army board
Army promotion board and Soldier/NCO of the Month board questions: drill and ceremonies, salutes and courtesies, command policy, enlisted promotions, uniform and appearance, body composition and H2F. Sources: TC 3-21.5 (3 May 2021), AR 600-25 (1 May 2026), AR 600-20 (15 Apr 2026), AR 600-8-19 (6 Mar 2026), AR 670-1 and DA PAM 670-1 (26 Jan 2021), AR 600-9 (16 Jul 2019, rev. 27 Feb 2025), FM 7-22 (Oct 2020, Change 2 1 Aug 2025). First aid, Army Values/creeds and UCMJ have their own banks.
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01What are the two parts of most drill commands?
The preparatory command and the command of execution. TC 3-21.5 notes that neither part is a command by itself.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Most drill commands have two parts: the preparatory command and the command of execution . Neither part is a command by itself”
— TC 3-21.5, Drill and Ceremonies (3 May 2021), p. 25 ↗02What does the preparatory command do?
It states the movement to be carried out and mentally prepares the Soldier to execute it. In Forward, MARCH, the preparatory command is Forward.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The preparatory command states the movement to be carried out and mentally prepares the Soldier for its execution. In the command Forward , MARCH , the preparatory command is Forward”
— TC 3-21.5, Drill and Ceremonies (3 May 2021), p. 25 ↗03In the command Forward, MARCH, which word is the command of execution, and what does it tell the Soldier?
MARCH. The command of execution tells when the movement is to be carried out.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Command of execution. The command of execution tells when the movement is to be carried out. In Forward , MARCH , the command of execution is MARCH”
— TC 3-21.5, Drill and Ceremonies (3 May 2021), p. 25 ↗04A leader gives the wrong preparatory command. What command revokes it, and when must it be given?
AS YOU WERE, given before the command of execution. Once the command of execution is given it cannot be cancelled with AS YOU WERE; if an improper command is not revoked, personnel execute the movement as best they can.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“AS YOU WERE must be given before the command of execution. The commander cannot cancel the command of execution with AS YOU WERE . If an improper command is not revoked, the personnel execute the movement in the best manner poss ible”
— TC 3-21.5, Drill and Ceremonies (3 May 2021), p. 25 ↗05Which of the following are combined commands, where the preparatory command and command of execution are one: FALL IN, AT EASE and REST, or Forward, MARCH?
FALL IN, AT EASE and REST. They are given without inflection at a uniformly high pitch and loudness, like a normal command of execution.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“In some commands, the preparatory command and the command of execution are combined; for example, FALL IN, AT EA SE, and REST. These commands are given without inflection and at a uniformly high pitch and loudness comparable to that for a normal command of execution”
— TC 3-21.5, Drill and Ceremonies (3 May 2021), p. 26 ↗06When a unit is marching, how long is the interval between the preparatory command and the command of execution?
Always one step or count. Both are given as the same foot strikes the marching surface.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The interval between the preparatory command and the command of execution is always one step or count. The preparatory command and command of execution are always given whe n t he same foot strikes the marching surface”
— TC 3-21.5, Drill and Ceremonies (3 May 2021), p. 25 ↗07What are the cadences of quick time and double time?
Quick time is 120 steps (counts) per minute; double time is 180 steps per minute. Troops in the Revolutionary period marched at 76 steps per minute.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“troops marched at a cadence of 76 steps per minute instead of the current cadence of 120 steps”
— TC 3-21.5, Drill and Ceremonies (3 May 2021), p. 14 ↗08At the Position of Attention, what angle do the feet form?
A 45-degree angle, heels together on line and toes pointing out equally, with weight resting evenly on the heels and balls of both feet.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“bring the heels together sharply on line, with the toes pointing out equally, forming a 45 -degree angle. Rest the weight of the body evenly on the heels and balls of both feet”
— TC 3-21.5, Drill and Ceremonies (3 May 2021), p. 31 ↗09From what position can Parade Rest be commanded, and how far does the left foot move?
Only from the Position of Attention. On REST, the left foot moves about 10 inches to the left of the right foot.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Parade Rest is commanded only from the Position of Attention . The comman d for this movement is Parade, REST . On the command of execution REST, move the left foot about 10 inches to the left of the right foot”
— TC 3-21.5, Drill and Ceremonies (3 May 2021), p. 32 ↗10How does Stand at Ease differ from Parade Rest?
