must be fully dyked
out to the best of their ability
unless specifically excused,
i.e., GD permit.
Perform all other Institute
activities i.e., (penalty tours,
guard duty, parades, etc.)
-Restricted to Post
-Must form for penalty tours unless signed into the post
hospital
-Remain in their rooms for the duration of any events
for which they are excused. (Parades, athletic events)
2.
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4. MALINGERING
Cadets feigning illness to avoid duty are subject to disciplinary measures up to dismissal.
5. MEDICAL LEAVE AND MEDICAL FURLOUGH
a. There are two types of medical status. Medical leave is a short-term withdrawal from
which the cadet is expected to return and complete academic work. A medical furlough is
precipitated by the withdrawal or disenrollment from VMI for at least the remainder of a
semester due to medical circumstances.
b. The Post Physician will initiate medical leave and medical furlough. The Post Physician
will inform the Commandant, Registrar and the Chief of Staff in writing, and sends the
cadet to the Commandants Office to complete the standard clearance process if possible.
Instructors are notified by the Commandants Office via email once the leave/furlough is
processed.
(1) Cadets may be placed on medical furlough or disenrolled if:
(a) A medical condition requiring extended care, treatment, or recovery time (with or
without hospitalization) exists.
(b) A condition exists preventing or substantially detracting from the performance of
required duties.
(c) The duties of cadet life are detrimental to the cadets mental or physical well-being.
(d) The cadet is unable to negotiate the Posts facilities as necessary to perform normal
duties without undue risk of injury.
(2) The Institute Physician may evaluate a cadet for possible placement on medical furlough
or disenrollment following a routine medical examination or when so requested by the
cadet, the Commandant, or any other relevant Institute official.
c. If medical circumstances dictate that the cadet is unable to complete the clearance
process, the Administrative Assistant for Accountability may clear the cadet in absentia.
With the assistance of the guard team , the departed cadets items will be collected. As
deemed necessary the Post Physician will notify the Deputy Commandant for Support of
cadets who should not be permitted in Barracks following placement on medical leave or
furlough. Uniforms and other Institute property will be turned in to appropriate agencies,
and personal items will be boxed and stored until disposition instructions from the cadet
or guardian are received.
d. Cadets who develop a medical condition while away from VMI must have their personal
physician fully communicate all pertinent information to the Institute Physician prior to their
return.
6. LEAVING POST
a. Cadets restricted to post for GIM status who have FULL CLASS PRIVELEGES may request
permission to leave post from a Commandant Staff member or OC. It is up to the discretion
of the officer if said cadet may have permission to depart Post and in what uniform.
b. Cadets on GIM status who are authorized to leave Post for a scheduled medical or physical
therapy appointment must sign out in Barracks and depart/return in the proper uniform.
7. EXPIRATION OF GIM STATUS
GIM status expires at TAPS on the date indicated by the Post physician and will not carry over;
the GIM tag must be reestablished by the Post Physician if the injury or illness continues past the
tags initial termination date. A tag CAN NOT be issued for a date that has already passed.
8. The Deputy Commandant is the point of contact for this chapter.
21
CHAPTER 9 Physical Training Time (PTT) & Remedial Physical Training (RPT)
SUMMARY
All new cadets and 3rd class cadets must attend ROTC PTT twice per week
Non-commissioning 1st and 2nd class cadets attend Commandant PTT twice per week
All NCAA athletes are excused from Monday PTT
Out of season NCAA athletes must attend Friday PTT
1. OVERVIEW
All Cadets are required to complete a weekly physical fitness regime. This chapter provides rules
for PTT activities.
1. PHYSICAL TRAINING TIME (PTT)
a. Definition. Time set aside from 1605 to 1750 Monday and 1050 to 1215 Friday for ROTC
departments and the Commandants staff to conduct physical training with cadets.
b. ROTC PTT. Commission seeking cadets must attend Physical Training Time (PTT) with
their respective ROTC. All new cadets and third class cadets must attend their ROTCs PTT
regardless if they are seeking a commission.
c. Commandant PTT. Non-commission seeking first and second class cadets will conduct
physical training with their respective companies overseen by the Commandants office.
d. NCAA Athletes. All NCAA athletes are excused from Monday PTT to practice or workout
with their team. Out-of-season NCAA athletes will participate in Friday PTT to include
cadets on a four-day NCAA permit.
2. REMEDIAL PHYSICAL TRAINING (RPT). Remedial physical training is required of all
cadets who fail the VFT.
a. RPT forms up twice weekly on Wednesday at 1605 and Saturday at 0600 and takes
precedence over all other activities including penalty tours.
b. Cadets may retake the VFT during the semester to try and achieve a passing VFT score.
c. Once the VFT is passed, the cadet is released from RPT.
3. The Deputy Commandant for Operations is the point of contact for this chapter.
22
ACCOUNTABILITY
CHAPTER 10 Accountability
SUMMARY
Accountability will be taken at every formation
Cadets must sign out when authorized to miss a formation
All verbal and written statements regarding accountability are certified
23
(d) Highlights the names of cadets not present at the formation on the accountability
sheet. CPLs highlight names of absent cadets regardless of whether or not they
know the cadet was "all right" for the formation. This includes cadets on NCAA
permit who are absent at any Corps formation.
(e) Provides each member of the squad/staff a copy of their accountability roster.
(3) Clerk Duties.
(a) Crosschecks names of not present cadets with the computer sign-out sheet.
(b) Ensures cadets not signed-out are marked absent on the consolidated accountability
report.
(c) Submits accountability reports to the Administrative Assistant for Accountability
(Mrs. Moore) no later than 0800hrs Monday through Friday. Weekend
accountability is submitted Monday morning not later than 0800.
(4) 1st Sergeant (1SG) Duties.
(a) Ensures CPLs and clerks are trained to perform their duties and take accountability
properly.
(b) 1SGs conduct additional training when required.
(c) Requests updated company/staff roster from the Administrative Assistant for
Accountability every week.
2. ACADEMIC ACCOUNTABILITY FORMATION
a. Definition. A mandatory academic meeting or class where accountability is taken and
submitted to the Commandants office.
b. Certification. All academic accountability reports are certified statements and certified by the
cadet taking accountability.
c. Section Marcher Assignment.
(1) The Administrative Assistant for Accountability appoints section marchers (in order) by
rank, class, then alphabetically.
(2) Section marchers are temporarily assigned until the completion of the drop/add period.
After drop/add, permanent section marchers are appointed.
(3) Section marcher duties are not reassigned for any reason, including loss of rank, except if
the section marcher withdraws from the section.
(4) Back-up section marchers are appointed by the section marcher.
d. Section Marcher Responsibilities. Proper accountability of academic formations is the
responsibility of the primary and backup section marchers.
(1) Calls roll for all academic meetings or classes immediately after the bell rings.
(2) Repeats the name of any cadet who fails to answer roll. Cadets who fail to answer are
marked absent.
(3) Marks all cadets not in room by the last sound of the bell as absent on the section marcher
report slip. This includes cadets with excused absences or taking 3.0 cuts and cadets who
arrived in the classroom prior to the bell, but left the classroom and were not present
when the bell rang.
(4) Observes all late arrivals and documents their name and how late they were on the
section marcher report slip.
(5) After roll is taken, calls the section to attention, faces and salutes the instructor and
renders a report as follows Sir/Maam all present or Sir/Maam, Cadets Jones and
Smith absent."
(6) Signs the section marcher report slip and legibly prints name at the end of class.
(a) Submits yellow slip to instructor.
(b) Submits white slip to forms collection box outside the Commandants office NLT
0800 hrs the day following class.
(c) Retains the pink slip until the end of the semester.
24
absence, the section will still form in the classroom or another specified location for
roll call. The section marcher submits the section marcher report slip to the
Commandants office stating Section did not meet" and reporting any absences.
Class cancellation: Compensatory Time. When a regularly scheduled class period is
cancelled as compensatory time for some other approved academic event (e.g.,
individual conferences, tutorials, mandatory evening events), the section need not
form. The section marcher submits the section marcher report slip to the
Commandants office stating Section did not meet Compensatory Time."
f.
Cadet Responsibilities.
(1) Clearly and loudly responds when name is called during roll.
(2) If late to class, informs the section marcher how late they arrived immediately after class
is released.
(3) Must be physically present at the bell to be considered present.
(4) Cannot leave the academic formation after the bell rings without permission of the
instructor.
g. 3.0 Cuts. At the beginning of each semester, the Registrars Office will prepare and
distribute to all faculty members the list of all first and second class cadets with a GPA of at
least 3.0 for the immediately preceding semester (excluding summer session). A cadet whose
name is on this list may be excused from a class provided he or she gets the instructors
permission and informs the section marcher before missing the class.
(1) Cadets who take an authorized absence (3.0 cut) must conform to existing regulations and
are not permitted to pass the limits of VMI nor leave early on furloughs or general
permit.
(2) Only first and second class cadets with a GPA of 3.0 or higher the immediate preceding
semester are authorized to take a 3.0 cut.
(3) Cadets must have permission of the instructor and notify the section marcher either via
email or in person prior to taking a 3.0 cut.
(4) Cadets need not form up for the class when taking a 3.0 cut.
3. SIGN OUT / SIGN IN PROCEDURES
a. Overview. Cadets can miss Corps or academic formations only if properly excused and
signed out on the computer or in the black notebook in the Accountability Office if the
computer system is down. Examples of an authorized absence include being on All Duty,
participating in a permit such as a class or academic day, or taking an authorized optional
BRC.
b. Sign Out Requirements. Cadets must sign out on a computer using Internet Explorer for
authorized absence from formation. Using a web browser other than Explorer (Safari,
Chrome, etc.) may result in an incomplete sign out/in and is not authorized. Post View is
presently a PC based application and is not certified or recommended to run on a mobile
device, therefore, signing out/in on a mobile device, i.e. cell phones, is not authorized.
(1) Know the rules. It is the individual cadets responsibility to know the provisions
governing the status or permit stipulations for which they are signing out.
(2) Cadets are prohibited from signing out or in for another cadet.
(3) Cadets must sign out/in on a computer from inside barracks (e.g. not academic buildings
or off Post). Signing out/in from the BSR is authorized.
(4) Cadets must verify the sign out/in was accepted by the computer.
(5) Cadets signing out on off Post permits must depart post within 15 minutes of signing out.
(6) Cadets can only miss formations while signed out on a permit when doing so is
specifically authorized by the permit. Cadets must submit a Form 24 if absent from
formation but on Post while signed out and not authorized to miss a formation.
25
(7) When signing out, cadets state the required return time outlined in the permit for which
they are signing out (i.e.: 2300 for a weekend).
(8) Permits allowing cadets to leave Post are terminated once cadets return to Post even
when the mandated return time has yet to occur.
c. Computer sign outs/ins are certified statements and are randomly checked for accuracy.
d. Post View is unavailable each day from 0230 to 0530 for maintenance. During this time,
cadets must sign out and back in in the black notebook located in the Accountability Office in
the Old Barracks concourse.
e. Cadets must sign in within 15 minutes of returning to Post from a permit.
f. Cadets must sign in within 15 minutes of the termination of on Post permits.
4. The Deputy Commandant for Support is the point of contact for this chapter.
26
CHAPTER 11 Leaves
SUMMARY
Cadets with full class privileges may take earned weekends and days
Emergency leave may be taken when necessary and approved by a
Commandants authorized staff member
Cadets must know rules governing a type of leave prior to signing out
1. INCENTIVE LEAVE
a. Cadets are authorized four type of incentive leaves:
(1) Weekends
(2) Weekend Extensions
(3) Class Days
(4) Academic Days
b. Incentive leave guidelines.
(1) Cadets cannot depart if they have a pending Special Report (whether they have received
it or not).
(2) Cadets cannot depart if scheduled for guard or other duty.
(3) Cadets must sign out on a computer in Barracks using Internet Explorer and appropriately
mark their door status card prior to departing Post.
(4) Cadets cannot take leave and remain on Post. Cadets must depart Post within 15 minutes
of signing out.
(5) Cadets cannot loiter while on leave.
(a) Cadets must depart the county within 60 minutes of departing Post.
(b) Cadets must return to Post within 60 minutes of returning to Rockbridge County.
(c) Cadets cannot return to Post while on leave unless authorized by a Commandant's
staff member.
(d) While in county, cadets must be in uniform in public places. However, cadets who
are legal residents of Rockbridge County need only be in proper uniform within the
City of Lexington.
(6) Termination of leave.
(a) Leave is terminated upon return to Post unless attending an Institute event as noted in
(5) (c) above.
(b) Cadets must return directly to Barracks and re-establish status by signing in.
(c) Cadets must sign in, update their door status card, and change into uniform within 15
minutes of return.
(7) In-county weekends/days.
(a) Cadets cannot take days or weekends in Rockbridge County unless a legal resident
of the county. Non-county residents must submit a permit if desiring to take leave incounty.
(b) A County resident is defined as: both cadet and parents permantly and physically
reside in the county and have no domicilary ties to any other location.
c. Weekends.
(1) Departure/return.
(a) Cadets depart for a weekend upon completion of all required duty.
(b) 3rd, 2nd and 1st Class Cadets may depart/return in civilian clothes.
(c) Cadets will return from weekends by Taps Sunday.
27
(2) Class weekends. A specific number of class weekends are granted cadets based upon
their GC class.
1st Semester
2nd Semester
1st Class
4
6
2nd Class
3
5
3rd Class
2
4
4th Class
0
2
28
e. Academic Day. Academic days are earned for academic achievement and are intended as a
reward for performance. They are for use as the cadet wishes to include casual leave and
extension of furloughs.
(1) Days authorized.
(a) A cadet is awarded four days for making the Deans List. Eligible Cadets must have
received no grade below C, no incompletes and a GPA of 3.0 for the semester and
have their name published in the official Deans List Memorandum.
(b) One additional day (five total academic days), is awarded at the beginning of each
academic year to cadets earning distinction in academic merit for achieving a 3.5
GPA for the previous academic year. Eligible Cadets must have received no grade
below C, no incompletes , a GPA of 3.5 or higher for the previous academic year and
have their name published in the official Distinguished in Academic Merit
Academic Stars Memorandum.
(c) The Commandants office adds all academic days to cadets computer accounts.
(2) Stipulations.
(a) Cadets must have full class privileges to be eligible to take an academic day.
(b) Cadets must have permission of instructors, to include the Institute Official in charge
of the cadets PTT/CTT/DTT/RPT time before taking an academic day.
(c) Academic days must be taken the semester following the term in which they were
earned. However, cadets who maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or were study
abroad during the term following when their academic days were earned may request
to carry unused academic days over to the next semester via permit. A cadet may
have a maximum total of six academic days per semester.
(d) Academic days may be added to the beginning or end of a Corps furlough with the
approval of all instructors.
(e) One academic day may be turned into one weekend.
(3) Departure/return.
(a) Cadets sign out under Day option and annotate Academic Day in the remarks.
(b) Cadets departing after completion of military duty must return by Taps the
following day.
(c) Cadets departing prior to completion of military duty must return by Taps the same
day.
(d) Cadets taking a day on Monday may depart after 0830hrs Sunday.
(e) Cadets may depart and return in civilian clothes.
(4) On weekends/days that are designated as closed by the Commandant, cadets may depart
on an academic day following military duty IAW the weekly training schedule.
2. DEPARTURE / RETURN GUIDELINES: The amount of time cadets are authorized to be on
a Day is dependent upon the time they sign out. Days may be combined with weekends and
extended weekends. The chart below provides an overview as to when cadets may sign out on
days and weekends and when they must return. The chart only provides a few examples of how
cadets may sign out and does not provide all possible combinations of days, weekends and
extended weekends that may be taken.
If a Cadet Takes:
Cadet May Depart:
Day departing prior to Military Duty May depart after BRC
Day departing after military duty
29
Extended Weekend
Weekend
3. EMERGENCY LEAVE
a. Granted in response to an unplanned departure due to serious illness, death or other
emergency in a cadets immediate family.
b. May be granted by a Commandants staff member, Officer-in-Charge, Institute Physician,
Institute Counselor or Chaplain.
c. Emergency leaves may be granted for 72 hours. However, this time may be extended with
approval of the Commandant.
d. Cadets must sign out if possible before departing on emergency leave.
4. SPECIAL LEAVES
a. Special leaves are granted by permit. They include:
(1) Religious activities. Permits to attend religious activities are coordinated through the
Chaplain to the Commandants office. These permits may require a weekend to be used.
(2) Recruiting trips.
(3) Medical leaves. Medical leave permits are coordinated through the Institute
Counselor/Institute Physician to the Commandants office.
(4) Job and graduate school interviews. First class cadets must first use class or academic
days for interviews. Additional days must be requested through an individual permit to
the Commandants office. Cadets must show they have used their days appropriately
before any additional leave is granted. Leave requests to interview for summer/part-time
employment will not be considered.
5. CLOSED WEEKENDS. These weekends are designated on the cadet training schedule.
Cadets cannot take leave until after military duty concludes.
6. The Deputy Commandant is the point of contact for this chapter.
30
31
SUMMARY
A cadets GC class determines the privileges for which they are eligible
GC class is determined by a cadet's matriculation date. Class standing may
be modified for a cadet that left VMI, voluntarily or involuntarily
Cadets must have full class privileges to participate in certain activities
2nd Class
3 per 1st semester
5 per 2nd semester
3rd Class
2 per 1st semester
4 per 2nd semester
New Cadets
0 per 1st semester
2 per 2nd semester
Class Days
Academic
Days
Late Desk
Lights/Computer Use
in Barracks
Late Study
3 per semester
4 per semester if
earned
Until 0200hrs
None
4 per semester if
earned
Until 0200hrs
None
4 per semester if
earned
Until 0100hrs
None
4 if earned (for use
after Ratline)
None
Until 0130hrs in
Ac buildings
Until 0130hrs in
Ac buildings
Until 0030hrs in
Ac buildings
None
Other
Privileges
GP Friday night
None
None
Class
Weekend
Vehicles
Civilian clothes in
room
First Class Permit
GP Sun-Fri night
32
CHAPTER 14 Automobiles
SUMMARY
Operating or storing a vehicle for personal use is a first class privilege
New Cadets, thirds and seconds may not operate or store a vehicle in the
county
33
CHAPTER 15 Permits
SUMMARY
Permits request exception to standard procedure
Permits must be submitted a minimum of four business days in advance
1. OVERVIEW
a. A permit is a written request submitted by an individual cadet or the cadet-in-charge of a
group requesting an exception to standard procedures.
b. The permit must provide details as to the purpose for the request.
2. SUBMITTING A PERMIT
a. A permit must be submitted in writing to the Commandants Office on a Cadet Permit
Form. This form is found on the Commandant of Cadets web page under the
Commandants Forms.
b. Permits must be submitted a minimum of four business days in advance.
c. Permits must be placed in the Deputy Commandants permit box in Ms. Pitners office and
will not be walked in.
d. In the event a permit is returned with questions, cadets may answer in person wearing class
dyke.
e. Club sports and special activities permits must be reviewed by MAJ Perry prior to
submission.
3. STANDING PERMITS: There are 12 Standing Permits.
a. First Class Permit
b. Weekend leave Permit
c. Academic/Class Day Leave Permit
d. Visit with Family Permit
e. Dine by Invitation Permit
f. Visit with Date Permit
g. National Guard/Reserve Weekend Drill Duty Permit
h. Religious Services Permit
i. Optional BRC
j. Optional SRC
k. Cup Competitions Permit
l. Cadet Special Duty Permit
4. The Deputy Commandant is the point of contact for this chapter.
34
SUMMARY
First Class cadets must have full class privileges to take FCP
1. ELIGIBILITY: First Class cadet must have full class privileges to take FCP with the following
exceptions:
a. Must be a GC First Class cadet or 9th semester cadet.
b. With the exception listed below, cadets must have full class privileges to take this permit.
c. Cadets whose only restrictive status is having 19 PTs or less may take this permit but may not
miss any PT formation to do so.
2. DEPARTURE/RETURN
a. Monday Thursday: May depart post after completion of military duty until 2030 and are
authorized to miss SRC.
b. Friday: May depart post after completion of military duty until taps and are authorized to
miss SRC.
c. Saturday: May depart post after CAD/CMD (no earlier than 1200 hrs.) until taps and are
authorized to miss SRC.
d. Sunday: May depart post following the 0700 status check until 2030 and are authorized to
miss SRC.
3. OTHER STIPULATIONS
a. Cadets must enter a licensed eating establishment to be all right for this permit.
b. Must be off Post during SRC if signed out on this permit.
c. Cadets are authorized to depart Rockbridge County.
d. Cadets are authorized in the parking lots designated for cadets during evening CQ in order to
park their vehicles after returning from FCP.
WILLIAM J. WANOVICH
Colonel, US Army (Retired)
Commandant of Cadets
35
36
SUMMARY
Cadets must have full class privileges and a weekend or weekend extension
to sign out under this permit
1. ELIGIBILITY:
a. Cadets must have full class privileges to take this permit. (No restrictions and not on GIM).
b. Cadets must have a legitimate weekend and/or extension to sign out on weekend leave.
c. Rats are not authorized to take weekends until after breakout.
