An Army Captain damned well will salute a Navy Captain. Doesn't the Army teach sister services' ranks in boot?

SN Greg Wright — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 20:36:23 -0400

So my son's friend joined the Army several months ago. My son and he are pretty much best friends, and he's a good kid. Recently, he was arguing with my son about an Army Captain not having to salute the Naval version because they're "the same rank". My son, who has spent his life listening to me muse about the vagaries of the Navy, knew better and corrected his friend.

This made me wonder if the Army doesn't teach recruits other service's ranks in boot? In my day, the Navy made us learn them all. Is this not common across all 5 services?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 28 at 2015 8:38 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 20:38:28 -0400

I did not learn the other services ranks while going through basic. However I did take initiative to learn on my own.

Response by SSgt Terry P. made Sep 28 at 2015 8:42 PM

SSgt Terry P. — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 20:42:33 -0400

I would say yes he should since the Navy Captain is an O-6 and the Army Captain is an O-3.LOL
WE were taught different rank structure in basic.
Only real problem i had was enlisted Naval rank,i can not count the times i saluted petty officers when the sun was on their shiny emblems. lol

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 28 at 2015 8:44 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 20:44:23 -0400

I learned, I don't Remember any more, but the regulation say if you don't now the rank you salute. it is that simple... A salute is a form of showing respect to others.

Response by SSgt Dustin Coy made Sep 28 at 2015 8:53 PM

SSgt Dustin Coy — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 20:53:13 -0400

Can't speak for the Army, but yes, the Air Force required us to learn them as well. What always crossed me up were the foreign service ranks. I just defaulted to a salute for each just to be safe.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 28 at 2015 9:02 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 21:02:36 -0400

SN Greg Wright, The thing is that an Army Captain is not the same rank, not really, because the Army Captain is an O3. So, yes, the Army Captain would salute the Navy Captain.

Response by SFC Dennis Yancy made Sep 28 at 2015 9:26 PM

SFC Dennis Yancy — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 21:26:02 -0400

Nope not taught. You hope when you screw up the other guy will instruct you leaving some of your ass left.

Response by Sgt Ronald Petroski made Sep 28 at 2015 10:45 PM

Sgt Ronald Petroski — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 22:45:43 -0400

respect works both ways i dont care what branch or college. same dam contract. you maybe saving each others life one day

Response by Capt Ron Sherlock made Sep 28 at 2015 11:07 PM

Capt Ron Sherlock — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 23:07:19 -0400

When I was in Air Force ROTC in college I wondered why the Army ROTC cadets had what I thought at the time, the better looking metal round or diamond ranks while we in the Air Force had the weird stitched ranks. What I learned was the stitched ranks were essentially Navy ranks and the Air Force was cleverly teaching us this so when we go on active duty, all we had to do was remember our cadet ranks and we knew who to salute when we saw Naval officers.

Response by SSgt Ed Lewandowski made Sep 28 at 2015 11:34 PM

SSgt Ed Lewandowski — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 23:34:21 -0400

we were taught but hard to spot the navy sometimes.they took a bit of pitty on us on us if we missed them

Response by SSgt Ed Lewandowski made Sep 28 at 2015 11:48 PM

SSgt Ed Lewandowski — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 23:48:14 -0400

we had a wing commander that like to wander the flight line on mid shift just to get the feel of the troops were feeling we go to pop him and he would stop you in your tracks. cause we was checking on us not trying to bust anybody

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2015 12:14 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 29 Sep 2015 00:14:08 -0400

SN Greg Wright I know the Navy ranks but not because I learned them in the Army.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2015 12:18 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 29 Sep 2015 00:18:49 -0400

Since basic training, we are taught to salute officers, regardless of rank. Although the ranks have different names, to me, they are still officers. And if one would look at the rank of Captain in the Navy, he or she would know that it is NOT the same as the Army. therefore, there should really be no argument. We are not taught about the other branches but it takes the self discipline to learn and know our brothers and sisters and how they conduct business.

Response by SGT William Howell made Sep 29 at 2015 8:20 AM

SGT William Howell — Tue, 29 Sep 2015 08:20:42 -0400

Since I started out in the Navy it was not a big deal. What I have always had problems with is how to address the Marine Corps enlisted above Gunny.

Response by PO3 Steven Sherrill made Sep 29 at 2015 9:19 AM

PO3 Steven Sherrill — Tue, 29 Sep 2015 09:19:40 -0400

SN Greg Wright only time I ever got tripped up was in boot camp. It wasn't because I didn't recognize the rank, It was because I saw a chief reaming a group of recruits, with another khaki with his head down. As I passed, I saluted, and stated good morning chief. The lieutenant then looked up when the chief told me to stop. I just thought "Fuck that's beautiful." This was just after we passed in review, just before we shipped out to A School. Just bad luck.

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made Sep 29 at 2015 1:50 PM

CPT Pedro Meza — Tue, 29 Sep 2015 13:50:12 -0400

You are aware that the Navy Rank for Captain is the same Flying Eagle that is worn by ARMY Colonels, so end of discussion. But if you wish the ARMY can salute the Navy from the belly button and call it a Navel Salute.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Oct 1 at 2015 3:32 AM

PO1 John Miller — Thu, 01 Oct 2015 03:32:17 -0400

I seem to remember learning other service's Officer titles in Boot.

I also remember more than a few times I would be speaking with a CAPT (usually a Marine CAPT) on the phone or whatever, and that person would be trying to get me to give them some special privilege because of their rank of "Captain." Little did they know this Squid knows the difference between a Navy Captain and a Captain from the Army, Marine Corps, and Air Force! :)

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2015 12:31 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 01 Oct 2015 12:31:43 -0400

lol

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2015 10:12 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 10:12:46 -0400

After about six months of Soldiers calling me "Captain" (I was LT, O-3 at the time)...I just saluted and went on my merry way :)

I did have an interesting interaction with an Airborne CAPT while in Afghanistan once-His guys were raiding our 'Terps huts, and some complaints had become too common to overlook-After all, these guys were who we depended on to make sure what the ANA was telling us...and what we were telling them...was being accurately conveyed.

I went to his company hut to discuss it, O-3 to O-3, and he proceeded to lecture me on how, in 'His' Army, Lieutenants call Captains "Sir"..."Top" in the corner just smiled and shook his head. The guy was working up a good lather, so I asked the NCO to give us a moment, and once he left, I then calmly asked what his date of rank was-Turned out, I was senior. I then explained that I didn't give a good &^%$ about his or my rank...and that I had hoped we could work the issue out as professionals-I think I added something about that being the son of a Paratrooper, I preferred that to the prospect of stripping blouses with an 82nd Company Commander.

Fortunately for me, the six foot tall, undoubtedly former linebacker officer and I agreed on some compromises that kept the peace.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Oct 8 at 2015 11:50 AM

LTC Stephen F. — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 11:50:25 -0400

When I was an Army Captain it was always enjoyable when I had to contact a naval station or base about something SN Greg Wright. Whenever I said my name and rank as CPT Ford they assumed CAPT Ford and the tone of the conversation changed to their obvious demonstration of respect for a Navy VIP [O-6 is considered VIP officially]. I would always tell them I was an Army Captain but it was interesting to see how the difference in rank made so much impact. :-)
FYI ]CDR Private RallyPoint Member CDR Andrew McMenamin, PhD SPC James Ward

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2015 11:58 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 11:58:23 -0400

I only was taught Navy rank in boot. When I went to Tech, I learned Marine enlisted ranks on my own. Now I'm able to name off non-Navy Officer ranks. Air Force and Army enlisted ranks still get me though.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2015 12:03 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 12:03:13 -0400

maybe they need to put the ranking of 01-09 on the patch too ... lol

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2015 12:03 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 12:03:22 -0400

Today's Navy we still do learn them but briefly in boot

Response by PO1 Todd Cousins made Oct 8 at 2015 12:06 PM

PO1 Todd Cousins — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 12:06:46 -0400

That's ok. As a young HN in I used to get a lot of salutes whenever I wore my cammies on an Army base. My rate insignia combined with the rank and a bunch of soldiers thought I was an army Doctor.

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Oct 8 at 2015 12:24 PM

LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 12:24:40 -0400

It really isn't hard. If you have bars and you see a bird or an oak leaf, you salute...

Response by CWO2 John Markiewicz made Oct 8 at 2015 2:18 PM

CWO2 John Markiewicz — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 14:18:10 -0400

The insignia worn by Officers is pretty much the same in all the US Services, so what is the problem - if an officer is wearing railroad tracks and meets an officer wearing an eagle he/she will know to salute.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2015 4:17 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 16:17:22 -0400

It doesn't have to be taught for most uniforms. All the collar devices for officers are intentionally paygrade specific, so an O-3 is an O-3 and an O-6 is and O-6. However when we wear the uniforms with stripes, that causes problems.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2015 4:17 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 16:17:43 -0400

I went to Navy boot camp just 2 years ago and was not taught other branches ranks, however just being around the military now I have learned them for myself.

Response by CPT Brian Delrosario made Oct 8 at 2015 6:26 PM

CPT Brian Delrosario — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 18:26:56 -0400

True story. At Fort Polk, Louisiana, I worked with a Sergeant First Class (SFC) (Army E-7) in a unit that trained sister service members for deployment in support of OEF. One time we had a student who was a Navy "full bird" (Navy Captain or O-6). The SFC kept referring to him as the Navy "Colonel."

To let him save face, I pretended to feel confused and said, "Oh okay, Captain [So-and-so]. I'll relay the message." But then ... he tried to correct me.

I pointed out, "I was a US Marine for nine years, I'm pretty sure I know his rank, but maybe I'm wrong. Let's go ask him." So, we asked him. My friend exclaimed, "Man! Why are Navy ranks so weird!"

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2015 6:39 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 18:39:02 -0400

What's funny is being a PO3 in cammies and being saulted by PFC's and Airmen Basics! They think you're a Colonel.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Oct 8 at 2015 7:53 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 19:53:52 -0400

You should have seen my confusion the first time I saw a warrant officer's insignia and heard his response about my lack of training. On another note, it was always fun to call the O Club at Pearl Harbor and reserve a table in my own name and rank, then see the scramble to move my reservation from the front of the room to a table in the hinterlands when they saw me. Yes, there is a vast difference between an Army and a Navy captain, and this young officer had better learn it...

