I happened upon a new rule governing cell phone use while in uniform, only it wasn’t the Coast Guard’s, it belongs to the Air Force. One of the tech sites I frequent, textually.org, quotes pnj.com-
Every branch of the military has its own set of uniform rules that govern everything from proper name tag alignment to acceptable sideburn length.
Until recently, Air Force regulations forbade members from talking on cell phones while walking in uniform. Instead, they had to stay in one place while they completed their call.
But earlier this month, an Air Force board removed that restriction. Air Force members now can walk while talking on cell phones, as long as they put down the phone to render proper salutes to passing officers.
An Air Force Web site that announced the change has become a sounding board for service members who love — or loathe — the new rule.
“I believe that it is a disgrace and dishonor to walk around on any (Department of Defense) installation while being on any kind of appliance used to communicate. It takes away from professional image and core values, especially service before self,” wrote an airman from Eglin Air Force Base.
I then began to wonder… does the Coast Guard actually have a policy governing cell phone use? I only recall hearing of it and not actually reading it. And the answer is: yes and no. As of the current Uniform Manual there is no real guidance involving the use of a cell phone while in uniform. This is the only verbiage found concerning the subject if cell phones-
Worn with uniform of the day as required only for military duties or a legitimate urgent need, clipped to waistband behind side seam of shirt or in pocket if they do not detract from uniform appearance. Items are not authorized if participating in ceremonial details.
However, doing a search via Google I came across a 2007 ALCOAST that takes on the issue. From ALCOAST 011/07 it’s stated
B. GUIDANCE ON ELECTRONIC DEVICES USE WHILE IN UNIFORM: WHEN WALKING, MEMBERS SHALL NOT SMOKE, EAT, DRINK, OR KEEP HANDS IN POCKETS. USE OF CELL PHONES, HAND HELD AND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES IS DISCOURAGED, ALTHOUGH LIMITED USE FOR OFFICIAL BUSINESS IS AUTHORIZED. IF DEEMED NECESSARY TO RE-EMPHASIZE AND ENCOURAGE PROFESSIONALISM ABOARD THEIR UNITS, COMMANDS ARE AUTHORIZED TO IMPLEMENT MORE RESTRICTIVE GUIDELINES REGARDING USE OF PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICES IN UNIFORM.
And that’s it. I did come across a few unit driven policies that prohibit the use of phone while on base and walking in uniform. But no official policy. In simply asking a few co-workers it’s obvious that all (all 6 that were asked) agree that you shouldn’t talk while in uniform… on base. But it was divided 3/3 of whether or not we should be out in public talking on cell phones in public. Though it’s a societal norm, I’m on the fence.
With no official CG wide guidance it’s hard to know what you should do… so the question no is what’s your take on it?
Skip Bowen
When this issue has been brought to me I've discouraged any hard and fast rules against it. In some places constant communication by cell phone is a must. During my last tour at Station Marathon operations went on 24/7 and the Nextel was constantly beaping. I don't think in today's world of instant communication we should limit use if needed. It has become an operational faciltator. On the other hand if you can stop and talk it certainly looks more professional... however, at Marathon if I had stopped every time that thing went off I would not have made it across the compound.
MCPOCG Bowen
PSC Youngquist
The ALCOAST seems pretty clear. You CAN use a cell phone or other electronic device while walking in uniform, but only for official business, and it is discouraged, meaning you probably shouldn't unless you have a pressing reason to do so. Although it doesn't specifically say, I would say that when you are off base in uniform, you should be even less likely to do it, since the off base environment is treated more formally uniform wise. Example is the wearing of ODU's vs Trops on liberty/commutes etc.
If I was pressed for an answer, thats what I would tell my guys. Personally, I don't think it is "unprofessional" to walk and talk on the cell at the same time, as long as courtesies are rendered and its not a situation that makes that action seem rude.
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I happened upon a new rule governing cell phone use while in uniform, only it wasn’t the Coast Guard’s, it belongs to the Air Force. One of the tech sites I frequent, 