The Soldier executes Parade Rest but turns the head and eyes directly toward the person in charge of the formation. At Ease or Rest may be executed from Stand at Ease.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The command for this movement is Stand at, EASE. On the command of execution EASE, execute Parade Rest , but turn the head and eyes directly toward the person in charge of the formation. At Ease or Rest may be executed from this position”
— TC 3-21.5, Drill and Ceremonies (3 May 2021), p. 33 ↗11How many counts is the Hand Salute, and who salutes when a formation is marching?
It is a one-count movement (command: Present, ARMS). When marching, only the Soldier in charge of the formation salutes and acknowledges salutes.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The Hand Salute is a one -count movement. The command is Present, ARMS . The Hand Salute may be executed while marching. When marching, only the Soldier in charge of the formation salutes and acknowledges salutes”
— TC 3-21.5, Drill and Ceremonies (3 May 2021), p. 37 ↗12What is normal distance between individual Soldiers in a column?
An arm's length to the front plus 6 inches, about 36 inches, measured from the chest of one Soldier to the back of the Soldier in front.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“between individuals, it is an arm’s length to the front plus 6 inches, or about 36 inches, measured from the chest of one Soldier to the back of the Soldier immediately to their front”
— TC 3-21.5, Drill and Ceremonies (3 May 2021), p. 21 ↗13Who wrote the first Army drill manual, known as the Blue Book, and when?
Baron Friedrich von Steuben, then a major general and Army Inspector General, in 1779: The Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States. Its Valley Forge drill procedures went unchanged for 85 years.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“von Steuben, by then a major general and the Army Inspector Gener al, wrote the first Army field manual in 1779, “ The Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States, ” commonly referred to as the Blue Book. The drill procedures initiated at Valley Forge were not changed for 85 years”
— TC 3-21.5, Drill and Ceremonies (3 May 2021), p. 14 ↗14When a Soldier and an officer meet, who salutes first, and what greeting is encouraged?
The junior person salutes first. AR 600-25 encourages an appropriate greeting with the salute, such as "Good morning, Sir" or "Good morning, Ma'am."
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The junior person will salute first. Accompanying the rendering of the hand salute with an appropriate greeting, such as "Good Morning, Sir" or "Good Morning, Ma’am ," is encouraged”
— AR 600-25, Salutes, Honors, and Courtesy (1 May 2026), p. 6 ↗15Do Soldiers salute indoors?
No, except when reporting to a superior officer.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Personnel will not sa- lute indoors, except when reporting to a superior officer”
— AR 600-25, Salutes, Honors, and Courtesy (1 May 2026), p. 6 ↗16Name situations in which salutes are not required to be rendered or returned.
When the senior, the subordinate or both are in civilian attire; engaged in routine work where a salute would interfere; carrying articles with both hands; in public places such as theaters, churches and public conveyances; or in the ranks of a formation.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“(5) In public places such as theaters, churches, and in public conveyances. (6) In the ranks of a formation”
— AR 600-25, Salutes, Honors, and Courtesy (1 May 2026), p. 6 ↗17Are salutes required to or from people in privately owned vehicles?
No, except that military gate guards salute recognized officers in all vehicles unless their duties make it impractical. A Soldier driving a moving vehicle should not initiate a salute.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“When military personne l are acting as driv- ers of a moving vehicle, they should not initiate a salute”
— AR 600-25, Salutes, Honors, and Courtesy (1 May 2026), p. 6 ↗18Is the President saluted by Soldiers, and must civilian guards salute military personnel?
Yes, the President, as Commander in Chief, is saluted by Army personnel in uniform. Civilian personnel, including civilian guards, are not required to render the hand salute.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Civilian personnel, to include civilian guards, are not required to render the hand salute to military personnel or other civilian personnel”
— AR 600-25, Salutes, Honors, and Courtesy (1 May 2026), p. 6 ↗19Is the flag of the United States dipped in salute?
No. The U.S. flag is not dipped by way of salute or compliment; the organizational color is dipped in military ceremonies while the national anthem, To the Colors, or a foreign national anthem is played.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The organizational color will be dipped in salute in all military ceremonies while the national anthem of the United States, "To the Colors," or a foreign national anthem is being played”
— AR 600-25, Salutes, Honors, and Courtesy (1 May 2026), p. 6 ↗20How many guns are fired in the national salute, and what is the salute to the Union?