Response by PO1 George Titsworth made Oct 8 at 2015 8:08 PM

PO1 George Titsworth — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 20:08:20 -0400

An Army Captain would be commensurate to a Navy Lieutenant. A Navy Captain would be commensurate to an Army Colonel. Didn't they teach ranks in bootcamp?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2015 9:57 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 21:57:09 -0400

SN Greg Wright I can't help but smile when I read your Question. I'd vote you up again if I could for that reason alone. I went Army but the Navy holds a special place in my heart and it always will.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2015 11:19 AM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 11:19:44 -0400

He may not recognize the name, but he would sure as hell recognize the insignia. The argument is a mute point since you need to see the person's rank in order to salute doesn't matter what it's called

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2015 12:08 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 12:08:30 -0400

They didn't teach us the other branches when I went to boot camp. I grew up Army and joined the Marines. I've been with a joint command with the Navy the past three years. The only one I haven't picked up over time is the Airforce.

Response by SrA David Steyer made Oct 10 at 2015 12:11 PM

SrA David Steyer — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 12:11:14 -0400

I learned in AF BMT. Every time I have saluted an officer from another branch I get a "Thank you" and I kind of wonder why? Do AF enlisted and/or officers don't salute other branches? My last group (clinic) commander was a prior army officer and now an AF Colonel and I was told a story that he ripped some Army Captain a new one for being rude, no headgear, no salute and wouldn't have really been mad had the Captain just saluted.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2015 12:30 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 12:30:19 -0400

The Army does not. As everyone else - except the Navy/Coast Guard - uses the same O-rank structure. It's something you must desire to learn on your own.

Response by LTC Joseph Gross made Oct 10 at 2015 12:34 PM

LTC Joseph Gross — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 12:34:06 -0400

It would be obvious to an Army captain who might possibly, if he were lost run into a navy captain. The private just doesn't have this worry. Doesn't mean he shouldn't know the rules though!

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2015 1:58 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 13:58:06 -0400

The Navy SHOULD teach it since they're the only oddballs using an officer rank structure that is different from the other services.

Response by SSgt Chris Enslow made Oct 10 at 2015 2:04 PM

SSgt Chris Enslow — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 14:04:57 -0400

The short answer is "no", they did not teach ranks other than our own branch during Army boot camp. However, I was then sent to Corry Station for AIT and we immediately had to learn all ranks in all branches. No liberty and no passes given until we passed off a flash card test that had all service ranks included.

It was tough at first; I went around saluting chiefs, etc. But the right chief stopped me and told me a few secrets on chief vs. officer rank and insignia in the Navy. Never made the mistake again.

There's a message there, and as NCO I followed the same strategy.

Response by PO3 Danielle Smith made Oct 10 at 2015 2:41 PM

PO3 Danielle Smith — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 14:41:48 -0400

For our advancement test, we had to learn ALL of the ranks, enlisted and officers and the chief warrant officers, in each service. With navy and coast guard, it's similar in a way, but not entirely. The other three branches are a bit harder to remember, but helps to look it up.

Response by CPO Randy Francis made Oct 10 at 2015 4:24 PM

CPO Randy Francis — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 16:24:59 -0400

When I was a First Class Petty Officer I served in a SeaBee Detachment which trained a lot on Army bases (note: I am prior service Army). One day when entering the mess hall on the Army base I along with three of my shipmates were saluted and given a "good morning sir" by a couple of Army E-3s. I returned their salute and kept walking. This happened again upon us leaving the mess hall bu a couple more Army E-2s and E-3s. I again returned their salute and kept walking. Finally my puzzled shipmates stopped me and asked why I had returned the kids' salutes and not corrected them. At that point I pointed to my collar and asked "What do you see?" and he said "a Petty Officer First Class". I said "What's on my my collar?" and he said "a crow and three stripes". I just smiled and said "Nope - those kids saw an eagle and assumed it was the first time in their careers that they had ever seen four full bird Colonels coming out of the mess hall at the same time and they are taught to salute first and ask questions later." It appears that that concept is no longer in play.

Response by MSG Alfred Aguilar made Oct 10 at 2015 6:28 PM

MSG Alfred Aguilar — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 18:28:20 -0400

They are not the same pay grade. An Army Captain must salute a Navy Captain.

Response by SFC Scott Fifield made Oct 10 at 2015 6:40 PM

SFC Scott Fifield — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 18:40:19 -0400

I spent 33 years in boots and as an E1 I new the difference between an army capt O3 and a navy capt O6, and yes you had dam well better salute the O6 or suffer the consequences. But who knows in this man's army maybe they are to much of gentlemen. Glad I retired last year. The politics were killing me. God bless the USA.

Response by MSG Alfred Aguilar made Oct 10 at 2015 6:50 PM

MSG Alfred Aguilar — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 18:50:54 -0400

I went to Boot Camp in 1973, at that time they did not teach us about rank in other services. It was not common for us to come in contact with other services. I believe they should teach this today, the services work more closely now.

Response by SSG Duane Tyler made Oct 10 at 2015 6:55 PM

SSG Duane Tyler — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 18:55:55 -0400

In basic I was shown the OTHER various rank structures and was told to salute if you recognized the rank. I didn't have to use it until 10 yrs later on my 2nd tour of Hawaii and had the opportunity to work on a Navy base for 6 months. Thanks to my Marine counterparts I was taught NOT to salute the "Anchor"!!! (Navy E-7) LOL

Response by PFC Greg Ortiz made Oct 10 at 2015 9:26 PM

PFC Greg Ortiz — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 21:26:44 -0400

The ranks for all services are in your issued handbook. And every soldier should know that a Navy Captain is the equivalent rank of Colonel, so an Army, Air Force, or Marine Captain knows that you salute a higher ranking officer

Response by LT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2015 9:42 PM

LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 21:42:28 -0400

I will say that when I went to medical on Hunter AAF, which was plenty of times when I was stationed there in the Coast Guard, I only got saluted once out of well over 100 uniformed army personell. The one that saluted me was a friend of mine. I guess us Coasties don't count...

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2015 10:48 PM

LTJG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 22:48:41 -0400

I doubt it. I'm a Navy Warrant stationed on an Air Force base. Airmen, even senior enlisted, frequently don't salute. I assume it is because they don't have Warrants anymore (believe they got rid of them in 1986).

Response by CH (CPT) Ephraim Travis made Oct 10 at 2015 11:06 PM

CH (CPT) Ephraim Travis — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 23:06:21 -0400

The Army taught me to salute the ranks of other branches.

As one of few Jewish Chaplains, the insignia on my cover is rarely seen by most. Thus, I've been called SGM, COL, SPC and my favorite and most often asked question, "What is that on your soft cap? I've never seen it before."

I've had several SPCs insist that I took the wrong cover because they've never seen the Tablets before it doesn't match the rank on my chest. Of course they respectfully asked me to check my cover. Seriously, not of them were sarcastic. I've had Enlisted personnel and O-1s/O-2s of all branches walk right past me without saluting. I'll never forget my first day on Bragg, a 56M, MSG was escorting me and assisting me with in-processing. A SPC walked right past us without saluting and the MSG had a field day with the kid. I felt terrible for the kid.

Response by Cadet 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2015 11:06 PM

Cadet 2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 23:06:36 -0400

It depends on if it was a Navy Captain which is the O-6 rank in the Navy or if it was a Lieutenant in the Navy which is an O-3 in the Navy but a Captain in the Army because the Navy has to be different than all the other branches. Now if it's an O-3 vs O-3 encounter then it's technically based on date of rank but most don't go around announcing or asking for date of rank. Now if you are the same rank it isn't required to solute unless you know the date of rank or if they are your superior. An example being I knew some people in the 173rd Airborne who's company commander and company XO were both Captains & the XO had to salute the CO.

Response by Cadet 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2015 11:13 PM

Cadet 2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 23:13:23 -0400

And yes at least in ROTC we know and learn the other services ranks but as I said only the navy is different in rank from the rest. But I already knew this because the military is my life & I extensively researched each branch since I was around 5. But I don't really remember if we were taught other branches ranks when I was on active duty. Also Coast Guard is not military. They fall under Department of Homeland Security not Department of Defense which is why they have law enforcement privileges and the Army, Navy, AF, & Marines don't.

Response by SPC Lorne Smith made Oct 11 at 2015 2:03 AM

SPC Lorne Smith — Sun, 11 Oct 2015 02:03:32 -0400

Went through Army boot in 94 and we learned all the ranks. We were not, however, told that Marine Staff Sergeants would throw a tantrum if we called them sergeant instead of staff sergeant, like we do in the Army. Found that out the hard way at a pistol range when I called the range cadre Sergeant and he was a Ssgt.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2015 5:06 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Oct 2015 05:06:31 -0400

Well seeing as how they are only different in name, there is no reason any Soldier shouldn't recognize the insigina. I seriously doubt any branch teaches all the branches rank during basic/boot camp. It would honestly be a waste of time. I would assume the Soldier kid just didn't realize the difference in actual grade. Regardless he is young so he is allowed to make mistakes.

Response by PO2 Angel Morales-Moya made Oct 11 at 2015 6:54 AM

PO2 Angel Morales-Moya — Sun, 11 Oct 2015 06:54:31 -0400

The Army doesn't teach jack squat. I went to Army basic as an NCO back in 2014 an they didn't teach rank, common courtesy, UCMJ, Drill, hand to hand combat. It's such a joke, they never even did bunk of locker inspections.

Response by PO3 David Davis made Oct 11 at 2015 6:43 PM

PO3 David Davis — Sun, 11 Oct 2015 18:43:11 -0400

Sounds like education is needed.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2015 11:17 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Oct 2015 23:17:28 -0400

No they don't.

Response by SPC Robert Bahr made Oct 12 at 2015 5:14 PM

SPC Robert Bahr — Mon, 12 Oct 2015 17:14:18 -0400

When I was in Army basic in 1998 I had to know the rank structure of all branches. And our Drill instructors made sure of it

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2015 6:57 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Oct 2015 18:57:43 -0400

Actually the Navy equivalent of an Army Captain is a Lieutenant. Sounds more like some "miscommunication". Although save the Marines, ALL The other services could do a better job teaching troops military protocol. It's not the job of a LTC to teach junior Sailors, Airmen or soldiers saluting etiquette. Nor is it our job to explain that a silver oak leaf, worn by an Army officer is not a "Sergeant", "Commander", "Major", or "LT".

