Wherever there is online freedom, there are rules about what you share and how you share it. When a Navy officer’s post went viral and was not seen as “just a joke,” regulations suddenly became more important than ever before. In July 2023, Navy Lt. Cmdr. James Dickerson created a TikTok he considered harmless. He appeared in uniform, lip-syncing to Elsa’s “Let It Go” from Frozen and making an obscene gesture to the camera. He captioned it, “Working the day before leave be like.”
The video quickly spread and reached his command. He then faced a court-martial under Article 133 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) for conduct unbecoming of an officer. Even though he was acquitted, the incident made clear that your online activity always represents the Navy, even if it feels casual or lighthearted. When you’re serving in the military, nothing you do online is ‘personal.’
What’s New, and What Hasn’t Changed
In March 2025, the Navy released ALNAV 024/25, a memo with new rules for personal and official social media use by Sailors and Marines. Personal accounts are allowed, but they must be clearly personal. Service members can post in uniform or mention their rank, but not in a way that suggests the Navy or the Department of Defense endorses them.
Later in 2025, the Navy provided further guidance, indicating it is now actively monitoring social media and will take action if posts harm the Navy’s reputation or violate the rules.
These rules align with the Department of Defense’s policy, DoDI 5400.17, which covers official social media use across all services.
Why This Matters to You and Your Family
The Navy is not telling you to stop using social media. It is asking you to use it responsibly. This means keeping your personal opinions separate from your Navy identity, following UCMJ rules, and ensuring you do not inadvertently misrepresent military views or share sensitive information.
Even your “likes” and comments matter. Don’t forget that once something is on the internet, it’s very difficult to erase it. Proceed as if everything you post online is permanent.
“But It’s My Personal Account.”
Yes and no.
ALNAV 024/25 makes it clear that personal accounts must still follow military standards. Posting in uniform is allowed, as long as it does not promote a political agenda, personal business, or behavior that is not appropriate for a service member.
Using a disclaimer such as “views are my own” is recommended, especially for officers and others in visible roles. Breaking these rules can lead to UCMJ action under Articles 88, 92, 133, or 134, depending on the seriousness of the violation.
For an official disclaimer, you can use:
“The opinions and views expressed here are my own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Department of Defense or its components.”
What You Can Do
- Use social media to express lawful personal views
- Post photos or videos in uniform, if context is appropriate
- Share or engage with official Navy content, without implying endorsement of your personal views
- Include disclaimers when necessary
What You Can’t Do
- Use your account to appear as an official Navy spokesperson without authorization
- Engage in partisan political activity in uniform or using Navy/DoD assets
- Share sensitive, non-public, or mission-related information
- Use your rank or position to promote businesses or personal causes
Real Consequences: Two Navy Case Studies
Case 1: Senior Navy Medical Officer Relieved of Command
In September 2025, a doctor was fired for inaccurately listing her title on LinkedIn and refusing to correct it when asked. The problem was not just one post, but a pattern that showed a lack of integrity and professionalism.
Case 2: Navy Memo on Misaligned Posts
In October 2025, the Navy sent a memo to the entire fleet saying it was “actively reviewing reports of misaligned social media use.” This made it clear that both leaders and all other personnel will be held responsible.
These cases illustrate that, even without a court-martial, careers can be affected by online actions that seem minor at first.
Quick FAQs for the Fleet
Can I put my rank in my bio?
Yes, but add a disclaimer if your profile could be mistaken for an official account.
Can I post in uniform on my personal page?
Yes, if the content is respectable, nonpartisan, and not commercial in nature.
Can I repost campaign content?
Not if you’re in uniform, on duty, or using government devices. Even off-duty, avoid confusing political advocacy with military affiliation.
Do likes and emojis count?
Yes. Engaging with extremist, defamatory, or unprofessional content, even passively, can result in administrative action.
OPSEC Still Applies
The Navy’s social media rules do not replace operational security (OPSEC). Do not post deployment dates, ship movements, locations, or sensitive mission details, even after they happen. Even a simple photo can reveal a lot. Loose lips still sink ships.
For leaders and public affairs officers, the updated Navy Social Media Handbook (2024) has training modules for administrators and communicators. If you manage an official command social media account, review the handbook and make sure your management follows DoDI 5400.17.
Lead Online Like You Lead On Duty
You may not be wearing your uniform, but your commitment remains. Social media is part of your public identity and your responsibility as a service member.
The Navy is not asking you to stop posting; it is asking you to post with purpose. Know the rules, use disclaimers, protect the mission, and live the Navy’s values everywhere, including online. Your digital footprint is part of your legacy. Make it count.
Suggested reads:
