Addressing a MSG, SFC & SSG as “Sergeant.” Does anyone else think this is disrespectful?

2014-08-23T21:01:15-04:00

I feel as if I’m speaking to a Master Sergeant, Sergeant First Class or Staff Sergeant, they need to be addressed as their full rank and not “Sergeant.”

Response by MSG Wade Huffman made Aug 23 at 2014 9:32 PM

2014-08-23T21:32:50-04:00

Not disrespectful at all and exactly what the regulation states is the proper address. Please reference AR 600-20, Table 1-1, Sergeant is the proper address.

Response by SFC Kenneth Hunnell made Aug 23 at 2014 10:21 PM

2014-08-23T22:21:56-04:00

Potato, patato, it really does not matter, unless you are a First Sgt., Sergeant Major or Sgt. Major of The Army. With all the people that the Sgt. Major of the Army deals with, do you think people use his whole title to speak to him. People know he has earned his position. You could be called worse. Look at General Eisenhower, he was a five star general. "General of the Army". People still called him General Eisenhower

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2014 10:25 PM

2014-08-23T22:25:22-04:00

I understand what the regulation states on page 4; however, after working with other military units such as the USMC, I've become acustomed to addressing someone by their full rank and not just "Sergeant" .

As I use this practice in my current position, it appears to provide positive feed back and NCOs actually taking pride in their actual rank.

I would understand if their is a group of NCOs, then giving the Greeting of the Day and addressing the group as Sergeants, but if I'm being spoken to or addressing an individual, why is the Army so simple to address a MSG as "Sergeant."

Response by SSG Robert Burns made Aug 23 at 2014 10:37 PM

2014-08-23T22:37:29-04:00

I don't think it's anymore disrespectful than calling them an NCO.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2014 10:59 PM

2014-08-23T22:59:46-04:00

Unless its MSG and up, I address them as "Sergeant." To tell the truth, its the way we in the Army are bred because it starts in basic when you hear Drill Sergeants. If you really think about it, its only the Marines that address their NCOs by their full rank

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2014 11:14 PM

2014-08-23T23:14:16-04:00

I've always referred to SFC and SSG as Sergeant. My relationship with the individual dictates how I address a MSG. If I've worked with them for a while I'll tone it down to Sergeant, but if they're someone I don't know or that I haven't worked with for very long I'll address them as Master Sergeant simply out of respect for their rank, expertise and TiS.

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Aug 24 at 2014 12:29 AM

2014-08-24T00:29:39-04:00

It's not the Army's way...that would be the Marine Corps. This is (again) covered in the Army's Command Policy regulation (AR 600-20)

As Soldiers, we cannot pick and choose which regulations we abide by and when.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2014 4:31 AM

2014-08-24T04:31:08-04:00

As SGT Barrie had stated; I address E5 thru E7 as 'Sergeant'. E8 as 'Master Sergeant', 'First Sergeant' or 'Top'. E9 'Sergeant Major'. I think once you've hit E8, you've earned that extra little bit.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Aug 24 at 2014 8:44 AM

2014-08-24T08:44:37-04:00

It is what it is, never bothered me it was and is HOW we address or are addressed, if some asshat feels the need to be called by the exact designation of Staff Sergeant, Sergeant First Class or Master Sergeant, then they really need to look at their priorities!!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2014 9:27 AM

2014-08-24T09:27:51-04:00

Ultimately referring to someone as their full rank is NOT that hard. If speaking to superior ranking individual who has a rank the Army typically does this for (MSG, 1SG, SGM, CSM) it's not a big deal. Now, I am a SFC, and I work as an instructor for a multi service school. Army, Air Force, and Navy call me "Sergeant" and that suits me just fine, I know they are speaking to me, and they are not being disrespectful. Now, a Marine will never call me "Sergeant", they will always say the whole rank, because the Marines are anal retentive about that stuff. I find this to be annoying as hell, along with time wasting.

I once told a Marine student (he was a Sergeant) that he could just call me "Sergeant" like the other service students. He respectfully refused, and continued to explain to me that if he did not address me by my proper rank, that a Gunny (Marine E-7, Gunnery Sergeant, but they call them "Gunny", see the backwards thinking here?) will jump out of the bushes and proceed to destroy every inch of him using nothing more than his boots and a K-bar. I explained that we were indoors, there was only one ingress and egress and that door was locked. This marine still believed that "Gunny is always watching, and he will find a way."
I told this story to the Marine instructor in my section (who is a Gunny) and he immediately put in a supply request for ficus bushes to go in the back of the classrooms.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Aug 24 at 2014 10:43 AM

2014-08-24T10:43:12-04:00

I've often referred to Army SNCO's by their rank and not as "sergeant" and I've never been corrected on it. Now on the other hand I have on 1 or 2 occasions been corrected by Marine NCOs for not using their correct rank and noting the reg difference between the 2 understand why.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2014 10:46 AM

2014-08-24T10:46:30-04:00

Not disrespectful one bit. I tend to address them by full rank when speaking of them third person, though.
I think it depends on the circumstances which course you choose to take. Just remember, more accurate titles are never wrong, but lesser ones can draw fire. AR 600-20 is very clear what correct titles of address are.
I've never much cared for the term "Top" or "Smash" for the 1SG and Sergeant Major, respectively. When people call me Top, I tolerate it because I know they mean no harm.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2014 10:58 AM

2014-08-24T10:58:39-04:00

IAW AR 600-20 "Sergeant" is how you are to address enlisted members from the grade of E-5 through E-8 with the exception of First Sergeants. So my easy answer is... No, this is not disrespectful. That being said I like the fact that a 1SG gets distinction from other Sergeants as the tip of the spear.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2014 12:45 PM

2014-08-24T12:45:18-04:00

In the Navy everyone E4-E6 is a petty officer. No matter who you are, if you don't know person's rating (MOS), you say 'Petty Officer'. If you do, you call by abbreviation and number.

In my case, I'm a master at arms 1st class, equivalent to Army SSG MP. My rating abbreviation is MA, and juniors would be addressing me as MA1. It's confusing if you're not in the Navy and other branch don't get so trade-specific as we do.