The national salute is 21 guns (as is the salute to a national flag). The salute to the Union is one gun for each State.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The salute to the Union consists of one gun for each State. The national salute and the salute to a national flag are each 21 guns”
— AR 600-25, Salutes, Honors, and Courtesy (1 May 2026), p. 7 ↗21How is the flag flown on Memorial Day at Army installations?
At half-staff from reveille until noon. At 1200 the national salute of 21 guns is fired where equipment is available, and the flag is then hoisted to the top of the staff.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“at 1200 hours the national salute (21 guns) will be fired at all installations provided with the necessary equipment for firing salutes. At the conclusion of the salute, the flag will be hoisted to the top of the staff”
— AR 600-25, Salutes, Honors, and Courtesy (1 May 2026), p. 7 ↗22Do Soldiers recite the Pledge of Allegiance?
Not during military ceremonies. In civilian attire, Soldiers stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart and may recite the Pledge.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“During military ceremonies, Soldiers will not recite the Pledge of Allegiance”
— AR 600-25, Salutes, Honors, and Courtesy (1 May 2026), p. 25 ↗23When is the flag raised at reveille and lowered at retreat?
It is hoisted at the first note of reveille. At retreat it is lowered during the national anthem or To the Color so that lowering is complete at the last note of the music.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The flag will be lowered to ensure completion at the last note of the music”
— AR 600-25, Salutes, Honors, and Courtesy (1 May 2026), p. 29 ↗24During a parade, when is the salute to passing Colors given and held?
It is given when the Colors come within 6 paces of the flank of the unit and held until they are 6 paces past it.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“is given when Colors approach 6 paces of the flank of the unit and held until the Colors are 6 paces past the flank of the unit”
— AR 600-25, Salutes, Honors, and Courtesy (1 May 2026), p. 40 ↗25What is the purpose of the chain of command?
To help commanders at all levels accomplish the unit's assigned mission while caring for the personnel and property in their charge. A simple, direct chain of command moves orders from the highest to the lowest levels quickly and with the least chance of misinterpretation.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The chain of command assists commanders at all levels to achieve their primary function of accom- plishing the unit’s assigned mission while caring for personnel and property in their charge. A simple and direct chain of command facilitates the transmittal of orders from the highest to the lowest levels in a mini- mum of time and with the least chance of misinterpretation”
— AR 600-20, Army Command Policy (15 April 2026), p. 12 ↗26Can a commander delegate away overall responsibility for the command?
No. Commanders are responsible for everything their command does or fails to do; they may delegate authority to subordinates, but they still retain overall responsibility for the actions of their commands.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“who assi gn responsibility and authority to their subordinates still retain the overall responsibility for the actions of their commands”
— AR 600-20, Army Command Policy (15 April 2026), p. 12 ↗27What is the open-door policy?
A command policy statement every commander must publish that lets members of the command present facts, concerns and problems of a personal or professional nature that they have been unable to resolve. The commander sets its timing, conduct and procedures.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“an open -door policy allows members of the command to present facts, concerns, and problems of a personal or professional nature or other issues that the Soldier has been un- able to reso lve. The timing, conduct, and specific procedures of the open -door policy are determined by the commander”
— AR 600-20, Army Command Policy (15 April 2026), p. 13 ↗28What is the NCO support channel, and where does it run?
The NCO support channel (leadership chain) parallels and complements the chain of command. It is a channel of communication and supervision from the CSM to the first sergeant, and then to the other NCOs and enlisted Soldiers of the unit.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The NCO support channel (leadership chain) parallels and complements the chain of command. It is a channel of communication and supervision from the CSM to the 1SG, and then to other NCOs and en- listed personnel of the unit”
— AR 600-20, Army Command Policy (15 April 2026), p. 28 ↗29Name tasks the NCO support channel assists the chain of command with.