2. DEPARTURE/RETURN
a. Regular Weekend: May depart at the completion of any and all duty academic,
Friday. Cadets may depart at the completion of Academic Duty (CAD) if there is no
scheduled Friday Military Duty. Cadets may not miss PTT to leave on an extended
weekend without permission of their Company Tac must have permission of the
Institute Official in charge of their PTT in order to miss Friday PTT. Extended
weekends end at Taps Sunday.
c. Cadets are required to leave Post immediately after signing out and must exit Rockbridge
County within 60 minutes of exiting VMI Post through Limits Gate, Saunders Gate or any
other exitway from Post. Upon return from a weekend, cadets must return to Post within 60
minutes of entering Rockbridge County.
d. Once a cadet returns to Post after signing out, the weekend is terminated unless still within
the 60 minutes for departing the county.
3. OTHER STIPULATIONS: In-County weekends are only authorized for cadets who are legal
residents of Lexington/Rockbridge County. Others wishing to take an In-County weekend must
submit an individual permit.
WILLIAM J. WANOVICH
Colonel, US Army (Retired)
Commandant of Cadets
37
38
SUMMARY
Cadets must have full class privileges and a class or Deans List day to sign
out under this permit
In county days are authorized only as stipulated below
1. ELIGIBILITY
a. Cadets must have full class privileges to take this permit.
b. Cadets must have a legitimate class or academic day.
c. Rats are not authorized to take academic days until after breakout.
2. DEPARTURE/RETURN
a. Departing after CMD. May depart at completion of military duty and return by Taps the
following day. Must sign out using a day of leave. If using more than a single day of leave,
must sign out using the appropriate number of days.
b. Departure before CMD. May depart prior to completion of military duty and return by Taps
the same day. Must sign out using a day of leave. If using more than a single day of leave,
must sign out using the appropriate number of days.
Cadets are required to leave Post after signing out and must exit Rockbridge County within
60 minutes. The only stops authorized prior to exiting the County are for fuel, to pick up
passengers or to purchase food items at a drivethru. Upon return from a day, cadets must
return to Post within 60 minutes of entering Rockbridge County and are authorized to stop
only for fuel, to drop off passengers or to purchase food items at a drivethru. The 60
minutes begins once a Cadet passes Limits Gates or any other Post exitway.
c. Once a cadet returns to Post after signing out, the day is terminated unless within the 60
minute window for departing the county.
3. OTHER STIPULATIONS
a. Absences must be approved by all instuctors to include the Institute Official in charge of the
cadets PTT/CTT/DTT/RPT time before signing out on a day. .
b. Cadets may exchange one day for a regular weekend without submitting an individual permit.
Cadets sign out on Day and state Exchanging for a weekend in the remarks column.
c. Only Academic days may be used to extend either the beginning or end of a furlough.
d. Academic/Class days may not be used on weekends/days that are designated as closed by the
Commandant IAW the weekly training schedule.
e. In-County days are only authorized for cadets who are legal residents of Lexington/
Rockbridge County. All others wishing to take an In-County day may request so through an
individual permit.
WILLIAM J. WANOVICH
Colonel, US Army (Retired)
Commandant of Cadets
39
40
SUMMARY
Cadets must have full class privileges to take this permit except as noted below
Cadets may not use this permit more than two times per week
1. ELIGIBILITY: Cadets must have full class privileges to take Visit/Dine by Invitation with the
following exceptions:
a. Cadets whose only restrictive status is having 19 PTs or less may take this permit but may not
miss any PT formation to do so.
b. Rats are authorized to use this permit Friday-Sunday only, unless invited by a member of the
VMI faculty or staff. Rats may not sign out to miss more than two SRC formations per
week, regardless of the permit they sign out under.
2. DEPARTURE/RETURN
a. Monday Friday: May depart at completion of military duty until 2030. On Friday, First
and Second classmen may depart CMD until Taps.
b. Saturday: First, Second, Third, and Fourth (following breakout) Class cadets may depart at
CAD/CMD (no earlier than 1200 hours) until Taps. Rats may depart at 1600 until 2200 hrs.
c. Sunday: May depart at 0700 until 2030.
3. OTHER STIPULATIONS
a. Must be accompanied by one of the following when not traveling to or from their location.
Invitations extended by any other individual/group requires permission from a member of the
Commandants staff
(1) Parent or Guardian
(2) Grandparent
(3) Brother or Sister (must be 23 years of age or older)
(4) Aunt or Uncle
(5) Permanent/Fulltime VMI faculty/staff
(6) Parents of other cadets
(7) Host family
b. Cadets who use this permit to miss SRC must be off post prior to formation unless dining
with a faculty/staff member who resides on Post.
c. Cadets are authorized to depart Rockbridge County.
41
d. Cadets whose only restriction is Academic Probation may take this permit.
e. Cadets on confinement, Conduct Probation, or with 20 or more Penalty Tours may sign out
on this permit to visit with family in the PX but may not miss any formations or duty.
f. Cadets may not sign out on this permit more than twice per week (Monday Sunday) or to
attend events on Post.
WILLIAM J. WANOVICH
Colonel, US Army (Retired)
Commandant of Cadets
42
SUMMARY
Cadets must have full class privileges to take this permit
First, second and third class cadets are eligible
1. ELIGIBILITY: Cadets must have full class privileges to take Visit with Date permit with the
following exceptions:
a. Cadets whose only restrictive status is having 19 PTs or less may take this permit but may not
miss any PT formation to do so.
b. First, second, third, and fourth classmen (after breakout) as delineated below
2. DEPARTURE/RETURN: Friday (first and second class only) and Saturday. May depart at
the CAD/CMD (no earlier than 1200) until Taps.
3. OTHER STIPULATIONS
a. Cadets are authorized to depart Rockbridge County but must remain in proper uniform at all
times while in Lexington/Rockbridge County.
b. Cadets must be escorting their dates at all times but may travel unaccompanied to pick up or
return from dropping off their date.
c. This Permit does not apply to cadets dating other cadets. A cadet may not use this permit to
visit with another cadet date.
WILLIAM J. WANOVICH
Colonel, US Army (Retired)
Commandant of Cadets
43
44
SUMMARY
Cadets may use this permit only to attend regular scheduled weekend drill
1. OVERVIEW: This permit is for attendance at regularly scheduled weekend drill (Friday
evening, Saturday, Sunday only) IAW the unit annual training calendar. The National
Guard/Reserve Weekend Drill Duty Permit authorizes Cadets who are drilling members of a
National Guard or Reserve unit to be absent off Post at the times and under the provisions stated
below.
2. ELIGIBILITY: Drilling National Guard or Reserve Cadets required to attend drill are eligible
for this permit, regardless of restrictions.
3. DEPARTURE/RETURN
a. Completion of Academic Duty Friday if drill report time is Friday evening (MUTA 5).
b. Completion of Military Duty Friday if drill report time is Saturday morning (MUTA 4).
c. Must return two hours after completion of drill. Cadets must request permission from the
Officer-in-Charge at (540) 464-7293 if additional travel time is required.
d. Cadets drilling on Post may sign out 30 minutes prior to first formation and sign back in 30
minutes after their release from duty.
4. OTHER STIPULATIONS
a. Attendance at rescheduled drills, drills that extend beyond a Friday evening to Sunday
afternoon, or any other duty outside of regularly scheduled drill weekends requires
submission of a separate permit.
b. Cadets must sign out under Drill weekend permit.
c. Cadets are authorized in the parking areas designated for cadets during evening CQ in order
to park their vehicles after returning from drill.
d. Cadets with Penalty Tours may receive 1 for 1 PT credit for all penalty tours missed to attend
drill. To receive credit, cadets must sign off NG/Resv drill attendance on the Penalty Tour
sheets.
e. Cadets drilling inside Rockbridge County must return to post and sign back in upon
completion of the duty day. They do not loiter uptown in civilian clothing or duty uniform
upon completion of their drill.
WILLIAM J. WANOVICH
Colonel, US Army (Retired)
Commandant of Cadets
45
46
SUMMARY
This permit is only for the attendance of regularly scheduled Sunday
worship services and church fellowship activities. It is not to be used for
other religious activities such as bible studies or meetings
1. OVERVIEW: This permit is for the purpose of attending regularly scheduled worship services
and is not to be used for other religious activities. The religious Services permit authorizes
eligible cadets to be absent from post at the times and under the provisions stated below.
2. ELIGIBILITY: All Cadets are eligible for this permit.
3. DEPARTURE/RETURN
a. This permit applies only to Sunday worship services and church fellowship activities.
b. Cadets with full class privileges may depart between 0730-SRC.
c. Cadets on restrictions may depart between 0730-1400 for the sole purpose of attending
scheduled worship services.
d. Cadets with Penalty Tours must return NLT 1230 hrs to march PTs.
4. OTHER STIPULATIONS
a. Cadets using this permit must sign out on the computer under Religious Services permit.
b. Cadets with full class privileges desiring to dine with a host family or other member of the
church congregation must return no later than 2030. They must remain with their host family
or church member throughout the day.
c. Cadets with full class privileges desiring to attend fellowship functions during SRC may sign
out on this permit. They must return no later than 2030.
d. Religious activities outside the scope of this standing permit require submission of a separate
permit and will be handled on a case by case basis.
e. Cadets are authorized to depart Rockbridge County.
WILLIAM J. WANOVICH
Colonel, US Army (Retired)
Commandant of Cadets
47
48
SUMMARY
Cadets are granted Optional BRC for service to the Institute
Optional BRCs are only granted via approved permit or by the
Commandant, Deputy Commandant or an Assistant Commandant
1. OVERVIEW: Optional BRC is granted to cadets for service performed to the Institute.
2. ELIGIBILITY: Any cadet may be awarded Optional BRC. Common reasons for the granting
of Optional BRC include serving on a current guard team and attending NCAA events.
3. DEPARTURE/RETURN: Cadets are required to sign out via the computer for Optional BRC.
The penalty for failing to sign out for BRC is a 5-0-5. Cadets must remain on post throughout the
BRC formation. Cadets are automatically signed in following BRC formation.
4. OTHER STIPULATIONS:
a. Cadets must state who awarded them the Optional BRC when signing out.
b. Optional BRCs may not be taken on mornings of scheduled in-ranks inspections.
c. Optional BRCs may only be granted via approved permit or by the Commandant, a Deputy
Commandant or an Assistant Commandant.
WILLIAM J. WANOVICH
Colonel, US Army (Retired)
Commandant of Cadets
49
SUMMARY
Cadets are granted Optional SRC for service to the Institute
Optional SRCs are only granted via approved permit or by the
Commandant, Deputy Commandant or an Assistant Commandant
WILLIAM J. WANOVICH
Colonel, US Army (Retired)
Commandant of Cadets
50
Parade
Winner
Garnett
Andrews Cup
(Military)
Optional SRC that
night.
Hay down on
Tuesday of the
following week.
Demerit
Period
Semester
Form up and
march down first
to all meal
formations the
next demerit
period.
One Optional
SRC each demerit
period of the
following
semester.
Company Cup
(Academic)
Commandant's
Cup (Athletic)
Superintendent's
Cup (Best Overall)
Note: If SRC is canceled the night of parade win, the winning company
receives Optional SRC Tuesday night of the following week.
Note: There is no changing or moving this Tuesday hay down. If a company
or cadet already has hay down on Tuesday for another reason, this GA hay
down is lost.
51
Yearly
One extended
weekend in the
fall semester and
one extended
weekend in the
spring semester
One extended
weekend in the fall
semester and one
extended weekend
in the spring
semester
One extended
weekend in the fall
semester and one
extended weekend
in the spring
semester
Two extended
weekends in the fall
semester and two
extended weekends
in the spring
semester
Note: If a company wins more than one yearly cup, they may take one of the extended weekends per
semester at CMD on Friday on any weekend that is not CLOSED. Cadets must have the permission of
their professors (to include ROTC) and company commander. These weekends are never restrictions
free.
Note: If a company wins more than one yearly cup, they may take hay down the second Wednesday of
the month the following two semesters (and the third/fourth Wednesday of the month if a third/fourth
cup is won).
2. ELIGIBILITY. All upper class cadets are eligible for this permit. Fourth class cadets (not
Rats) are eligible in the spring semester for a fall semester win,. Cadets must have full class
privileges to sign out on a weekend authorized by this permit. Privileges associated with the
cup competitions are listed above.
3. DEPARTURE/RETURN. Cadets sign out IAW the Blue Book when taking these
privileges.
4. OTHER STIPULATIONS. Cadets who are awarded rank outside their company may take
the privileges only if they were in the company during the time period the competition was
won.
WILLIAM J. WANOVICH
Colonel, US Army (Retired)
Commandant of Cadets
52
53
The Commandants office may approve cadets performing a service to the institute
to sign out Cadet Special Duty
Signing out on this permit makes a cadet all right for military formations only
and ensures accurate accountability is taken
1. OVERVIEW: This permit is for cadets who are performing legitimate services for the
Institute during a Corps formation. Use of this permit makes cadets all right for military
formations only and ensures proper accountability is taken. Cadets are not authorized to miss
academic duty while signed out on this permit.
2. ELIGIBILITY: Only cadets performing official duties for the Institute and authorized by a
member of the Commandants Office or the Officer-in-Charge may sign out on this permit. The
following groups have standing authorization to sign out on the Cadet Special Duty Permit:
a. Band Company drummers and buglers playing for formations and march-downs.
b. S-1, S-3,S-4, and S-5 staff members during parade formations when conducting official duties
(ushering, grading, etc).
c. S-3 staff members when grading march downs.
d. S-5 staff members while supporting open houses.
e. Color Staff while on flag duty during BRC and SRC.
f. Cadet Battery personnel supporting parades or Retreat.
3. DEPARTURE/RETURN
a. Cadets sign out Cadet Special Duty prior to the formation to be missed and indicate a return
time NLT 15 minutes following the formation.
b. Cadets state the reason for their absence and the approval authority in the remarks section when
signing out.
4. OTHER STIPULATIONS: None
WILLIAM J. WANOVICH
Colonel, US Army (Retired)
Commandant of Cadets
54
Individual Permits
55
CONDUCT
CHAPTER 16 Demerits
SUMMARY
Cadets with 21 or more demerits in a period are excess
Accumulation of 101 or more demerits in a semester may result in suspension
Cadets receiving zero demerits for a period are granted special privileges
1. DEMERIT PERIOD
a. There are four demerit periods per semester.
b. Each period is approximately 28 days long.
c. Demerits acquired by rats in the first period do not count towards excess, conduct probation
or suspension.
2. EXCESS DEMERITS BY PERIOD
a. Cadets accruing more than 20 demerits during a period are considered excess.
b. Excess cadets lose class privileges and are assessed one penalty tour for each demerit over
20.
c. Excess cadets regain full class privileges upon completion of penalty tours.
3. EXCESS DEMERITS BY SEMESTER
a. New cadets accruing more than 80 demerits in a semester are placed on conduct probation for
the entire following semester.
b. Third, second, and first class cadets accruing more than 75 demerits in a semester are placed
on conduct probation for the entire following semester.
c. First class cadets accruing more than 75 demerits during the second semester of their last year
are immediately placed on conduct probation.
d. A cadet placed on conduct probation for excess demerits may submit a written request to the
Commandants office to have the probation lifted early, if the cadet receives zero demerits for
two consecutive periods.
4. SUSPENSION
Cadets accumulating more than 100 demerits during a semester are recommended for suspension
to the Superintendent. A cadet placed on conduct probation for going excess in two consecutive
semesters may be suspended for a pattern of malfeasance.
5. DEMERIT CREDIT
Cadets receiving less than 8 demerits in a period receive the following:
DEMERIT
CREDIT
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
DEMERIT
RECEIVED
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
56
6. DEMERIT ADJUSTMENT
a. Cadets may submit a Demerit Adjustment Form to the Commandants office in order to
reevaluate the circumstances that warranted the demerit(s).
b. Adjustment forms are submitted immediately. They are not accepted no later than 48 hours
after the period ends.
c. A cadet may transfer demerits to another cadet if the other cadet is the person legitimately
responsible for the offense, and the other cadet consents to the transfer. Cadets may not give
away demerits to another cadet willing to accept them.
7. RUNNING THE DEMERIT PERIOD
a. Cadets who receive zero demerits during a demerit period(i.e., no demerits received before
any credits are given) during a demerit period are entitled to the privileges stated below:
(1) Extension to an existing weekend. Sign out under Weekend and annotate Earned
extension running the demerit period in the remarks section.
(2) May take one optional BRC with hay down within a month of earning this privilege. May
not take optional BRC on a Monday. Must inform chain of command before missing
formation and mark door card for authorized hay down.
b. New cadets are not eligible to use these privileges until the demerit period following
completion of the ratline.
c. Privileges associated with this permit must be taken during the semester in which they were
earned. Exceptions: Privileges for running the fourth or eighth periods may be taken during
the following semester.
8. The Deputy Commandant is the point of contact for this chapter.
57
SUMMARY
Special Reports & Form 24s are answered in person within 48 hours of
receipt
Reports are answered Correct, Correct but Wish to Explain, or Incorrect as
Stands
1. OVERVIEW
a. A Special Report is a summons from the Commandant to cadets charged with a violation that
could result in a penalty including confinement and/or PTs. Any institute official or cadet
captain may place a cadet on report. Any other cadet wishing to place someone on report
must go through their proper cadet chain-of-command.
b. The report informs cadets:
(1) What regulation they are accused of breaking.
(2) The reporting official." This is the identity of the accuser.
(3) The date the offense allegedly took place.
c. All Special Reports are answered within 48 hours of receipt unless otherwise indicated.
(1) Cadets may not depart on authorized leave (including furloughs, days, and weekends) or
permit without answering all Special Reports.
(2) The 48 hour deadline is extended for cadets in the infirmary and cadets off Post on an
approved permit.
(3) Cadets unable to meet the 48 hour deadline for any other reason must request an
extension from the Commandants office.
2. FILLING OUT THE REPORT
a. The Special Report provides cadets the opportunity to document a response to the infraction
with which they have been charged.
b. Cadets must write one of three responses on the report.
(1) Correct. Used when the report is correct and there are no mitigating circumstances
surrounding the incident.
(2) Correct but wish to explain.
(a) Used when the cadet has knowledge of the incident but mitigating circumstances
exist.
(b) Also used if the cadet believes the answering official requires additional information
to make an informed decision.
(c) The details of the offense, or points of clarification, must be written neatly on the
back of the Special Report.
(3) Incorrect as Stands.
(a) This response is used when the cadet has no knowledge whatsoever of the offense
and is not connected to it in any way.
(b) It is also used when the cadet has no association but does have knowledge of the
origins, nature or details of the offense (i.e., was present at the formation, event, etc.).
(c) The details of the offense, or points of clarification, must be written neatly on the
back of the Special Report.
c. Cadets sign the Special Report certifying their response is correct.
d. Responses must be legibly written in blue or black ink.
3. UNIFORM AND APPEARANCE
a. Cadets wear gray blouse when answering Special Reports.
58
4.
5.
6.
7.
b. Dykes accompany rats when answering Special Reports during the fall semester.
c. Cadets report with an immaculate, inspection ready appearance.
ANSWERING REPORTS
Cadets answer reports to designated members of the Commandants staff. Cadets must report in
and out properly and stand at attention while answering Special Reports.
Special Reports are answered Monday Friday from 1330-1530. In the event a cadet is unable to
answer during the designated times within the 48 hour period, they must coordinate with the
Deputy Commandants Office Manager (Sandi) for an alternate time or contact the Insitute
official to whom they are answering the special to schedule an appointment.
SELF-BONE (FORM 24): A self-bone (Form 24) is the means by which cadets place
themselves on report. It is primarily used for breach of permit, having a not all right status or
being improperly signed out. It is answered exactly like a special report.
PENALTIES: The following table provides details of penalties that can be assessed when
Special Reports are answered. Listed penalties are guidelines only. The specific penalty for any
infraction will be assessed based on the exact circumstances surrounding the report and other
factors at the discretion of the Commandant and/or Superintendent:
PENALTY
NUMBER
Alcohol 1
NUMBER
LENGTH OF
NUMBER OF
OF
CONFINEMENT PENALTY
DEMERITS
TOURS
15
4 Months
60
15
4 Months
60
10
4 Months
55
10
3 Months
50
10
2 Months
40
10
6 Weeks
30
ADDITIONAL
RESTRICTIONS
& PENALTIES
1 semester Con Pro &
Alcohol
Counseling Loss of
rank,
Suspension if on Con
Pro
Loss of rank,
Suspension if
on Con Pro
Loss of rank,
Suspension if
on Con Pro
Loss of rank,
Suspension if
on Con Pro
Loss of rank,
Suspension if
on Con Pro
Loss of rank,
Suspension if
on Con Pro
10
1 Month
20
6
10
3 Weeks
15
7
10
2 Weeks
10
8
5
1 Week
5
9
5
0 Weeks
5
10
a. Cadets guilty of multiple penalties cited on one Special Report receive the total of the
demerits, confinement, and PTs for the individual penalties.
b. Penalties are effective immediately after the Special Report is answered.
c. Penalties and restrictions in effect at the end of the school year carry forward to the next
school year.
