Fort Carson soldier’s selfie causing controversy
A soldier who hid in her car during a flag salute at Fort Carson and posted a picture of it on Instagram is taking heat for her decision.
The Army Times reportsthat Pfc. Tariqka Sheffey posted a picture of herself in her car with the caption, “This is me laying back in my car hiding so I don’t have to salute the 1700 flag, KEEP ALL YOUR ‘THATS SO DISRESPECTFUL/HOWRUDE/ETC.’ COMMENTS TO YOURSELF cuz, right now, IDGAFFFF.”
On Wednesday Mountain Post addressed the photo that’s sparking outrage across the country.
It’s currently is looking at all the options concerning the soldier and the social media post before making a decision.
“Retreat is an evening ceremony where we honor the soldiers and flag. And all the values we represent in the U.S. Military. It’s a chance to honor our national and all the ideals we uphold,” said Col. Heidi Hoyle, Fort Carson spokesperson.
But one soldier wasn’t at the ceremony. Instead of saluting she was taking a “selfie” in her car.
“A soldier is required to salute the flag every day. The profession of arms requires soldiers to be professional at all times. 24 hours a day both in uniform and without. Currently the command is looking at all the range of options concerning the soldier and the incident that happened. Right now we are going to allow the soldier the opportunity, and the command the opportunity to present all matters and investigate this fully before we make judgment,” said Hoyle on Wednesday.
While Fort Carson makes its decision, others have already made theirs.
“Get a new job, stop milking us,” said one man in Colorado Springs.
Others think there’s more to the soldier’s story.
“Some of these kids are promised the world and then when they actually get in the service, the disillusions can make them bitter. I can understand that on a level that many can’t. For me to pass judgment on to her, I can’t do that. Maybe it was tasteless butI can definitely understand these kids to be promised the world, and then see the reality to be a little bitter. Even toward the flag of our country,” said Grant Provencher of Colorado Springs.
The Mountain Post said Sheffey is a member of the 59th Quartermaster Company, 43rd Sustainment Brigade.
Sheffey later posted a video where she expressed regret about posting the picture, but stopped short of apologizing, according to the Army Times.
Fort Carson also issued this written statement Wednesday morning:
Fort Carson’s leadership is aware of the social media post PFC Sheffey made, is looking into the situation, and reviewing potential next steps. Fort Carson leaders will continue to educate Soldiers on standards and discipline and appropriate professional conduct on social media consistent with Army Values — both on and off duty.