Among them: planning and conducting day-to-day unit operations; training enlisted Soldiers in their MOS and basic Soldier skills; supervising unit physical fitness and weight and appearance standards; and teaching Army history, customs, courtesies and traditions.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“(2) Planning and conducting the day -to-day unit operations within prescribed policies and directives. (3) Training enlisted Soldiers in their MOS, as well as in the basic skills and attributes of a Soldier. (4) Supervising unit physical fitness training and ensuring that unit Soldiers comply with the weight and appearance standards of AR 600 – 9 and AR 670 – 1. (5) Teaching Soldiers the history of the Army, to include military customs, courtesies, and traditions”
— AR 600-20, Army Command Policy (15 April 2026), p. 28 ↗30What are the roles of the command sergeant major and the first sergeant?
The CSM is the senior NCO of the command at battalion or higher; the CSM carries out policies, enforces standards and advises the commander on the performance, training, appearance and conduct of enlisted Soldiers. The 1SG is the senior NCO at company level.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The position of 1SG designates the senior NCO at company level”
— AR 600-20, Army Command Policy (15 April 2026), p. 29 ↗31Who leads the platoon when the platoon leader is absent?
The platoon sergeant, who is the platoon leader's key assistant and advisor.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The platoon SGT is the key assistant and advisor to the platoon leader. In the ab- sence of the platoon leader, the platoon SGT leads the platoon”
— AR 600-20, Army Command Policy (15 April 2026), p. 29 ↗32Can an NCO impose nonjudicial punishment on another enlisted Soldier?
No. NCOs have no authority to impose nonjudicial punishment under Article 15. They assist commanders by administering minor nonpunitive corrective actions, and nonpunitive measures are not nonjudicial punishment.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“NCOs are assistants to commanders in administering minor nonpunitive corrective actions as found in AR 27 – 10 and Part V of the MCM. "Nonpu- nitive measures" are not "nonjudicial punishment."”
— AR 600-20, Army Command Policy (15 April 2026), p. 29 ↗33Name nonpunitive corrective measures a commander can use instead of nonjudicial punishment.
Denial of pass or other privileges, counseling, administrative reduction in grade, administrative reprimands and admonitions, extra training, a bar to continued service, and MOS reclassification. They are teaching tools, not punishment.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Included among nonpunitive measures are denial of pass or other privileges, counseling, administrati ve reduction in grade, administrative reprimands and admonitions, extra training, bar to continued service, and military occupationa l specialty ( MOS) reclassifi- cation”
— AR 600-20, Army Command Policy (15 April 2026), p. 33 ↗34A Soldier arrives late to formation. Is a set of push-ups an acceptable correction?
Yes. Brief physical exercise is an acceptable form of corrective training for minor acts of indiscipline, such as push-ups for arriving late to formation, as long as it is tailored to curing the deficiency and does not become hazing.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Brief physical exercises are an acceptable for m of corrective training for minor acts of indiscipline (for ex- ample, requiring the Soldier to do push -ups for arriving late to formation)”
— AR 600-20, Army Command Policy (15 April 2026), p. 33 ↗35On what is military discipline founded?
Self-discipline, respect for properly constituted authority, and embracing the professional Army Ethic with its supporting individual values. It is instilled through positive leadership.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Military discipline is founded upon self -discipline, respect for properly constituted authority, and the embracing of the professional Army Ethic with its supporting individual values”
— AR 600-20, Army Command Policy (15 April 2026), p. 31 ↗36What does AR 600-20 require of Soldiers regarding orders?
All personnel must strictly obey and promptly execute the legal orders of their lawful seniors.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“All personnel in the Army are required to strictly obey and promptly execute the legal orders of their lawful seniors”
— AR 600-20, Army Command Policy (15 April 2026), p. 31 ↗37Of two officers in the same grade, who is senior?
The one with the earlier date of rank (DOR).
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“An officer whose date of rank ( DOR) is earlier than the DOR of another officer of the same or equivalent grade is senior to that officer”
— AR 600-20, Army Command Policy (15 April 2026), p. 7 ↗38How does AR 600-20 define bullying?
Exposing an individual or group to physical or emotional aggression with the intent to cause distress or harm. It may involve singling someone out from coworkers or the unit for ridicule because they are considered different or weak.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Bullying is the exposure of an indi- vidual or group to physi cal and/or emotional aggression with the intent to cause distress or harm. Bullying may involve the singling out of an individual from his or her coworkers, or un it, for ri dicule because he or she is considered different or weak”
— AR 600-20, Army Command Policy (15 April 2026), p. 41 ↗39Is "pinning" or "tacking on" rank insignia allowed?
