Why doesn't the PT uniform have rank?

Question

Among many obvious flaws, one of the Army's flaws is that the PT uniform doesn't have rank on it. People in the Army are supposed to address each other various ways based on their rank (sir, sergeant, first sergeant...) but how can you do that if you don't even know what their rank is? The higher ranking people act like you're supposed to be psychic and just magically know their rank or something. Isn't this a perfect example of how the Army tells its soldiers to do something but pretty much makes it impossible for them to actually do it?

Answer 1

"The only insignia authorized for wear on the PFU or IPFU is the physical fitness badge. When the physical fitness
badge is worn, it is sewn on the upper left front side of the PFU and IPFU T-shirt, and the PFU sweatshirt. On the
IPFU running jacket, the insignia is sewn centered 1⁄2 inch above the word “Army.”

So...no rank is to be worn. Do all "higher ranking people act like you're supposed to be psychic and just magically know their rank or something?"

"b. All Army personnel in uniform are required to salute when they meet and recognize persons entitled to the salute."

So, if you do not recognize, then a salute is not required.

Answer 2

I understand what you are saying. There are many places on base where you can be in pt gear and not know anyone like the gym. Also, if you have not been with the unit very long, there is no way of know everyone and their rank. I don't think there is a convenient place to have rank on pt gear, maybe thats why there isn't any. I would just address everyone as "sir" If they don't have their rank showing, and you don't know them, there is not much else you can do.

Answer 3

you would be an E-3 going into elementary and a E-3 popping out of elementary. it is going to take 24 months in the past you will possibly be promoted to E-4 18 months with a commanders waiver. in case you do not get E-4 for having a BS degree, then your basically like everybody else and can meet the time in provider standards.

Answer 4

Being an Army wife, i actually have had this same thought! Not exactly how you put it, but it bugs me. I asked my husband how he is suppose to know ranks while in PT and he simple told me that he knows everyone in his unit, who they are, what rank they are....and he doesnt worry about what rank anyone else around is. Guess that makes sense.

Answer 5

PT is only for about an hour. Thats not the point no matter what your rank is if you fell any PT test a certain amount of times you will be discharged. That could be the reason but im not for sure also because that is a recreational time.

Answer 6

It's a PT Uniform. Do you think we should pt in our dress uniforms? PT doesn't last very long, and there isn't really any need to stand on ceremony while you're running or climbing obstacles. It's enough to maintain all the uniforms that they give you to begin with, let alone having to put your bars or chevrons on your cotton white t-shirt. Doesn't that seem a little silly? Besides, most officers don't PT with the men anyway.

Answer 7

ALL soldiers wear the PT uniform.. Officers, NCO's and Jr. Enlisted. You are normally doing PT within the unit, so no need really for rank.

Answer 8

Most officers, CPT and above around here
wear Vests with their Name and Rank on it.
This also includes 1SG and above.

As far as knowing whos who. by the time you've been in a unit long enough,you know YOUR officers by face,and I know most of my battalion officers

but thats it

Answer 9

Well, usually the PT uniform is worn by non-officers, though I guess there may be officers out doing PT with the rest of the guys...

Answer 10

Maybe it has to do with everyone being on the same level during physical exercise. Everyone has the same knowledge, the only difference is work ethic.