Nevertheless I wouldn't consider it rude if another petty officer would only call me by last name. I would however say something if a seaman would call me such

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2014 4:50 PM

2014-08-24T16:50:12-04:00

I don't get wrapped up around that. In fact, I tell my Soldiers not to call me Master Sergeant. As has been noted earlier, the correct form of address is Sergeant for SGT-MSG. If there are people out there that identify so much with the rank they wear, they may need to look in the mirror. I am James Harrison, who happens to be a Sergeant in the Army, NOT Master Sergeant Harrison....

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2014 5:33 PM

2014-08-24T17:33:11-04:00

I don't understand why Soldiers feel that MSG is the rank at which you decide to show more respect. I've read multiple responses that group SSG and SFC in the same categorie and that is not correct. We should know that SFC is when the "senior" ranks have been reached. I refere to SSG-MSG as sergeant and give the appropriate respect. When I was a SSG or junior I didn't reserve the proper respect or give more respect to MSG and above. I feel that this is an issue in the Army.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 24 at 2014 5:37 PM

2014-08-24T17:37:09-04:00

I was just talking to a Marine brother about this! I certainly would not mind it one bit if the Army changed it's position.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2014 7:55 PM

2014-08-24T19:55:59-04:00

Nope.

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Aug 24 at 2014 9:06 PM

2014-08-24T21:06:04-04:00

You should hear the arguments that happen in the Air Force over people calling E-8's "Senior" instead of Sergeant. The by the book term of address is either Senior Master Sergeant or Sergeant. Some people really get tweaked up when they hear "Senior" being used. The same goes (to a much lesser extent) for E-6 being called Tech Sergeant vs Technical Sergeant or Sergeant IAW "the little brown book".

Response by SGT Chris Birkinbine made Aug 25 at 2014 12:52 PM

2014-08-25T12:52:23-04:00

I don't mean this with any disrespect to SFC Private RallyPoint Member , but it seems people of late are going out of their way to find disrespect where there is none.

Disrespect is like offense. It is taken as in the eye of the beholder, but in reality is purely a function of intent.

If they say it with the intent of being disrespectful than it is, if they are not, then it isn't, and since it is current regulation to address them as such, I'd say the intent is not there.

Response by SFC Vernon McNabb made Aug 25 at 2014 1:27 PM

2014-08-25T13:27:39-04:00

No.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2014 5:26 PM

2014-08-25T17:26:52-04:00

When referencing them to others, I tend to add the "master, staff, or first class", but when addressing them, it has always been just Sergeant. I remember distinctly getting smoked in basic because I failed to adhere to "the only NCO ranks not called Sergeant are: Corporal, First Sergeant, and Sergeant Major"

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 2:12 AM

2014-08-26T02:12:40-04:00

I've always referred to E-5 through E-7 as Sergeant, but MSG's I always like to refer to them as Master Sergeant. Only a handful of times I've referred to them as Sergeant. And if it's a MSG or even retired, that I knew as a 1SG, I will always refer to them as 1SG, out of respect. I had a 1SG that is retired now, and I see him sometimes at the PX or whatever, and I still address him as 1SG.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 9:50 AM

2014-08-26T09:50:35-04:00

Not disrespectful, the Marines do this, but this is specific to them. The Army calls everyone E-5 to E-8 Sergeant. Now if someone addresses me as Master Sergeant I dont correct them either, most people dont however. Enlisted ranks for the purpose of addressing them break down to; Private (E-1 through E-3), Specialist, Corporal (very Rare now), Sergeant (E-5 through E-8), Sergeant Major (Staff and Command Sergeant Major).

Response by MSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 11:54 AM

2014-08-26T11:54:22-04:00

I'm also an Instructor in an Interservice Training Review Organization (ITRO) and we teach all branches. My particular division teaches only Soldiers and Marines. When I first got to this unit and began teaching, the Marines (which usually accounts for 30-50% of any class) would call me "SERGEANT FIRST CLASS". I found that kind of weird since I'm used to Soldiers calling me "SERGEANT". I later found out that is part of their customs and courtesies. So no, I don't think we should be addressed by our full ranks. As stated many times before in this thread, we have our customs and courtesies and should abide by them. We cannot pick and choose what to follow. Is it "disrespectful" to address us by our full rank? Absolutely not. As NCOs, we enforce. Let's ENFORCE and let our officers make policy.

I would like to add, though, that when I was coming up through the ranks, we often referred to MSG as "Master Blaster". I honestly don't know where that came from but I've always thought it was pretty cool. When I do finally pin on my third rocker, I wouldn't smoke anyone for calling me Master Blaster. But again...that's me.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 12:26 PM

2014-08-26T12:26:13-04:00

SFC Private RallyPoint Member I agree with you. As I was enlisted in the Marine Corps prior to commissioning in the Army, I bring those courtesies with me from the Corps. If you have ever seen another branch refer to a SSG in the Marines as "Sergeant" you will know what I mean. I feel it is a respect issue, and the Soldier who has attained that rank, deserves to be addressed by that rank. I will always address my Soldiers by their rank, not just a general rank, and this goes for junior enlisted as well. I will address a Specialist as "Specialist Smith" versus just their last name as I hear all the time and correct.

I do understand that the Army's policy on addressing Sergeants, Staff Sergeants, and Master Sergeants as Sergeants, but it doesn't mean that I don't think each rank deserves the respect of their rank.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 5:25 PM

2014-08-26T17:25:41-04:00

Doesn't bother me I have been known to address E-8 Master Sergeants by calling them Master Sergeant only because a 1SG is separated by troop command comparatively.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 9:36 PM

2014-08-26T21:36:54-04:00

Per doctrine, as many have noted, the only distinction made for NCO's is for First Sergeant and Sergeant Major.

That being said, I would like the Army to adopt the Marine Corps' doctrine and recognize each rank.

"But SGT Chausse, Sergeant First Class is a mouthful."

Guess what, theoretical question asker? They used to be called Technical Sergeants, or Tech's. (My grandpa was one in WWII.)

Tech Sar'nt.