No. Pressing any object into another person's skin, such as pinning or tacking on rank insignia, is listed as hazing when done without proper military authority, whether or not it pierces the skin. Hazing is judged by a reasonable person standard.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Pressing any object into another person’s skin, regardless of whether it pierces the skin, such as “pinning” or “tacking on” of rank”
— AR 600-20, Army Command Policy (15 April 2026), p. 40 ↗40How much time in service is required for automatic promotion to PV2?
6 months time in service (TIS). Under AR 600-8-19 (2026) it may be waived down to 4 months TIS.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Waivers for TIS and TIG — (1) Promotion to PV2 may be waived at 4 months TIS.”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 34 ↗41What are the time in service and time in grade requirements for automatic promotion to PFC?
12 months TIS and 4 months TIG. The regulation allows a waiver at 6 months TIS and 2 months TIG.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Promotions to PFC may be waived at 6 months TIS and 2 months TIG.”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 34 ↗42What are the time in service and time in grade requirements for automatic promotion to SPC?
24 months TIS and 6 months TIG. With a waiver, a Soldier can be promoted at 18 months TIS and 3 months TIG.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Promotions to SPC may be waived at 18 months TIS and 3 months TIG.”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 34 ↗43After completing BCT, what percentage of a company's training base Soldiers may commanders promote from PV1 to PV2 and PV2 to PFC without regard to TIS and TIG?
Up to 10 percent. AR 600-8-19 says commanders may and are encouraged to make these training promotions.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“CDRs may and are encouraged to promote up to 10 percent of each company’s assigned training base Soldiers from PV1 to PV2 and PV2 to PFC without regard to the TIS and TIG requirements.”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 35 ↗44Which date is used to determine time in service for Regular Army Soldiers?
The Basic Active Service Date (BASD). Reserve Component Soldiers use the Pay Entry Basic Date (PEBD) instead.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“BASD will be used to determine TIS for RA Soldiers. PEBD will be used to determine TIS for RC Soldiers.”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 35 ↗45Which Soldiers may be promoted to SPC at 12 months TIS without regard to the TIS and TIG waiver ceilings?
Soldiers holding or training for a PMOS in CMF 18 or 37 (RA only) and Ranger School graduates, provided they are otherwise qualified.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Soldiers holding or training for PMOS in CMFs 18 or 37 (RA only) or ranger school graduates with at least 12 months TIS may be promoted to SPC without regard to TIS and TIG waiver ceilings provided otherwise qualified.”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 35 ↗46May a commander set stricter eligibility criteria for promotion recommendation to SGT or SSG than the regulation provides?
No. AR 600-8-19 prohibits establishing more stringent criteria than the regulation provides.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Establishment of more stringent criteria for use in determining eligibility for promotion recommendation other than provided for in this regulation is prohibited.”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 40 ↗47When must commanders recommend Soldiers for promotion to SGT and SSG?
Upon initial attainment of primary zone eligibility, provided they are otherwise eligible.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“CDRs must recommend Soldiers for promotion to SGT and SSG upon initial attainment of primary zone eligibility provided they are otherwise eligible”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 40 ↗48What are the secondary and primary zone TIS/TIG requirements for promotion recommendation to SGT?
Secondary zone: 16 months TIS and 4 months TIG. Primary zone: 34 months TIS and 10 months TIG (Table 3-1, AR 600-8-19, 2026).
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Table 3 – 1 Promotion recommendation time in grade/time in service criteria Promotion recommendation to: Secondary zone Primary zone Mandatory list integration SGT 16 months TIS 4 months TIG 34 months TIS 10 months TIG”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 40 ↗49What are the secondary zone, primary zone and mandatory list integration requirements for promotion recommendation to SSG?
Secondary zone: 46 months TIS and 6 months TIG. Primary zone: 70 months TIS and 16 months TIG. Mandatory list integration: 82 months TIS and 22 months TIG.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“SSG 46 months TIS 6 months TIG 70 months TIS 16 months TIG 82 months TIS 22 months TIG”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 40 ↗50What civilian and military education must a Soldier have to be recommended for promotion to SGT or SSG?
