Should candidate pose in uniform for D 211 campaign?

Should the retired Army colonel running for Palatine-Schaumburg High School District 211 board have the right to wear his uniform in campaign photos?

Roman Golash believes he should. The 60-year-old from Palatine, one of seven candidates running for four open spots on the Palatine-Schaumburg High School District 211 board, has posted a photo of himself dressed in his Army uniform on his website and has no plans to take it down.

“I never planned to wear my uniform at forums or presentations,” Golash said. “It's who I am. One of the reasons I'm running for District 211 is to pass the experiences that I have had in the military to younger people 18 to 20 years old and help District 211 form better graduates ready for the complex environment out there.”

However, Golash's photograph is coming under attack from an unlikely source: atheist activist Rob Sherman. The Buffalo Grove resident has sent an e-mail the Department of Defense accusing Golash of violating military regulations by using the photos in quest of elected office.

“You can't use your miliary uniform as a prop for your political advertising,” Sherman said.

Golash and Sherman disagree on the military's uniform policy. Golash, who retired in May, said the regulations apply to only those on active duty, but Sherman argues that restrictions apply for active and retired military.

“This is a major violation of military law using the uniform to promote a political candidate,” Sherman said. “You can't do that, that belongs to the defense department.”

Sherman cited Department of Defense directive No. 1344.10, issued on Feb. 19, 2008, stating that active and retired members “should avoid inferences that their political activities imply or appear to imply official sponsorship, approval, or endorsement.”

Golash said he was surprised to hear of Sherman's claims and that he hasn't been contacted by anyone in the military regarding the complaint, which was filed on Tuesday morning. Golash said his attorney told him the photo didn't violate the law.

The Department of Defense did not immediately return phone calls and e-mails for comment, but Sherman said he received an e-mail stating the military would look into the matter.

Neither Sherman or Golash knew of any consequences for violating the directive.

Golash, who wonders if Sherman also objects to him using his title, “colonel,” said friends last week advised him not use the photos, saying they could create division between voters who are anti-military.