After a Tennessee National Guardsman used a dinosaur hand puppet to receive her oath of office, she was place on administrative leave and may have placed her career in jeopardy.
A video of the re-enlisting was posted to a Facebook page with the question, “Remember when the Profession of Arms was taken seriously?!?”
Each time the woman being sworn in speaks, she moves the mouth of the hand puppet. The colonel administering the can be seen smiling in return.
Everyone associated with the oath and the video has been reprimanded: The woman taking the oath lost her position with the Tennessee Joint Public Affairs Office while additional administrative actions are being considered, according to Fox 17 Nashville.
The full colonel administering the oath has been reduced in tank to Lt. Colonel and forced into retirement.
The senior noncommissioned officer taping the proceedings received an official reprimand and has been removed from his position as a unit First Sergeant.
“Many of you have seen and commented to me about the recent Facebook post of an Airman in our beloved Air National Guard, taking the re-enlistment oath while using a dinosaur hand puppet. I understand your outrage and frustration,” Air National Guard Director Lt. Gen. L. Scott Rice said in a statement on Facebook.
“Let me say, I’m equally shocked and dismayed by this event that mocks such a cherished and honorable occasion. The oath of office or enlistment not only signifies our commitment to our nation, but pays respect to our fellow service members and to those who came before us. We as military members answer to a calling of service and represent the Profession of Arms. This action goes against our very foundation. Tennessee National Guard leadership is aware and addressing the issue,” he continued.
“This single act does not reflect the selfless dedication and professionalism shown everyday by the outstanding Airmen of our Air National Guard in their service to our great nation."
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