Now doesn't that roll off the tongue?

my $0.02

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 9:44 PM

2014-08-26T21:44:14-04:00

I once got verbally reprimanded for calling a SSG "Sergeant", I took it like a good little soldier and then sat back and watched a 1SG verbally reprimand that SSG for calling the 1SG "Sergeant". Humorous from my perspective, but in all seriousness, it is in the reg and it is by no means meant to be disrespectful. To each their own and if a certain person of a certain rank prefers to be addressed differently, sometimes you just have to suck it up and address them with their full rank and drive on.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2014 2:31 AM

2014-08-27T02:31:18-04:00

Soldiers calling MSG "Master Sergeant" has got to be one of my biggest Army pet peeves. It's very clear that the first time a Sergeant is called something other than Sergeant is when they become a First Sergeant.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2014 10:27 AM

2014-08-27T10:27:52-04:00

I had a company commander that felt as you do SFC Private RallyPoint Member . However, I had an old CSM that would tell me that there are only 3 Sergeants in the Army. Sergeant; First Sergeant; and Sergeant Major. While I will refer to an E6-E9 by there full rank when talking about them, I generally don't address them with the full rank. "Sergeant First Class" is a mouth full.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2014 10:40 AM

2014-08-27T10:40:49-04:00

For me, I find this topic kind of funny. The reason I say that is because this is not a PV1 asking this question. It's an NCO. This question could have been avoided by looking at the Army Values and then reading the regulation.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2014 10:50 AM

2014-08-27T10:50:47-04:00

Yep...I'm with MSG Wade Huffman - the AR is simple and straightforward. Yes, you have a full title - but seriously - do you think I want to be addressed as Petty Officer First Class, Surface Warfare, Medley every time someone wants to address? NOPE. Petty Officer Medley is fine.

Yeah, I get it that you worked your a$$ off to get there.....

Response by Cpl Matthew Wall made Aug 27 at 2014 10:53 AM

2014-08-27T10:53:27-04:00

Great question and one that has disturbed me for years. Why does the Army do this? When I was training soldiers they thought nothing of it. I asked several of them every time I traveled and they all said the same thing, "well they are a Sergeant". In Corps you address them by what they are, Staff, 1st, Master, Gunny, and so forth. I believe it be disrespect because you are essentially calling them an E-5. Also, E-4 and E-5 are NCOs and E-6 above are Staff NCO. You might as well just call your 1st, MSG a Corporal. Have some respect.

Of course on a side note I've heard Army officers and enlisted address each other on a first name basis...so yeah.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2014 1:29 PM

2014-08-27T13:29:24-04:00

until the Army changes the regulations the Title Sergeant applies for Sergeant(E-5) thru Master Sergeant (E-8), I have always believed that being called a Sergeant was a title of respect and always will, calling be by my rank seem to be disrespectfully. Sergeant is a title earned thru hard work and taking care of Soldiers.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2014 4:45 PM

2014-08-27T16:45:45-04:00

The horse isn't dead yet so I'll put in my two cents. According to AR 600-20, Table 1-1, the proper address for SGT, SSG, SFC, and MSG is Sergeant. I've worked with a lot of prior Marines who are still somewhat stuck in Marine regs, they'll address and MSG and SSG by their full rank, but it's on and off when addressing a SFC. The other thing that annoys me, prior Air Force do this too. When writing the rank of an army Staff Sergeant, they'll write it as Ssgt, First Sergeant as 1Sgt, or even Master Sergeant as MSgt. Leutentant Colonel as LtCol. Sgt doesn't annoy me as much because all the letters are the same, but c'mon, This is the army, we write in all caps for ranks and the abbreviation is never more than three characters.

It's SSG, 1SG, MSG, LTC, and SGT.

Response by SPC David S. made Aug 27 at 2014 8:17 PM

2014-08-27T20:17:47-04:00

Well flip this over to the commissioned side. I'd like to see someone address a full Colonel as "officer". The 'they're all officers' argument does not apply. The Army should take a note from the Marines on this one. Not saying everything the Marines do is the right way, but with rank there also comes increased responsibility and thus are due commensurate respect. When deployed it should be the NCO's call.

Response by SGM(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2014 8:33 PM

2014-08-27T20:33:08-04:00

As many things go in the Army, this is laid out in an Army Regulation. Similar to this is 2LT and General are both "Sir". It is our duty to enforce the established standards. If given the opportunity voice your opinion and the reasons behind your idea as why the standard should change.

Response by SFC Jeremy Boyd made Aug 29 at 2014 9:14 AM

2014-08-29T09:14:34-04:00

I agree with and understand the regulatory guidance set forth in AR 600-20 concerning the proper address of ranks, but on that same token I too regularly address Master Sergeants by their full rank title. However, I do this with Master Sergeants whom have either already been First Sergeants in the past, or whom have been identified and selected to appointment to First Sergeant. If they have already earned that accolade that previously set them apart in the regulation for rank titling purposes and the NCO Corps in general, I see no reason why I can't continue to afford them the same courtesy they once enjoyed.

Response by Cpl Peter Martuneac made Aug 29 at 2014 10:18 AM

2014-08-29T10:18:38-04:00

I've never understood that about the Army. Why wouldn't you call them the rank they've earned?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 5:33 PM

2014-08-29T17:33:18-04:00

Do you address junior enlisted by their rank preceding their last name? It's just as disrespectful to them as if they failed to address us by rank. The only difference is that other than Article 134, there is no article for disrespecting a junior enlisted member. What about addressing Warrant Officers as Mister? I know of no one that does so, it's always Chief or Sir.

Whether Sergeant, Staff Sergeant of Sergeant First Class, the appellation of Sergeant is not disrespectful because it is synonymous with NCO. All the higher rank means is more responsibility and expanded authority built upon what is already credited to the Sergeant. To believe that being addressed as Sergeant to be demeaning speaks volumes about the offended party.

As demonstrated in my first paragraph, all of us tend to pick and choose which aspects we care to enforce. As such, the topic of Master Sergeants is one of mine. If I feel they are due more respect, as one who has earned greater respect through the appointment as a First Sergeant, then I will address them as Master Sergeant as a demonstration of that respect. However, if they demand greater respect and fail to earn my respect then I will only give the minimum respect that I am required to give by Regulation due to their rank.

As it all goes though, addressing an NCO by his full rank instead of the proper form of address is no different than saluting another enlisted member. It is a form of respect, and entirely voluntary. It isn't wrong to do so, but like saluting, becomes so if you demand to be "respected" in such a manner.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 9:19 PM

2014-08-29T21:19:40-04:00

Speaking, I have a tendency to address a Master Sergeant as such:

As in " Mornin', MAS SARN'T", not because I'm drunk, but because it's my courteous habit.