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2015 8:27 PM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Oct 2015 20:27:49 -0400

Your absolutely right that it is not taught in basic. In face, there is a couple of pages printed in the soldiers handbook that show the rank of other branches, so if the soldier never researches for himself or herself then it is never learned.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2015 8:58 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Oct 2015 20:58:34 -0400

To put it short, no. I only learned Army ranks in basic. Had to learn the others myself.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2015 11:24 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 11:24:09 -0400

The highlight of my career thus far is standing in the a room with an angry Army CPT on a conference call with my CO (USCG O-6), initiating the conversation by saying "Look, we need to have a talk, Captain to Captain..." You can guess the tone of the rest of his diatribe as he blessed out my O-6 because he was unhappy that I (a lowly PO3 at the time) temporarily shut down his operation on a terminal due to unsafe HAZMAT shipments. My CO let him ramble and finish, the proceeded to enlighten this O-3 on what a CG Captain meant. It was all I could do to keep from chuckling like a school girl.

Response by SN Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2015 1:53 PM

SN Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 13:53:52 -0400

Navy boot camp, we were required to learn ranks from all the branches, but it wasn't heavily pushed on us.

Response by TSgt John Pelkey made Oct 13 at 2015 6:44 PM

TSgt John Pelkey — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 18:44:20 -0400

When I was at Lackland in 1988, we were not trained about other services rank structure. But, I had no problem with the O ranks, and WO's were just different enough to know they got a salute. An officer was an officer. I didn't need to know what they were called to recognize the bronze or silver. And knowing what the rank was was only difficult when dealing with the Navy (I did know the silver eagle was a Captain, but keeping track of the Stars was almost impossible and I was glad I never got to meet one). And don't get me started on the E ranks. But I gave respect to the silver and bronze, whatever the service.

Response by SSG John Erny made Oct 13 at 2015 6:54 PM

SSG John Erny — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 18:54:41 -0400

There are rank posters with all the branches posted in many places; however, for a new Army private the Navy is a bit confusing. I was taught when in doubt address the unknown rank as sir, if they are an officer you are good to go, if it is an NCO they will correct you. The worst that could happen is pushups and privates will likely be doing them anyway!

Response by MAJ Aaron Bien made Oct 13 at 2015 9:02 PM

MAJ Aaron Bien — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 21:02:30 -0400

My brother was navy and when I showed up at Oxnard one time to find him I told the guard I was Capt. Bien and shit happened. Was pretty nice!

Response by MSG Monique Martin made Oct 15 at 2015 1:28 PM

MSG Monique Martin — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 13:28:16 -0400

Your son's friend was wrong. We used to teach (familiarize) all rank in BT, and I think they still do. Do we test them on all ranks for all branches, no. It is called Basic Training for a reason - Just the basics. We can get bent around the axel over every perceived slight, or lack of respect, or you could use it as a teachable moment and make him a better Soldier, which I am sure you did.

Response by MSG Monique Martin made Oct 15 at 2015 1:30 PM

MSG Monique Martin — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 13:30:55 -0400

I just remember having the light go off when I first learned Navy rank...I remember thinking "OH! That's why everybody sucks up to Captain Kirk!!!!" Still makes me laugh. :)

Response by LTC Guy Diffenbaugh made Oct 15 at 2015 9:34 PM

LTC Guy Diffenbaugh — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 21:34:23 -0400

They did when I was in. I'm quite certain the 06 can bring a dose of reality to the young 03. If it were me he would wish he had never had the encounter.

Response by PO3 Alan Schweizer made Dec 22 at 2015 12:07 AM

PO3 Alan Schweizer — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 00:07:45 -0500

what an idiot.......an army captain is an 0-3....a navy captain is an 0-6

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2015 6:05 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 06:05:06 -0500

This is common courtesy, tradition in the armed forces. However, this brings me the memory of many officers in Disney drive in Bagram trying to catch soldiers that didn't salute them. I always had contempt for POGs or fobbits in a combat zone having garrison mentality.

Response by SGT Francis Wright made Dec 22 at 2015 6:06 AM

SGT Francis Wright — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 06:06:14 -0500

Everyone should know that a Navy Captain is an O-6; which is an Army Full Colonel. Ignorance is no excuse, when in doubt whip out that salute.

Response by PO2 Mark Saffell made Dec 22 at 2015 6:55 AM

PO2 Mark Saffell — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 06:55:44 -0500

In my day in boot we had to know all of the ranks. Still 40 years later, I still know them. Sad an active duty member doesn't know the ranks. And just for some OMG if an Army Captain passed a Navy Captain and didn't salute I sure would not like to be that Army Captain. WOW

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2015 7:50 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 07:50:46 -0500

The rank structure was in our "Smart book" the one we had to learn back in the day. I would say that is no longer taught, as it might stress new soldiers out. LOL! Yeah, Army CPT and a Navy Capt. Too tooootally different Captains!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2015 9:30 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 09:30:26 -0500

I was surprised, going through army basic, that the recognition of other branches officers was at the low end of the totem poll when it came to importance. The DS's had it in their curriculum but it was for about 5 min and it was offhand.
In AF basic, we HAD to know the sister branches officer ranks. Didn't tote on the enlisted side much, but, we were damn sure gonna learn the difference between a CAPT (O-6) and a CAPT (O-3). Although, as a personal note, I always thought calling a Naval butter bar "ensign" was an insult lol.
Naval enlisted rank names will be the death of me and one of the reasons I never became a "Seaman" lol. (Sorry my naval comrades, I'm bad about poking fun).

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2015 10:42 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 10:42:32 -0500

I know we were trained on all four (Sorry, Coast Guard) services when I went to basic in '85.

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Dec 22 at 2015 10:45 AM

SGT Bryon Sergent — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 10:45:35 -0500

We were taught in the late 80's. The Marine enlisted is a little confusing! I was told by my grandfather, who was Navy, if gold on the sleeve, salute. If they are wearing pin on rank then I know what they are! Star don't matter rear admiral or full admiral I don't know, just see stars and salute. I was also taught when in doubt whip it out. Better to get chastised by a Non Com that chewed by and officer for not.

Brings up a funny story. Was dark out in Afghanistan, seen someone coming, all of a sudden I get saluted, I returned. Stopped the gentleman to tell him that I wasn't an officer. It was a Major. He said that my cover rank looked like a Lt Col and he saluted. I took off my cover to look and I didn't see how. We laughed I saluted him and carried on!

Response by PO2 Mark Saffell made Dec 22 at 2015 11:26 AM

PO2 Mark Saffell — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 11:26:10 -0500

Rank is easy but here is where I totally get confused with the other services. Saluting in doors. The Navy doesn't salute when not covered and we don't wear our cover in doors. Trust me. stepping across the bright work in boot covered will teach you quickly. If that doesn't take hold, The first time you walk into an Enlisted Club covered it will cost you $$. "He who enters here covered shall by the bar a round of cheer". So a teaching moment here. When do you guys salute in doors?

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2015 12:42 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 12:42:55 -0500

The Navy probably makes recruits learn them all because the others are a piece of cake after navigating the Rube Goldberg that is the Navy rate and rank system. :-) It is tougher to learn and identify (especially with tiny shiny rank) than the AF enlisted system of excessive superfluous stripes. I've known the essentials of the other branches since some time prior to my Army commissioning, but even now I sometimes still have to check a chart or an app to make sure I am correctly referencing the rank and/or rate of a Navy enlisted person. Even though the system is unnecessary convoluted for some of us boots-in-the-dirt Army folks, I suppose the main point of the discussion is that if you aren't sure, err on the side of respect and look it up or ask someone rather than starting an argument about it.

Response by CSM Michael Poll made Dec 22 at 2015 12:45 PM

CSM Michael Poll — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 12:45:03 -0500

I am speaking without knowing the context of the conversation, but perhaps the young man in question did not know the naval equivalent of a Captain in the Army is COL. It took me years to try and figure out each branch rank structure and the Navy is on of the most difficult. I think this young man thought a Naval captain was an O-3 like the other service branches. Your son is wise. I would love to see an Army Captain not Salute a Naval Captain... that's just good TV...

Response by COL Ted Mc made Dec 22 at 2015 12:50 PM

COL Ted Mc — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 12:50:52 -0500

SN Greg Wright Seaman; It sure was common when I joined and as long as I served.

Of course, you had to learn for yourself when you were to call a Captain "Commodore" and when you were to call a Captain "Major" and when you were to call a Lieutenant "Captain". (That sort of thing was considered MUCH too complicated for us poor ground pounders.)

I understand that the Air Force has sorted the whole thing out and you just call Captains "Hey you.".

Response by SrA Matthew Knight made Dec 22 at 2015 1:20 PM

SrA Matthew Knight — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 13:20:16 -0500

At Air Force basic training we had a sign in our dorm that had all of the branches ranks on them but we never specifically covered it with any instructors. It was mainly just a gee-wiz type of thing if you had time and wanted to study it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2015 1:34 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 13:34:11 -0500

they taught me, WHENEVER you see something shiny, SALUTE IT! It's better/safer for the recipient of the salute to say, 'no need to brother' than for them to say, 'hey, where's the salute?' Just what they taught me...

Response by SSG Todd Halverson made Dec 22 at 2015 2:36 PM

SSG Todd Halverson — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 14:36:45 -0500

When I went through basic we were never taught the other branches rank structure. We were just shown these are officers and everything else is enlisted.
Once I had been in for a while I started working with the other branches on a regular basis. I then started to learn the various officer ranks. Always messed with the Navy Captain I worked with while on one of my deployments. I would always walk into his AO and say Good Morning Captain... I soon had others in his office repeating it once I came in, then we would start singing the Captain Kangaroo song. He got a kick out of that.