59
d. Cadets, who depart VMI for any reason, and later return, still serve outstanding penalties.
However, suspension clears cadets records.
8. APPEALS: Appeals of assigned penalties must be submitted in writing to the Commandant
within one week of the date of the Special Report.
9. AMNESTY: The President of the United States or the Governor of Virginia may suspend
confinement and penalty tours. Amnesty does not affect demerits or academic/Conduct
Probation.
10. The Deputy Commandant is the point of contact for this chapter.
60
CHAPTER 18 Offenses
SUMMARY
Special Reports are issued for major offenses and typically result in confinement, demerits and
penalty tours
Special Reports are answered in person with 48 hours of receipt unless otherwise specified
Code
S0010
S0011
S0012
S0013
S0018
S0019
S0020
S0021
S0022
S0023
S0027
S0028
S0024
S0025
S0026
S0038
S0039
S0040
S0121
S0122
S0123
S0125
S0124
S0126
S0127
S0128
S0141
S0142
S0150
Violation
Penalty
ABSENCE from room unauthorized
Smoking, taking a shower, etc. in barracks after 0130 .................................... 9-10
Studying in an academic building or BSR after 0130 hrs (1st & 2nd Classmen)9-10
Studying in an academic building or BSR after 0030 hrs (3rd Classmen) ....... 9-10
Studying in an academic building or BSR after Taps (New Cadets) ............. 9-10
ABSENCE from barracks/Post, unauthorized
On Post
During Taps CCQ ..................................................................................... 6-10
During other status checks .......................................................................... 6-8
Between Taps and Reveille....................................................................... 6-10
Between Evening CQ and Taps ..................................................................... 8
Formation or military duty, intentional ...................................................... 5-7
Formation or military duty, unintentional ..................................................... 9
Absent or late to class (entire class period time frame)...5-7
Absent or late to formation or formed in wrong spot..9
Off Post
Between Taps and Reveille (suspension for second offense) ........................ 4
Between Reveille and Taps ........................................................................ 5-7
Failure to re-establish status, but on Post before Taps ......................................... 6
During Taps CCQ ....................................................................................... 4-9
During other status checks .......................................................................... 4-7
ABSENCE WITHOUT LEAVE (AWOL)
24 hours or longer ............................................................................................ D-5
Less than 24 hours (see "Unauthorized Absence from barracks")
ACCOUNTABILITY (see "Absence from barracks/Post and/or Neglect of Duty ")
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES (see "Intoxicants")
ARMS, Firearms, or Weapons (Institute/Government Issued)
Bouncing, dragging, pounding, throwing, damaging ........................................... 5
Carrying those of another Cadet to inspection ..................................................... 9
Discharging without authority .......................................................................... D-5
Pointing at another Cadet ..................................................................................... 9
Grossly neglecting rifle maintenance (i.e., covered in rust, etc.) .................... 9-10
Misplaced (Inside barracks) ................................................................................ 7
Losing ................................................................................................................ 1-5
Removing from Post without authority ............................................................... D
ARMS, Firearms, or Weapons (Privately owned)
Unauthorized on Post (not stored and registered in armory or guard room) .... D-5
Arms, other (BB guns, air soft guns, knives, bow and arrow, etc) .................... 5-9
ASSAULT, Physical or Sexual ............................................................................... D-5
61
62
S0363
S0364
S0365
S0367
S0368
S0369
S0371
S0372
S0380
S0381
S0031
S0440
S0441
S0444
S0460
S0480
S0481
S0544
S0500
S0501
S0520
S0540
S0541
S0542
S0580
S0585
S0581
S0587
S0582
S0586
S0584
S0600
S0601
S0602
S0603
S0604
S0620
63
S0619
Refusal to take a drug test ................................................................................... D
S0621
Countenancing drug use, possession or trafficking .......................................... D-6
S0622
Improper use/distribution of prescription medications ..................................... D-4
S0623
Improper use of inhalants ................................................................................. D-4
S0624 ELEVATOR, unauthorized use of barracks elevator............................................... 7-9
S0625 ENDANGERING SELF OR OTHERS .................................................................. D-S
EXPLOSIVES/FIREWORKS
S0660
Possession of, firing or lighting in barracks (firecrackers, smoke bombs, MRE
heaters, etc.) ............................................................................................... D-7
S0680 FAILURE TO COMPLY......................................................................................... 6-9
S0681
To answer Special Report or Submit Form 24 within 48 hours ........................... 9
S0682
To coordinate class absence with professor prior to taking day or weekend ....... 9
S0683
To inform self of contents of regulations, orders, bulletins, or SOPs
(Ignorance of the rules will not reduce the penalty for violations of them) ... 6-9
S0690
To properly form for sick call ........................................................................... 6-9
S0692
To clear Post/barracks properly......................................................................... 5-9
S0100
To keep appointment with faculty/staff, failure to show ...................................... 9
S0101
To turn in Pink OCMNI sheet within 24 hours ..................................................... 9
S0102
Refusal to cooperate in an ongoing investigation ............................................. 4-8
S0103
To march to BRC ............................................................................................ 8-10
FALSE OFFICIAL STATEMENT
S1181
Intentionally rendering any improper or falsified report ..................................... D
S1063
With Intent to deceive ......................................................................................... D
FIRE
S0700
Starting in barracks or Institute building .......................................................... D-4
S0701
Damaging, impeding, misusing or sabotaging fire systems or alarms .. (Felony) D
S0702 FIRE ALARMS, setting off unintentionally due to carelessness, negligence ......... 5-9
FIREARMS (see "Arms")
S0720 FIRE EXTINGUISHERS, wrongful destruction or discharge of ............................ S-4
S0742 FURNITURE, removing from room without authorization ....................................... 9
S0760 GAMBLING ............................................................................................................... 7
HAIRCUT (Major Infraction)
S0780
Wearing a faddish or exaggerated style................................................................ 9
S0781
Non-regulation (unauthorized style or improper) ................................................ 9
S0782
Given to or receiving from another Cadet ............................................................ 9
S0800 HAZING, per Va. Code Sec. 18.2-56 ..................................................................... D-1
HEADPHONES, BLUE TOOTH, ETC.
S0801
Wearing in unauthorized area............................................................................... 9
S0802
Wearing headphones while on guard ................................................................ 7-8
IMPROPER DRESS
S0850
Footgear unserviceable .................................................................................... 9-10
S0851
Footgear, unauthorized ......................................................................................... 9
S0840
Gross nature in barracks (major infractions) ........................................................ 9
S0856
Lewdly dressed in barracks .................................................................................. 5
S0841
Gross appearance in ranks ................................................................................. 5-8
S0842
In Mess Hall, Lejeune Hall, and academic buildings ...................................... 5-10
S0843
Non-compliance with jewelry and/or cosmetics standards ............................. 9-10
S0855
Non-compliance with body piercing standards ................................................. 4-9
S0844
Off Post (major) ................................................................................................ 4-9
S0845
Off Post (minor) .............................................................................................. 7-10
S0846
Outside of barracks (major)............................................................................... 6-9
64
S0849
Wearing unbraced, improperly fitted, unserviceable uniform hat ................... 9-10
S0852
Wearing unserviceable item ................................................................................. 9
S0853
Improper wearing of uniform .......................................................................... 9-10
S0854
Improper or slovenly posture in ranks ............................................................. 9-10
S0839
Unauthorized gym dyke .................................................................................. 9-10
S0689
Unauthorized soft shoe ...................................................................................... 7-9
S0860 IMPROPER PROCEDURE ..................................................................................... 7-9
S0900 INTERFERING with any formation ........................................................................ 7-9
INSPECTION
S0911
Not prepared for formal room inspection ........................................................ 8-10
S0912
Not prepared for formal inspection on the bricks ............................................ 8-10
INSUBORDINATION (see "Disrespect")
S0890 INSTIGATION ......................................................................................................... D
INTERNET/COMPUTER
S0920
Unauthorized/inappropriate use of .................................................................... 5-9
S0922
Sending or passing on a mass email without authority ..................................... 5-9
Conveying a threat (see Calling to personal account)
Crude or profane language (see language unbecoming)
S0927
Using another Cadets computer, account, or ID # without authorization ........ 5-7
S0928
Failure to abide by Information Technology Appropriate Use Policy .............. 5-9
S0929
Failure to check VMI email account daily ...................................................... 9-10
S0919
Failure to protect password or using wrong browser, expired password,
or improper sign out/in . ................................... 9
S0925
Any second offense for any internet abuse penalty ........................................... S-4
INTOXICANTS
S0940
Introducing on Post, possessing, using or being under the obvious
influence of as to create a disturbance, permitting alcohol
in room ............................ 1 + Conduct Probation + Substance Abuse Assessment
S0941
Second alcohol offense (any type) ................................................................... S-1
S0944
Third alcohol offense (any type) ......................................................................... D
S0946
Drinking underage ................ 5 + Conduct Probation (Discretionary) + Substance
Abuse Assessment
S0942
Conduct anywhere such as to discredit uniform or Institute while under
influence of (major) ................................................ D-1 + Conduct Probation
S0947
Conduct anywhere such as to discredit uniform or Institute
while under influence of minor) ........................................................................... 5
S0943
Providing to New Cadets or minors .................................................................. S-5
S0945
Countenancing alcohol use/possession in barracks or on Post .......................... 5-9
S0948
Being under the obvious influence while on confinement ...................... S-5
LANGUAGE
S0960
Unbecoming a Cadet (personal) ........................................................................ 5-7
S0961
Unbecoming a Cadet (impersonal) ....................................................................... 9
S0962
Unbecoming a Cadet (in the presence of civilians) .............................................. 4
LATE RETURN, unintentional, from furlough, or permit
S0980
One hour or more .............................................................................................. 4-8
S0981
10-60 minutes .................................................................................................. 9-10
S0990 LOCKS, locking room door without authority ........................................................ 5-9
S1000 LOSING / Loss and/or misuse of Federal or Institute property through
carelessness or neglect ...................................................................................... 1-5
S1010 LYING ....................................................................................................................... D
MALINGERING (see "Attempt to Deceive")
65
S1040
S1041
S1045
S1042
S1043
S1044
S1080
S1081
S1082
S1083
S1099
S1084
S1085
S1086
S1078
S1087
S1088
S1089
S1091
S1092
S1093
S1094
S1095
S1097
S1100
S1101
S1102
S1103
S1104
S1141
S1120
S1119
S1117
S1121
S1123
S1124
S1126
S1128
S1129
S1118
S1105
S1106
S1107
MESS HALL
Creating minor disturbance .................................................................................. 9
Disorderly conduct in ........................................................................................ 1-4
Inappropriate military bearing ........................................................................... 5-9
Leaving or entering without authority .................................................................. 9
Permitting unauthorized visitors in ...................................................................... 7
Throwing food in ............................................................................................... 5-9
NEGLECT OF DUTY
Intentional or habitual neglect of duty.............................................................. D-7
Neglect of academic duties.D-7
Noncommissioned officer of the guard ............................................................. 2-8
Officer of the Day............................................................................................. D-7
OD intentionally staring at ground to avoid boning cadets ............................... 7-8
Officer of the Guard .......................................................................................... 1-7
Sentinel/late for guard shift ............................................................................... 5-9
Cadet in charge of formation or group .............................................................. 2-9
Using Computer or other electrical device while on duty at Visitors
Center .............................................................................................................. 9-10
Section marcher/Company officer or NCO ..................................................... 5-10
Failure to maintain proper control of formation ................................................ 7-9
Failure to take proper accountability ................................................................. 8-9
Member of flag detail allowing flag to touch ground........................................... 9
Shirking, flagrant .................................................................................................. 4
Specific neglects not willful or gross ................................................................... 9
Specific neglects willful or gross ...................................................................... 4-7
Permitting unauthorized turnouts ...................................................................... 5-9
Refusing/Resigning rank or other leadership position ...................................... 5-9
NEW CADETS, offenses against
Borrowing money from ........................................................................................ 4
Conduct Unbecoming a Cadet to include cruel or abusive treatment
of New Cadets............................................................................................ D-7
Conducting, countenancing or encouraging unauthorized Ratline
Activities .................................................................................................... D-7
Encouraging or requiring to break Institute regulations ................................... D-7
Fraternizing with ............................................................................................... 5-7
Failure to intercede when witnessing Ratline abuse............................................. 9
Failure to supervise and educate Dyke on Institute regulations ........................... 9
Falling a new cadet out of formation.................................................................... 8
Gross Abuse of Dyke Relationship (Loss of Privilege) ................................... D-1
Banishing or casting out a new cadet ............................. 5 + loss of dyke privilege
Extorting meals or services from a new cadet ................ 5 + loss of dyke privilege
Shaking down a new cadet or compelling same under duress for a cut
of his/her care packages or parcels .......................... 5 + loss of dyke privilege
Undermining the authority of Cadre with new cadets .... 5 + loss of dyke privilege
Encouraging prejudicial behavior in new cadets ............ 5 + loss of dyke privilege
Inciting new cadets to physically abuse peers ........... D-1 + loss of dyke privilege
Inciting to Riot ................................................................................................. D-1
Interfering with movements to and from duty
Intentional .................................................................................................. D-2
Unintentional ................................................................................................. 8
Servitude
Mean-Spirited ............................................................................................ D-5
66
S1109
S1108
S1110
S1111
S1112
S1113
S1114
S1115
S1116
S1170
S1171
S1172
S1188
S1173
S1174
S1175
S1176
S1177
S1178
S1179
S1180
S0029
S1130
S1135
S1140
S1150
S0841
S1160
S1161
S1162
S1163
S1136
S1200
S1201
S1202
S1203
S1204
S1205
S1220
S1230
67
S1240 RUNNING, from/evading OC, OD, or Institute official (when ordered to stop) .... S-5
SALUTING
S1250
Failure to salute ............................................................................................... 9-10
S1251
Careless or improper ............................................................................................ 9
S1260 SECRET SOCIETY, organizing or affiliating with................................................... D
SELLING in barracks without permission of the Commandants Office
S1280
To New Cadets ..................................................................................................... 4
S1281
To Upperclassmen ................................................................................................ 5
S1282
Guard duty to another Cadet ................................................................................ 9
SICK LIST, breach of (see "Confinement, breach of")
SIGNING IN OR OUT
S1283
Failure to sign out and departing post / failure to verify sign out ................... 8-10
S1284
Failure to sign out for BRC/SRC/Parade/Other Formation ..................... 10-3 PTs
S1561
Signing out more than 15 minutes prior to departing post .................................. 9
Failure to sign in properly..9-10
Signing out on the wrong permit..9-10
S1290 SLANDEROUS COMMENTS .............................................................................. S-7
SLEEPING
S1300
By member of guard (on duty) ............................................................................. 6
S1301
During a public lecture ...................................................................................... 8-9
S1302
In class .................................................................................................................. 9
SMOKING/ USE OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS
S1320
By a member of the guard team, while on duty ................................................... 7
TOBACCO POLICY, VIOLATION OF
S1321
In unauthorized area ........................................................................................ 9-10
S1323
Failure to dispose of properly .......................................................................... 9-10
S1324
Second Offense ................................................................................................. 5-7
S1322
In public................................................................................................................ 8
SPITTING
S1340
In barracks, on walls, stoops, stairs, or in New Barracks courtyard .................. 7-9
S1341
Outside barracks, in public ................................................................................... 7
S1350 STEALING ................................................................................................................ D
S1360 STRIKING ANOTHER CADET/SCUFFLING ..................................................... D-4
S1380 TAMPERING with VMI power or communications system.................................. D-1
TRASH
S1343
Disposing of room trash into barracks bathroom or on stoop ........................ 8-10
S1344
Improperly disposing of gum or food.............................................................. 8-10
S1346
Littering .......................................................................................................... 8-10
TRIFLING
S1420
With member of guard ......................................................................................... 9
S1421
While Posted as member of the guard ............................................................... 4-6
URINATING
S1460
In public view .................................................................................................... 1-4
S1461
In sink ................................................................................................................ 6-9
S1462
On stoop ............................................................................................................ S-4
S1463
Out of window (out of public view) .................................................................. 2-6
VISITING, in Fraternity or Sorority House (including exterior grounds)
S1480
or Dormitory, unauthorized .................................................................................. 6
VISITING, without authority
S1501
After Taps, in barracks ...................................................................................... 8-9
S1502
After Taps, on Post ............................................................................................ 8-9
68
S1503
S1505
S1506
S1507
S1508
S1509
S1520
Si1521
S1522
S1540
S1541
S1283
S1561
69
SUMMARY
Minor penalties result in either penalty tours or demerits at the discretion of the boning official
in accordance with the schedule below
Special reports are not issued for minor offenses
Code
M0000
M0040
M0041
M0042
M0043
M0044
M0045
M0046
M0047
M0049
M0050
M0080
M0081
M0120
M0121
M0160
M0161
M0200
M0240
M0280
M0281
M0320
M0321
M0322
M0360
M0361
M0402
M0403
M0440
M0520
M0521
M0561
M0562
M0600
M0760
M0761
Offense
Demerits
70
M0840
M0841
M0842
M0843
M0850
M0851
M0852
M0853
M0880
M0881
M0882
M0883
M0920
M0921
M0960
M1000
M1001
M1040
M1041
M1042
M1161
M1162
M1240
M1241
M1242
M1280
M1320
M1321
M1360
M1363
M1364
M1400
M1440
M1480
M1520
M1560
M1600
M1601
71
M1640
M1641
M1642
M1681
M1720
M1760
M1761
M1762
M1763
M1764
M1765
M1800
M1801
M1802
M1803
M1804
M1806
M1808
M1810
M1811
M1813
M1814
M1818
M1819
M1821
M1822
M1823
M1824
M1825
M1826
M1828
M1829
M1831
M1832
M1834
M1835
M1836
M1837
M1838
M1839
M1841
PARADE
Failure to size platoon properly ........................................................................ 2
Improper procedure .......................................................................................... 2
PARKING
Parking at Washington Arch for 11 to 30 minutes (Registered Vehicle) ......... 5
PERMITS
Submitting late or signing up late ..................................................................... 3
PLAYING
Games on stoop or courtyard, unauthorized ..................................................... 3
RANKS
Carrying unauthorized items (e.g. coffee cup) ................................................. 5
Laughing, moving, or turning head in ranks .................................................... 3
Bouncing or out of step .................................................................................... 2
Chewing gum/tobacco ...................................................................................... 5
Trifling ............................................................................................................. 5
Improper dress (minor infraction) .................................................................... 3
ROOM and articles contained therein (*indicates room orderly bone)
SINK AREA
Sink improperly cleaned ........................................................................... 1
Items improperly arranged on glass shelves ............................................. 1
No towel on hook ..................................................................................... 1
Towel improperly hung/dirty.................................................................... 1
Mirror improperly cleaned........................................................................ 1
LOCKER
Locker contents improperly arranged ....................................................... 1
Locker floor or shelves dirty/dusty ........................................................... 1
UNIFORMS
Uniforms improperly arranged on locker poles ........................................ 1
Overcoat/coatee/blouse not displayed ...................................................... 1
SHOES/BOOTS
Footgear improperly displayed ................................................................. 1
Displayed footgear improperly polished or dirty...................................... 1
BOOKCASE
Improperly arranged items ....................................................................... 1
Bookcase shelves dirty/dusty.................................................................... 1
DESK
Unauthorized articles displayed on desk .................................................. 1
Desk dirty/dusty........................................................................................ 1
Desk not in center of room ....................................................................... 1
CHAIR
Not under desk .......................................................................................... 1
No name/room number on chair ............................................................... 1
Uniform items on chair ............................................................................. 1
AUDIO CABINET
Improperly displayed items ...................................................................... 1
Audio cabinet dirty/dusty ......................................................................... 1
HAYRACK
No name on hayrack ................................................................................. 1
Hayrack improperly stacked ..................................................................... 1
HAY
Hay down, unauthorized ........................................................................... 5
Hay improperly stacked ............................................................................ 1
No name on hay cover .............................................................................. 1
Hay not aired on Monday ......................................................................... 5
Hay improperly displayed, authorized down ............................................ 1
FLOOR
Laundry on floor ....................................................................................... 5
Trash/dust balls/dirty floor ....................................................................... 1
72
M1842
M1844
M1845
M1847
M1850
M1851
M1852
M1853
M1854
M1855
M1857
M1859
M1860
M1861
M1862
M1864
M1865
M1866
M1867
M1868
M1869
M1870
M1872
M1873
M1874
M1875
M1920
M1930
M2000
M2001
M2040
M2041
M2044
M2042
M2043
M2080
M1833
M2160
M2200
M2280
M2320
73
M2400
M2401
M2403
M2440
M2480
M2481
M1867
UNIFORM
Wearing another Cadets uniform item or gym dyke .............................. 5PTs-3
Improper fit....................................................................................................... 5
Wearing unauthorized item on ......................................................................... 5
VISITING
During evening CQ in barracks (Rats only) ..................................................... 3
WINDOWS
Not shut during inspections or parades ............................................................ 5
Exiting/entering through................................................................................... 5
Door/window shade down, unauthorized ......................................................... 5
74
SUMMARY
Cadets on barracks confinement are restricted to barracks and may only depart barracks
if performing an official duty
Cadets on barracks bonfinement may only visit the PX once per day for no longer than 20
minutes
Cadets who are not all right for confinement checks must Form 24 themselves
The penalty for being unauthorized off Post while on confinement is suspension
1. GENERAL: Cadets are confined to barracks. Confined cadets do not have full class privileges
and may not depart barracks unless performing an official duty. Official duties are defined as:
a. Attending class, military duty, NCAA practice times or other mandatory formation.
b. Eating in the mess hall.
c. Studying in an academic building.
d. Receiving treatment at the VMI infirmary.
e. Picking laundry up from the laundry department.
f. Serving as a cadet assistant at Preston Library, language lab, etc.
g. Meeting with a member of the VMI faculty or staff on Post.