I never refer to a SFC or SSG as anything but "Sarn't" or "Sarge."

Response by Capt Chris McVeigh made Sep 3 at 2014 12:22 AM

2014-09-03T00:22:44-04:00

Coming from the Marine side of the discussion, I find it highly bizarre, but each service is entitled to decide how their members are addressed. To each his own.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 3 at 2014 9:19 PM

2014-09-03T21:19:53-04:00

Are you seriously bringing this up as a contentious subject? "Hello, Ring Ring!" Check your ego at the door. There are only four (4) authorized names by which to call NCOs: Corporal, Sergeant, First Sergeant, and Sergeant Major. I highly recommend reading AR 600-20. Further, as a senior NCO if you're concerned about how subordinates, peers, or senior leaders address you then maybe you should consider looking at yourself first. Your focus should be leading, mentoring, and training subordinates. You'll get the "respect" you so adamantly seek if you do your job and set the example. Here's an idea, how about focusing on the Army of 2020/2025 and how you're going to ensure that we can meet our adversaries across the multiple complex operational environments that we are surely to see in the near future. ATW!

Response by MSG Brian Breaker made Sep 4 at 2014 12:24 PM

2014-09-04T12:24:50-04:00

SFC MAtthew Torres,

This really is a good question. I don't mind either way. I think the regulation should be updated and you call an E-6 t thru E-8 by there rank. Why not? When I made Private First Class I hated to be called Prvate because I wanted that seperation. I know sounds silly, but I think we work hard for a rank and our title of address should reflect that.

To answer you qustion, I dnot think its a signe of dsirespect. Just don't call me SARGE!

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 4 at 2014 2:35 PM

2014-09-04T14:35:05-04:00

AR 600-20!

With all due respect Sergeant, the fact of the matter Sergeant is that you "FEEL" that if you are speaking to a MSG that you mus call him by his full rank, SSG/SFC. I was taught as a Jr. Soldier to execute by Regulation, my morals, the law and the Army Values. Don't forget "No one is more professional than I".

-I'm just a regular person doing extra-ordinary things

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 4 at 2014 9:59 PM

2014-09-04T21:59:43-04:00

I called a 1SG, "sergeant" once. Notice I only said "once".

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 5 at 2014 6:52 AM

2014-09-05T06:52:58-04:00

SFC Torres,
Me personally I would say it is not disrespectful at all to call SSG-MSG by their Regulation name of "Sergeant". That is what they are supposed to be called. However, out of respect I always refer to MSG's and "Master-Sergeant "Joe", in any conversation. To me E-8 is a big deal and they deserve it. IMO the diamond gets it, so why would the MSG not get it. That of course is not the reg and I do realize that. But its just an additional respect in my eyes that they have earned as the second highest Enlisted Grade in the Army

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 5 at 2014 8:05 AM

2014-09-05T08:05:39-04:00

I personally don't care how they address my rank, as long as they execute my guidance and absorb my mentorship. I do make sure they are aware of what the reg says but in today's Army, I feel we have bigger fish to fry than worrying about if their addressing of my rank in full or truncated is disrespectful. It's neither. It's regulatory.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2014 12:06 PM

2014-09-07T12:06:01-04:00

The correct form of address is simply "Sergeant", which itself is a term of respect much like "Sir" or "Ma'am" is to a commissioned officer or "Chief" to a chief warrant officer.

From my earliest days as junior enlisted, through the NCO ranks and now as a commissioned officer I address all senior officers as "Sir" or "Ma'am" regardless of rank. NCOs other than first sergeants or sergeants major I address as "Sergeant", with the occasional exception of one master sergeant whom I particularly respect and who was a long-time mentor. I address her was "Master Sergeant", even now that she is retired.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2014 6:27 PM

2014-11-19T18:27:20-05:00

SFC Matthew Torres, reference AR 600-20 Ch 1 and it will answer your question.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2015 4:55 AM

2015-01-29T04:55:03-05:00

It doesn't bother me one iota or cause me to lose any more sleep than I already lose. As MSG Wade Huffman said, it's in AR 600-20 Ch. 1 in black and white.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2015 10:06 PM

2015-03-30T22:06:24-04:00

My Platoon Sergeant posed this question to me as a "pop quiz" the other day. For the Army, the regulation clearly states "Sergeant" in those instances described in the original post. Personally, if there are multiple SFCs around, I would say "Sergeant [Name]". If I were referring to an NCO in the third-person, I would use their rank for clarity; "Staff Sergeant Johnson advised..."

Other branches have their own customs. A Gunnery Sergeant is NOT "Sergeant". A Tech Sergeant is most definitely a Tech Sergeant. I know this only from having worked in an joint base environment before. It all depends on the environment and where you grow into what you grow into. But as for the Army, MSG, SSG, SFC, and SGT are all "Sergeant". It's not disrespectful, it's regulation. Asking for something different ... must be one's own preference.

Response by Cpl Christopher Bishop made Mar 31 at 2015 4:58 AM

2015-03-31T04:58:48-04:00

Try calling a Marine Sergeant Major (E9) "Sarge" and see WTF happens to you....ROFLMAO =)

Even wearing "the butter-bar" won't save you from the impending avalanche of crap you're about to get.....and rightfully so. =)

Response by PFC Mike Mcdermott made Mar 31 at 2015 11:24 AM

2015-03-31T11:24:19-04:00

Addressing a sergeant first class by their rank is somewhat unwieldy. In that case only I use the term Sgt. All other times, I used the full rank.

Response by CPT Bruce Rodgers made Mar 31 at 2015 11:32 AM

2015-03-31T11:32:21-04:00

We are not in the Marine Corps

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Mar 31 at 2015 11:32 AM

2015-03-31T11:32:28-04:00

Marines do.

Response by PO1 Ron Clark made Mar 31 at 2015 11:36 AM

2015-03-31T11:36:06-04:00

Very disrespectful especially (if you know better) and if you don't then you should learn better. In my branch once you make E4 you're an NCO Junior though you may be, it is what it is? When you address someone lower than their achieved rank you are doing them a disservice, not only disrespecting whatever achievements they've accomplished and forgot that most of us worked hard to attain whatever rank we posessed and each level you achieve grants you increased authority, responsibility, and thereby respect with the rank and badge of office.

