CAPT. LESLEY CRUCE
Command Judge Advocate
U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center
Fort Rucker, Alabama

Suppose you are planning a new safety campaign to educate Soldiers and family members about risks, such as distracted driving or vaping. Or perhaps you wish to recognize an outstanding safety professional for her achievements over the past year. Suddenly, a thought strikes you: Aren’t there special rules when it comes to spending Army money? Indeed, there are several requirements when it comes to spending Army money, including about how and when to spend money on safety education and safety awards. 

Spending Army money on purely educational materials is a proper use of Army money. Educating Soldiers and their families about safety hazards or other dangers is a proven, cost-effective way to promote the Army’s safety mission, according to paragraph 10-9 of Army Regulation 385-10. Educational materials includes posters, films, pamphlets and similar items, but does not include knick-knacks such as key chains or pens. Therefore, a local safety office can spend Army money to buy posters and leaflets to inform Soldiers about the dangers of e-cigarettes, or to produce a video showing the consequences of distracted driving. On the other hand, spending Army money on ice-scrapers emblazoned with the Army safety logo is illegal. 

Spending Army money on safety awards often presents challenges. Certainly, safety offices can recognize outstanding professionals who have contributed to the Army’s safety mission. Local safety offices can also spend Army money on safety awards that do not have intrinsic value, such as medals, trophies and plaques. Conversely, it is illegal to use Army money to purchase items that have intrinsic value, such as gym bags or coffee mugs, and then present them as “safety awards.” The rule is the same for items purchased through the Army’s supply system: You cannot order knives or flashlights and then present them as “safety awards.”

Safety professionals should speak with their supply office before spending Army money since there are often other restrictions. For example, safety professionals generally cannot purchase awards or educational materials with a government credit card. Finally, safety professionals should consult with their servicing legal adviser if they have any questions about whether it is legal to spend Army money.