A high school diploma or equivalent (GED), and completion of the required PME for the next rank.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Soldier must have completed requisite PME for next rank. Exceptions: Constructive credit granted by U.S. Army Transformation and Training Command (or approved equivalency credit).”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 40 ↗51Does enrollment in the Army Substance Abuse Program (ASAP) make a Soldier ineligible for promotion recommendation to SGT or SSG?
Only a command referral does. A Soldier who self-refers to ASAP remains otherwise eligible.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Soldier must not be command -referred to the ASAP. Soldiers self -referred remain otherwise eligi- ble.”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 40 ↗52Besides MOS and education requirements, name two other eligibility criteria for promotion recommendation to SGT or SSG.
The Soldier must have a passing record fitness test and must not be flagged. The Soldier must also be eligible to reenlist.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Physical fitness: Must have a passing record fitness test in accordance with applicable regulations and/or Field Manuals.”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 40 ↗53What is the mission of a unit-level promotion board?
To evaluate and validate a Soldier's potential to assume the increased responsibilities of the next higher grade, and to recommend yes or no to the promotion authority.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“the promotion board’s mission is to evaluate and validate a Soldier’s potential to assume increased responsibilities associated at the next higher grade; making a recommendation of yes (recommend) or no (do not recommend) to the promotion authority for each Soldier considered.”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 44 ↗54For Regular Army Soldiers, how often are promotion boards held and during what part of the month?
Monthly, unless no Soldiers are recommended. They are scheduled between the 10th and 26th calendar day of the board month.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“promotion boards to be conducted between the 10th and 26th calendar day of the board month.”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 44 ↗55What is the minimum number of voting members on a promotion board, and why must the number be odd?
At least three voting members, in an odd number to eliminate a potential tie vote. The board also has a recorder without vote.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The promotion authority will appoint, in writing, a minimum of three voting members to serve on a promotion board. The board will have an odd number of members to eliminate a potential tie vote. A promotion board will have a board recorder, without vote.”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 45 ↗56Who serves as president of an enlisted promotion board?
A CSM or SGM, unless officers or warrant officers are members, in which case the senior member presides. A 1SG or MSG may not preside, without exception.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“1SG/MSGs (or lower ranks) are not authorized to preside as the board president, without exception.”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 45 ↗57What rules govern the voting members of a promotion board with respect to rank and makeup?
All voting members must be senior in rank to the Soldiers recommended, and the majority must be NCOs. A minority member is included if reasonably available.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“All voting members will be senior in rank to the Soldiers recommended for promotion. (4)Voting members will include a minority member, if reasonably available. (5)The majority of voting members will be NCOs.”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 45 ↗58What should promotion board questions focus on?
Leadership, awareness of military programs, and knowledge of basic Soldiering and world affairs, asked in a question-and-answer format.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Unit-level boards will utilize a question -and- answer format to test the preparedness of the recommended Soldier in determining their potential to serve at the next higher grade. Questions should focus on leadership, awareness of military programs, and knowledge of basic Soldiering and world affairs.”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 45 ↗59Besides answers to questions, what does the board consider when determining a Soldier's potential?
The Soldier's overall personal appearance, bearing, self-confidence, oral expression and conversational skills, and attitude.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The board should consider the Soldier’s overall personal appearance, bearing, self - confidence, oral expression and conversational skills, and attitude when determining potential.”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 46 ↗60What must a promotion board do when it does not recommend a Soldier?
Inform the Soldier, after deliberation, of the reasons it is not making a favorable recommendation. The feedback is for the Soldier's and supervisor's development.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“when a board does not recommend a Soldier for promotion to the promotion authority, the board will inform the affected Soldier (after deliberation) the reasons and rationale on why it is not making a favorable recommendation.”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 46 ↗61What is the maximum number of military training promotion points (weapons qualification and fitness test) for promotion to SGT and to SSG?
280 points for SGT and 230 for SSG. Weapons qualification alone is worth up to 160 points for SGT and 110 for SSG.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Weapons qualification (160 points maximum SGT; 110 points maximum SSG).”
— AR 600-8-19, Enlisted Promotions and Reductions (6 March 2026), p. 49 ↗62Which four types of tattoos or brands are prohibited anywhere on a Soldier's body?