Response by SGT Joseph Schmalzel made Dec 22 at 2015 5:36 PM

SGT Joseph Schmalzel — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 17:36:10 -0500

I used to get saluted all the time because I wore a flight suit. So soldiers would just presume I had to be an officer. Most of the time I just saluted back. It could get strange when there were a few soldiers spread out walking. After the first one saluted it was the domino effect. I was a crew chief not a pilot.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2015 6:16 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 18:16:38 -0500

OK, got it that we don't "teach" ranks of the other services. They do however, look the same. If a CPT in the Navy came around, he would be wearing something that looks exactly like O-6/COL rank on his hat. So of course he would be rendered a salute and the greeting of the day. I always tell my Soldiers that if they are unsure about whether to salute or not, "when in doubt, whip it out". I would much rather salute someone than you are not supposed to, than not render proper military courtesy to those that deserve it. I was stationed on a Navy base in Rhode Island, and it did take me a minute to figure out what the stars on the anchor mean.

Response by PO2 Peter Klein made Dec 22 at 2015 7:09 PM

PO2 Peter Klein — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 19:09:36 -0500

A look at the officer's collar should tell you where each of you is in the picking order, regardless of the service.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 23 at 2015 12:56 AM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 Dec 2015 00:56:15 -0500

Here's a tricky one that drives me nuts in the Navy:
Jackets worn with wear with flight suits (Leather Jackets, Green fleeces) do not have ranks on the shoulders. If the officer is wearing a command ball cap you have to wait until your close enough to see what his breast insignia is since enlisted aircrew wings are also gold.

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made Dec 23 at 2015 2:58 AM

PO1 Rick Serviss — Wed, 23 Dec 2015 02:58:54 -0500

I was in the Navy and there was a comparison chart with pics of the ranks of each branch. I never did learn the enlisted past Staff Sergeant, but I knew the difference in rank of officers between all of them.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 23 at 2015 11:20 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 Dec 2015 11:20:35 -0500

Eh I know all the officer ranks... Sir! Lol though seriously I do. The enlisted side gets fun, I kinda know Marines, can guess at Air Force and Navy is an enigma wrapped in a riddle stuffed in a puzzle

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 24 at 2015 12:55 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 24 Dec 2015 00:55:20 -0500

When I was an Army 1LT, I was assigned to the Naval Postgraduate School as a student. While there, I was promoted to Captain. This was decades ago, before everyone had cell phone cameras, and it was common at Army posts to call the post AV section and have a photographer come out and take the "official" promotion ceremony photos. So I called the NPGS AV section, and asked if they took photos for promotion ceremonies. The guy asked "to what rank" and I innocently answered Captain, not even thinking about the difference. The guy says "of course, sir" and we made the appointment.

Day of the ceremony, the photographer shows up, and I walk over and introduce myself. He then goes "where's the officer getting promoted to Captain?" and I said "that's me". By the look of disgust/disappointment on his face, I then realized what had happened. Before I could say anything else, he said "well, OK, I'm here anyway" and went on to take great pictures of the newly promoted Captain. I'm sure he must have gone back to the office and complained about how he had just been sent to take pictures of a "Lieutenant's" promotion.

Response by PO2 Sam Messer made Dec 24 at 2015 4:33 PM

PO2 Sam Messer — Thu, 24 Dec 2015 16:33:50 -0500

I was in boot 1966 and all we were taught was Navy Rank & how to recognize Officers of any branch. Never got into Navy vs other services officer's rank. I learned what I know by O T J T, & living with Marines. I still have problems with the Air Force rank, LOL !

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2015 12:45 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 30 Dec 2015 12:45:18 -0500

We did not learn them until we got assigned to a JTF. Led to a funny incident where our BN XO, a MAJ (O-4) called and reamed out a Navy CAPT at one of the J shops, only to have that CAPT show up at the TOC and lock him up.

Response by SGT Andrew Goetsch made Jan 19 at 2016 1:53 PM

SGT Andrew Goetsch — Tue, 19 Jan 2016 13:53:42 -0500

Actually, there usually aren't any Army Captains in Naval facilities. They tend to get temporarily promoted to Major to avoid confusion.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made May 9 at 2016 6:52 AM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Mon, 09 May 2016 06:52:35 -0400

Never taught during basic. Only know a few of the different ranks from the different branches of the military.

Response by Sgt David G Duchesneau made May 9 at 2016 10:28 AM

Sgt David G Duchesneau — Mon, 09 May 2016 10:28:39 -0400

I was taught to respect all rank no matter what branch of Service. A salute is a sign of respect and it's only common courtesy. I mean WTF-Over, it's just common sense. The trouble with common sense is that it cannot be taught. Either you have it or you don't!

Response by CPO Emmett (Bud) Carpenter made May 9 at 2016 10:53 AM

CPO Emmett (Bud) Carpenter — Mon, 09 May 2016 10:53:31 -0400

As a Navy Chief every time I was on a Marine or Air Force base I got saluted every time I turned around. There was nothing I could do about it.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made May 9 at 2016 11:39 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 09 May 2016 11:39:48 -0400

Of course a Navy CAPT is a higher ranking. It's just we, as the Navy, are the ones who have to be different and make our ranking system a bit different. I'm usually good with enlisted and officer ranks in other branches but when it get to E7 and above, I get confused. On the officer's side, the Generals are a bit difficult, as I would imagine our Admirals would be a bit difficult too.

Either they didn't spend a whole lot of time with the other branches or just left it up to the privates to decide for themselves. Idk if they still have "Training guides" that they have to study but the ranking system should already be in there. It's up to the soldier to study it. I took the time to study as much as I could and I still get the Corps, Army and Air Force E7 and above mixed up.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made May 9 at 2016 1:22 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Mon, 09 May 2016 13:22:35 -0400

I've had a good time with this subject over the years. When I was an AF Captain stationed at Langley AFB, VA, my wife was in Navy Portsmouth Hospital for some specialized tests. She was treated very well because her record reflected she was the wife of "CAPT Coe." The nurses and technicians were very polite thinking she was probably the "trophy wife" of an older Navy Captain (we were under 25 at the time). Then I showed up in AF uniform. Wife said the attitude of the staff changed after I left; however the medical care was excellent.

I've was "sir'd" a lot on the phone when I called a Naval Air Station and spoke to the Officer of the Day, a Navy LT (O-3) to get flight clearance or other information. If it became excessive I'd usually say something like, "Take it easy Lieutenant, I'm just an Air Force Captain." We usually had a good laugh.

I served over 5 years in joint duty with all the services. I learned the Navy and Coast Guard officer ranks quickly because I worked with them everyday. In the joint world we bent to the need for clarity by changing our informal address when using the phone to "Lieutenant Colonel Coe," or "Navy Captain Johnson". Really helped when working with other joint or combined service staffs.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Jul 4 at 2016 4:23 AM

PO1 John Miller — Mon, 04 Jul 2016 04:23:22 -0400

Gotta love those RP "hiccups!" I just got a notification that you posted this thread! Or is it because it got edited?

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 4 at 2016 5:12 AM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 04 Jul 2016 05:12:48 -0400

No they do not teach that anymore. None of the branches do. Also there is a matter of the fact that Army Captain and Navy Captain is not the same rank. Army Captain is O-3 while Navy Captain is O-6. So if you meant O-3 to O-3, there is no salute necessary. If you meant O-3 to O-6, they should render a salute but if the O-6 waves them off, it's not necessary.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2017 2:04 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 14:04:17 -0400

Late to the party but yes they teach it. I am currently on a Joint Army/Air Force base and I regularly salute Air Force Officers, I would do the same for Navy, Marine, and Coast Guard Officers as well.

Response by SGT Ruben Lozada made Nov 22 at 2022 11:53 PM

SGT Ruben Lozada — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 23:53:37 -0500

Excellent question. By Your question. An Army Captain is junior to a Navy Captain. Because the Army Captain is wearing double bars, which in the Navy would be a Lieutenant. Not sure if Army BCT teachrs this. But, when I was RTC Orlando We were taught of Navy ranks only ranks only and not other branches ranks. When I switched over to the Army I thought it was the same, but I rapidly found out that many of the ranks are different.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2023 7:54 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 02 Feb 2023 07:54:31 -0500

Since all officer rank symbols are the same across the services if an Army Captain saw a Navy Captain he'd definitely salute. Sounds like this new recruit wasn't paying attention to his smart book or they don't use those anymore.

Response by SPC Patrick Young made Feb 8 at 2023 1:23 PM

SPC Patrick Young — Wed, 08 Feb 2023 13:23:21 -0500

We never learned naval or Marine or Air Force rank in the Army, only our own. Things like Gunney Sergeants and petty officers, which admiral is higher than others, you learn that thru hook or crook, or not at al.

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Feb 8 at 2023 3:37 PM

Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth — Wed, 08 Feb 2023 15:37:00 -0500

Don't salute a Navy Captain and let's see what happens. 3...2...1...BOOM!

Response by MAJ Dean Thompson made Apr 14 at 2023 8:38 PM

MAJ Dean Thompson — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 20:38:21 -0400

Maybe they don't teach the different ranks of different services at West Point, but I can tell u they taught us in Army ROTC in the early 70s!

Response by SSgt Michael Bowen made Apr 16 at 2023 7:55 AM

SSgt Michael Bowen — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 07:55:25 -0400

I went through boot in the Marine Corps 1 mar 72 . and was told the difference between a Marine Corps captain and a navy captain. I also served into the army later and they do teach the difference as well . A Marine Corps captain as well as Army and Air force captain are 0-3's A Navy Captain is an 0-6 So they damn well better salute him/her . They are equal to a full bird Colonel

Response by CSM Dean Keveles made Apr 16 at 2023 9:48 AM

CSM Dean Keveles — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 09:48:18 -0400

If an Army Captain and Navy Captain were each in Uniform and cross each other's path, assuredly the Army Captian would see the rank insiginia of the Navy Captian and relize he was an O-6 and thus saulte. As in the Army, we say you're saluting the Rank, not the person.

Response by Adam Denton made Apr 17 at 2023 7:12 AM

Adam Denton — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 07:12:54 -0400

Sadly no from my awareness. I actually chose to take the time to learn officer grades as an AF civilian; but most people I know who went through BMT/BCT only learned their own branch’s grades. I wish that was taught to more people. CAPT in the Army is equivalent to a lieutenant in the Navy.

Response by SGT Eric McComis made Apr 17 at 2023 9:31 AM

SGT Eric McComis — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 09:31:37 -0400

Ok so many things wrong with this post, for starters who gives a shit? Clearly if this is what you chose to write about you were a POAG. This article is pathetic and was a complete waste of my time reading, thank you. A captain is a captain.

