[Hoot Gibson]

Catchalls in the United States Code aren't definitive. They are often used, as in this case, as an escape for justification after the fact of a unusual act or situation. What has traditionally been the policy in regard to umbrellas and Marines in uniform? That is what, in reality, matters.

The regulation regarding uniforms lists all of the acceptable components and accessories, down to the placement of pins, acceptable rain gear, and the type of boots that must be worn. The conditions under which female members of the Marine Corps may hold an umbrella while in uniform are clearly defined. No such conditions are defined for male members of the Corps. As a lawful regulation, Marines who violate part of the uniform regulations may be punished under Article 92 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

Most likely the punishment would consist of either a written reprimand or an Article 15 action. Article 15 actions are placed in the member's permanent human resources file if the member's rank is a SGT or above. There are different levels of reprimands, but a General Officer Letter of Reprimand is often a career killer. A Commander can also direct a written reprimand to be filed locally and destroyed after a period of good behavior. I believe that the Corpsman who held Obama's umbrella is a Corporal.