Civilian Gate Guards

  • Published
Ellsworth AFB, S.D. --  The Commander's Action Line is a forum for the Ellsworth community to make suggestions or voice concerns about Ellsworth directly to Col. Mark Weatherington, 28th Bomb Wing commander. 

QUESTION 

I came through the main gate today around 1130 and was shocked to see one of our civilian gate guards in short sleeves with tattoos all the way down his arm. I think this sets the wrong image for our beloved Ellsworth AFB. As a retired Chief I think this person should have to wear long sleeves when out front representing the base and our Air Force. We would never allow this from one of our active duty. Why should it be allowed from our civilians?

Col. Mark Weatherington
Col. Mark
Weatherington		   RESPONSE

We appreciate a wingman helping keep all of Team Ellsworth within standards, however AFI 31-283 Department of the Air Force Civilian Police/Security Guard Program dated 22 Dec 10, Para 4.26.14 Hygiene and Body Grooming states that excessive tattoos will not be exposed or visible while in uniform. The AFI defines "excessive" as coverage that exceeds 1/4 of the exposed body part. The Civilian Gate Guard you reference has four small stars representing each of his children and a small pink ribbon for breast cancer awareness on his forearms. These are not offensive tattoos as defined by AFI or Security Forces Leadership, and they do not exceed the AFI allowed limit. These guidelines also fall in line with new AFI limits for Active Duty members.