Response by SPC William Szkromiuk made Apr 17 at 2023 11:27 AM

SPC William Szkromiuk — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 11:27:49 -0400

Nope did not learn Navy Ranks. And I "damned well" don't care. Respect is a two way street.

Response by MSgt Horace Smith made Apr 17 at 2023 5:05 PM

MSgt Horace Smith — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 17:05:22 -0400

When I joined the Air Force in February, 1965, our basic training did NOT include recognizing Navy rank. While I rarely encountered Naval Officers until my final month long TDY to Roosevelt Roads in October, 1991, I always looked for their rank insignia on their collar that was familiar to me. I did know the ranks associated with the collar insignia from Ensign to Admiral but the various sleeve bands meant nothing to me. The Air Force, Army and Marines all share rank insignia so that was never a problem. And, of course, I always rendered a proper salute to all Officers of all branches.

Response by SGT Dana Haskins made Apr 18 at 2023 2:57 PM

SGT Dana Haskins — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 14:57:13 -0400

I went to Navy basic in 1984, it was not taught then.

Response by SGT Barry Wilson made Apr 18 at 2023 5:38 PM

SGT Barry Wilson — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 17:38:32 -0400

We were taught the various ranks in BCT (Ft Lewis) and MP AIT (Ft Gordon) in 1967. I had no trouble recognizing the differences at my first assignment, the Underground Pentagon, with all services involved.

Response by LCDR Jerry Maurer made Apr 19 at 2023 11:36 PM

LCDR Jerry Maurer — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 23:36:17 -0400

Nope, not taught in either service. I wore my dress blues to my sons promotion. As an 0-4, they treated me like an admiral. They had no idea.

Response by SPC Kenneth Berry made Apr 24 at 2023 8:25 AM

SPC Kenneth Berry — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 08:25:23 -0400

The Navy is the only branch that rank is different from the rest. All the other branches a Capt is above a Lieutenant but below a Major. In the navy a Capt is the same rank as an Colonel in the other branches. But no rank of the navoy is not brought up.

Response by PO3 Matthew Clouse made Apr 25 at 2023 1:40 PM

PO3 Matthew Clouse — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 13:40:33 -0400

The Navy definitely did teach us the difference.

Response by SGT Paul Russo made May 10 at 2023 3:53 PM

SGT Paul Russo — Wed, 10 May 2023 15:53:32 -0400

I kinda vaguely remember in 70's trying really hard to not nod off during a slide show in a dark cool room after running 2 miles in the July heat of Fort Dix ,

Response by PO1 Michael Fulgium made May 13 at 2023 9:43 AM

PO1 Michael Fulgium — Sat, 13 May 2023 09:43:09 -0400

Yeah, we were taught that in boot camp. The Bluejackets Manual shows all the ranks of the various services. Still have mine!

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2023 2:20 PM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 May 2023 14:20:50 -0400

Well a navy captain is a full bird colonel in the army so they better salute. But here's something to think about. What does it matter what's the rank is called cause if you're saluting. You see the ra k on their collar or chest. And officer ranks are the same look across the card. So it doesn't matter what it's called.

Response by SFC Michael Lindenbusch made May 28 at 2023 2:44 AM

SFC Michael Lindenbusch — Sun, 28 May 2023 02:44:17 -0400

Short answer is no. In one sense, it's hard enough in Basic to teach a single service's ranks, let alone all of the others. In another sense, it is pretty unnecessary at that point because someone at that level will have a lot of time to pick it up before it really becomes an issue.

Response by MSG Bob S made May 28 at 2023 12:50 PM

MSG Bob S — Sun, 28 May 2023 12:50:08 -0400

They do not and during basic training it’s rather unnecessary in my opinion as one is being indoctrinated into their particular choice in a branch of the Military. I personally didn’t take the time to learn that until the GWOT and I started working with SEALs and other branches SOF

Response by 1LT Neal Schwartz made May 31 at 2023 10:23 AM

1LT Neal Schwartz — Wed, 31 May 2023 10:23:23 -0400

In my day, any O3 (Army Captain) would definitely salute any O6 (Navy Captain) regardless what service they were in.

Response by SPC Joel Quey made Jun 4 at 2023 1:33 PM

SPC Joel Quey — Sun, 04 Jun 2023 13:33:00 -0400

There's no set thing. There's like a million things to teach, and some platoons have issues that Drill Sergeants have to deal with. If a couple recruits are a less high-speed, it can slow everything down. My platoon in Basic was like that. We only barely went over our own chain of command. I never even learned it

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 10 at 2023 12:52 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 12:52:01 -0400

A NAVY CAPTAIN is an Officer 6, O6, what’s the issue here?? What’s all the drama??? Ridiculous whining.
Clearly, that Army Officer 3 or O3/ O3E [Officer 3 with peior service RA enlisted minimum 4 years] is bound to salute the O6.
Drama unnecessary drama, smh

Response by CSM William Payne made Jul 13 at 2023 7:53 AM

CSM William Payne — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 07:53:49 -0400

When I was a drill sergeant we did teach all service ranks.I used to have the chart we instructed by in my garage for many years, along with the flash cards. But we did not spend an inordinate amount of time on the other services. The Navy and the Coast Guard were to toughest for the officer ranks because of their difference from the other services. Same for enlisted services, the Navy rates and the Air Force with all their stripes were also tough to teach the trainees. Being a Navy brat, I was familiar with the Navy officer ranks. And when I tried to explain to my Army comrades that my father retired a SFC from the Navy, they would ask he was a Sergeant First Class? No, he was a Ship Fitter Chief (Chief Petty Officer), a rate that no longer exists. The most confusing time I spent in the Army was at Fort Moore (Benning) when they were conducting the School of Americas. They would have enlisted from other countries with more brass on their shoulders than a five star general. We would salute everybody. When in doubt, whip it out.

Response by COL Howard McGillin made Jul 13 at 2023 2:13 PM

COL Howard McGillin — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 14:13:38 -0400

I was stationed near a Navy base when I was a CPT and had to call for a HHG move. I don’t think I pulled the wool over anyone’s eyes and stood in line ( like I should have) with everyone else for “mere mortal” service. They DID teach / force me to learn the other services ranks at USMA and I’m glad they did. I hope they still do. We work together as a team these days - our service affiliation is more about heritage and unit pride and specialized training.
You have to also remember that the commander of ANY Navy ship is its “Captain” regardless of his or her rank. So my friend - then a Commander (O5) who skippered a frigate was it’s Captain!

Response by LCpl Jeff Moore made Jul 14 at 2023 2:54 PM

LCpl Jeff Moore — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 14:54:52 -0400

Sounds like a Poole that has not learn the ranks yets

Response by SPC Vonnie Jones made Jul 16 at 2023 12:26 AM

SPC Vonnie Jones — Sun, 16 Jul 2023 00:26:09 -0400

I was in basic in 7/1980 they taught use at Ft McClellan Army rank and a little of our service rank, but they did have a chart with all the services rank. I have, brothers in all the services and know I couldn't remember our branch ranks. I often had to support the Airfore in GE, so I faithfully practiced WHEN IN DOUBT WIP IT OUT LOL

Response by Sgt Michael Clifford made Jul 16 at 2023 9:35 AM

Sgt Michael Clifford — Sun, 16 Jul 2023 09:35:50 -0400

I know that at Paris Island in 1962 we were taught about rank equivalencies and customs and courtisies. While we didn't get into specifics we were also told that we were also expected to salute officer of other nations.

Response by PO2 Stephen Brownell made Jul 17 at 2023 2:24 PM

PO2 Stephen Brownell — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 14:24:20 -0400

When in boot camp we were taught to salute all officers no matter what service you were in .

Response by MSgt Horace Smith made Jul 17 at 2023 6:59 PM

MSgt Horace Smith — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 18:59:27 -0400

The Air Force did not teach Navy rank when I went through basic training. However, I knew to look for their collar insignia and also recognize that Navy Officers have sleeve bands and epaulet stripes designating their rank as officers. Of course I saluted them as I would any officer of any branch of the US military.

Response by LTC Carlene Salazar made Jul 19 at 2023 1:26 AM

LTC Carlene Salazar — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 01:26:07 -0400

It's been a lot of years since I went to basic training. There was NO cross services training. I learned it "on the job". After commissioning, I always thought it "funny" about getting treated as a Nave Capt when I was an Army CPT. I DID learn the differences, to include that the Marines and the Army have the same ranks as opposed to the Navy. If you do have the same "fun" as I did, NEVER, EVER forget the Navy Capt outranks an Army CPT. As a retiree, I do think it should be taught in Basic, to include "instant" recognition of all the ranks, as I was required for all Army ranks.

Response by SPC Jared Robbins made Jul 19 at 2023 3:31 PM

SPC Jared Robbins — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 15:31:44 -0400

Learning other ranks only became a thing once I reached my AIT, and we began interacting with other branches who were attending the same school. We had three sailors in our class, and so we had a Navy CPO who was our second instructor. There were Air Force personnel on post and an occasional Marine, so we learned other ranks in a more casual yet advanced rate.

Response by TSgt James Sutton made Jul 20 at 2023 11:10 AM

TSgt James Sutton — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 11:10:21 -0400

not sure about officer training but in basic training our professional development guide (which we use for testing our entire career) has all the service ranks on the back....I'm guessing the Army Captain just wasn't paying attention during OCS.

Response by SFC Wade Adams made Jul 21 at 2023 6:35 AM

SFC Wade Adams — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 06:35:09 -0400

Actually, the Army doesn’t. The only way I knew about the Navy’s ranks because I was a midshipman in college. But I did get fooled when I got promoted to SFC. See , in the Army a Master SGT is an E-8, in the Air Force, E-7. I had no idea. So I was giving respect to someone who was the same rank I was. Imagine the embarrassment when I found out. On the same deployment , there was a navy chief, she thought or she assumed that she out ranked me and kept trying to push me around. When I gave her a reality check, she ended up with egg on her face.