Response by CPT Bruce Rodgers made Mar 31 at 2015 11:40 AM

2015-03-31T11:40:35-04:00

I always thought MSG is the perfect rank, just high enough to avoid BS.

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Mar 31 at 2015 12:09 PM

2015-03-31T12:09:20-04:00

Response by SGT Jeremiah B. made Mar 31 at 2015 12:13 PM

2015-03-31T12:13:54-04:00

Per regulation, it is correct and addressing them by their full rank is a no go. How could that possibly be disrespectful? Never mind it would be obnoxious - "Yes, Sergeant First Class. No, Sergeant First Class. Get a shorter title, Sergeant First Class."

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Mar 31 at 2015 12:17 PM

2015-03-31T12:17:55-04:00

This isn't taking away from you accomplishment. It is not speaking a mouth full ever time you have to speak to several NCO ranks in the same meeting.

Copied straight out of AR 600-20.

Grade: Sergeant Major of the Army
Pay grade: E-9
Title of address: Sergeant Major
Abbreviation: SMA

Grade: Command Sergeant Major (See table note 2)
Pay grade: E-9
Title of address: Sergeant Major
Abbreviation: CSM

Grade: Sergeant Major (See table note 3)
Pay grade: E-9
Title of address: Sergeant Major
Abbreviation: SGM

Grade: First Sergeant
Pay grade: E-8
Title of address: First Sergeant
Abbreviation: 1SG

Grade: Master Sergeant
Pay grade: E-8
Title of address: Sergeant
Abbreviation: MSG

Grade: Sergeant First Class
Pay grade: E-7
Title of address: Sergeant
Abbreviation: SFC

Grade: Staff Sergeant
Pay grade: E-6
Title of address: Sergeant
Abbreviation: SSG

Grade: Sergeant
Pay grade: E-5
Title of address: Sergeant
Abbreviation: SGT

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 12:20 PM

2015-03-31T12:20:28-04:00

While serving with the Army, I was instructed that Sergeants, Staff Sergeants, and Sergeants First Class could all be addressed as "Sergeant", however for Master Sergeants, First Sergeants and Sergeants Major it was custom to address them in full (although those are the ones I usually flubbed up one). I have always heard it's the Marine Corps that was more of a stickler about addressing all NCOs by full and proper rank.
We have similar issues in the Navy, but that's with rank vs. rate.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 2:18 PM

2015-03-31T14:18:22-04:00

In general, and as has been mentioned per regulation -- Sergeant is applicable for all up to First Sergeant and Sergeant Major. However, MANY people address Master Sergeants as their complete title. I find myself "following the crowd" in addressing Master Sergeants simply because I feel like I am disrespecting them by not doing what everyone else does...even if regulation supports just calling them "sergeant." If 49 people call them Master Sergeant, and I'm the only one addressing them as "sergeant" -- it could be viewed as disrespectful. Even though allowed to by AR -- I also don't think that the AR prohibits the use of their full rank.

Response by Sgt Cody Dumont made Mar 31 at 2015 9:33 PM

2015-03-31T21:33:35-04:00

They should be addressed by thier full rank. Try calling a Marine Gunnery Sergeant a sergeant and see what happens.

Response by CPT Chase Sanger made Mar 31 at 2015 9:36 PM

2015-03-31T21:36:04-04:00

I have been reading all of the answers and thought how funny it would be if we called Lieutenants First and Second. Wouldn't that sound ridiculous? I don't think anyone would make the argument to call LT's by their full title. As my comment above on SFC Torres' thread states: in the case of the MSG, I have no issue with addressing them by "Master Sergeant". Its just one of those little things that shows you respect that person and what they have done in their career. I don't think anyone will be calling you out for violating regs, but I could be wrong...

Response by SrA David Steyer made Apr 1 at 2015 10:49 AM

2015-04-01T10:49:53-04:00

Other than the ranks that have to be addressed differently - i.e. First Sergeant, Sergeant Major, Marines at their full rank etc I will generally use "Sergeant" the majority of the time but I have felt sometimes that I should address a E8 by their full rank (Master Sergeant, Senior Master Sergeant as example), as a sign of respect, even though I am not in the wrong by addressing them as Sergeant and last name.

Response by SSgt Joe V. made Apr 1 at 2015 10:50 AM

2015-04-01T10:50:23-04:00

Just depends on your career field, and sometimes on how recently someone was promoted...

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 11:01 AM

2015-04-01T11:01:40-04:00

100% agree with you SFC Torres...I'll parrot what I said in the post on "Sir/Ma'am"...regardless of what the regulation requires (not saying blow off the regs, saying we can do better if we want), how about we try to treat each other with respect...I assume your SFC rank was earned from years of hard work and study...how about I treat you like the professional that rank indicates?

Response by 1LT William Clardy made Apr 1 at 2015 11:03 AM

2015-04-01T11:03:29-04:00

Not by my lights.

Disrespectful would be addressing them as "LT"...

Response by SSG William Rhodes made Apr 1 at 2015 11:22 AM

2015-04-01T11:22:19-04:00

Could of, would of should of, but it's not a "Need", simply because of the regulations. I do think is appropiate in certain situations or scenarios to emphasize courtesy and respect but it's not necessary to be anal if Only Sargent is used. The one think I don't agree with is "Top" or "Sarge.

Response by SSG Michael Underwood made Apr 1 at 2015 12:36 PM

2015-04-01T12:36:49-04:00

I always laughed at fellow NCOs that require to be called by more than just "Sergeant". It is not a matter of disrespect it is the proper term. That being said there have been a few MSG that I always use the full title, not because they wanted it but because of I respected them personally not just rank.

Response by SFC Collin McMillion made Apr 1 at 2015 8:24 PM

2015-04-01T20:24:12-04:00

It really never bothered me. A few times I was referred to as Sargent First Class because I was receiving something, mostly when referred to by my full rank, it was because I was in deep "dodo"

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Apr 1 at 2015 9:33 PM

2015-04-01T21:33:07-04:00

SFC Matthew Torres, Just do not address me as "SMAJ"! The general's aide did, once!