Extremist, indecent, sexist and racist tattoos or brands. AR 670-1 says they are prejudicial to good order and discipline, and the paragraph is punitive.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“(4) Racist. Racist tattoos or brands are those that advocate a philosophy that degrades or demeans a person based on race, ethnicity, or national origin.”
— AR 670-1, Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia (26 January 2021, admin revision 4 March 2025), p. 21 ↗63Where on the body are tattoos prohibited regardless of subject matter, and what hand tattoo is allowed?
The head, face (except permanent makeup), neck above the T-shirt neckline, below the wrist bone, and the hands. One ring tattoo is allowed on each hand, below the joint of the bottom segment of the finger.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Tattoos or brands, regardless of subject matter, are prohibited on the head, face (except for permanent makeup, as provided in para 3–2b(2)), neck (anything above the t -shirt neckline to include on or inside the eyelids, mouth, and ears), below the wrist bone, and hands, except Soldiers may have one ring tattoo on each hand, below the joint of the bottom segment (portion closest to the palm) of the finger.”
— AR 670-1, Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia (26 January 2021, admin revision 4 March 2025), p. 21 ↗64What are the facial hair standards for male Soldiers in uniform?
Males keep their faces clean-shaven. Mustaches are permitted if neatly trimmed and not covering the upper lip line; handlebar mustaches, goatees and beards are not authorized (AR 670-1, 2021/2025).
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Handlebar mustaches, goatees, and beards are not author- ized.”
— AR 670-1, Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia (26 January 2021, admin revision 4 March 2025), p. 14 ↗65What is the standard for male sideburns?
Sideburns may not extend below the bottom of the opening of the ear, and they may not be styled to taper, flair or come to a point.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Sideburns will not extend below the bottom of the opening of the ear (see line A of fig 3–1). Sideburns will not be styled to taper, flair, or come to a point.”
— AR 670-1, Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia (26 January 2021, admin revision 4 March 2025), p. 14 ↗66What are the fingernail standards for male and female Soldiers?
All personnel keep nails clean and neatly trimmed. Males may not extend nails beyond the fingertip or wear polish; females may not exceed 1/4 inch measured from the tip of the finger.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“All personnel will keep fingernails clean and neatly trimmed. Males will keep nails trimmed so as not to extend beyond the fingertip unless medically required and are not authorized to wear nail polish. Females will not exceed a nail length of 1/4 inch as measured from the tip of the finger.”
— AR 670-1, Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia (26 January 2021, admin revision 4 March 2025), p. 16 ↗67May a Soldier in uniform keep their hands in their pockets?
No, except momentarily to place or retrieve objects. Uniforms are also kept buttoned, zipped and snapped.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“While in uniform, personnel will not place their hands in their pockets, except momentarily to place or retrieve objects. Soldiers will keep uniforms buttoned, zipped, and snapped.”
— AR 670-1, Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia (26 January 2021, admin revision 4 March 2025), p. 24 ↗68What is the primary objective of the Army Body Composition Program (ABCP)?
To ensure all Soldiers achieve and maintain optimal well-being and performance under all conditions.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“primary objective of the ABCP is to ensure all Soldiers achieve and maintain optimal well -being and per- formance under all conditions.”
— AR 600-9, The Army Body Composition Program (16 July 2019, admin revision 27 February 2025), p. 6 ↗69How often must Soldiers be screened against the body fat standard, and what is the only authorized method of estimating body fat?
At least every 6 months. The only authorized method is the circumference-based tape method in appendix B of AR 600-9.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The only authori zed method of estimating body fat is the circumference -based tape method outlined in appendix B.”
— AR 600-9, The Army Body Composition Program (16 July 2019, admin revision 27 February 2025), p. 9 ↗70What are the five domains of the Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) System?
Physical readiness, nutritional readiness, mental readiness, spiritual readiness and sleep readiness. FM 7-22 says the overarching goal of H2F is Soldier readiness.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The overarching goal of the H2F System is Soldier readiness. This goal is met when training in the five domains of H2F is optimized. These domains are physical readiness, nutritional readiness, mental readiness, spiritual readiness, and sleep readiness.”
— FM 7-22, Holistic Health and Fitness (October 2020, Change 2, 1 August 2025), p. 37 ↗Know questions we're missing?
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