2. PHYSICAL FITNESS TRAINING: Cadets on confinement may perform physical fitness
training in authorized facilities/areas on post. Cadets are authorized to run off Post during
afternoon CQ, but must depart and return directly without any deviations or stops along their run
route.
3. VISITING THE PX: Confined cadets may visit the public areas of third barracks (PX,
bookstore and visitors center) one time per day not to exceed twenty minutes. Cadets may visit
with an immediate family member in the areas of third barracks open to the public for one hour a
day. Cadets must sign out Visit by invitation. on the computer. Confined cadets specify
Spending one hour with family in the PX/Visitors center in the comments section.
4. CONFINEMENT CHECKS
a. The Officer of the Day conducts five random confinement checks during the day. Cadets
who are in barracks or are participating in an authorized activity in an authorized location are
all right for these checks. Cadets must indicate their all right status by initialing off on the
confinement check sheet by 1200 daily. Failure to sign off on confinement checks will extend
a cadets confinement by a day for each day not signed off.
b. Self-bone. Confined cadets not in barracks or participating in an activity specified in
paragraphs 1, 2 or 3 above must submit a Form 24 to the Commandants office.
(1) Cadets who breach confinement but remain on post receive a Number 5.
(2) The Commandant will recommend suspension for cadets who breach confinement and
depart post.
c. Cadets known to have breached confinement, by either being seen by an Institute official or
by the Commandants Office gaining credible evidence of a breach occurring will be boned
and are subject to the same penalties specified above.
5. The Deputy Commandant is the point of contact for this chapter.
75
SUMMARY
Cadets with PTs are in a restrictive status and therefore DO NOT have full
class privileges
Cadets with 20 or more PTs are restricted to Post
PTs may be accomplished through details as stipulated below
Athletes must follow specific procedures in fulfilling their PT requirements
Cadets with 20 PTs or less are required to march all PTs
1. GENERAL: Penalty tours are dispensed in conjunction with punishment administered to cadets by
the Commandants office or the General Committee. All cadets are required to march off assigned
penalty tours during mandatory formations held 3 times per week until those tours are completed.
Cadets work off one PT for each PT session. New cadets march off their penalties just like cadets in
the upper three classes, but in an all new cadet formation led by a cadet officer/NCO
2. RESTRICTIONS: Cadets with PTs do not have full class privileges. Cadets with 20 or more penalty
tours are restricted to Post as if on confinement. Cadets may not sign out on any standing permit with
exception of the NG/Reserve Forces Drill Duty or Religious Services permits.
3. LESS THAN 20 PTs: Cadets with less than 20 PTs may sign out on the following permits:
a. General Permit
b. First Class Permit
c. Visit/Dine by Invitation
d. Visit with Date Permit
4. MARCHING: Cadets with a PT balance march them off on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday as
indicated below.
a. 1600-1800 hrs, Wednesday.
(1) Cadets on an in-season NCAA permit are excluded from marching PTs on Wednesdays so as
to attend practice or developmental training.
(a) In lieu of marching, in-season NCAA cadets will attend a mandatory study hall from
2000-2200 on Wednesday evenings.
(b) In the event the study hall conflicts with required attendance at an event during Deans
lecture period, NCAA cadets are excused from the first hour of study hall, but must report
to study hall immediately after the required formation.
(2) Cadets on a non-traditional NCAA in-season permit such as baseball and lacrosse in the fall
and football and mens/womens soccer in the spring are also excluded from marching PTs
and will attend mandatory study hall from 2000-2200 on Wednesday evenings.
(3) All out-of-season NCAA cadet march PTs. This includes out of season rat athletes.
(4) Cadets in the remedial fitness program (RFP) who have PTs must attend RFP in lieu of
marching PTs for no credit.
(5) With permission from the Commandants office, select club sports athletes with a competition
on Saturday/Sunday of that week may practice on Wednesday afternoon and attend PT study
hall Wednesday evening.
(6) Rats attend cadre training during the first penalty tour session and march the second session.
b. 1300 1600 hrs, Saturday.
(1) On those Saturdays when penalty tours are cancelled due to mandatory attendance at home
football or basketball games, no PT credit is given.
(2) In-lieu of marching, in-season cadet-athletes attend mandatory study hall on Friday evenings
from 2000 hrs until 2300 hrs. This study hall serves as an alternative to marching PTs on
Saturday and is in addition to the Wednesday study hall period.
(3) Cadets on a non-traditional NCAA in-season permit will march PTs. If a practice or
76
scrimmage is scheduled during the PT period, cadets with 20 or more PTs must march
regardless of practice schedule. Cadets with 19 or less PTs may miss PTs, but receive no
credit. They are not authorized to attend PT study hall in lieu of marching.
(4) All out-of-season NCAA cadets march PTs.
(5) With permission from the Commandants Office, select club sports athletes with a
competition on Saturday of that week may compete and attend PT study hall Friday evening.
c. 1300 1600 hrs, Sunday.
(1) In-lieu of marching, in-season NCAA cadets attend mandatory study hall on Saturday
evenings from 2000 hrs until 2300 hrs. This study hall serves as an alternative to marching
PTs on Sunday and is in addition to the Wednesday and Friday study hall periods.
(2) Cadets on a non-traditional NCAA in-season permit will march PTs. If a practice or
scrimmage is scheduled during the PT period, cadets with 20 or more PTs must march
regardless of practice schedule. Cadets with 19 or less PTs cadets may miss PTs, but receive
no credit. They are not authorized to attend PT study hall in lieu of marching.
(3)
(4) All out-of-season NCAA cadets march PTs.
(5) With permission from the Commandants office, select club sports athletes with a competition
on Sunday of that week may compete and attend PT study hall and attend PT study hall
Saturday evening.
5. PT DETAILS: In addition to regularly scheduled penalty tour formations, cadets may perform work
details approved by the Commandants office for PT credit. Only the Commandant or his staff may
approve PT details. Each PT work detail is 60 minutes long. In order to receive credit, a PT
Adjustment Sheet must be submitted to the Deputy Commandants office within 48 hours. Cadets
with 20 or less PTs must march and will not receive credit for PT details unless prior approval from a
deputy commandant is received.
6. END OF SEMESTER. At the end of each semester, cadets with penalty tour balances are not
authorized to depart after their last exam. They must remain on Post and continue working off PTs
until a zero balance is reached or barracks is closed, whichever comes first. Cadets unable to achieve a
zero balance at the end of the school year have their PTs carried over and are subject to being placed
on conduct probation for the next semester.
7. The Deputy Commandant is the point of contact for this chapter.
77
SUMMARY
Cadets are placed on conduct probation for excess demerits, alcohol-related
and other serious penalties, or as deemed appropriate by the Commandant
The actions and activities of cadets on conduct probation are restricted
Continued malfeasance by cadets on conduct probation may result in
suspension or dismissal from the Institute
1. OVERVIEW:
a. New cadets receiving more than 80 demerits in a semester are placed on conduct probation
for the entire following semester.
b. Members of the upper three classes receiving more than 75 demerits in a semester are placed
on conduct probation for the entire following semester.
c. Additionally, cadets can be placed on conduct probation for:
(1) Alcohol-related penalties may result in conduct probation for one semester.
(2) Pattern of indiscipline.
(3) First class cadet /graduating cadet exceeding 76 demerits during their final semester.
(4) Serious infractions at the Commandants or Superintendent's discretion.
2. RESTRICTIONS: Cadets on conduct probation:
a. Are not eligible for class privileges.
b. Are not eligible to take leave.
c. Cannot hold rank in the Corps.
d. Cannot have a rat as a first class cadet .
e. Cannot maintain or operate a vehicle.
f. Can only participate in one extracurricular activity. NCAA and club sports are exempt.
g. Cannot sign out under the following permits:
(1) Visit/Dine by Invitation.
(2) Dine with Date.
(3) First Class Permit.
(4) General Permit (except on Wednesdays between 1215 hrs-SRC once academic and
military duty requirements are met).
(5) May sign out on Visit/Dine by Invitation with family permit but may not leave post.
h. The Commandant may also direct cadets on conduct probation to be removed from leadership
roles in committees such as the RDC, OGA, CEA, HC and GC.
3. CONTINUED MALFEASANCE:
a. Cadets on conduct probation who continue their misconduct may be suspended or dismissed
at the discretion of the Superintendent.
b. Cadets on conduct probation for excess demerits two consecutive semesters may be
suspended at the discretion of the Superintendent.
c. The Commandant recommends cadets on conduct probation receiving a #5 penalty or higher
for suspension or dismissal.
d. First class cadets exceeding 76 demos during the 8th period will be immediately placed on con
pro and receive a special report.
4. REMOVAL:
Cadets on conduct probation for excess demerits may request to be removed after having run two
consecutive periods without receiving any demerits.
5. The Deputy Commandant is the point of contact for this chapter.
78
SUMMARY
Cadets failing to meet specific GPA and hourly requirements are placed on
academic probation and officially notified by the Registrar
Cadets on academic probation do not have full class privileges
Academic probation is on a semester by semester basis
1. OVERVIEW: The following table details the GPA and completion hour requirements that
cadets must meet to avoid being placed on academic probation:
To Avoid
To Avoid
Class
Academic
Academic
Probation for Fall
Probation for
Semester
Spring Semester
GPA
HOURS
GPA HOURS
N/A
N/A
1.5
N/A
Fourth
1.8
24
1.8
24
Third
2.0
58
2.0
58
Second
2.0
87
2.0
87
First
2.0
108
2.0
108
Fifth Year
2. RESTRICTIONS: Cadets on academic probation:
a. Do not have full class privileges.
b. Cannot take weekends or days except under extraordinary circumstances. Cadets on
academic probation wishing to take leave must submit a permit through the Commandant to
the Dean of Faculty.
c. Cannot hold rank in the Corps.
d. Can only participate in one extracurricular activity. NCAA and club sports are excused from
this restriction.
e. Cannot sign out under the following permits:
(1) Dine with Date.
(2) First Class Permit.
f. The Commandant may also direct cadets on academic probation to be removed from
leadership roles in committees such as the RDC, OGA, CEA, HC, and GC.
3. DURATION: Cadets are placed on academic probation on a semester by semester basis and
receive a letter from the Registrar at the beginning of the semester of probation outlining their
status. Cadets placed on academic probation for three consecutive semesters are subject to
academic suspension.
4. The Deputy Commandant is the point of contact for this chapter.
79
SUMMARY
Dismissed cadets may not complete exams prior to departing Post
Suspended cadets must meet certain requirements for readmission
Dismissed and suspended cadets may receive a no trespass order
1. DISMISSAL
a. The Superintendent is the only individual authorized to dismiss a cadet.
b. Dismissed cadets are not authorized to complete exams prior to departure.
c. No trespass order.
(1) Dismissed cadets may be served with a no trespass order remaining in effect for a period
of time after the cadets class graduates.
(2) Violation of the order may result in arrest and/or criminal prosecutions.
(3) The dismissed cadet may appeal the no trespass order to the Superintendent.
d. Cadets suspended twice for conduct reasons or for a combination of academic and conduct
reasons are dismissed.
(1)
2. SUSPENSION
a. The Superintendent is the only individual authorized to suspend a cadet.
b. Suspensions are for a period of two semesters. This period may include the current semester
in which the suspension goes into effect.
c. Exams.
(1) Suspended cadets are not authorized to complete exams prior to departure.
(2) However, a suspended cadet may submit a request through the Commandants office to
be allowed to take exams.
(3) This request is only considered if the cadet has completed the last day of class in the
semester.
(4) Requests are considered by the Dean and Commandant. Decisions are influenced by the
cadets overall discipline and academic record.
d. Readmission.
(1) Suspended cadets must meet specific terms and conditions under which they may return
to the Institute.
(2) Failure to meet the specified terms results in disapproval of the readmission request.
(3) Cadets may have certain conditions placed upon them, such as conduct probation for one
semester, following readmission.
e. No trespass order.
(1) Suspended cadets may be served with a no trespass order remaining in effect for a period
of time.
(2) Violation of the order may result in arrest and/or criminal prosecutions.
(3) Suspended cadets needing to visit VMI for official business may request authorization to
return to Post from the Deputy Commandant.
(4) The no trespass order is rescinded upon readmission to the Institute.
3. APPEALS: Appeals of disciplinary dismissals may be heard only in the most unusual of
circumstances by a committee designated by the Superintendent.
4. The Deputy Commandant is the point of contact for this chapter.
80
SUMMARY
VMI adheres to a zero tolerance policy regarding illegal drug use and
inappropriate use of prescription drugs
Alcohol may not be stored, distributed or consumed anywhere on Post
Commonwealth of Virginia laws regarding drug use applies to cadets
Tobacco may only be used in authorized locations
1. ALCOHOL
a. Cadets will not possess or consume alcohol on Post.
b. Cadets will observe all state and local laws governing the possession, purchase and
consumption of alcoholic beverages.
(1) Intoxication does not excuse a cadet from rendering a correct report to Institute officials.
(2) Having any container with traces of alcohol is considered possession.
(3) Cadets are responsible for their actions and status even if intoxicated.
c. Alcohol related penalties.
(1) Possessing or consuming alcohol on Post, or conduct unbecoming a cadet as a
consequence of drinking alcohol whether on or off Post - results in a minimum of an
Alcohol #1 penalty from the Commandants office. This penalty consists of:
(a) Conduct probation for one year.
(b) Mandatory alcohol counseling.
(c) 15 demerits, 4 months of confinement and 60 penalty tours.
(2) Cadets receiving alcohol related penalties from the Executive or General Committees
may be required to undergo professional alcohol assessment at their own expense.
(3) The penalty for a second alcohol related offense during ones cadetship may be
suspension.
(4) The penalty for a third alcohol related offense may be dismissal, regardless of whether or
not an alcohol #1 is assessed.
2. DRUGS
a. Cadets may not possess, distribute, or use controlled substances including:
(1) Opium and its derivatives (heroin, morphine, codeine)
(2) Synthetic narcotics (ecstasy).
(3) Hallucinogenic substances (LSD, mescaline, marijuana)
(4) Stimulants (cocaine, amphetamines, methamphetamine)
(5) Depressants (methaqualone, barbiturates)
(6) Tranquilizers
(7) Anti-depressants
(8) Miscellaneous inhalants
(9) Steroids
b. Other Synthetic or Imitation Substances that are designed, synthesized, or produced that
imitate the effects of the drugs listed above (K2, Spice, etc.)
c. Cadets may not possess or use prescription medications unless prescribed and issued by a
competent medical or dental authority. Prescription medication must be kept secured at all
times in an authorized lock box in the cadets room or in the VMI Infirmary.
d. DISMISSAL.
(1) Use, possession or distribution of unauthorized drugs.
(2) Improper use or distribution of prescription medications.
81
(3) Possession of drug paraphernalia including items not exclusively used with illegal drugs
such as water pipes and hookahs.
(4) Refusal to report to, undergo, or failing a drug test.
e. Searches/Investigations.
(1) Drug searches and investigations include:
(a) Physical searches.
(b) Room and/or vehicle searches.
(c) Mandatory urinalysis.
(2) Drug Testing.
(a) The Commandant directs cadets to undergo mandatory urinalysis at his discretion.
(b) All cadets are subject to random urinalysis as directed by the Commandant.
(c) The Commandant also directs a cadet to undergo a test when he or she is
82
CHAPTER 25 Searches
SUMMARY
A cadets property may be searched by Institute officials if there exists a
reasonable suspicion that Institute regulations have been violated
No cadet is exempt from being searched
All property belonging to a cadet is authorized to be searched
Cadets need not be present when a search is conducted
1. OVERVIEW: Institute officials are authorized to search the belongings of any VMI cadet if
they reasonably suspect Institute regulations have been violated by that cadet. The purpose of a
search is to:
a. Seek evidence of the violation.
b. Enforce order and discipline.
c. Ensure a safe environment for all cadets.
2. AUTHORIZED SEARCH LOCATIONS: Institute officials may conduct searches upon
reasonably suspecting Institute regulations have been violated by a specific cadet. The following
areas may be searched:
a. Any area within a cadets barracks room (desks, wall lockers, lock boxes, etc.).
b. Cadets belongings in the trunk room.
c. A cadets automobile.
d. Any other property or place of use by that cadet on post.
3. PHYSICAL SEARCHES OF CADETS: Institute officials may not physically search cadets
but may require cadets to empty pockets or show the contents of their cover, etc.
4. EXECUTION: Institute officials adhere to the following procedures when conducting a search:
a. Searches may be conducted at any time.
b. If possible, the cadet whose property is being searched will be present. However, their
presence is not required for the search to be executed.
c. At least two Institute officials will be present while the search is conducted.
d. The cadet whose property is searched will be informed of the purpose of the search within a
reasonable time period.
5. EVIDENCE: Institute officials may confiscate any items found during the search that provides
evidence institute regulations have been violated. The cadet whom these items were taken from
will be notified of the confiscation. Confiscated items, authorized by institute regulations, will be
returned to their rightful owner, following resolution of the ongoing investigation.
6. The Deputy Commandant is the point of contact for this chapter.
83
SUMMARY
Cadets salute the colors and officers as appropriate
Military bearing must be maintained by all cadets while in ranks
Guard team members are afforded appropriate courtesy
1. SALUTING
a. Saluting Individuals.
(1) Cadets salute and render an appropriate greeting, such as "Good morning maam", to
officers of the Virginia Militia and Armed Forces when outdoors. The salute is rendered
even when the official is not in uniform.
(2) Cadets unable to salute must render a proper greeting.
(3) Salute at a halt or walk. If running for physical training, continue running and render an
appropriate greeting.
(4) Cadets salute Virginia Militia and Armed Forces officers driving in their vehicles.
(5) Salute in bathrobe.
b. Honors to the Flag.
(1) Cadets render honors to the American flag when it is raised and lowered.
(2) Honors are rendered when uncased colors pass within six paces.
(3) During honors:
(a) All activities within sight or hearing of the honors cease.
(b) When outdoors, cadets face the flag and salute regardless of which uniform they are
in.
c. Groups/Formations.
(1) Cadets in formation do not salute individually.
(2) The ranking cadet calls the group to attention and salutes for the group.
(3) Organized activities need not be interrupted at the approach of an officer. The ranking
cadet should recognize the officer and, if not actively engaged, salute.
d. Service Specific Traditions. Military services have specific courtesies which differ from
those of VMI, however cadets will adhere to the VMI customs, courtesies and traditions
while a VMI cadet.
2. IN RANKS DEMEANOR
a. In Ranks encompasses all public military formations, parades and practices for parades.
Cadets are expected to demonstrate absolute military professionalism during these activities.
b. Violations of military deportment are considered more serious as they publicly bring discredit
on the Corps of Cadets. In this regard:
(1) A pattern of indiscipline is not tolerated.
(2) A third "in ranks" related penalty warrants:
(a) A penalty for a pattern of "in ranks" indiscipline.
(b) A written counseling from the Deputy Commandant.
(c) Imposition of Conduct Probation for one semester.
c. Cadets who continue to show patterns of "in ranks" indiscipline are considered for
suspension.
3. CONDUCTING BUSINESS WITH INSTITUTE OFFICES
a. Cadets conduct business with Institute offices only during normal business hours.
b. When requested to report to or telephone an Institute office, cadets do so on the day of the
request. They may not miss duty to do so.
c. Chain of Command.
(1) Cadets do not circumvent the chain of command.
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(2) Unless directed to do so, cadets must obtain permission from the Commandant prior to
visiting or telephoning the Chief of Staff or Superintendent.
(3) Cadets must obtain permission from their department head prior to visiting or telephoning
the Deans office.
d. Reporting to an Officer. When reporting, a cadet:
(1) Salute at the start and end of the report if addressing a uniformed individual.
(2) Remain at attention until given at ease by the officer.
(3) Say Sir/maam, Cadet (last name) reporting as directed if directed to report.
(4) Say Sir/maam, Cadet (last name) requests permission to speak with (title, name of
person addressed if not directed to report.
(5) Say Sir/maam, Cadet (last name) reporting to (state nature of duty) if reporting to
perform a specific duty.
e. Courtesies Rendered to NCOs.
(1) Cadets render an appropriate greeting and stand at parade rest unless given the order At
Ease when talking to a Non-commissioned Officer or when approached by an NCO.