Response by LT Crutcher Evans made Jul 22 at 2023 4:55 PM

LT Crutcher Evans — Sat, 22 Jul 2023 16:55:21 -0400

Good Order and Discipline has gone out the window with a Pentagon filled with "wokester" Flag Officers.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 5 at 2023 10:12 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 05 Aug 2023 10:12:40 -0400

My younger brother graduated from USNA in '06, and I attended the ceremony as an Army 2LT in my dress-blue uniform (this was before the Blues became our Class As and Bs as well). I (being younger and cockier about my shiny new-ish commission then) was surprised and disappointed by the number of Academy midshipmen who didn't recognize an Army officer when they saw one. I'd rib my brother as we both came up the lower ranks that I'd make Captain before him, but he'd retort correctly, that the Navy's "Captain" rank was worth more.

So such insularity is not just limited to the Army's ranks. I would think that the use of standardized rank symbols (bars, oak leaves, eagles, stars) for equivalent military officer grades across the DoD goes a fair way to alleviate confusions in naming, but people are still just people, and prone to error.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 5 at 2023 12:51 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 05 Aug 2023 12:51:45 -0400

Not when I was in BCT in 1966. . . .

Response by SPC David Young made Aug 6 at 2023 9:30 PM

SPC David Young — Sun, 06 Aug 2023 21:30:10 -0400

I heard a story about some Army Infantry boys in Hawaii who made the mistake of calling a Navy Master Chief a POG. Obviously, they didn't know who they were dealing with at first but they were "counseled" on their error. I was told they got it in stereo.. the Master Chief on one side of them and their Brigade CSM on the other while they were locked up at parade rest!

Response by 1SG Dean Mcbride (MPER) (CPHR) made Oct 15 at 2023 11:27 PM

1SG Dean Mcbride (MPER) (CPHR) — Sun, 15 Oct 2023 23:27:39 -0400

Simple answer... The Army does not teach sister service rank in basic training...
When I was in Hawaii (1979), I was an E-8 and Director of PNCOC in the NCO Academy. My wife was an Army Nurse Captain -- Head Nurse of the Emergency Room at Tripler. At times, I would make dinner reservations at the Army and Navy Officer's Clubs. I always identified myself as Master Sergeant McBride and made the reservation for Captain McBride. Army club was never a problem. The Navy club took extra explaining to advise them that Captain McBride was an Army Captain not a Navy Captain. We did not wish to be embarrassed at the Navy Club...

Response by MAJ Steve Daugherty made Oct 29 at 2023 11:17 AM

MAJ Steve Daugherty — Sun, 29 Oct 2023 11:17:28 -0400

I don’t remember much effort being made to teach me of the rank structure of other services while I was in Army BCT and AIT, other than the oniversal pay grades E? And O? But in NCO school and on my own I got to be a little more familiar but the Marines and Air Force closely reflected the Army’s rank system and the Navy’s was more confusing especially enlisted ranks, the commissioned ranks were easier. But we had no doubt of who we were required to salute and as I was a Captain at one time I had no doubt that someone with eagles on their shoulders got my salute

Response by SGT John Prolo made Oct 30 at 2023 11:01 AM

SGT John Prolo — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 11:01:10 -0400

No, it was hard enough to learn the Army ranks. In my 15 years of service I never saw any Navy.

Response by SPC Julio R. made Oct 30 at 2023 12:53 PM

SPC Julio R. — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 12:53:16 -0400

Response by SPC Julio R. made Oct 30 at 2023 12:57 PM

SPC Julio R. — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 12:57:34 -0400

Response by SFC Patrick Chapman made Oct 30 at 2023 7:16 PM

SFC Patrick Chapman — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 19:16:29 -0400

We don't have "boot" in the Army. We have Basic and AIT. Officers do not go thru this. So learn how your fellow services work before you open your trap door

Response by SPC Brian Stephens made Oct 31 at 2023 9:07 PM

SPC Brian Stephens — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 21:07:14 -0400

No because the Army doesn't have boot camp. Rank and saluting are taught in Basic Training, not Boot Camp. While we are hazy regarding Navy rank, we do know an eagle outranks a captain's railroad track and that a lot of stripes and solid bars on an officer's cuffs and epaulets means he or she is due a salute.

Response by SGT Bert Shearer made Nov 1 at 2023 9:06 PM

SGT Bert Shearer — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 21:06:26 -0400

In the simplest of terms, I doubt that anyone who has served would not recognize that the bird outranks two bars…

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 1 at 2023 10:40 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 22:40:48 -0400

I know the Army teaches the ranks but u do not really learn them cause u do not see them everyday. So while we have to learn/are exposed to the ranks of the other services in basic I am more concerned with the ranks of the people in the branch of service I am in. I really could care less about the Navies ranks cause my chances of even seeing someone in the navy are next to nill. Same for the other branches of service. Now if I happen to be stationed closer to another branches base where I MIGHT run into them from time to time then I will take a little time to learn them but I really do not care I just want to get my job done and if someone gets into a power game from another branch of service he or she has already lost cause I will be the last to salute or say sir or mam. Cause I know the reason u went for the rank is to bully. I will give the metal its due but the one wearing it can sit on it.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 2 at 2023 9:47 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 09:47:00 -0400

There are other services besides the army?

Response by SSG Alejandro Martinez made Nov 2 at 2023 2:06 PM

SSG Alejandro Martinez — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 14:06:14 -0400

It was taught, a short block of instructions. I took the time to get more familiar because we would end up on joint task forces with other branches, but there’s no telling how much the average bored private who wants the class to be over will retain.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2023 9:45 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 09:45:50 -0400

I spent 9 years in the Army, 20 in the Air Force and had two brothers in the Navy and I still don't know Navy ranks that well. But it’s easy to tell who to salute. And no, I don’t recall leaning any other branches ranks in basic or if we did it was a very quick overview.

Response by SFC R. Lee Linebarger made Nov 3 at 2023 7:25 PM

SFC R. Lee Linebarger — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 19:25:53 -0400

Yes it is taught. It's nit reinforced though through out, or at least it was when I went to basic training. We don't have "boot".

And yes an Army Captain must salute a Navy Captain.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2023 6:24 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 04 Nov 2023 18:24:49 -0400

As an Army Captain in the mid 1980's I was on permissive TDY to go to a professinal meeting in Dallas TX. I had hopped in from NAS NOLA to NAS Dallas. Signing up for a return flight a week later, I had of course put in CPT for the rank. I ended up on a small executive style turboprop with four passenger seats facing each other. (Sorry, I don't remember the designation.) The three other passengers were USN Reserve Captains (O-6), who were making a transit for their weekend training. It was a pleasant flight.

Response by CSM Thomas McGarry made Nov 5 at 2023 3:49 PM

CSM Thomas McGarry — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 15:49:57 -0500

No they never had a class in this that I recall. I spent 36 years in the Army and still don't really know the Air Force enlisted ranks except I believe and AF staff sergeant is I think an E-5 where as that rank in the Army is E-6, and I really have no idea what a Navy or Coast Guard Petty officer is. As far as Officers the ranks on their collar are the same across all services so unless that for some reason isn't worn on their collar their is really no excuse.

Response by CPT Larry Birkner made Nov 5 at 2023 5:18 PM

CPT Larry Birkner — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 17:18:50 -0500

I was most definitely taught the Navy Officer ranks in the early ‘80s. As an Army Captain I most definitely knew a Navy Captain was my superior. The collar insignia was familiar to all as a O-6 no matter the title.

Response by SSG Kimberly Hutchins made Nov 5 at 2023 9:32 PM

SSG Kimberly Hutchins — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 21:32:31 -0500

No. Army does not.

Response by CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana made Nov 7 at 2023 10:21 AM

CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 10:21:23 -0500

The Army, like other services, teach their enlisted, warrants and commissioned officers the rank and file of sister branches of service. It is essential to know about ranks in the uniformed services, so that superiors receive their due respect and we receive ours from our subordinates too. Generally, by not giving the proper respect to superior ranks can attract reprimand or even legal action.

Response by A1C Jacob Straessle made Nov 13 at 2023 6:42 PM

A1C Jacob Straessle — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 18:42:10 -0500

I was enlisted Air Force back in the 70's. I don't remember being taught ranks in other branches but I new a navy captain was the same as a bird colonel.

Response by Amn James Clark made Nov 14 at 2023 2:44 PM

Amn James Clark — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 14:44:37 -0500

I had a waiver so I never saluted anybody after basic training.

Response by Brig Gen Joe Callahan made Nov 16 at 2023 8:25 PM

Brig Gen Joe Callahan — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 20:25:02 -0500

Yes. I promise all service members are instructed. However, as with anything, mistakes are made. I had a group of 6 or so junior Army enlisted walk by me on Ft Belvoir. I’m in my uniform to include a big, bright silver star, and didn’t salute. I stopped them, corrected them politely and with humor and added they should be glad some SgtMaj wasn’t walking by. Also some ranks…actually just USN enlisted ranks…are confusing.

Not saluting isn’t a big deal. Just correct and move on.

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made Nov 20 at 2023 8:09 PM

SFC Ralph E Kelley — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 20:09:04 -0500

It took me years to figure out the a Navy Captain was an O6, but I certainly knew an Army Captain was an O3. My Sargeants mentoned the rank structure of the different services but how I handled the old M60 machinegun and could put rounds into a man-size space at 750 meters was much more important.

Response by CAPT Kevin M. McGuinness made Nov 20 at 2023 9:17 PM

CAPT Kevin M. McGuinness — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 21:17:49 -0500

As a veteran of the USN, USAF, and USPHS I recall that only the USPHS taught its officers the ranks of all 7 uniformed services. We were taught that it was the uniform, not the man in it, that was to be saluted. Surprisingly, the Navy and AF never mentioned the Commissioned Corps of the PHS or NOAA, which I found to be a troubling failure of leadership, since PHS officers have served side by side with soldiers and sailors in every war since the Spanish American War.

Response by CAPT Kevin M. McGuinness made Nov 20 at 2023 9:21 PM

CAPT Kevin M. McGuinness — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 21:21:33 -0500

It was when I went to boot camp. If it is not any more, I wonder what else is being neglected.

Response by MSgt Robert Branscome made Dec 22 at 2023 8:30 AM

MSgt Robert Branscome — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 08:30:01 -0500

It use to be BUT with all the "WOKE" crap going on today it is impossible to know what they are teaching our troops. God help us if we ever get into a war !!!!

