Veterans and service members shocked by bizarre Army performance at NBA game

Veterans and service members are shaking their heads at what could be an example of a miserable attempt by the Army at community relations.

Recruiters from various recruiting stations Texas danced like no one was watching during a Dallas Maverick’s home game halftime show.

According to the U.S. Army Recruiting Company in Lewisville, the soldiers from their company who performed “were majestic.”

Monday’s game, against the Denver Nuggets, was the Mav’s Seats For Soldiers Night, on which they invited some 125 military men and women from San Antonio.  According to local news reports, season ticket holders gave up their courtside seats to all of the service members -giving them a front row view of the “majestic” show.

It’s common knowledge that all branches participate in community-relations events. These events are aimed at garnering taxpayer support for the military and for displaying superior military expertise and professionalism to prospective recruits.

It does appear however, the Army, whose Soldier’s Creed says, “I stand ready to deploy, engage, and destroy, the enemies of the United States of America in close combat,” is softening its stance on what it means to be an American Soldier.

After a video of the performance was first released on Facebook, users provided arguments from both sides. Some believe it’s disrespectful to the uniform, while others claim it’s okay for Soldiers, while in uniform representing the nation and the American flag, to dance around and have fun in their “off time.”

“I wonder what ISIS and China’s recruiters’ dance moves look like… Oh wait,” said Rafael on Facebook. And it doesn’t appear he’s the only one who finds this to be somewhat disturbing.

Many veterans found it disgraceful to have non-commissioned officers with multiple combat tours under their belt representing the uniform in such an unprofessional manner.

“Wow what a disgrace to the Army. That’s just an absolute embarrassment of the NCO Corps,” Brian said while commenting to the Facebook post.

“This is a f***ing embarrassment. I understand community outreach and showing that Soldiers can have fun too but this is just nauseating,” said a former Army public affairs photojournalist from North Carolina.

Monica posts, “Other counties are laughing. ISIS is not laughing. ISIS is busy trying to figure out how to build a Paris style cell in NYC.

Passion for professionalism is a narrative embedded across all branches. However, others feel the Army “getting its groove back” is a good thing.

Scott posts on Facebook, “That is the coolest video yet. I don’t care who you are. This shit rocks.”

Damian, a soldier stationed in San Antonio, agrees, “There is nothing wrong with. People put the uniform and forget that we are still human beings. There is nothing wrong with having fun. Furthermore, in order to do this they have to get approval from the top so if they have no problems with it why should you. Geez y’all so uptight.”

Damian is right about one thing; the Soldiers need approval from the top to participate in PA activities. Public Affair’s guidance dictates the public (taxpayer) has a right to know what the services are doing. To that end, the military conducts open houses, air shows, distinguished visitor tours … etc. There are the Army Golden Knights, Navy Blue Angels and the Air Force Thunderbirds. These units work tirelessly to display pride of military history and professionalism. They are the epitome of top-notch community relations, and role models for how community relations programs are to be presented to the American public.

The Soldier’s Creed says, “I am an expert and I am a professional.” Is this dance Army Strong or just Army Wrong?

Popular Military reached out the Army for comment and is awaiting comment.

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