(2) When an NCO walks into a room, the first person to see the NCO commands At Ease,
but only if the NCO is the senior person in the room. All persons in the room will stand
unless given the command Carry On.
(3) Cadets walk on the left when walking with an NCO.
(4) NCOs are addressed by their rank.
(a) Army NCOs are addressed as Sergeant unless they are a First Sergeant or above. If
this is the case, the full rank is used.
(b) Marine and Navy enlisted personnel are addressed by their rank and last name. The
full rank is used with no "slang" terms. (Gunnery Sergeant vs. Gunny or Senior
Chief vs. Senior)
4. GUARD TEAM/GUARD ROOM
a. Cadets use Mr./Miss OD or Mr./Miss OG when addressing the OD or OG.
b. Cadets observe the greatest respect towards sentinels. Under no circumstances do cadets
threaten retribution or interfere with sentinels performing their duties.
c. Cadets remove their covers and salute the OD, if present, when entering the guard room.
5. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
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SUMMARY
Cadets in the upper three classes do not haze, or physically abuse new cadets
New cadets are expected to adhere to VMI standards and are held accountable if
they fail to adjust to the VMI system
1. HAZING
It shall be unlawful to haze, or otherwise mistreat so as to cause bodily injury, any
student at any school, college or university. Any person found guilty thereof shall be
guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor, unless the injury would be such as to constitute a felony,
and in that event the punishment shall be inflicted as is otherwise provided by law for the
punishment of such felony. Any person receiving bodily injury by hazing or
mistreatment shall have a right to sue, civilly, the person or persons guilty thereof,
whether adults or infants. The president, or other presiding official of any school, college
or university, receiving appropriations from the State treasury shall, upon satisfactory
proof of guilt of any student found guilty of hazing or mistreating another student so as to
cause bodily injury, expel such student so found guilty, and shall make report thereof to
the attorney for the Commonwealth of the county or city in which such a school, college
or university is who shall present the same to the grand jury or such city or county
convened next after such report is made to him.
Virginia Law. Section 18.2-56 of the Virginia Code
2. DEFINITION: A New cadet is defined as a cadet in their first year at VMI. New cadets are
referred to as Rats until after completion of the ratline.
3. OFFENSES AGAINST NEW CADETS
a. Encouraging new cadets to break Institute regulations such as encouraging them to cut their
own or others hair and inciting them to riot.
b. Stopping new cadets during evening CQ, after taps CQ, and when en route to official
formations or meetings.
c. Fraternizing with New Cadets.
(1) Unauthorized visiting in new cadets barracks.
(2) Having new cadets in room without authority.
(3) Entering into unauthorized business transactions with or borrowing money from new
cadets.
d. Unnecessary or improper physical contact with a new cadet.
e. Treating a new cadet in a cruel or abusive manner.
(1) Striking a new cadet with or without an implement.
(2) Requiring a new cadet to binge eat or drink.
(3) Conducting unauthorized ratline activities such as unauthorized workouts, power
straining, etc.
(4) Directing unduly harsh, abusive, or profane language towards new cadets.
(5) Conduct constituting conduct unbecoming a cadet."
f. Abuse of dyke/mentoring relationship such as requiring new cadets to perform menial
services, clean military equipment or run errands not authorized by the dyke SOP.
g. Countenancing offenses against new cadets.
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h. New cadets serving as members of the guard team are institute officials and are not to be
treated as rats while on duty.
4. STRAIN: The limit of personal, physical correction of a new cadet by a cadet is the strain."
5. OFFENSES BY NEW CADETS
a. New cadets are on a probationary period during their entire 4th class year and are expected to
demonstrate they have internalized the standards of behavior expected of a cadet.
b. Three documented instances of new cadet impropriety necessitate:
(1) A review of the new cadets record by the Commandants office.
(2) Performance counseling by the Deputy Commandant.
(3) Possible imposition of conduct probation or suspension.
6. The Deputy Commandant is the point of contact for this chapter.
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SUMMARY
Cadets are not disciplined solely for becoming pregnant or fathering a child
Cadets are placed upon Medical Leave if they are deemed to have incurred
the responsibilities of parenthood
No cadet may be married
1. OVERVIEW: No cadet shall be disciplined or separated from the Corps solely for becoming
pregnant. However, being pregnant may effectively preclude a cadet (at a medically determined
point in the pregnancy) from performing cadet duties and meeting the standards expected of a
cadet. Thus, pregnancy shall be addressed in a manner similar to any other temporary medical
conditions under General Order Number 61, Medical Leave and Medical Furlough Policy.
2. DETERMINATION OF PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY: A cadet, male or female, shall be
deemed not to have incurred the responsibilities of parenthood upon submission to the
Superintendent of an order or other legal document entered by a court of any state establishing
that an individual other than the cadet has temporary custody and legal guardianship of his or her
biological child and the cadet has no child care responsibilities or legal support obligations for
such child.
3. DETERMINATION OF RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARENTHOOD FOR FATHER: Upon
receiving information that any cadet has fathered a child or caused a female to become pregnant,
the Superintendent will conduct an immediate investigation to determine whether or not that
cadet, by a preponderance of the evidence, has incurred the responsibilities of parenthood under
these regulations.
4. MARRIAGE POLICY: Married cadets are separated from the corps.
5. ANNUAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF POLICY: All cadets shall, upon matriculation, sign
a statement confirming their knowledge and understanding of this policy and that they are neither
married nor have incurred the responsibilities of parenthood, as defined by this policy. All
returning cadets shall, at the beginning of each academic year, acknowledge their understanding
of this policy and expressly confirm their explicit understanding that violation of this policy may
result in dismissal from the Corps and the Institute.
6. BOARD OF VISITORS (BOV): This policy was created and approved by the VMI BOV.
7. The Deputy Commandant is the point of contact for this chapter.
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SUMMARY
Cadets are held to a high standard regarding their relationships with other
Cadets, Institute officials, and visitors
Dating is accepted within the Corps but restricted based on leadership
positions within the Regimental and Class systems
1. GENERAL
VMI expects a civil environment within the Corps, where cadets bear the same burdens, meet the
same expectations and enjoy the same benefits, without reference to race, gender, national origin,
or religion. Cadets must understand the impact of their behavior on others and strive to uphold the
values and ideals inscribed upon the Parapet. Key to the VMI experience is the lasting
relationships that cadets develop with one another during their years at the Institute. However, due
to the lasting unique military traditions and barracks environment, cadets are held to a high
standard as they develop professional relationships with fellow cadets, Institute officials, and
visitors to ensure good order and discipline within the Corps. This chapter provides rules that
govern the following four professional relationships that cadets encounter while at VMI:
New cadet to cadet relations
Cadet to cadet relations
Cadet to faculty and staff relations
Cadet to visitor relations
2. NEW CADET -to- CADET RELATIONS
a. All cadets remain steadfast in their devotion to the ideals and traditions of VMI and the
ratline. At no time are the standards that enforce the rigor of the ratline and 4th Class year to
be challenged by relations with the upper three classes.
b. From matriculation until completion of the ratline, new cadets are forbidden from visiting the
designated second or third class barracks areas (stoops and rooms), unless on official business
(i.e. rifle check, company business, PT detail, etc.). Second and third class cadets are only
allowed in designated new cadet barracks areas (stoops and rooms) during the conduct of
official business throughout the entire academic year.
c. Relationships formed prior to VMI matriculation (family, friends, church, teams/clubs,
school) do not restrict the first class dyke selection process. However, restrictions do extend
to gender (i.e. no "cross-dyking").
3. CADET -to- CADET RELATIONS
a. Dating. Defined as romantic interest that goes beyond friendship.
(1) Members of the upper three classes are permitted to date.
(2) New cadets are forbidden to date other cadets.
(3) Cadets do not engage in romantic or inappropriate physical contact with each other on
Post or while off Post in uniform. Romantic/inappropriate physical contact is defined as
holding hands, affectionate embraces, inappropriate touching, kissing, lying together, or
any other expression of affection or sexual desire (i.e. Public Display of Affection
(PDA)).
(4) Regimental System.
(a) Cadets are forbidden to date other cadets within their chain of command. Chain of
Command relates directly to the cadets leadership position, as defined by the
Regimental rank order, and the cadets influence over those subordinate in rank
within the Regiment, Battalion, Company, Platoon, Squad and related staffs. For
example:
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(b) In the event two cadets wish to date but are prohibited due to the rules governing
chain of command relationships as described above, then both cadets notify their
chain of command and schedule a meeting to discuss options.
(5) Cadet Government Organizations.
(a) Cadet Government/Organizations do not use a cadets dating status to determine
selection eligibility.
(b) Once selected, cadets serving on the General Committee, Officer of the Guard
Association, Rat Disciplinary Committee and Cadet Equity Association are forbidden
to date a cadet within the same organization.
b. Family Members.
(1) With the exception of Band Company, siblings are not assigned to the same Company.
(2) Siblings who earn Regimental or Battalion Staff positions may serve on the same staffs.
c. Visitation in Barracks. When cadets are visiting in other cadets rooms:
(1) Overhead lights remain on during the hours of darkness.
(2) The shade is up.
(3) Cadets maintain thigh to shoulder clothing coverage (i.e. cadets must wear shirts).
4. CADET -to- FACULTY and STAFF RELATIONS
Members of the VMI Faculty and Staff are prohibited from dating or attempting to date any
member of the Corps of Cadets. Additionally, cadets do not date or attempt to date any member
of the Faculty and Staff.
5. CADET -to- VISITOR RELATIONS
Cadets may escort visitors while on VMI grounds and maintain a high standard of conduct and
appearance throughout the visiting period. The following rules govern cadet conduct while
escorting visitors:
a. Cadets may greet or part from the visitors with a brief embrace and short kiss.
b. Cadets shall not engage in prolonged kissing, or excessive romantic physical contact, or any
other public display of affection in the view of the public (to include vehicles) with visitors.
c. Cadets are responsible for the conduct and decorum of their visitors while on VMI grounds.
d. Cadets may escort visitors by offering their left arm. Cadets must render proper military
courtesies while escorting visitors.
e. Cadets may not hold the hands of visitors.
6. PROSCRIBED (PROHIBITED) SEXUAL ACTIVITY
For the purpose of this provision, "proscribed (prohibited) sexual activity" is defined as: Sexual
intercourse, any form of consensual sexual activity constituting a crime under the Virginia Code
and any other form of physical contact with another person which, if continued, will produce
sexual gratification or release. Cadets shall not engage in proscribed (prohibited) sexual activity
90
while on Post, or in public in uniform (or some article thereof), or under such other circumstances
that third parties know or reasonably should know that a participant in said sexual activity is a
cadet. The penalty for engaging in proscribed (prohibited) sexual activity as stated above is a
dismissal to a Number One.
7. The Deputy Commandant is the point of contact for this chapter.
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SUMMARY
Rotates each Monday at 0800 hrs
Responsible for upkeep of room
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1. ROOM ASSIGNMENT: Prior to departure for summer furlough the Class Historians solicit
room requests from the members of their respective class. The Historians then develop and
disseminate the room roster to the Commandants office and the cadets. Historians adhere to the
following stipulations when assigning rooms:
a. No more than half the occupants of a room may be NCAA athletes, including team managers.
b. Cadets must live with members of their class and on the stoops designated for their GC class.
c. Only cadets who have pre-registered can be assigned a room.
d. Room assignments for fifth-year cadets are done by the first class historian.
2. NEW CADETS: New cadets are assigned to rooms by the Commandants office on
matriculation day. They room in designated areas by cadet company.
a. New cadets are not authorized to remain in their rooms overnight without another roommate.
Should this occur, the new cadet must notify the Officer-in-Charge and make arrangements to
stay in the room of brother rats in their company. Their door card must be marked
accordingly and they will remain in the other room temporarily until at least one other
roommate returns. Cadets in this situation are considered All Right in the room of their hosts.
b. New cadets may be required to move rooms to maintain company integrity as barracks
occupancy changes throughout the year.
c. Except under very extraordinary circumstances, request by new cadets to change rooms will
not be approved.
3. ROOM TRANSFER: Upper-class cadets wanting to change rooms during the year submit a
written request via email to their Class Historian. The Historian makes a recommendation and
forwards this request to the Assistant Commandant for Cadet Government for approval.
4. The Deputy Commandant for Support is the point of contact for this chapter.
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SUMMARY
Cleanliness standards are the same for all cadets at VMI
Room furniture and cadet belongings must be marked and arranged
appropriately
All areas of the room are subject to inspection including drawers and misc
boxes
1. OVERVIEW: This chapter specifies how each cadet room is to be arranged and the standards to
which cadets are to be held. Cleanliness standards are the same for all cadets regardless of GC
Class. Cadets are prohibited from maintaining furniture, decorations, etc, not mentioned in this
chapter.
2. WALLS AND CEILING: No items may be affixed to walls or ceilings of cadet rooms. One
Institute calendar, one HC charter, and one EC/GC charter is authorized to be placed on the
exposed side of a wall locker. Additionally, New cadets must affix an RDC charter to their wall
locker
3. WINDOWS, TRANSOM & DOOR
a. Windows/Transom.
(1) All windows and transom must:
(a) Be clean and dust free.
(b) Not be covered.
(c) Be locked prior to furlough departure.
(2) No item may be hung from any window.
(3) Door shades may be drawn only when Cadets are actively changing.
(4) Cadets may not talk through windows.
(5) Cadets are prohibited from entering or exiting via windows.
b. Doors.
(1) Doors must not be locked except during furlough or when all room occupants are off Post
on leave or permit.
(2) Room occupants are responsible for the cleanliness of the area in front of their door as
indicated in the following photograph.
4. FURNITURE
a. Must not be removed from assigned room.
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b. Must not be moved, modified, marked or decorated in any manner except as described in this
chapter.
c. Wall locker.
(1) Arrangement. Cadets must occupy lockers in alphabetical order clockwise from the front
door to the back as indicated below.
D
DOOR
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Oversized books
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(h) Bottom locker shelf contains sheets, pillow cases, washcloths and towels as indicated
in the following picture.
3 pairs of underwear
stacked and folded. Bras
placed behind underwear.
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Miscellaneous toiletries
Up to 6 pairs of rolled
gloves, cuffs and collars
Waist plate
(shined)
Name tag
Note: Rats display white nametags. The rest of
the corps displays black nametags
(k) Top locker shelf contains cross dykes, cartridge or band box, parade belts, and
uniform hats as indicated in the following picture.
Athletic socks
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ACU T-shirts
Black socks
d. Footgear arrangement.
(1) Shoes and boots must be arranged as depicted in the following picture.
(a) 7 pairs of shoes are authorized to be displayed.
(b) Shoes may not be stacked.
(c) All footgear must be laced.
(d) All displayed footgear must be cleaned / shined.
(2) Excess footgear must be stored in the trunk room.
(3) Wet footgear may be placed on the stoop to dry. It must be removed and properly placed
on display by 0800hrs.
(4) Low quarters and boots on display must be properly shined.
Suspenders
Tie / belt
Extra hangers
Bathrobe
c. Towel hooks. One clean white towel must be neatly folded and hung for each room
occupant.
d. Laundry hooks.
(1) Field equipment belt placed on top hook.
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(2) One laundry bag placed on bottom hook. No articles may hang on the exterior of the
laundry bag except for dirty class dyke items.
(3) Fatigue cap hung over equipment belt.
(4) Wet uniform items and PT gear may be placed on a laundry hook to dry.
6. SINK
a. Cleaning supplies must be neatly arranged under sink with tallest items in the rear.
b. The top of the sink and faucet must be spot free and scrubbed down daily.
c. No items may be stored on top of the sink.
7. GLASS SHELVES
a. Assigned in alphabetical order from the top down.
b. Must be clean and spot free.
c. Each shelf must contain one toothbrush, one container of toothpaste and one drinking cup.
d. Cadets must write their initials on the bottom of their cup.
Toothpaste in back
Toothbrush
in middle
Cup on right
side
Razor in front
8. RIFLE RACK
a. Sabers must be placed in the rack vertically so that the hilt rests against the back of the rack.
b. The rifle rack must be placed against the wall nearest the door.
c. Rifles must be placed in racks in alphabetical order, left to right, as indicated in the following
picture.
Bayonets
attached to rifle
9. DESKS
a. Desks must be positioned around a central electrical console. The back of each desk must be
flush with the console.
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Printer, humidifier or
other appliances not
fitting on desk
Miscellaneous, authorized,
articles (large food items,
supplements, etc.)
Computer /
School bags
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14.
15.
16.
17.
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SUMMARY
All hays and racks must be properly marked
Hays and racks must be stacked by 0700hrs Tuesday through Saturday
Hays must be aired each Monday
1. HAY
a. A clean sheet covers each cadets hay.
b. Marking. Cadet name is:
(1) Stenciled in black on the sheet in two inch letters.
(2) Parallel to and centered between the straps when the hay is rolled.
(3) Visible when the hay is rolled.
c. Stacking. All hays in the room are stacked together and placed against the wall.
(1) Hays are neatly rolled and secured with two straps.
(2) Two hay rolls are placed upright with all bedding on top.
(3) A third hay roll is placed on its side on top of the bedding in pyramid fashion.
(4) Bedding. Blankets are folded separately and placed on top of the bottom two rolls and
under the top roll. The folded edges are toward the door and the center of the room.
(5) Additional hay rolls are stacked next to the stack.
d. Airing out.
(1) Weather permitting; hays must be aired from 0700 to 1200hrs every Monday. All hays
must be off the stoop by 1600hrs.
(2) Hays are folded in half over the railing.
(3) Blankets, comforters and pillows are neatly folded and placed on top of the hay.
(4) All are to be secured to the stoop rail with the bedding strap.
2. RACK
a. Racks are stacked neatly together against the wall with the legs folded toward the wall.
b. Names.
(1) Cadet name is stenciled in black on tape and placed upon the far end of both sides of the
rack in two inch letters.
(2) Racks are stacked in a manner whereby all names are at the top of the same side with last
names going downwards.
(3) When stacked, names are visible from the rooms entrance.
(4) Stenciled name tapes from previous occupants of the room from years past are removed
at the beginning of each year.
c. Racks do not block the door when down.
3. ALL UP CHECK
a. Hays must be rolled and racks must be stacked by 0700hrs Tuesday through Saturday.
b. Guard team members look in every cadet room to check the status of hays and racks. Cadets
failing to roll their hays and stack their racks are placed on report.
c. Cadets authorized to be away from the Institute overnight must stack their hays and racks
prior to departure.
4. HAY DOWN
a. Any hay authorized to be down during morning CQ must be neatly made.
b. Hay down can only be granted by a member of the Commandants Staff or by approved
permit.
c. Hay down is not authorized on Monday.
d. Cadets with hay down must mark their door status cards.
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e. Cadets found with unauthorized hay down can be placed on report even if they were already
placed on report that day.
5. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
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SUMMARY
Suitcases and trunks are stored in the trunk room
The trunk room is open several times a day for cadet access
VMI cannot assume responsibility for items stored in the trunk room
Bicycles are stored in the sinks
1. TRUNK ROOM: Suitcases and trunks are stored in the barracks trunk rooms located in the New
and 3rd Barracks concourses.
a. Access.
(1) Cadets departing Post may remove articles from the trunk room during times specified
below. Civilian clothing/bags are not authorized in cadet rooms during the Morning
Inspection times (0800-1200) unless departing Post during those times.
(2) Cadets must return civilian clothes to the trunk room before 0800hrs the morning after
returning to Post or using the laundry room.
b. Hours. The guard team opens the trunk rooms according to the following schedule:
MORNING
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
EARLY
AFTERNOON
1210 1245hrs
1210 1245hrs
1210 1245hrs
1210 1245hrs
1210 1245hrs
1210 1245hrs
LATE
AFTERNOON
Immediately
Following
Military Duty
EVENING
CQRB - Taps
CQRB - Taps
CQRB - Taps
CQRB - Taps
CQRB - Taps
CQRB - Taps
0715 0800hrs
Not Open
Not Open
CQRB - Taps
SUNDAY
c. Storage
(1) Items cannot be stored in the trunk room during summer furlough. Items abandoned in
the trunk room during summer furlough are discarded.
(2) All items stored in the trunk room should be locked to prevent tampering.
(3) Cadets must tag all items stored in the trunk room with their name and room number.
(4) Items are neither left immediately outside the trunk room nor in the aisles of the trunk
room. These items are subject to confiscation.
2. BICYCLES: Bikes are stored only in the sinks outside of the laundry room. They may be stored
in cadet rooms with an approved permit.
3. LIABILITY: VMI cannot assume responsibility for items lost, stolen, or broken IAW VMI
regulations.
4. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
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SUMMARY
Cadets are authorized to bring specific personal items into barracks
Any item not specifically listed in this chapter (with the exception of items of
a minor nature) are unauthorized and subject to confiscation
Personal items must be properly stored
1. OVERVIEW: Cadets are authorized certain personal items. Any item not specifically
mentioned in this chapter is unauthorized and subject to confiscation. Cadets are not authorized
to maintain an excessive amount of personal items.
2. ROOM/UNIFORM EQUIPMENT
a. Iron/Ironing Board.
(1) One iron and ironing board are authorized per room.
