Q: my pass was denied due to me being flagged, but AR 600-8-2 states different

A: AR 600-8-2 is the Army Regulation that covers suspension of favorable personnel actions (FLAG). It outlines the policies and procedures for flagging soldiers and the impact of a flag on their personnel actions.

When a soldier is flagged, certain favorable personnel actions are prohibited. However, the regulation does specify some actions that are not automatically precluded by a flag. Here are a few key points from AR 600-8-2:

1. Paragraph 2-2 lists favorable actions that are prohibited when a soldier is flagged, such as promotion, reenlistment, awards, school attendance, and assumption of command.

2. Paragraph 2-3 covers actions that are not automatically barred by a flag, which may include things like issuance of a military ID card, MOS reclassification, or attendance at military training that doesn't lead to promotion.

3. The commander imposing the flag has some discretion in deciding which favorable actions to withhold based on the specific circumstances and reasons for the flag.

If your pass was denied solely due to being flagged, and AR 600-8-2 indicates that a pass should not automatically be prohibited in your situation, you may want to respectfully discuss the matter with your chain of command. Explain your understanding of the regulation and ask for clarification on why your pass was denied.

Keep in mind that while the regulation provides guidelines, commanders still have a degree of discretion in these matters based on your specific circumstances. It's important to communicate professionally and follow your command's guidance.