Response by Capt Christian D. Orr made Apr 2 at 2015 12:03 AM

2015-04-02T00:03:24-04:00

In the Air Force, our regs permit "Sergeant" as a term of addresses for any NCO from pay grades E-5 through E-8, although in the Security Forces (AKA Security Police) career field, we have an unwritten tradition of addressing E-8s (Senior Master Sergeants) as "Senior." Our BIG taboo is to NEVER address a Chief Master Sergeant as simply "Sergeant" or refer to him/her verbally as an "E-9" (even though that's his/her pay grade); it's ALWAYS "Chief" (or theoretically the full rank, although in practice that's too much of a mouthful for practical oral usage).

Response by SSG Roy Neve made Apr 2 at 2015 12:47 AM

2015-04-02T00:47:14-04:00

This is how the regulations states how we address those in these ranks. As I have mentioned many times to those soldiers who were once Marines, if you do not like the way soldiers address you then why did you get out of the Marine Corps in the first place. There are just too many individuals who are offended or do not like one thing or another how the Army works. I have been with the Army for over 50 years being an Army Brat and then serving in uniform for nearly 30 years and I learned a long time ago that things are the way they are for a particular reason. We change things if we can and those other items we just leave alone. As for you Sergeant, why are you so bent over on how someone addresses you? I have noticed for the past few years many young NONCOMs are always complaining on how the Army functions. Why do you stay in if you are so disgruntle with how the Army works, get out and be a civilian. I get tired of individuals as yourself who whine and complain when you do not like something or another.

Response by CW4 Larry Curtis made Apr 2 at 2015 4:21 AM

2015-04-02T04:21:27-04:00

During my time as a soldier that was just how we did it, unless it was some formal address such as awards presentations or promotions, or reporting to the Commander and the like. The only Senior NCOs who were addressed differently in my time were in pay grade E-9, unless they were First Sergeants. And I have been in or around companies where the First Sergeant position was filled by a senior SFC or an SFC (P), and we still addressed them as First Sergeant. This may be a little silly but I always cringed just a little down deep whenever someone addressed the First Sergeant as Top, even though it was widely acceptable to do so. In an Aviation unit where there is a large population of Warrant Officers, you couldn't just walk into a room and say, "Hey, Chief." You'd have several of us looking at you as if we were wondering if you'd been hitting the bottle already or something. Personally I think we find a lot of different reasons for poll-vaulting over mouse feces when it comes to some of these things regarding customs and courtesies. The wise-guy in me compels me to further state that after I pinned-on CW4 bars, I always made it a point to smile really big whenever I saluted a 2LT and said "Good Afternoon, Sir!" But that's just me I suppose. We all have to start somewhere, don't we? And that 2LT, though probably very young and still wet behind the ears, has earned the title of "Sir" or "Ma'am" and I would be terribly unprofessional if I did not acknowledge it...but sometimes it was just too much fun for a crusty old hoot like myself. ;)

Response by CW4 Larry Curtis made Apr 2 at 2015 5:39 AM

2015-04-02T05:39:21-04:00

Here's a small bit of trivia from days gone by. I can remember the old Army Rank Chart from when I was a young troop in the 70s which depicted two names for the grade of E-7...there was Platoon Sergeant and Sergeant First Class. I suppose the latter was supposedly intended for those who were not functioning as Platoon Sergeants in their unit's hierarchy, but there is nothing visible about the rank insignia which would set them apart like those insignia for E-8 and E-9. I don't see that on newer Rank Charts now though so I guess it is assumed that E-7s will most likely be Platoon Sergeants anyways. Another trivial bit of none-issue material for your consumption. ;)

Response by SFC Walt Littleton made Apr 2 at 2015 7:24 AM

2015-04-02T07:24:00-04:00

Served 74-95 and always used Sergeant to address E-5 through E-8 (MSG). Used Sergeant Major to CSM and Sir to all Officers. Served me well!

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 7:45 AM

2015-04-02T07:45:58-04:00

I don't think it's disrespectful, yet I can understand that an individual earned their rank and wanting to respect that. I currently have an additional duty where I write medals for the Operations group and per the AFI you only use Sergeant in the official certificate. The individuals actual rank only appears in the automatically generated statement.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 8:32 AM

2015-04-02T08:32:25-04:00

To address a senior NCO (with 10 to 20 more years of service) as "sergeant," the same as any "3-4 year wonder" does a disservice to the senior NCO. Though unintentional, it is a minimalist attempt at military courtesy, and attains the lowest standard, the "common" denominator. That may be how the regulation reads, however we as soldiers ought to strive for a higher standard, "above and beyond the call," if you will. I must say that the U.S.M.C. has it completely right on the issue. Calling a Gunnery Sergeant a "sergeant," you might as well be slapping him in the face! Every enlisted Marine knows this, and takes the (slightly) extra effort to address a senior NCO with the title he or she has earned over time, effort, and often blood...

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 9:12 AM

2015-04-02T09:12:33-04:00

For us AF folk the official term of address for all ranks from SSgt to SMSgt is sergeant or the full rank. I don't think it's disrespectful, it doesn't change my pay and I don't rely of people using my full rank as a means of respect. Respect is shown in everyday actions not simply using a longer title to address you.

Response by TSgt John Dias made Apr 2 at 2015 10:07 AM

2015-04-02T10:07:27-04:00

Just don't call them "Sarge".

Response by SSgt Dan Montague made Apr 2 at 2015 10:13 AM

2015-04-02T10:13:32-04:00

I never understood why in the Army everyone one from Sgt up was called a Sgt. While recruiting I was promoted to SSgt. I had several conversations with the Army recruiters about addressing myself and the other snco's by their rank. When I spoke with their snco's I addressed them by their rank. I think you should address all personnel by their proper rank.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 10:53 AM

2015-04-02T10:53:21-04:00

The regulation/correct way is to say Sergeant; therefore it cannot be considered disrespectful. I was a Marine spouse for 10 years and used to hearing "Staff Sergeant" and I can't see any harm in referring to someone by their full rank title.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 11:23 AM

2015-04-02T11:23:08-04:00

Holy Cpl Vote Down!! I wonder why he did...

Anyway, SFC, I don't think it is disrespectful. Especially for those new young recruits who should but might not know what the rank is. I would hate to call a 1sgt Sgt. OR SGM SGT...