Response by PO1 Robert Ryan made Dec 22 at 2023 12:18 PM

PO1 Robert Ryan — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 12:18:14 -0500

Funny you should ask that. I was in the Army before the Navy, We only learned the Army Rank Structure what rank stripes represented, and Officer Rank Structure. When i went in the Navy (under the other service veteran program) Learned the enlisted structure and officer structure only if there yere in working Khakis. The first time I saw an Officer in dress blue, I saw the Gold Bands on the sleeve and a sar above the band, In the Army I knew stars meant Generali Officer so I assumed ( Made an ass out of me) , he was an admiral. I was on watch in the Class room budling , I jumped up and yelled attention. The Chief who was on watch with me stood, the officer coming the room froze at attention. I finally looked at the officer and saw how young he was, I wondered how, in the heck could this young looking officer could be an Admiral. The Chief l0ooked at me he greeted the officer and told him he could carry on with his business, The Chief ask me why I called attention, I told him I saw a star on the officers uniform.. the Chief told me the s band gold band on his sleeve meant the officer was an ensign. That star meant he was a line officer who could assume command. I told him wow he was equivalent to a Second Lieutenant not an admiral. So I had to learn what rank the Gold Bands on the Officers dress blues meant.

Response by Cpl George Matousek made Dec 22 at 2023 12:41 PM

Cpl George Matousek — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 12:41:29 -0500

Of course he must salute a Navy Captain, he is out ranked by 3 ranks. Semper Fi

Response by SGT Jon Moldovan made Dec 22 at 2023 2:45 PM

SGT Jon Moldovan — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 14:45:57 -0500

It appears there is some miscommunication. A salute is a visual recognition of the wearers rank insignia (commission or warrant) which are visually identifiable across services.

Army Captain is a O-3 which is the same as Marine Captain (0-3) however, this is referred to namely as a Navy Lieutenant (0-3) but all three wear the same rank insignia (aka railroad tracks) so they typically would not salute each other. I have seen it done out of dignified respect for the different branch of service be it U.S. services or foreign. Aka" I bear no arms" Sort of a reverse respect the officer recognized (same rank) often holds the salute longer. Pretty impressive if you are lucky to witness this dignified mutual recognition.

On the other hand a Navy Captain (0-6), Army Colonel (0-6) and Marine Colonel (0-6) all wear the same rank insignia "Silver Eagle" and would not typically salute each other. Again I have seen it done out of respect for their command. Army and Marines refer affectionately to them as "Bird Colonels". In my humble view Generals wage wars however, Colonels and Ships Captain fight and win wars.

Yes we learn them in the Army however, the Navy/Coast Guard "names" their officers differently even though their pay grades and rank insignia are the same as other branch of services. In summary if you salute or not recognizes the rank insignia and the dignified respect drives the action not the name https://www.defense.gov/Resources/Insignia/

The key to your topic shared is "if they are the same rank". Thanks for your service to our nation.

‘This We’ll Defend’

U.S. Military Rank Insignia

Military rank is more than just who salutes whom. Military rank is a badge of leadership. Responsibility for personnel, equipment, and mission grows with each increase in rank.

Response by LTC Robin P. made Dec 23 at 2023 5:16 PM

LTC Robin P. — Sat, 23 Dec 2023 17:16:31 -0500

We did theoretically have to be familiar with sister service ranks, but until you are in a Joint environment, you rarely see them and it's easy to forget.

That said, the Navy Capt still has that eagle, which is familiar to the rest of us.

Response by SGT Michael Padilla made Dec 24 at 2023 12:14 AM

SGT Michael Padilla — Sun, 24 Dec 2023 00:14:00 -0500

Nobody taught me, but most of the men in my family have been in one of the services or another going back generations... While I served in the Army,they did have posters that showed the differences in rank, what their E ranks and O ranks equaled to in the other services and what they were called.. Good knowledge to have if you were on a Joint Service Base..

Response by BG Jim Drago made Dec 24 at 2023 3:57 AM

BG Jim Drago — Sun, 24 Dec 2023 03:57:50 -0500

Army, Marines and Air Force ranks all look basically the same with slight name differences that you can figure out. Then comes the Navy (and Coast Guard) out of left field wearing something completely different. That will confuse that new boot that had an hour long block of training on the other ranks at 1800hrs ,on week 4 of training. So to answer your question, yea its taught, but not utilized, hence unfamiliarity.

Response by LtCol Bruce Janis made Dec 24 at 2023 9:46 PM

LtCol Bruce Janis — Sun, 24 Dec 2023 21:46:31 -0500

OK…you are walking down a sidewalk as an Army or Air Force Captain, and an officer approaches you. You see the eagles on the collar. Do you salute? I left out a Marine Captain as they know better.

Response by LCpl Craig A. Charbonneau made Dec 25 at 2023 6:38 AM

LCpl Craig A. Charbonneau — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 06:38:50 -0500

Nope not taught and it’s a damn shame!

Response by SGT Juan Robledo made Dec 25 at 2023 1:41 PM

SGT Juan Robledo — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 13:41:05 -0500

An Army Captain isn't the same same as a Navy Captain, he's a Full Bird Colonel, so yes the Army should salute the Navy Captain

Response by LCDR Tim Pickering made Dec 25 at 2023 2:32 PM

LCDR Tim Pickering — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 14:32:22 -0500

I was in the Navy and was at a tenant Navy facility on an Air Force Base. I had an issue with one of my guys being hassled by some Air Force enlisted men in the enlisted quarters. I called the billeting officer - I was a Navy LT and he was a USAF Major. He told me that service rivalries were normal and to deal with it. The harassment continued, and I visited him again. This time he told me to f--- off. I went to my Chief of Staff, a Navy Captain. He called the Major, and the Major told him that he was sick of the Navy guys calling and bitching at him, and if he had a problem with that, he could tell him to his face. The COS smiled and told me that he was taking a long lunch. I never saw my COS smile, but when he returned from lunch, he had a grin on his face that remained for a week after that incident.

As an added bonus, my Chief Petty Officer was able to get anything he wanted (over the phone) from our Air Force brethren. All he had to say was that his name was Chief so and so, and the red tape melted. Everyone assumed he was a Chief Master Sergeant or "Chief" in USAF parlance.

I think they do teach rank structure in the services, but some lunkheads don't listen.

Response by MSgt Horace Smith made Dec 25 at 2023 7:32 PM

MSgt Horace Smith — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 19:32:13 -0500

The Air Force did not teach other service ranks at all. The Army and Marines were easy as their officer ranks were the same as the Air Force. Naval ranks are, of course, designated different titles but they also wear insignia corresponding to the equivalent Air Force rank. I never had a problem recognizing Naval officers and rendered them a salute as required.

Response by CAPT Jay Caputo made Dec 26 at 2023 10:39 AM

CAPT Jay Caputo — Tue, 26 Dec 2023 10:39:05 -0500

One day I was driving on to the base at Fort Bragg. When stooped at the gate for the ID check, the SPC4 at the gate told me that I should go to Personnel and have my ID changed. He said that they must have made a mistake and had my rank of Captain, listed as an O-6 instead of O-3. I gently told him that I was a Navy Captain and that is the equivalent of an Army Colonel. So I guess that not everyone paid attention to the other branches ranks in boot camp.

Response by SPC Ken Cain made Dec 26 at 2023 9:18 PM

SPC Ken Cain — Tue, 26 Dec 2023 21:18:57 -0500

During the Army's basic training the rank of other services was only briefly mentioned. Honestly after 10 years of working in the field of logistics I rarely crossed paths with members of other branches unless it was off duty and typically out of uniform. I slways given the same level of respect that was given to me to all other service members. Saluting someone is a sign of respect and can also be fun. Like say making your company chaplain cuss because everyone walking across the motor pool spread out just enough to make him hold his salute for the length of the motor pool was pretty funny. Just remember, regardless of rank or service branch your still part of the same team. Respect each other always.

Response by CPO Leonard Orth made Dec 27 at 2023 2:24 AM

CPO Leonard Orth — Wed, 27 Dec 2023 02:24:43 -0500

I'm retired Navy. It's possible that the Navy taught that crap in bootcamp but I don't remember it from when I went through bootcamp. Or much later when I was an instructor in bootcamp. I do recall doing some training at Fort McClellan in Alabama when I was an E5. I gave up trying to figure out who might be an officer within the first few days and proceeded to ignore everyone in camouflage uniforms for the next month and a half.
Honestly, if I could discern that someone was an officer I'd have proudly saluted them.
As to whether or not two O4s should or shouldn't salute each other, one is always superior to the other, always. That's one of the things I loved about the Navy. Someone is always superior in rank to someone else.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2023 7:33 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 27 Dec 2023 07:33:54 -0500

They do not teach the rank structures from other services. You learn it on your own.

Response by SPC Diana Rodriguez made Dec 27 at 2023 10:06 AM

SPC Diana Rodriguez — Wed, 27 Dec 2023 10:06:10 -0500

The soldier would recognize the insignia and would understand that CPT AND CAPT are not the same. The fact that the friend thinks it is the same rank lets you know they are not realizing these are drastically different grades. They are literally thinking peer. I would recommend your son show his friend the insignia (the Eagle) that would drive the point home because the CPT equivalent in the Navy is LT. While the CAPT equivalent in the Army is Colonel.

Response by SSgt Earle Whitcher made Dec 28 at 2023 9:43 AM

SSgt Earle Whitcher — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 09:43:48 -0500

I can't comment about what happens in the Army version of Basic Training but the the Air Force did not when I went through Lackland - but that was a long time ago, things may have changed by now. I never understood anything about Navy rank and for the life of me can't understand why they can't be in line with everyone else. I'm sure there is some ancient irrelevant tradition that dictates their unique ranks and how they are displayed. I wouldn't be surprised if they adopted the British ranks when the Navy was formed during the Revolution.

Response by SPC Kent Laughlin made Dec 30 at 2023 12:56 PM

SPC Kent Laughlin — Sat, 30 Dec 2023 12:56:57 -0500

I am here to tell you that I am very fortunate and happy at never having these kind of problems.. As a Spec4 REMF I was in an area known to occasionally have strolling officers. In addition there was the fact that most orderly rooms by 1970 had stepped into the Real World with not one comm line but TWO and one appeared to be from a home in the USA.. Saluting becomes second nature, but there was always the spoil sport that was angry that you either DID or DID NOT salute him in a combat zone.... The other rather fun time in an otherwise failed vacation land was the extremely rare occasion of snapping off one of those crisp maneuvers like a ROTC graduate but the recipient is A: attending the call of nature the children call Numba 1 B: has already begun the performance and the Creme de La Creme said O is smoking a cigar... That has to be a battlefield conundrum .. yes ? no ?