(2) Ironing boards are placed neatly against the side of the owners wall locker.
(3) Irons are stored either in the audio cabinet or in a misc. box.
b. Humidifier/air cleaner. One humidifier/air cleaner per room is authorized.
c. Fans.
(1) Two 12 to 16 inch fans per three and four person rooms.
(2) Three 12 to 16 inch fans per five and six person rooms.
(3) Fans must be placed upon the desks or audio cabinet.
d. Cleaning Supplies. Cleaning supplies are stored under the sink.
e. Shoe Shine Supplies. Shoe shine supplies are stored in the shine box.
f. Power strips. Power strips must have a circuit breaker (surge protector) with a UL listing.
3. DESK ARTICLES: Articles such as blotters, pen and pencil sets, fans, and clocks are
authorized.
a. Lamps must be non-ornamental and less than 16 inches in height.
b. One framed picture may be placed on each desk.
c. Alcoholic beverage containers may not be used as lamps, piggy banks, or be otherwise
present in the room.
d. Computer. Cadets are authorized a laptop computer only. An external monitor not to exceed
22 inches (diagonally) is authorized for each cadet.
4. TOILETRIES/MEDICATION
a. Toothbrush and toothpaste is stored on each cadets glass shelf.
b. Prescription medicine should be stored in a lock box.
c. All other toiletries are stored in the wall locker.
5. FOOD/DIET SUPPLEMENTS/TOBACCO PRODUCTS
a. Diet supplements are stored either in a misc. box or neatly in the audio cabinet.
b. Non-perishable food. Food must be stored in the food box.
c. Tobacco products. Cadets must smoke and dip in designated areas.
6. ENTERTAINMENT EQUIPMENT
a. Stereo.
(1) Each cadet room is authorized one stereo system.
(2) Speaker wire and radio antennas do not stretch across open floor spaces nor suspended
from overhead lights or pipes.
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7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
(3) Speakers not fitting on a desk or in the audio cabinet are placed on the floor next to the
cabinet.
b. CDs/DVDs. CDs and DVDs are stored neatly in the audio cabinet.
c. Gaming System. One gaming system, connected to a computer monitor is authorized per
room.
d. Musical instruments.
(1) Instruments are stored in cases and placed against the wall.
(2) Cases are opened and displayed for formal inspections.
(3) Cases must be affixed with a tag certifying no unauthorized items are contained inside.
ATHLETIC EQUIPMENT
a. Space permitting, athletic equipment is stored in one of the sub-basement storage areas
located in 3rd Barracks.
b. If no space is available, athletic equipment must be stored neatly in a corner of the room.
c. Athletic bags must be affixed with a tag certifying no unauthorized items are contained
inside.
CIVILIAN CLOTHES: Civilian clothes are not authorized in cadet rooms except when
departing/returning from leave or furlough. Cadets returning from furlough or other permit return
their civilian clothing to the trunk room NLT 0800 the day following their return to post. Only
first class cadets are authorized civilian clothes. Civvies are stored in the wall locker in a garment
bag not exceeding six inches in width.
NON-ACADEMIC BOOKS: Books may be stored in either the wall lockers bookshelf or in
the audio cabinet.
MINOR ARTICLES
a. Minor articles that do not conflict with VMI regulations are authorized.
b. The number of authorized minor articles is too numerous to list.
c. Any minor article not listed above must be kept in either a misc. box or the drawers of either
the wall locker or desk.
LOCK BOX: Cadets are encouraged to store sensitive or high value items in a lock box. Lock
boxes are available for purchase from the Third Class Finance Committee.
ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES: Small electrical appliances such as coffee pots and hot pots
not to exceed one per room.
The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
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SUMMARY
Cadet rooms are subject to inspection Monday through Saturday
Formal room inspections require a higher state of preparation than daily
room inspections
Cadet rooms must remain in inspection order during the exam period
108
109
UNIFORMS
CHAPTER 37 Gym Dyke
SUMMARY
Worn for physical training activities and physical education classes
1. WORN
To gymnasiums and weight room
WHEN WORN
When conducting any type of physical
training, weight training or exercising
To Foster Stadium
2. PHYSICAL TRAINING GYM DYKE
a. Warm weather (Photo 1).
(1) Gym Dyke shirt
(2) Gym Dyke shorts
(3) White athletic socks
(4) Running shoes or cross-trainers, predominantly white or black in color (see below)
X X
b. Moderate weather PT (Photo 2).
(1) Gym Dyke shirt
(2) Gym Dyke shorts
(3) Travel Dyke top
(4) White athletic socks
(5) Running shoes or cross-trainers, predominantly white or black in color
c. Cold weather PT (Photo 3).
(1) Gym Dyke Shirt
(2) Travel Dyke top
110
Photo 1
Photo 2
Photo 3
Photo 4
111
SUMMARY
Worn between 1500 and 1910 hrs while participating in athletic events
Club sport uniforms are worn in barracks only when transiting to and from
practice
NCAA uniforms are not authorized to be worn in barracks
1. WORN
WHEN WORN
NCAA: While participating in NCAA
Club Sports: While attending a club sports
practices and events while outside of barracks practice or event or while transiting to a club
sports event from barracks
2. OVERVIEW: The official VMI PT uniform is gym dyke. However, NCAA cadets and club
sports cadets are authorized to wear additional uniforms designed for their specific sports
requirements.
3. NCAA:
a. NCAA uniforms are only authorized to be worn by NCAA athletes outside of barracks while
participating in an NCAA practice or game.
b. Monagram Sweater: The VMI monogram sweater may be worn to specifically designated
events by thos cadets awarded them. The sweater is worn with summer or winter uniform
trousers, a white straight collared dress shirt and the official VMI striped or spiderlogo tie.
Wear of the white blouse with this uniform is not authorized.
4. Club Sports: Club sports uniforms are only authorized to be worn by team members
participating in a club sports practice or other event. Club sports participants may also wear club
sports uniforms while transiting from barracks to the event.
5. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
112
SUMMARY
Worn when directed by Commandant's office or to labs as required
1. WORN
WHEN WORN
When directed by the Commandants office
Army ROTC class as instructed
Academic labs as instructed
2. CONSISTS OF
a. ACU blouse. Sleeves are worn down at all times.
b. ACU pants. Cadets wear the trousers tucked into the top of the boots or bloused using the
draw strings at the bottom of the trousers. The trousers will not extend below the third eyelet
from the top of the boot.
c. Belt
d. Army combat boots (tan)
e. Tan T-shirt.
f. VMI Patch. The VMI patch is centered on the hook and loop-faced pad provided on the left
sleeve of the ACU blouse.
g. U.S. flag insignia. The U.S. flag insignia is worn on the right shoulder pocket flap of the
ACU blouse. The flag insignia is placed directly on top of the hook and loop-faced pad
provided on the right sleeve of the ACU blouse.
h. Name Tape/VMI tape. Last name/VMI tapes have a hook and loop-faced pad, and are worn
immediately above and parallel with the top of the slanted chest pocket flaps. The last name
is worn on the right side of the body. The VMI tape is worn on the left.
i. Rank. Embroidered rank insignia is centered on the front hook and loop-face pad of the ACU
blouse for rank Corporal through Cadet Captain.
j. Patrol cap.
(1) The ACU patrol cap is worn straight on the head so that the cap band creates a straight
line around the head, parallel to the ground.
(2) The patrol cap fits snugly and comfortably around the largest part
of the head without distortion or excessive gaps.
(3) The cap is worn so no hair is visible on the forehead beneath the
cap. The last name tape is worn centered on the hook and loop
pads on the back of the ACU patrol cap.
3. Cold Weather items. During cold weather, the following items are
authorized for wear:
a. VMI Sweatshirt (must be worn underneath ACU blouse)
b. Black (only) watch cap
c. Black gloves
d. Any cold weather undergarment authorized for wear with ACUs by
the US Army
113
SUMMARY
Worn when traveling on VMI business and for PT during cold weather
Worn as a suit and not individual components
1. WORN
WHEN WORN
To and from away athletic competitions
Traveling authorized by coach or club advisor
For PT during cold weather
2. CONSISTS OF
a. Black nylon trousers
b. Black, red, and yellow jacket (Worn in cold weather)
c. Red VMI polo shirt
d. Athletic shoes
e. White athletic socks
3. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
114
SUMMARY
Class Dyke is the everyday uniform worn around Post
It must be worn as stipulated below
1. SHIRT
a. Nametags
(1) Nametags are three inches long by one inch high. They are made of plastic and are
black in color with white block lettering.
(2) Location. Nametags are placed on the right pocket. The middle letter of the name tag is
centered over the pocket eyelet. The top edge of the nametag aligns with the pocket
inseam.
b. Service Ribbons, Badges and Insignia (See Figures on Next Page)
(1) Cadets are only authorized to wear the following on their class dyke shirt: service
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
ribbons, combat and special skill badges, VMI badges, ROTC issued branch
insignia, foreign jump wings and the German Armed Forces Badge for Military
Proficiency.
Service ribbons are worn on the wearers left side. They are centered 1/8th inch
above the top of the pocket. They will be clean and serviceable. (Figure A)
Combat and special skill badges are worn 14th inch above the ribbons or the top
of the pocket, one above the other, with 12 inch between badges. (Figure B)
Branch insignia may be worn by commissioning Army ROTC Cadets after they
are officially designated a branch. Army, Navy, Marine and Air Force
commissioning Cadets may wear service-specific crests as directed by a Cadets
respective ROTC. These insignia are worn 1/8th inch above the top of the pocket
on the wearers right side. (Figure A)
The VMI VFT badge and VMI marksmanship badge are only worn on the
wearers left side pocket flap, centered 1/8th inch below the top of the pocket. If
both are worn, they are spaced 12 inch apart, VFT badge on the wearers right.
(Figure B)
All foreign (non-U.S.) jump wings are worn 1/8th inch above the top of the
pocket on the wearers right side. If ROTC branch insignia is also worn, it will
be centered 1/4th inch above the foreign jump wings. (Figure B)
The German Armed Forces Badge for Military Proficiency is worn 1/8th inch
above the top of the pocket on the wearers right side. If ROTC branch insignia
is also worn, it will be centered 1/4th inch above the German Badge. (Figure B)
A Combat Infantrymans Badge, Combat Action Badge or Expert Infantrymans
Badge earned during military service is worn centered and 1/4th inch above
ribbons. If special skill badges are also worn in this situation, they will be worn
on the wearers right pocket, centered 1/8th inch below the top of the pocket.
Any VMI badges will be on the left side of that pocket flap. No more than 3 total
badges are worn on the pocket flap and they will be evenly spaced on the flap.
(Figure C)
115
Figure A
Figure B
Figure C
116
(9) All ribbon, badge and insignia placements listed above are also used when wearing the
Winter Class Dyke shit.
c. Rank (Photo 2)
(1) Worn on both collars, the corners of the stripe along collars diagonal stitching
and pointed towards neck at a near 45-degree angle.
Photo 2
d. Military Creases
(1) Cadets may iron military creases into the class dyke shirt if they desire.
2. TROUSERS (Photo 3)
Worn up on the waist. Proper length allows for a slight break in the crease just above where the
cuff touches the shoe.
Photo 3
117
3. MILITARY TUCK (Photo 4): Shirts are tucked into the rear of the ducks, woolies, or skirt by
pulling out all excess material to the sides and folding it back. The woolies, ducks or skirt is then
fastened around the excess with the belt.
4. ALIGNMENT (Photo 5): The shirt is tucked into the trousers so the shirt edge is aligned with
the front fly opening of the trousers and the outside edge of the belt buckle, forming a perfectly
straight line (gig line).
5.
Gig line
Military tuck
Photo 5
Photo 4
118
Photo 7
Photo 6
c. Shoulder boards worn with the sword on crest pointing upward towards the neck and centered
between the striped and buttons.
Library
Post Exchange
119
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
Black shirt
Black tie (men) or tab (women)
White crewneck t-shirt and white underwear
Nametag
Belt
(a) Officers wear the officers belt
(b) Saber bearing NCOs wear the NCO belt.
(c) All Platoon Sergeants, Guide Sergeants, Corporals and Privates wear the standard
cadet leather belt.
(7) Woolies or wool belt loop trousers.
(8) Black socks
(9) Low quarters
(10) Females may wear short wool skirt with panty hose when not in formation. (Photo 9)
(11) Optional Items:
(a) Black sweater
(b) Black scarf (only with duty jacket)
Photo 8
Photo 9
c. Tie/tab. The black tie is tied in a Windsor knot and tucked into the shirt from right to left
between the second and third buttons (Photo 10). Females wear the black tab. It should be
centered and fit comfortably snug around the neck (Photo 11).
120
Photo 10
Photo 11
d. Optional Items. Cadets may wear the VMI black sweater with duty jacket or scarf during the
winter months when not in formation.
7. DUTY JACKET (Photo 12)
a. The jacket is worn over the top of the class dyke, fully zipped to the
collar.
b. Collars remain straight.
c. Mandatory items worn on the duty jacket include nametape, class patch
and Cadet rank.
d. Duty jackets are worn on post and to Washington and Lee University
Library.
e. VMI monograms are worn if authorized.
8. SCARVES.
a. Black scarves are an optional item worn during cold weather.
b. The material is wool, silk, or rayon, of a commercial design,
approximately 12 by 52 inches.
c. Scarves are worn folded in half lengthwise, with the lengths
crossed left over right at the neck, and the ends of the scarf tucked
neatly into the neckline of the duty jacket.
d. When worn properly, the folded portion of the scarf may be
slightly visible above the collar of the duty jacket.
9. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
Photo 12
121
SUMMARY
Specific guidelines exist governing what Cadets may wear while visiting in
barracks, showering and sleeping
1. BATHROBE
a. The class robe available for purchase through the Third Class Finance Committee is the only
authorized robe for wear.
b. Robes may be worn either to the shower or for visitation and movement within barracks.
c. Robes must be:
(1) Tied closed when worn outside of a room.
(2) Knee length or longer.
(3) Unadorned and unmarked.
d. Under the bathrobe:
(1) Cadets may be improperly dressed.
(2) Civilian clothing is not authorized.
(3) Cadets must have knee to neck coverage when visiting other Cadets.
e. Bathrobes may not be worn in any arch or outside of barracks.
2. SHOWER DYKE
Cadets are authorized to travel directly to and from the shower without knee to neck coverage
under the bathrobe. Cadets may not visit or entertain visitors in shower dyke.
3. SLEEP DYKE
a. Cadets must have knee to neck coverage when sleeping.
b. Authorized tops:
(1) Any gray VMI gym dyke shirt.
(2) VMI sweat dyke top.
(3) Military/QMD issued white or tan short sleeve crew neck T-shirt.
(4) Female Cadets may wear a sports bra.
c. Authorized bottoms:
(1) VMI gym dyke shorts.
(2) VMI sweat dyke pants.
(3) QMD issued scrub pants.
4. SWEAT DYKE
The gray VMI sweat shirt and gray sweat pants are authorized for wear inside barracks and for
designated Ratline activities.
5. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
122
SUMMARY
Gray blouse is a semi-formal uniform worn to events such as SRC and
church
Clean cuffs/collars must be worn in every uniform containing gray blouse
1. WORN
WHEN WORN
SRC
Athletic events as specified by the
Commandant
Off Post during cold weather and when winter
Church
uniform is in effect
2. CONSISTS OF (Photo 1 - 4)
a. Garrison hat
b. Gray blouse
c. Collar.
(1) Must show 1/8 inch of white material.
(2) Must overlap in front of the throat 3/8 inch.
(3) Must be cleaned or replaced regularly.
d. Cuffs.
(1) Cuffs extend 1/8 inch beyond the sleeve end of the blouse.
(2) Cuffs are secured with two straight pins. Pins do not penetrate the wool fabric of the
sleeve.
(3) Cuffs must be cleaned or replaced regularly.
e. Suspenders
f. Crew neck undershirt
g. White gloves (summer).
h. Black gloves (winter). Black gloves may be bloused, but no further than the wristbone.
i. Ducks (summer) (Photo 1)
j. Woolies (winter) (Photo 3)
k. Low quarters
l. Females may wear the short gray skirt (winter) or short white skirt (summer) with panty hose
if wearing gray blouse to a non-formation event. (Photos 2 & 4).
3. USAGE
a. Cadets may unzip their gray blouse approximately eight inches when seated but may not
undo their collar.
b. When ordered, the overcoat is worn over the gray blouse.
c. The collar and cuff standards cited above apply to any uniform containing gray blouse.
4. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
123
Photo 1
Photo 2
Photo 3
124
Photo 4
SUMMARY
Worn by privates, corporals and non-saber bearing NCOs to parades and
guard mount
Parades
As directed by Commandant
WHEN WORN
Guard Mount
Photo 1
3. DYKE OUT PROCEDURES (Photo 1 - 4)
a. Cartridge box is starting and ending point for cross dyke belts.
b. Cartridge box is placed in the small of the back.
(1) Must be low enough to allow belt to be parallel to the ground.
(2) Cartridge box flap faces outward.
(3) Cartridge box hooks face the body.
c. Cross dykes are attached to the cartridge box hooks approximately inches from their ends
so as not to protrude past the cartridge box.
d. Once attached, the cross dykes run across the back to the collarbone with the right cross dyke
over top of the left.
e. The cross dykes come across the collarbone halfway between the neck and shoulders.
f. After crossing over in the front and returning to back, cross dykes attach to back of cartridge
box as before.
125
g. White belt is placed above the cartridge box and fastened in the front.
h. Cross dykes must be long enough to allow the belt to be worn parallel with the ground.
i. Waist plate.
(1) The waist plate is centered over the seam of the gray blouse.
(2) The large buckle of the waist plate is worn on the left side.
(3) The small catch of the waist plate is worn on the right side.
j. The breast plate is worn where the cross dykes intersect over the seam of the gray blouse.
k. Bayonet.
(1) Scabbard is attached to the belts grommets found on the left side of the body.
(2) The bayonet rests along the side of the body.
(3) Bayonet is directly aligned with the seam on the ducks.
4. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
Photo 3
Photo 2
Photo 4
126
SUMMARY
Worn by saber bearing NCOs during guard duty and parade
1. WORN: By all NCOs except for Platoon and Guide Sergeants (i.e. saber bearing NCOs).
Parades
As directed by Commandant
WHEN WORN
Guard Mount
During guard duty
2. CONSISTS OF (Photo 1)
a. Garrison hat
b. Gray blouse
c. Suspenders
d. Sling
e. Breastplate
f. Saber
g. Scabbard
h. NCO sash
i. NCO belt
j. White gloves (summer)
k. Black gloves (winter)
l. White ducks (summer)
m. Woolies (winter)
n. Low quarters
Photo 1
Photo 2
127
h. The bobs should be almost touching the bottom of the belt. They should be no more than 1
inches below the belt.
i. The saber is then placed in the scabbard after the sash and belt are in place.
j. The breast plate is placed on the sling centered upon the front zipper of the gray blouse.
4. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
Photo 3
Photo 4
128
SUMMARY
Worn by officers during guard duty and parade
1. WORN: By officers.
Parades
As directed by Commandant
WHEN WORN
Guard Mount
During guard duty
2. CONSISTS OF (Photo 1)
a. Garrison hat
b. Gray blouse
c. Suspenders
d. Sling
e. Breastplate
f. Saber
g. Scabbard
h. Officer sash
i. Officer belt
j. White gloves (summer)
k. Black gloves (winter)
l. White ducks (summer)
m. Woolies (winter)
n. Low quarters
Photo 1
Photo 2
129
g. The belt is placed at the very bottom edge of the sash so that none of the sash is showing
below the belt.
h. The saber is then placed in the scabbard after the sash and belt are in place.
i. The breast plate is placed on the sling centered upon the front zipper of the gray blouse.
4. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
Photo 3
Photo 4
130
CHAPTER 47 Coatee
SUMMARY
Coatee is a formal uniform worn to events such as Hops
Clean cuffs/collars must be worn in every uniform containing coatee
1. WORN
Formal occasions
WHEN WORN
As directed by the Commandant
Hops
2. CONSISTS OF (Photo 1 - 3)
a. Garrison hat unless proceeding directly between barracks and Cocke Hall during hops.
b. Coatee
c. Collar.
(1) Must show 1/8 inch of white material.
(2) Must overlap in front of the throat 3/8 inch
(3) Must be cleaned or replaced regularly.
d. Cuffs.
(1) Cuffs extend 1/8 inch beyond the sleeve end of the blouse.
(2) Cuffs are secured with two straight pins. Pins do not penetrate the wool fabric of the
sleeve.
(3) Cuffs must be cleaned or replaced regularly.
(4) These standards apply to any uniform containing coatee.
e. Suspenders
f. Crew neck undershirt and white underwear
g. White gloves (summer).
h. Black gloves (winter). Black gloves may be bloused, but no further than the wristbone.
i. Ducks (summer) (Photo 1)
j. Woolies (winter) (Photo 3)
k. Low quarters
l. Females may wear the long or short white skirts (summer) with panty hose when wearing
coatee (Photo 2) if not in formation. The skirt must touch the top of the shoe.