But again, It's all on the tone. :-)

Response by LT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 4:13 PM

2015-04-02T16:13:33-04:00

Each service has its particular culture on how said respective service members address one another. I learned the hard way addressing a Marine by Sergeant and not by their actual earned rank was a no-no. When corrected, I admitted my ignorance and ensured never to do it again. However, Air Force and Army may and are typically addressed as Sergeant So-and-So. The Navy well, that's Petty Officer So-And-So, but only if you're not aware of their rate (MOS/AFSC). On that note, I don't in any way believe addressing an enlisted Soldier by Sergeant So-And-So is in any way disrespectful.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 9:23 PM

2015-04-02T21:23:21-04:00

When I was coming up in the Army I was taught that the proper term of address was Sergeant. It was also an unwritten rule that if you made a point of calling someone by their full rank in everyday situations it was a sign that you respected the rank, but not the individual wearing it. That made it a little difficult for me when I became a Navy Chaplain and got assigned to a Marine Corps unit. Calling someone Staff Sergeant So-and-So or Master Sergeant So-and-So was ingrained in me as being disrespectful. Took a while to get used to.

Response by SGT John Beardsley made Apr 2 at 2015 9:31 PM

2015-04-02T21:31:40-04:00

Sergeant by itself IS BY ITSELF respectful. Addressing an NCO by their full rank when above the grade of E5 can be either a signal of increased respect, or a signal that whomever is addressing that NCO feels the NCO has an inflated sense of self worth.

When in doubt, refer to the regulation in question.

Response by SSG John Conquest made Apr 2 at 2015 9:31 PM

2015-04-02T21:31:58-04:00

No Sergeant it's not disrespectful, it's been this way for a long long time. So why do you think it should be changed now? You'll get called by your full rank when you are about to get your ass chewed, LOL!!

Response by COL Charles Williams made Apr 2 at 2015 11:02 PM

2015-04-02T23:02:14-04:00

No, and Interesting... I don't know the regulatory answer, but I know how I was trained, and what I did... and I assume if I was wrong one than one NCO would have tightened me up.

I was taught all NCOs from SGT to MSG can be/should be addressed as Sergeant, whereas First Sergeants, Sergeant Majors and Command Sergeant Majors were addressed as such.

The only other NCO title I heard was Drill Sergeant.

Sergeant is correct, except for 1SG, SGM, and CSM...

Response by SrA Kelly Richard made Apr 2 at 2015 11:48 PM

2015-04-02T23:48:42-04:00

Although I absolutely agree and make every effort to use the full rank when I know it. If I'm offering a greeting, and had minimal to calculate the rank, I know how much Army and Marine enlisted hate being called sir, so I must admit, if not Air Force, I've been guilty of saying, "Morning, Sergeant!" I'd rather do this, which is accepted as opposed to guessing the rank too quickly and making the mistake of calling them by a lower rank!

Response by Sgt Troy Fallert (Gurlin) made Apr 3 at 2015 2:50 PM

2015-04-03T14:50:42-04:00

You'd better get it right in the Marines or you'll be picking yourself up off the deck!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2015 3:09 PM

2015-04-03T15:09:52-04:00

Sounds like some ppl just want to make things more difficult. Because in combat I'm gonna be able to yell your full rank.... You know right before I yell you we're taking contact.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 8:42 AM

2015-04-05T08:42:21-04:00

I'll leave that to the Marines to address NCO's by their full rank.

Response by MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P made Apr 5 at 2015 10:22 PM

2015-04-05T22:22:20-04:00

It depends on the situation. I was a "Sergeant" (SSgt, TSgt for over 10, MSgt for just a few months) for many years in the Air Force. Now I'm a SFC in the TN State Guard. I still get called "Sergeant".

Being called "Sergeant" or even "Sarge" never bothered me unless I knew the speaker was deliberately trying to be disrespectful.

THAT was a whole separate issue dealt with as needed.

Response by SGT Rick Ash made Apr 6 at 2015 9:27 PM

2015-04-06T21:27:55-04:00

This may sound odd but for a Sergeant First Class or Staff Sergeant during 6 years of active duty I called either Sergeant with zero corrections. But knowing the T.I.S. and T.I.G. requirements for MSG I always address them by the full title. There are performance promotions as well but E-9 is hard to attain. I have a tremendous amount of respect for them all.
Thanks,
Rick

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 10:23 AM

2015-04-08T10:23:45-04:00

I disagree. We are not the marine corps. Army regulation outlines how we are to address NCOs. Even when working joint with marines, I explained what the army said about addressing by full rank. I still made it their option, but it's what is appropriate.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 10:56 AM

2015-04-08T10:56:45-04:00

As many have pointed out, it is not disrespectful. It is what we are supposed to do. I will sometimes refer to Master Sergeants by their full title, and in my unit we have a bunch of SGT Rivera's so I will refer to them by full rank, especially as we have one at each rank E5-E8, we had two E6's one male, one female but the male retired.

Response by SGT Jason Anderson made Apr 11 at 2015 11:15 PM

2015-04-11T23:15:46-04:00

Nope. There are three sergeants in the Army: Sergeant, First Sergeant, and Sergeant Major.

If you want to do something different, work to change the regulation.

Response by SGT Dave Oman made Apr 11 at 2015 11:45 PM

2015-04-11T23:45:41-04:00

Adressing them as sergeant is a matter of expediency for them. It is narcissistic and time consuming to hear the full title 50-100 times a day

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 22 at 2015 1:42 PM

2015-04-22T13:42:59-04:00

Nope! I like sergeant.there are people out there that feel they need to be recognized. I don't. I'm a sgt just like you. When I put on the diamond, I'll be a 1sg. But not until that happens again. Glad you want to show the respect, shows you're of good character. But I don't need to here master sergeant.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 22 at 2015 4:10 PM

2015-04-22T16:10:41-04:00

I always address a MSG as "Master Sergeant." I however don't always differentiate between SFC and SSG, usually I refer to either as Sergeant. I feel like if a 1SG is addressed as "First Sergeant", a MSG deserves the same.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 2 at 2015 5:58 PM

2015-05-02T17:58:35-04:00

I have always addressed Sergeants through Master Sergeant as Sergeant. However I came to a new unit in the last couple weeks and it appears that they address Master Sergeants with their full rank.

The real issue I have seen with the regulation and addressing NCOS now days is text etiquette. When my old Platoon Sergeants would text me, I never knew how to respond.

Roger SGT?
Roger SFC?
Roger Sergeant?