Response by SPC Stiv ChenRobbins made Jan 1 at 2024 9:30 PM

SPC Stiv ChenRobbins — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 21:30:11 -0500

They teach you about the ranks of all the branches of service in Basic, yes. They teach you an awful lot of things at the same time. It is pretty natural that the stuff for your own branch sticks best, at least at first. Hopefully you improve your knowledge base as time goes by.

I will admit that I never got any good at recognizing insignia of rank in other services. I mostly figured if I couldn't instantly spot it they probably outranked me, but then it seemed like pretty near everyone did. Lucky for me I was a field medic and people were usually more concerned with me being good at that than me being good at the military "stuff." :)

Response by CPO Jack De Merit made Jan 4 at 2024 3:41 PM

CPO Jack De Merit — Thu, 04 Jan 2024 15:41:07 -0500

When I was in Boot Camp in 1961, we were taught to recognize the other Branches ranks so we would know who to salute and what they were and to reply with good morning or whatever the time was and their rank. I am guessing that it is not followed in the other Branches or at least in the Army for reasons only they could explain. To begin with, an Army Captain, if he was in the Navy, would only be a Lieutenant and a Navy Captain would be a Colonel if in the Army. I spent 28 years and 9 months in the Navy and never had a problem with any rank. If the Army Captain is not capable of recognizing the Colonel's collar insignia or stripes on his jacket sleeve, he should not be an officer at all.

Response by SSgt Stephanie Macek made Jan 10 at 2024 8:29 AM

SSgt Stephanie Macek — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 08:29:21 -0500

As USAF, We were told to review and know sister ranks in training, does not mean everyone did. Most of us tried, but what we did not encounter often got forgotten or fuzzy.

Response by CPL T.A. Nelson made Jan 15 at 2024 8:30 PM

CPL T.A. Nelson — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 20:30:23 -0500

They trained us in Officer rank but that was over 20 years ago...

Response by SFC Richard Baerlocher made Feb 4 at 2024 9:50 PM

SFC Richard Baerlocher — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 21:50:42 -0500

The Army doesn't teach anyone about the other branches ranks. This includes enlisted as well as officers. While Stationed where we had all branches, I made a mistake of calling a marine Chief Master Sergeant Gunny, I was really embarrassed when I learned the truth that he was a Marine E-8, and the acting detachment commander.

Response by SGT Mark Hasch made Feb 5 at 2024 1:57 PM

SGT Mark Hasch — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 13:57:24 -0500

Out of respect to each others rank they are supposed to render a salute to each other and NCO personnel and there subordinates are to acknowledge each other's rank as their first nam, such as SFC Snuffy or SPC Snuffy.
I was taught your rank is your first name!!!

Response by SPC Michael Tierney made Feb 5 at 2024 8:31 PM

SPC Michael Tierney — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 20:31:20 -0500

I was in basic in 1967 and the Army didn’t even explain Army ranks let alone the Navy.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2024 4:03 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Feb 2024 16:03:03 -0500

In the Marine boot camp we were taught the Naval rank structure as well. Army and Air Force rank structures were not taught in boot camp. The Drill instructors just told us to look it up later after we get to our first duty station.

Response by SGT William Benson made Feb 11 at 2024 9:03 PM

SGT William Benson — Sun, 11 Feb 2024 21:03:18 -0500

Once upon a time, my old man was stationed at the Department of Army Material Readiness Command as the Naval liaison officer (the army purchases the entire allotment of ammunition used by all the forces and then distributes it). Dad knew that it was going to be an interesting tour of duty the first day when he entered into the elevator and one of the secretaries looked at him up and down and asked what country he was from. He also knew he was going to have a little bit of an interesting time when the printing office kept sending him his official stationery and he kept sending it back, because they kept abbreviating his rank as CPT, whereas the proper abbreviation was CAPT. He was bound to step on a few toes and one morning he received a phone call from a very irate Major, who demanded to know whether or not this was the office of Captain B. Dad had a vicious sense of humor, so he punctuated the conversation with a series of "yups", "nopes", "uh-huh's", etc. At about the point where the Major seemed like he was about to explode from a case of collective apoplexy, Dad interrupted him and said, "Hang on a second, Major. Do you understand the difference between an army Captain and a Navy captain? Let me spell it for you: I am a Navy Captain, we spell that C-O-L-O-N-E-L." There was a long five count and a subdued voice was heard on the other end of the line: "Oh shit." Dad, who ran 7 miles before breakfast, then told the Major: "Why don't you bring your running gear to my office at 06:30 and we'll have a discussion while we do our road work."
As he broke in his new position, parity was found between the Services, and he was able to streamline and improve the logistical train shared between the United States Navy and the United States Army. He was especially interested in ensuring the quality control of 7.62 mm linked four and one ammunition, as his kid was a Marine Machine Gunner. He said it was a good tour, acknowledge the majority of the officers he met were very good at what they did, and he did a lot of good things, but he was glad to get back to the Navy side of the house.

Response by PFC James Klein made Mar 24 at 2024 6:25 PM

PFC James Klein — Sun, 24 Mar 2024 18:25:53 -0400

... a little OT but, back in the early 1970s I had a friend whose rank was Major in the U.S. Army. His legal first name was “General” and his last name was “King.” (You can already guess where this is going.) He told me that there were many meetings that he attended where when he was introduced as “Major General King,” everyone would jump to their feet and salute him! (Although “King” is obviously not a rank, it also added a regal tone of authority to his name.)

Response by PO1 Frank Reiffenstein made Mar 24 at 2024 6:36 PM

PO1 Frank Reiffenstein — Sun, 24 Mar 2024 18:36:38 -0400

Navy Captain is O-6,Army Captain is O-3. Enough said.

Response by HN Edward Herbert made Mar 25 at 2024 11:07 AM

HN Edward Herbert — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 11:07:32 -0400

I was a Navy Hospitalman, and everywhere I went at Fort Bragg, NC (Not Fort Bragg, CA) I found myself having to return Salutes to all the Non Coms, and a few Officers.
Works for me. Giving respect for doin the doin is fine with me, no matter the Rank.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2024 1:21 PM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 13:21:47 -0400

I laugh at SN Greg Wright's story, because I had a stint at the NSA where I worked as an Air Force Capt, and my boss was a Navy Capt. A good stint, but we only had one minor issue and that was there was four "Thomas's" in the office; one Marine Capt, one Army Capt, one navy Chief (E-7) and one Navy Capt (the boss). So when you heard "Capt Thomas wants you" - you had to always ask "which one" that was until I rebranded the boss as the "Sea Col". Everyone loved it and ran with it, that is except for the boss. At first he voiced his disapproval, and bucked about it, and since I was the dude that branded him, he let me hear about it, after a bit he grew to love it. The funniest thing is that I only mentioned off handily once...The Chief said "Capt M" Capt Thomas wants to see you; to which I replied "which one, the Sea Col", which got a chuckle from the guys around the office. To which the Chief said "Yes Sir - that one", but that moniker spread like wild fire and from then on he was always the "Sea Col" but there was more than one time that I would hear "Damnit Muscella!!" from Sea Col

Response by PO3 Michael James made Mar 28 at 2024 12:23 AM

PO3 Michael James — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 00:23:09 -0400

Navy was never appreciated among the other branches of our military... Hell, the VA Denys, neglects and does not want to be bothered by the Navy... The country abandoned the Navy since the early 70's...

Response by SPC Michelle Nelson - Thompson made Apr 2 at 2024 5:01 PM

SPC Michelle Nelson - Thompson — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 17:01:22 -0400

I went to basic at Jackson in '89. We weren't taught other branches ranks. Side note, when I went to AIT at Ft Sam the airmen would always salute us E-2s because of our brass rank. Apparently we weren't the only one's not taught!

Response by PO1 Don Uhrig made Apr 16 at 2024 9:21 PM

PO1 Don Uhrig — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 21:21:40 -0400

In my final tour of duty (20-years Navy) I had a Marine Captain (O-3) as the officer in charge of one of many sites around the globe that I was performing expediting work for. I was at Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego (Coronado). Whenever I was getting pushback on an expedited item, I simply threw in, "This is in support of Captain Smith's office." And the rank trick worked everytime as people assumed it was for an O-6 and got things done. That was a great lesson I learned from my Company Commander, Chief Pulido, in boot camp - "Utilize Your Resources".

Response by SPC Daniel Dresen made Apr 27 at 2024 5:17 PM

SPC Daniel Dresen — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 17:17:52 -0400

It wasn't taught but I learned them anyways because my dad was prior service navy.

Response by SFC Joseph Behmke made Apr 27 at 2024 8:03 PM

SFC Joseph Behmke — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 20:03:21 -0400

When I went thru Basic we were required to know all Army ranks and others up to O6. And as enlisted/NCOs taught if it has brass on the color/sleeve salute to be safe.

Response by SFC Kenneth Hunnell made Apr 28 at 2024 1:45 PM

SFC Kenneth Hunnell — Sun, 28 Apr 2024 13:45:28 -0400

If it is your boat, then you are the captain. Rank doesn't have anything to do with the position in this case.

Response by SGT James Hunsinger made Apr 29 at 2024 2:40 PM

SGT James Hunsinger — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 14:40:56 -0400

I went through Army Basic Training in 1988. I have no recollection of any instruction on other services rank structure. I knew Navy rank because I was in NJROTC through high school. I do remember going through training on the other services rank structures when I arrived at my first joint command duty station in Korea (92-93) Field Station Korea AKTCAE. Then again when I was assigned to Field Station Kunia in Hawaii and once more when I was assigned to NSA.

That being said, I have no clue if they teach it today in Basic Training, though it should be.

Response by LCpl Richard Lally made May 1 at 2024 11:10 AM

LCpl Richard Lally — Wed, 01 May 2024 11:10:26 -0400

I thought that was required knowledge taught in Basic Training of all services