131
3. PICTURES
Photo 1
Photo 2
Photo 3
132
SUMMARY
Worn by privates, corporals and non-saber bearing NCOs to parades and
guard mount
Parades
As directed by Commandant
WHEN WORN
Special guard mounts
2. CONSISTS OF (Photo 1)
a. Shako
b. Coatee
c. Suspenders
d. Cross dykes
e. White parade belt
f. Breastplate
g. Waist plate
h. Cartridge box
i. Bayonet
j. White gloves (summer)
k. Black gloves (winter)
l. Ducks (summer)
m. Woolies (winter)
n. Low quarters
Photo 1
3. DYKE OUT PROCEDURES (Photo 1, 2, 3)
a. Cartridge box is starting and ending point for cross dyke belts.
b. Cartridge box is placed in the small of the back.
(1) Must be low enough to allow belt to be parallel to the ground.
(2) Cartridge box flap faces outward.
(3) Cartridge box hooks face the body.
c. Cross dykes are attached to the cartridge box hooks approximately inches from their ends
so as not to protrude past the cartridge box.
d. Once attached, the cross dykes run across the back to the collarbone with the right cross dyke
over top of the left.
(1) The cross dykes come across the collarbone halfway between the neck and shoulders.
(2) Three buttons are visible on the outer column of buttons left and right of the breastplate.
(3) Three buttons on the outer columns of buttons also show beneath the breastplate.
133
e. After crossing over in the front and returning to back, cross dykes attach to back of cartridge
box as before.
f. White belt is placed above the cartridge box and fastened in the front.
g. Cross dykes must be long enough to allow the belt to be worn parallel with the ground.
h. No coatee material should be visible below the belt in front.
i. Waist plate.
(1) The waist plate is centered over the center buttons of the coatee and covers the bottom
row of buttons.
(2) The large buckle of the waist plate is worn on the left side.
(3) The small catch of the waist plate is worn on the right side.
j. The breast plate is worn where the cross dykes intersects and is centered over the third button
from the top of the center column of buttons.
k. Bayonet.
(1) Scabbard is attached to the belts grommets found on the left side of the body.
(2) The bayonet rests along the side of the body,
(3) Bayonet is directly aligned with the seam on the ducks.
l. The shako is worn with the pompom canted slightly forward and the chin strap under the
lower lip (Photo 4).
4. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
Photo 3
Photo 2
134
Photo 4
SUMMARY
Worn by saber bearing NCOs during parade and, when directed, guard mount
1. WORN: By all NCOs except for Platoon and Guide Sergeants (i.e. saber bearing NCOs).
Parades
As directed by Commandant
WHEN WORN
Guard Mount
2. CONSISTS OF (Photo 1)
a. Shako
b. Coatee
c. Suspenders
d. Sling
e. Breastplate
f. Saber
g. Scabbard
h. NCO sash
i. NCO belt
j. White gloves (summer)
k. Black gloves (winter)
l. White ducks (summer)
m. Woolies (winter)
n. Low quarters
Photo 1
Photo 2
135
i.
The bobs should be almost touching the bottom of the belt. They should be no more than 1
inches below the belt.
j. The saber is then placed in the scabbard after the sash and belt are in place.
k. The breast plate is placed on the sling centered over the third button from the top in the
middle of the coatee.
4. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
Photo 3
Photo 4
136
SUMMARY
Worn by officers during parade and, when directed, guard mount
1. WORN: By officers.
Parades
As directed by Commandant
WHEN WORN
Guard Mount
2. CONSISTS OF (Photo 1)
a. Shako
b. Coatee
c. Suspenders
d. Sling
e. Breastplate
f. Saber
g. Scabbard
h. Officer sash
i. Officer belt
j. White gloves (summer)
k. Black gloves (winter)
l. White ducks (summer)
m. Woolies (winter)
n. Low quarters
Photo 1
Photo 2
137
Photo 3
Photo 4
138
CHAPTER 51 Overcoat
SUMMARY
Overcoat is a semi-formal uniform worn around post and uptown during
cold weather
The red flaps on the overcoat are turned back when the flags are up
1. WORN
WHEN WORN
On post during cold weather when the Corps is in
Off post, including church, during cold
winter uniform
weather when the corps is in winter
uniform
To SRC as directed by the Commandant
2. CONSISTS OF
a. Garrison hat
b. Overcoat
c. Gray blouse with cuffs and collar as described in Chapter 36.
d. Suspenders
e. Crew neck undershirt
f. Black gloves (winter). Black gloves may be bloused, but no further than the wristbone
g. Woolies
h. Low quarters
3. USAGE
a. Cadets may wear their overcoat around post and uptown during periods of cold weather when
the Corps is in winter uniform.
b. The overcoat flaps are folded back when the flags are up.
c. The overcoat flaps are not folded back when the flags are down.
4. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
139
SUMMARY
Worn by privates, corporals and non-saber bearing NCOs to parades and
guard mount during cold weather in winter months
WHEN WORN
Guard Mount (cold weather)
2. CONSISTS OF (Photo 1)
a. Garrison hat
b. Overcoat
c. Gray blouse
d. Suspenders
e. Cross dykes
f. White parade belt
g. Breastplate
h. Waist plate
i. Cartridge box
j. Bayonet
k. Black gloves
l. Woolies
m. Low quarters
Photo 1
3. DYKE OUT PROCEDURES (Photo 1, 2, 3)
a. Cartridge box is starting and ending point for cross dyke belts.
b. Cartridge box is placed in the small of the back.
(1) Must be low enough to allow belt to be parallel to the ground.
(2) Cartridge box flap faces outward.
(3) Cartridge box hooks face the body.
c. Cross dykes are attached to the cartridge box hooks approximately inches from their ends
so as not to protrude past the cartridge box.
d. Once attached, the cross dykes come across the collarbone and shoulders on the edge of the
seam of the red portion of the cape. The right cross dyke runs on top of the left.
e. The cross dykes must cross over and between the second and third button from the top of the
overcoat.
f. After crossing over in the front and returning to back, cross dykes attach to back of cartridge
box as before.
g. The white belt is placed above the cartridge box and fastened in the front.
h. The white belt hides the bottom rows of buttons in the front.
140
i.
j.
Cross dykes must be long enough to allow the belt to be worn parallel with the ground.
Waist plate.
(1) The waist plate is centered over the middle of the overcoat.
(2) The large buckle of the waist plate is worn on the left side.
(3) The small catch of the waist plate is worn on the right side.
k. The breast plate is worn where the cross dykes intersect in the center of the overcoat.
l. Bayonet.
(1) Scabbard is attached to the belts grommets found on the left side of the body.
(2) The bayonet rests along the side of the body,
(3) Bayonet is directly aligned with the seam on the ducks.
4. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
Photo 2
Photo 3
141
SUMMARY
Worn by saber bearing NCOs in cold weather during winter months
1. WORN: By all NCOs except for Platoon and Guide Sergeants (i.e. saber bearing NCOs).
WHEN WORN
Guard Mount (Cold weather)
2. CONSISTS OF (Photo 1)
a. Garrison hat
b. Overcoat
c. Gray blouse
d. Suspenders
e. Sling
f. Breastplate
g. Saber
h. Scabbard
i. NCO sash
j. NCO belt
k. Black gloves
l. Woolies
m. Low quarters
Photo 1
3. DYKE JOB PROCEDURES (Photos 1 & 2)
Photo 2
a. Sling with scabbard is placed over the right collarbone midway between the neck and
shoulder.
b. The scabbard hangs to the left and is aligned along the trouser seam.
c. The sash is then wrapped around the waist at a point allowing it to hang at the proper length.
Proper length varies due to waist size and sash length.
d. The two bobs at the end of the sash must be adjacent to the left hip.
e. Once the bob is in place, the sash is folded inward at a 45 degree angle so the bottom tip of
the fold is aligned with the crease in front of the woolies.
f. The sash is then pinned in the fold. The pins must not be visible once in place.
g. The belt is placed at the very bottom edge of the sash so that none of the sash is showing
below the belt.
h. The sash and belt should be above the buttons in the back.
i. The bobs should be almost touching the bottom of the belt. They should be no more than 1
inches below the belt.
j. The saber is then placed in the scabbard after the sash and belt are in place.
k. The breast plate is placed on the sling centered upon the middle of the overcoat.
4. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
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SUMMARY
Worn by officers in cold weather during winter months
1. WORN: By officers.
WHEN WORN
Guard Mount (Cold weather)
2. CONSISTS OF (Photo 1)
a. Garrison hat
b. Overcoat
c. Gray blouse
d. Suspenders
e. Sling
f. Breastplate
g. Saber
h. Scabbard
i. Officer sash
j. Officer belt
k. Black gloves
l. Woolies
m. Low quarters
Photo 2
Photo 1
3. DYKE JOB PROCEDURES (Photos 1 - 4)
a. Sling with scabbard is placed over the right collarbone midway between the neck and
shoulder.
b. The scabbard hangs to the left side of the body and is aligned along the seam of the trousers.
c. The sash is then wrapped around the waist at a point allowing it to hang at the proper length.
Proper length varies due to waist size and sash length.
d. The top of the bobs should be touching the leg just below the kneecap.
e. Once the bob is in the proper location, the sash is folded inward at a 45 degree angle so the
bottom tip of the fold is aligned with the crease in front of the woolies.
f. The sash is then pinned in the fold. The pins must not be visible once in place.
g. The belt is placed at the very bottom edge of the sash so that none of the sash is showing
below the belt.
h. The sash and belt should be above the buttons in the back.
i. The saber is then placed in the scabbard after the sash and belt are in place.
j. The breast plate is placed on the sling centered upon the middle of the overcoat.
4. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
143
Photo 3
Photo 4
144
PERSONAL APPEARANCE
CHAPTER 55 Personal Appearance
SUMMARY
All cadets must keep their hair neatly groomed and within regulations
Male cadets must shave every morning and additionally as required
Appearance regulations differs between males, females, rats and upperclass
cadets
All cadets must comply with specific jewelry and cosmetic regulations
1. UNIFORM SERVICEABILITY
Cadets must maintain all uniform items in good condition. Unserviceable items must be replaced.
Cadets wearing unserviceable items will be boned and the offending item will be confiscated.
The following general guidelines will help cadets identify when specific items are to be replaced:
a. Garrison cover. The garrison cover must be replaced when the bill becomes cracked and/or
worn. The cover must also be replaced when the wire brim becomes exposed.
b. Low-quarters. Low quarters must be replaced when they become cracked or when they
develop holes. They must also be replaced when the heel begins to wear away. The heel
must be greater than 3/8 inch thick (the width of a number two pencil).
c. Ducks. Cadets must report to the QMD for new ducks when the bottom of the leg becomes
frayed. Cadets will have to pay for replacement ducks if the fraying is not deemed to be
normal wear and tear. Cadets can avoid fraying by wearing their ducks properly (ie. not
pushing them down or folding the waistline under their belt).
d. Duty jackets. Cadets must report to the QMD when the bottom of their duty jacket loses
elasticity and no longer conforms to their body.
2. HAIR STANDARDS
a. Overview. To present a professional military appearance, all cadets must maintain neatly
groomed hair. Hair standards differ between new cadets (prior to breakout), male
upperclassmen, and female upperclassmen.
b. Entire Corps. The following guidelines apply to all cadets.
(1) All cadets are prohibited from:
(a) Faddishly styling hair. Examples include:
[1] Shaving portions of the scalp.
[2] Cutting or weaving designs into the hair.
[3] Styling hair in an unbalanced or lopsided manner.
[4] Dying, tinting, bleaching, and frosting hair.
(b) Owning clippers and giving themselves or others haircuts.
(c) Clipping hair to the scalp unless authorized by a doctor.
(d) Allowing bangs to protrude beneath headgear or touch the eyebrows with headgear
removed.
(2) Head hair will be combed so as not to interfere with the proper wear of the uniform.
(3) Natural looking highlights are authorized.
(4) All haircuts must be given by a licensed barber or beautician.
c. New Cadets.
(1) All male rats wear closely cropped hair.
(2) The hair of male rats will be shaved around the ear and inch long on top.
(3) Male rats must have their hair cut weekly.
145
(4) Female Rat hair will be cut and pulled back for a short ponytail that will be tight and
worn up, and will not extend above the top of the collar when standing at attention in
uniform.
(a) Female Rats with hair too short for a ponytail will be styled to present a professional
military appearance and worn above the top of the collar when standing at attention
in uniform.
(b) No hair may show under the front brim of the garrison cover, nor shall it extend
below the eyebrows when headgear is removed.
(c) Hair may be layered, tapered or one length.
(d) Female Rats may not have closely cropped hair, or haircut styles including high and
tight, crew cut or shaved top, sides or back.
(e) Female Rats may wear hairclips and pins, similar to their hair color, as necessary to
maintain a neat and professional appearance so that their hair does not interfere with
any training or the proper wearing of their headgear.
(f) Following Matriculation Week, female rats will have their hair cut as necessary to
comply with the standards in this regulation.
d. Female upperclass cadets (and female 4th Class cadets upon completion of the ratline)
(1) Females hair must be neatly groomed and styled.
(2) Females hair will:
(a) Be cut as necessary to be in compliance with standards.
(b) Be put up in all uniforms, with the exception of gym dyke, of class dyke or better if it
falls below the bottom edge of the collar when cadet stands at attention (including
hair in a ponytail or braids). Hair may be in a ponytail when gym dyke is worn.
(c) Not extend in length on all sides below an invisible line drawn parallel to the ground
at the bottom edge of the shirt collar at the back of the neck.
(d) Not exceed 3 inches in bulk.
(e) Not be adorned with hair ornaments such as ribbons, beads, scrunchies or jeweled
pins.
(3) The following are authorized:
(a) Plain and conservative pins, combs, elastic bands and barrettes similar to the
individuals hair color.
(b) A hairpiece, similar to the cadets hair color. The style and appearance must conform
to appearance standards.
(c) A modified bun or small ponytail may be worn during transition periods when hair is
growing out.
(d) Head wrap headbands are authorized during physical activity such as NCAA events,
club sports, PTT and personal workouts. The band must be a color that conforms to
the individuals hair color and does not exceed a width of one half an inch.
e. Male upperclass cadets (and male 4th class cadets upon completion of the ratline).
(1) Males hair will be:
(a) Clipped at the edges and in back.
(b) Tapered in back and 1 inches off the collar.
(c) Evenly graduated from the lower portion to the upper portion of the head.
(d) Less than 2 inches in length fully extended on the upper portion of the head.
(2) The back and sides of the head may be shaved below the hairline.
(3) Sideburns will:
(a) Be trimmed straight to remove flare.
(b) Not extend below the top of the orifice of the ear.
(c) Not exceed 1/8 inch when fully extended (individual hair).
3. FACIAL HAIR
a. All male cadets are required to shave each morning prior to BRC.
146
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
b. Cadets may need to shave again during the duty day to maintain a professional appearance.
c. Any male cadet afflicted with a skin condition preventing him from shaving must obtain a
shaving waiver from the Post Infirmary.
FINGERNAILS
a. Fingernails will be kept clean and neatly trimmed as not to interfere with performance of
duty, detract from military image, or present a safety hazard. Females are permitted to wear
neutral color nail polish. Females will not wear nail polish that distinctly contrasts with their
complexion, that detract from the uniform, or that is extreme. Some examples of extreme
colors include, but are not limited to, purple, gold, blue, black, white, bright (fire-engine) red,
khaki, camouflage colors, and fluorescent colors. Cadets will not apply designs to nails or
apply two-tone or multi-tone colors to nails.
b. Nail length will be no longer than inch from the tip of the finger.
TATTOOS
Cadets may not wear offensive or profane tattoos that are visible in uniform. The Commandant
may direct cadets to remove offensive tattoos.
BODY PIERCINGS
Wearing body piercings, other than post earrings by females, is unauthorized. This includes
cadets departing and returning to post as well as cadets representing VMI at off post events.
JEWELRY/COSMETICS
a. New Cadets. Rats are prohibited from wearing any jewelry except for a watch. Female rats
are prohibited from wearing any makeup except a conservative application for social
occasions such as Homecoming.
b. Watches. All cadets are authorized to wear a conservative watch that does not detract from
the wear or appearance of the uniform.
c. Rings. Cadets are not allowed to wear more than one ring on each hand. Rings may not be
worn on the thumb or index finger.
d. Earrings. Only female cadets are authorized to wear earrings.
(1) Earrings may be screw-on, clip-on, or post-type earrings in gold, silver, white pearl, or
diamond. The earrings will not exceed 6 mm or 14 inch in diameter, and they must be
unadorned and spherical. When worn, the earrings will fit snugly against the ear.
Females may wear earrings only as a matched pair, with only one earring per ear
centered on the ear lobe.
(2) Earrings are not worn with ACUs.
e. Bracelets. Only medical and POW/MIA bracelets are authorized.
f. Necklaces. Only military dog tags and necklaces symbolizing a cadets religious affiliation
are authorized. These must be worn out of sight.
g. Makeup. Female cadets (not rats) may wear conservative cosmetics complementing their
complexion. Pale shades of solid colored lipstick and nail polish may be worn with all
uniforms. Glitter and metallic colors are unauthorized.
SUNGLASSES
a. Cadets may only to wear sunglasses in the stands of Foster Stadium during football games.
b. The one exception to this policy is for cadets who have been prescribed, by a doctor, to wear
sunglasses and with approval of the Commandants office.
c. Sunglass standards. Trendy sunglasses are not authorized. Sunglasses frames may not have
initials, designs, or other adornment. Lens colors and frames must be traditional gray, brown,
black or dark green shades. Cadets will not wear lenses or frames that are so large or so small
that they detract from the appearance of the uniform. Cadets will not attach chains, bands, or
ribbons to sunglasses. Cadets will not hang sunglasses or sunglass cases on the uniform.
147
9. MISCELLANEOUS
a. Cell Phones. Cadets are not authorized to talk on cell phones outdoors while outside of
barracks. Cadets must put their phone down and issue the greeting of the day to any officer
who approaches. Cadets are not authorized to hang cell phones on their uniforms.
b. Headphones. Cadets are authorized to wear headphones in their rooms, in academic
buildings, or while working out in Cocke Hall. Headphones are not authorized to be worn
outside of barracks.
c. Backpacks/bookbags. Cadets are authorized to carry backpacks in their hands but may not be
worn over the shoulder or on the back. Backpacks/bookbags must be solid black in color
with no logos, the only exception being the official VMI spider.
d. Camelbacks. Cadets are authorized to wear black, OD green or brown camelbacks while
exercising on and off post.
10. The Sergeant Major is the point of contact for this chapter.
148
EARLY RETURN
CHAPTER 56 Appearance and Status Requirements for Cadets Returning Early
SUMMARY
Cadets returning early for the fall semester adhere to Blue Book uniform and
grooming standards
Taps is in effect throughout the early return period
149
GLOSSARY
List of Acronyms / Abbreviations
1st SGT First Sergeant
ACU Army Combat Uniform
AWOL Absent without Leave
BD Bed Down
BOV Board of Visitors
BDU Battle Dress Uniform
BRC Breakfast Roll Call
CAD Completion of Academic Duty
CCQ Close Call to Quarters
CIC Cadet in Charge
CEA Cadet Equity Association
CLE Center for Leadership and Ethics
CMD Completion of Military Duty
CP Class Parade
CPE Cadet Professional Educators
CPL Corporal
CQ Call to Quarters
CQRB Call to Quarters Release in Barracks
CTT Commandants Training Time
DTT Deans Training Time
EC Executive Committee
EMT Emergency Medical Technician
FCP (1) Full Class Privileges
FCP (2) First Class Permit
GC General Committee
GP General Permit
GPA Grade Point Average
HC Honor Court
IAW In Accordance With
MI Military Inspection
NLT No Later Than
NCAA National Collegiate Athletic Association
NCO Non Commissioned Officer
NG National Guard
OC Officer in Charge
OD - Officer of the Day
OG Officer of the Guard
OGA Officers of the Guard Association
LT Lieutenant
PDA Public Display of Affection
PE Physical Education
POV Privately Owned Vehicle
PT (1) Penalty Tour
PT (2) Physical Training
PTT Physical Training Time
QMD Quartermasters Department
R - Ranks
150
151
CADET
GOVERNMENT
ANNEX
appearance does not interfere with active duty as a member of the Guard Team. Cadets falling
below acceptable appearance standards may be assessed an additional penalty.
When an accused cadet appears before the GC, the alleged violation will be read. The accused
will respond in one of three ways. All statements to the General Committee are certified.
(1) Correct The violation was committed by the accused cadet.
(2) Correct, but wish to explain The accused cadet must supply certain pertinent information
before the GC can decide the outcome of the charge.
(3) Incorrect as stands The accused cadet was in no way involved in the commission of the
offense.
If the GC determines the accused is guilty of the alleged offense, it will recommend a penalty to
the Commandant through the Assistant Commandant for Cadet Government and, if necessary, to
the Superintendent.
Following GC trials, the First Class President will inform the Corps by email, or hardcopy, of the
infractions committed and penalties issued at the trial.