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made May 2 at 2015 9:30 PM

2015-05-02T21:30:13-04:00

As a young enlisted soldier I went through 30 days assessment for the unit. One of the candidates was told to ask the 1SG for a PRIC E-8 radio hahahahahahaha

Response by CW3 Stephen Mantie made Jul 17 at 2015 11:05 AM

2015-07-17T11:05:13-04:00

I work with a MSG on Battalion Staff. I address him as Master Sergeant. He earned the MSG rank and I will address him as such.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2015 6:25 PM

2015-10-13T18:25:46-04:00

I don't find it disrespectful. Saying Master Sergeant is a mouthfull, especially when I'm identifying myself over the phone. Too many service members get on a power trip of being called by ther full rank, and it serves no purpose. Unless you're in a 1SG billet, or have been promoted to Sergeants Major, then there is no good reason to have Soldiers running around addressing you by your full title. And our regulations state Soldiers can address SGT-MSG as sergeant.

Response by Capt Tom Brown made Jan 26 at 2016 7:37 PM

2016-01-26T19:37:07-05:00

This would be a good question for a poll of members to get an informal idea of how those mentioned feel about how they would like to be addressed.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 1 at 2016 9:55 PM

2016-02-01T21:55:54-05:00

Depends on if it is used as a noun, verb, pronoun, or as a substitute for a curse word. Only Jar Heads get wrapped up in full title.

Response by CPT Kevin Connolly made Aug 19 at 2017 8:11 AM

2017-08-19T08:11:17-04:00

It's not disrespectful, it's the Army. If you don't like it, then join the Marine Corps.

Response by GySgt Charles O'Connell made Aug 19 at 2017 4:12 PM

2017-08-19T16:12:14-04:00

I don't think its so much, disrespectful, as it is a custom of the service, I don't particularly like it, but I chalk it up as an, Army Thing. I recall, when working at MEPS in Pittsburg, an USA Sgt (E-5) addressed me as "Sgt". Okay, no sweat, easily solved. No Sgt, I'm a GySgt , Gunny or GySgt.

Response by Shonda Young made Nov 25 at 2017 2:12 AM

2017-11-25T02:12:47-05:00

So do you say Aye Master Sergeant Smith

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 12 at 2017 2:19 AM

2017-12-12T02:19:37-05:00

The Regs states what to address a Non-commission Officer so just go by the regulation

Response by SFC Christopher Taggart made Apr 2 at 2018 10:03 PM

2018-04-02T22:03:30-04:00

I agree with the other commentators, unless you're the First Sergeant, Sergeant Major, or Command Sergeant Major, all other Sergeants (MSG, SFC, SSG) are referred to as "Sergeant."

Response by SFC James Welch made Aug 4 at 2018 2:02 PM

2018-08-04T14:02:52-04:00

Sergeant is fine for us E-7’s and below. For Master Sergeants/First Sergeants call them by their full rank!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2018 4:37 PM

2018-08-27T16:37:12-04:00

The Army directs that all NCOs be addressed as "Sergeant" because all NCOs are sergeants, other words added to their rank are simply descriptors to describe their grade. Staff Sergeant originates from the British Army, a sergeant serving as a clerk etc on the staff had a crown placed above his stripes and given the rank of Staff Sergeant. Sergeant First Class and Master Sergeant come from experience and are used to distinguish them from lower sergeants. There are two exceptions to be made. The first comes with the First Sergeant is a position rather than a rank. A 1SG can be described as a MSG that has been given authority over a company sized element. This is the first time you will see this. Staff Sergeants are not just squad leaders. They are also recruiters, drill sergeants, section sergeants, NCOICs etc. The only place you will find a 1SG is in a 1SG slot. During the Civil War, a Sergeant Major was a Sergeant that had been given responsibility over a regiment. So again we find ourselves addressing the position. After WWII, Sergeants Major were found on staffs and we're separated into the ranks of SGM and CSM. Sergeants Major are still addressed as Sergeant Major as a call back to their roots.

(I've done a lot of historical research into ranks, structure and their origin, none of this is based on experience.)

Response by MSG Bennie McGrew made Oct 22 at 2018 7:58 PM

2018-10-22T19:58:07-04:00

Over the phone, pretty essential, full title. Other situations may call for other forms of address.

Response by CW2 Michael Bodnar made Oct 25 at 2018 10:23 AM

2018-10-25T10:23:37-04:00

I'm glad someone started this discussion. Regardless of what the regulation says, I think it's disrespectful to not address a Soldier by the entire rank. As a prior service Marine, if you called a GySgt a Sergeant, you were essentially demoting them. The Army, in my opinion, should not call a rank higher than E5 sergeant. I always address an NCO by their rank because at the end of the day, they earned it and they deserve to be called that rank. You wouldn't call a CPT or MAJ a lieutenant so why do that on the enlisted side.

Response by CW2 Cecil Copley made May 2 at 2019 2:31 PM

2019-05-02T14:31:29-04:00

Each has earned the title of sergeant.

Response by CW2 Cecil Copley made May 2 at 2019 2:34 PM

2019-05-02T14:34:25-04:00

I am a retured Chief Warrant Officer. Fir many years i was only called “Mister” because that is the official manner to verbally address a Warrant Officer.

Response by SFC Cynthia Eyer made May 20 at 2019 1:10 PM

2019-05-20T13:10:56-04:00

I have always agreed with that. For my Staff Sergeants I call them Staff, for all other ranks I honored them with their full rank. If that’s your way of honoring them then make it happen. Your younger Soldiers will, hopefully, follow your fine example.

Response by SPC Ron Salsbury made Jan 1 at 2020 9:26 AM

2020-01-01T09:26:14-05:00

When a Soldier, Sailor, Marine or Airman achieves their rank, they have earned that respect to be called by their rank regardless of regulations, it is professionalism at it's finest. Otherwise why not take the next step of disrespect and call one another Troop!

Response by SP5 Charles Goldsmith made Feb 15 at 2020 11:41 AM

2020-02-15T11:41:26-05:00

50 plus years ago ,first sgt,Sgt major, we don't say,yes Sgt first class,or yes master Sgt, or yes staff sgt. Now in Nam it was Sgt major, first sgt ,we called top . Rhe rest was sarge.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Feb 23 at 2021 10:00 AM

2021-02-23T10:00:32-05:00

Side note, any rank can be made to sound disrespectful as well as “Sir”.

I believe the regulation says “Sergeant” is the proper address.