7. GENERAL COMMITTEE RULES:
Class Membership and Privileges: Class stripes and privileges are determined by the number of
semesters in attendance at VMI. Cadets who have been suspended for either academic or
conduct reasons for no longer than one year, or cadets who have participated in a VMI-approved
foreign study program, will retain their matriculation class status when they return to VMI.
However, cadets who voluntarily depart VMI or who are suspended and remain away beyond the
duration of suspension will have their Class status changed based on their attended semesters at
VMI. Transfer students who become cadets will only be allowed class privileges commensurate
with the number of semesters as a VMI cadet, i.e. a cadet who has spent two years (2-3
semesters) at VMI but has four years of academic credit will have privileges of a third classman
not a first classman. NO cadet may wear class stripes other than his/her own, unless granted
temporary permission to do so by the President of the upper class concerned. Cadets serving on
active military duty will retain their matriculation class GC privileges.
Dyke Privileges: Only First Classmen are allowed the Dyke privilege with their Rat(s). Cadets
may have a Rat only once during their cadetship. Cadets returning to VMI for their first class year
with less than five semesters completed at VMI, cadets with a history of misconduct, and cadets
that received major penalties within the last three semesters prior to their first class year will be a
special case. Special cases will be decided by the Dyke Committee. First Classmen on Conduct
Probation will not be allowed the dyke privilege as per the Commandants directive.
Upperclassmen are advised that they hold a position of respect through longevity but may
jeopardize their position by an improper act, i.e. abusive or offensive language, unwarranted
censure, or actions not condoned by the GC. No cadet will be disrespectful or rude to a fellow
cadet. The class system is built upon, and demands, respect between all cadets, regardless of
class or rank. The GC encourages issues of disrespect to be handled personally between cadets
in a mature manner before being brought before the GC.
smoke off post except at a private residence or in designated smoking areas of public
establishments.
Be indecently dressed in barracks windows or improperly dressed (to include failure to
remove cover) in J.M. Hall, Smith Hall, the Center for Leadership and Ethics, and
Marshall or Preston Libraries.
Fail to maintain proper decorum in at public gatherings such as Church services, guest
speakers, assemblies, athletic contests, etc. (Includes sleeping or giving the impression
of doing so or leaving a function early, lack of reverence and respect when appropriate
and conduct which would bring discredit upon the Corps, i.e. cell phone / electronics use,
booing, hissing, drinking alcoholic beverages, loud obnoxious behavior, etc.)
Sit apart from the Corps during the first half of a football game or bring an outsider into the
Corps section, except dates. Outsiders (family and friends) may not disrupt the spirit or
integrity of the Corps. Rats must stay in the Corps area for the duration of the game,
except for visiting concessions and using the restrooms. Upper-class cadets may
observe the second half of the game in any section of the bleachers.
Begin to leave the football stadium or basketball arena before the Doxology has been played.
Give any evidence of being under the obvious influence of alcohol.
Wear the uniform improperly, to include wearing the wrong uniform (i.e. ACUs uptown),
removing the blouse, mixing civilian clothes with the uniform, or failing to maintain proper
grooming standards (haircuts, shaves, etc.) Cadets will not use a shoulder strap to carry
book bags.
Fail to speak to visitors on Post and, in the case of male cadets, to tip hat to ladies.
Any conduct, whether or not listed above, that brings discredit upon the uniform or VMI.
The GC will publish examples of offenses and a guideline for penalties for the Corps of Cadets.
The schedule of Penalties is published separately and posted at Sally Port for viewing.
9. CLASS PRIVILEGES:
Class privileges are privileges, which through custom and tradition, have been assumed by the
respective classes and which are not, in some cases, recognized or permitted by Institute
regulations. Privileges that conflict with Institute regulations are exercised by cadets at their own
risk and are subject to reports of delinquency by VMI authorities. Class privileges will not be
waived under any circumstances, e.g., when accompanied by parents, civilians or dates. A cadet
may report another cadet for taking privileges belonging to neither.
The following privileges are authorized by the GC: The GC reserves the right to amend these
privileges as it sees fit upon proper notification of the Corps of Cadets. Each class has all the
privileges authorized for a lower class. Any cadet who assumes a privilege of a higher class is
subject to being sent before this committee. No upperclassmen, including a First Classman, are
permitted to extend the privileges of their class to a member of a lower class except in cases
where a First Classman extends his privilege to a Rat when walking with their Rat.
Note: First, Second, and Third classmen may loiter, eat, drink and use tobacco products on their
respective stoops. **
FIRST CLASS CADETS MAY:
1a.
Take General Permit on Sunday Thursday from completion of SRC until 2030 and on
Fridays from completion of SRC until Taps.
2a.
3a.
4a.
5a.
6a.
7a.
8a.
9a.
10a.
11a.
12a.
1b.
2b.
3b.
4b.
5b.
6b.
7b.
8b.
1c.
2c.
3c.
4c.
5c.
6c.
7c.
1d.
Strain
members votes will count as three each. The President of the OGA will decide the outcome of a
tie vote. Observers are only authorized at EC meetings with the approval of the Assistant
Commandant for Cadet Government. The Assistant Commandant for Cadet Government or his
representative will be present at Executive Committee hearings.
IGNORANCE IS NO EXCUSE!
MISSION and PURPOSE: The Officer of the Guard Association (OGA) protects and informs
cadets while upholding and enforcing the conduct of the Corps. Members of the OGA are all First
Class privates and are the representative body for the privates of the Corps of Cadets. The OGA
manages the Dyke system for the General Committee (GC). The OGA also serves as an
investigative arm of the General Committee and may investigate misconduct for possible GC or
Executive Committee (EC) action.
II.
RESOURCES: The OGA operates in accordance with the White Book available on VMIs
website. The White Book contains procedures for all Cadet Government organizations including
the protocols relating to investigations, trials, and selection of OGA members.
III.
IV.
V.
DYKE SYSTEM: The OGA upholds and enforces all aspects of the dyke system. The OGA
provides sufficient dyke system training prior to and at the start of the first class year. The OGA
publishes a dyke guide outlining specific dyke system guidance and sources of assistance to First
Classmen and Rats. The First Class GC, RDC, and the OGA may amend the dyke system
guidance anytime throughout the year with the concurrence of the Assistant Commandant for
Cadet Government. The OGA may, after proper investigation, terminate a First Classmans
privilege to have a Rat at anytime during the year.
VI.
PRIVATES OF THE CORPS: The OGA is a representative body for all privates and takes
grievances of a private and addresses them with the General Committee, Regimental Captains,
Assistant Commandant for Cadet Government, or the Commandant as appropriate. All
grievances may be brought to the respective privates OGA company representative who
forwards them to the OGA Secretary. The OGA officers review all submissions, assess their
legitimacy, and formally present them to the GC, Regimental Captains, or the Commandant.
VII.
VIII.
RATLINE CONDUCT: The OGA involves itself in all Rat activities (i.e. forced marches, RDC
meetings, sweat parties, normal stoop behavior, etc.). The OGA monitors the activities of the
RDC and the upper classes and discourages/halts any unauthorized Ratline activities.
INVESTIGATIONS:
The OGA investigates matters for the General/Executive Committees and the Administration as
requested. Matters investigated by the OGA are usually instances brought to the attention of
the GC and/or EC. However, a situation need not go to the GC or EC to be investigated.
The OGA investigates cases involving hazing, gross misconduct of a cadet, abuses of the dyke
system, violations of the cadet to cadet professional relations policy and any other acts the
OGA, First Class President, or Commandant deem necessary.
If a case includes elements of discrimination, the case is referred to the CEA and/or Title IX
coordinator. The Officer of the Guard Association has no jurisdiction over offenses involving
sexual misconduct. For offenses involving discrimination in violation of General Order 16
other than those involving sexual misconduct, the IG, at his discretion, may refer the matter to
the Commandant for resolution through the cadet government.
regularly with the Inspector General/Title IX Coordinator via the Assistant Commandant for Cadet
Government to fully comply with GO-16. The Vice President for Investigations maintains and
safeguards current CEA investigation records.
CEA Assistant Investigators assist the Vice President for Investigations with the investigative process.
ROLES OF THE REPRESENTATIVES: CEA Representatives serve as the liaisons between the CEA
and their designated companies and staffs. They assist the Vice President for Education in providing
training to the Corps.
TRAINING AND EDUCATION:
The primary role of the CEA is to educate the Corps on equity.
The Vice President for Education and Operations develops, schedules, and provides civility and Title
IX training for the Corps of Cadets as mandated by federal or state government agencies or
st
requested by the President of the 1 Class, the CEA President, the Inspector General/Title IX
Coordinator, or the Assistant Commandant for Cadet Government.
While additional training may be added to the schedule as necessary, the following training is
scheduled for the 2015 to 2016 Academic Year:
Cadre Training Overview of Climate/Issues
rd
th
INVESTIGATIONS:
The Vice President for Investigations examines, and if necessary, enforces the conduct of the Corps.
Under close supervision of the Inspector General/Title IX Coordinator and the Assistant Commandant
for Cadet Government, the CEA investigates matters for the General/Executive Committees and
Administration as requested.
Any investigation of complaints involving harassment and/or discrimination based on gender, race,
religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other potential violation of GO 16 shall be
investigated only to the extent designated by the IG and under the oversight of the IG. The CEA
shall not investigate any complaint involving sexual misconduct. Upon notification of any case
that involves any element of discrimination, harassment, or sexual misconduct, any CEA
members shall immediately notify the Assistant Commandant for Cadet Government/Assistant
Title IX Coordinator. Procedures are outlined in General Order 16.
Cases of inappropriate consensual sexual activities (Bluebook violation only), are referred to the
Officer of the Guard Association (OGA), through the Assistant Commandant for Cadet
Government, who shall notify the Commandant and IG and determine in consultation with the IG
if the CEA will handle any part or all of the investigation.
2.
GENERAL ORGANIZATION:
The RDC consists of a President, Vice President, Secretary, two Operations Officers, twenty-six First Class
cadets, and five Second Class cadets. The President of the RDC is appointed by the preceding RDC President
and confirmed by the Assistant Commandant for Cadet Government. The RDC is responsible for the conduct of
the ratline.
3.
4.
5.
ASSESSMENT OF PENALTIES:
The RDC, under the chairmanship of its President, awards penalties in accordance with the approved schedule
of penalties published separately. The RDC Secretary, as well as the GC First Class President awards penalties
in accordance with the approved schedule of penalties.
CONDUCT
General. Rats:
Adhere to the highest standards of proper conduct in public and in the presence of civilians, to include tipping the hat to ladies
and offering the appropriate greeting when passing a civilian.*
Maintain proper military bearing at all times and address Old Corps cadets as Sir, Mister, Maam or Miss.
Be respectful to Old Corps Cadets and always show them deference in all cases.*
Abstain from familiarity and forwardness to Old Corps Cadets, i.e., fraternization.
Walk at a brisk one and a half times pace in the prescribed routes outside of barracks silently and in a single-file.
Afford the proper military customs and courtesies to Institute officials and commissioned officers, to include rendering a salute
and the proper greeting when approaching an Institute official or commissioned officer when in or out of uniform.*
Not speak unless spoken to by an upper-class cadet while in barracks or in the mess hall.
Not loiter in the vicinity of barracks or academic buildings, except when on official business or with a civilian.
Not obey any directive deemed or perceived to be hazardous, discriminatory, illegal, or in violation of Institute policy or
restrictions set by the First Class.*
Not talk outdoors within the limits of the VMI Post unless spoken to by upper-class cadets or to greet civilians and VMI faculty
or staff members.
Pick up any piece of trash whether inside or outside of barracks as soon as it is seen.
Whenever seated will sit at attention, remain silent, and read their Rat Bibles unless otherwise directed, to includ e the
Barbershop, JM Hall etc.
In the Area of Barracks. Rats:
Walk the Ratline in a military manner as prescribed by the First Class, yielding the right of way to upper-class cadets. Rats do
not run in Barracks.
Are in proper uniform at all times.*
Double-time up and down stairs in Barracks at all times.
Use only Jackson Arch to enter and exit Barracks*. An exception to this is for Corps formations on the bricks. When the Corps
forms on the bricks, Rats use Jackson Arch and Third Barracks arch to go directly to formation. Rats will not use
Washington arch until authorized by the RDC and GC President.
Stand at rigid attention (STRAIN) at all times, to include when any upper-class cadet or Institute officer enters the room and
remain in that position until given at ease.
Do not talk to Brother Rats on the stoops, stairways, and in the arches, except when on official business.
Do not eat or drink while outside of their rooms or in the concourse.*
Do not use tobacco anywhere on post.
Use the Band Well to enter and exit the concourse.
Use Sally Port, Gold Coast, and the 3 rd Barracks front side stairwells only. During the hours of 0800-1845 Rats ONLY use Sally
Port staircase. Rats do not use the service entrances to barracks, 24-Hour doors, TAC stairs, or Daniels Arch at anytime.*
Reporting.
When reporting to an officer or an upper-class cadet, Rats knock, remove their cover (except when under arms), enter when
told to do so, and report Sir/Maam, Rat ____ reporting _____ (as ordered, to deliver a message, etc.)
Formations. Rats:
Remain in all meal formations, enter the mess hall, and eat.*
Arrive early for all formations and wait for assembly at the position of parade rest*.
Not move unless directed nor cut eyes while in formation.
Mess Hall. Rats:
Use only the center entrance of the mess hall.*
Remove their hat at the threshold of the center entrance of the mess hall, use only the center aisle when moving throughout
the mess hall, walk at a quick pace, and upon reaching their assigned table, stand at attention behind the chair until given
permission to be seated.
Rats move through the mess hall with a sense of purpose. Upon getting utensils and tray, Rats hold utensils in the left hand
and the tray in both hands with the tray flat and parallel to the body while moving throughout the food lines. Rats are only
authorized to lower the plate, parallel to the ground, once food has been placed upon it at which time Rats move to their
designated seating area in an expedient manner.
Only sit at tables in the designated rat seating area. Upon entering the mess hall at BRC and SRC, rats move to their assigned
table and remain there until instructed to go through the food lines.
While seated at the table, sit with good posture, which includes elbows off the table. A Rat ceases eating and directs attention
to any upper-class cadets when addressed; and talks only when spoken to by an upper-class cadet.
Remain seated upon completion of eating and read the Rat Bible.
Remain seated in the mess hall until given permission to depart.
Do not laugh or joke with any upper-class cadet.
Do not eat with their Dykes during DRC (1100-1300). During these times Rats eat in a designated Rat Section of Crozet Hall.
This restriction is in effect until further notice.
Uniform and Appearance. Rats:
Are in proper, complete uniform at all times as prescribed by the Blue Book unless officially specified otherwise.*
At all times present themselves in a clean and pressed uniform with shoes and brass highly shined.*
Move between barracks and NCAA locker rooms and between barracks and NCAA/club sports practices in the Uniform of the
Day or better. Rats do not loiter in barracks or around post in NCAA or club sports gear.
Remain in proper Gym Dyke at all times within Cocke and Cormack Halls (i.e. Shirt tucked in).
Males receive a haircut weekly in the VMI barbershop to conform to published Rat haircut standards.
Females receive all haircuts within the VMI barbershop as needed to conform to the published female Rat haircut standards.
Will not use cosmetic products at any time.
Remove their hats, when not under arms, in all buildings and all rooms in barracks.*
Practice good personal hygiene at all times to include taking a shower every day, shaving every morning prior to BRC (males),
and brushing teeth at least once every 24 hours.*
Wear a white nametag and shoulder boards without crests on class dyke.
Rats are not authorized to wear any form of jewelry (i.e. rings, necklaces, earrings etc.) other than a watch and that of a
religious nature.
Loiter in LeJeune Hall unless escorting authorized personnel to include VMI faculty/administrators, immediate family members,
adult visitor, or date. Rats may wait for visitors, not their Dyke/Uncle Dyke, in the Visitors Center but not in other part s of
LeJeune Hall.
Use or visit the Keydet Kanteen Monday-Friday between the hours of 1100 to 1300 in lieu of eating lunch in Crozet Hall, to
include in the presence of their Dykes, until further notice.
Visit the Keydet Kanteen unescorted more than once a day Monday-Friday. (On Saturday after 1200 and on Sunday from 0830
until SRC, Rats have unlimited access to the Keydet Kanteen.)
Technology. Rats do not:
Have electronic devices such as I-PODs, I-PADs, Tablets, or portable Internet capable devices for recreational use.
Unless in their Dykes room at their Dykes discretion, use computers to listen to music, watch videos/movies or play games
(including fantasy sports).
Utilize any form of Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr etc.) on VMI Post, except in their Dykes room at the
Dykes discretion.
Have external speakers, microphones, or external web cameras their room at any time.
Use applications designed to communicate such as Tinder, Yik Yak etc. at any time during the Ratline with the exception of
Email. This includes use in their Dykes room.
Use any form of Instant Messaging or Commination (i.e. Skype, Snapchat, Facebook Messenger, AIM, Windows Live etc.)
Have possession of a phone during the Ratline. A Rat may keep a phone in his/her Dykes room at the discretion of their
Dyke.
Other Restrictions. Rats do not:
Play games in the courtyard of Old, New, or Third Barracks with their Dykes. This restriction is in effect until further notice.
Follow their Dyke through Old, New, or Third Barracks courtyard at any time. This restriction is in effect until further notice.
Be let out of the Ratline by their Dykes until further notice.
Make use of PT details unless specifically authorized by a member of the Commandants staff.
Put their hay down until 2315 (excluding Sunday), unless on guard or granted for medical purposes or through an authorized
permit (random checks will be made by the RDC). Rats have hay down on Sunday.
Store personal or academic items (Ac Bags) anywhere besides their room or an academic building (this includes JM Hall, on
Stoop, and in the Barracks Study Room).
Take days or weekends for the duration of the Ratline.
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RAT KNOWLEDGE
The Rat Bible (Bullet) contains information about important events in Institute history, cites traditions, and
provides other pertinent information, which a Rat must learn and recite when queried by an upper-class
cadet. The Bullet must be carried at all times except during physical training. The schedule for learning
pertinent information will be published separately.
The RDC President and Regimental Executive Officer post information weekly on all stoops near Sally Port.
Rats are expected to learn and know this information by the end of the week.
ATHLETIC EVENTS
Rats are strongly encouraged to attend athletic events and render full support to VMI intercollegiate athletic
teams. Accordingly, Rats stand at all home football and basketball games and any other athletic events
designated by the First Class President.
Sexual Assault: In accordance with the Clery Act (Federal Law), all CPEs will notify one
or more of the following VMI institute officials if they learn of any sexual assault, sexual
misconduct, discrimination, harassment, bullying, stalking and/or domestic violence:
Inspector General/Title IX Coordinator:
Col. Jeff Boobar; 212 Carroll Hall; 464-7072
Assistant Inspector Generals:
MAJ Christopher Perry; 3-115 Third Barracks; 540-464-7326
Susan Lamert; 401 Preston Library; 540-464-7568
LTC Samuel Allen; 332 Scott Shipp Hall; 540-464-7061
Assistant Title IX Coordinator:
LTC Kevin Faust; 113 Third Barracks; 540-464-7718
Programs:
CPEs develop informative and creative programming to address the specific and current
health/wellness needs of the Corps of Cadets. The following programs are routinely completed
each year to meet this educational programming initiative.
Headliners
Headliners is a poster campaign displayed in bathroom stalls of designated academic buildings.
CPEs will collaborate with health professionals to provide educational information and statistics
about physical and mental health issues. CPEs design and publish Headliners on a monthly basis.
Bulletin Boards
CPEs design a bulletin board with a timely health-related theme on a monthly basis. The bulletin
board is located in the barracks concourse across from the mail room.
IAOD event/Social Norming
CPEs design a post-wide campaign to address healthy use of alcohol consumption through the
evidence-based program of social norming. Social norming campaigns aim to decrease high risk
behaviors and increase pro-social behaviors by publicizing factual data to dispel any
misperceptions about VMI culture and alcohol use.
Bystander Intervention
In compliance with Federal Law and the Campus SaVE act, CPEs are trained in the facilitation
of a Bystander Intervention Program, which is presented to all incoming and third-class cadets at
select Cadet Training Times. They will also role model appropriate bystander interventions.
Participation in select Safety Briefs
When appropriate, CPEs collaborate with CEA and OGA to provide education to the Corps of
Cadets at Safety Briefs, such as Homecoming, Ring Figure, and post-Breakout. Safety Brief
topics may include professional relationships, safe/healthy use of alcohol, and bystander
intervention.
Statement on Discrimination
VMI, and the CPEs, do not tolerate, nor condone discrimination or harassment in any form. If a
cadet has any questions concerning discrimination, sexual harassment, or sexual assault or would
like to discuss a situation contact one of the following individuals:
Inspector General/Title IX Coordinator:
Col. Jeffrey Boobar; 212 Carroll Hall; 464-7072
Assistant Inspector Generals:
MAJ Christopher Perry; 3-115 Third Barracks; 540-464-7326
Susan Lamert; 401 Preston Library; 540-464-7568
LTC Samuel Allen; 332 Scott Shipp Hall; 540-464-7061
Assistant Title IX Coordinator:
LTC Kevin Faust; 113 Third Barracks; 540-464-7718