Anyone know what Army Regulation (or any branch) that allows a higher-ranking officer to call a lower-ranking officers by their first name?

2016-03-10T09:59:51-05:00

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Mar 10 at 2016 10:08 AM

2016-03-10T10:08:39-05:00

There is no regulation that covers it, and this falls under the axiom of "rank has its privileges." It is one of the traditions that we have that senior officers sometimes call subordinates by their first name. I have no issues with it as long as they refrain from doing it in front of the Soldiers.

Response by Maj John Bell made Mar 10 at 2016 10:38 AM

2016-03-10T10:38:40-05:00

I am almost positive it is addressed in "Service Etiquette" Unfortunately, mine is in a box at the back of a storage unit.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 10 at 2016 10:42 AM

2016-03-10T10:42:10-05:00

Historically, I do know that the British tradition held that once a man joined the "mess", whether the most junior, or most senior...things were on a first name basis; particularly when in the mess. This was an especially great privilege when extended to a former NCO promoted into commissioned rank, and I imagine it was designed to announce his ascendancy. My guess is that this was because as "gentlemen" within the rigid class structure, you could in all likelihood have a coronet who was a baron...or a colonel who was a commoner. Referring to one another in the familiar probably allowed military hierarchy to remain intact without getting into tricky situations involving alcohol.

In the modern, US context-I always found that people respected "billet" more than rank in most wardrooms. O-1 to O-3 are essentially "equal", with the caveat that an O-3 can hand out an arse chewing to more junior ranks every bit as effectively as more senior ranks. I rarely had a department head (O-4 to O-5) call me by my rank or last name, but then again...I never called them by anything but "Sir" until I reached O-3. Captains (O-6), and I imagine "Full Bird" colonels are able to do just about whatever they want...and while I did have a "first name" relationship with my last CO, I'd have never called him "Gerald" in front of more junior officers, let alone the enlisted ranks.

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Mar 10 at 2016 11:07 AM

2016-03-10T11:07:30-05:00

No such regulation.. that higher ranking officer could call his LT's Turnip 1, 2, and 3 if he whishes.. Though it would be unbecoming and unprofessional.

Response by SFC Craig Dalen made Mar 10 at 2016 11:10 AM

2016-03-10T11:10:54-05:00

There is no regulation on this. But part of tradition is for Officers to address junior Officers by first name. This is also the reason that Artillery units have a nickname for just about every rank and/or position.

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Mar 10 at 2016 11:16 AM

2016-03-10T11:16:50-05:00

I take it as a sign of respect. If they value my experience and look at the person as a confidant individual and even though they out rank you might see you as an intellectual equal then, I don't mind.

Response by SFC James Reeder made Mar 10 at 2016 11:39 AM

2016-03-10T11:39:47-05:00

It's in the regulation right after the section that states 2nd Lieutenants don't salute 1st Lieutenants.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Mar 10 at 2016 11:45 AM

2016-03-10T11:45:15-05:00

On the Navy side, there's a lot of "one up, one down" until you hit the junior/senior officer break at O-4/5. In front of ENLs it goes by rank. It isn't written down anywhere that I recall. I was just informed of it when I was an O-1.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 10 at 2016 12:03 PM

2016-03-10T12:03:11-05:00

Hahaha, this is so common where I work.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 10 at 2016 12:33 PM

2016-03-10T12:33:27-05:00

I had a BC once who if he called you by your rank/last name you knew you had humped the bunk.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 10 at 2016 1:09 PM

2016-03-10T13:09:59-05:00

I don't know about any regulation, but I know that pretty much all of the Officers in my unit (grade higher or equal) call each other by first name. The Junior Officers use rank and last name, but the others all use first names. I assumed it was a comraderie thing, and that it was normal. I heard it at my last unit as well.

Response by MSG Daniel Talley made Mar 10 at 2016 1:18 PM

2016-03-10T13:18:48-05:00

I'd say AR 8UP. AR for another redneck.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 10 at 2016 1:32 PM

2016-03-10T13:32:36-05:00

It is called, Leadership's Discretion.

Response by PO3 Donald Murphy made Mar 10 at 2016 3:42 PM

2016-03-10T15:42:52-05:00

On submarines, we refer to officers as "Mister". So LT Jones, would be "Mister Jones", Ensign Murphy would be "Mister Murphy," etc. The only exceptions are the Captain and Executive Officer who are "Captain"/"Skipper" and "XO" respectively. When an officer is acting in command, they are referred to as the title, ie; "Officer Of The Deck," "Diving Officer" etc.

Response by PO1 Jeff Doan made Mar 10 at 2016 6:08 PM

2016-03-10T18:08:50-05:00

I do not know of any regulation (US Navy), but if an officer were to address me by my first name, I would reply using his first name. If he didn't like it, he can get professional and use the proper address. Respect is a two way street!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 11 at 2016 3:03 PM

2016-03-11T15:03:54-05:00

I would say it is better suited for peer to peer.

Response by SFC Robert Alsup made Mar 11 at 2016 4:37 PM

2016-03-11T16:37:59-05:00

Hey Jim, this is Bill, yadda yadda yadda...but let NCO'S use first names and all hell breaks loose!

Response by CW3 George Fitzgerald made Mar 11 at 2016 5:01 PM

2016-03-11T17:01:26-05:00

Welcome to Aviation

Response by SGT Richard H. made Mar 11 at 2016 5:21 PM

2016-03-11T17:21:45-05:00

I'll probably draw a little fire from the Officers for this, but I always found it unprofessional.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2016 1:54 AM

2016-03-12T01:54:54-05:00

Well, I had a Senior Rater call me by the wrong first name after 20 months and I was one of 2 officers that person Senior Rated. Made corrections but still did what they want. Whatever.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2016 5:56 AM

2016-03-12T05:56:17-05:00

I think that if a Jr Officer has an issue with their superior addressing them by their first name, they should probably speak up and say something about it, but I personally have never seen it does as a sign of disrespect. Much more the opposite, if that Sr Officer respects their subordinates and values their input is generally when I've seen it occur. I used to work for a full bird that called everyone by their first name. When he met you he would ask your first name and that's what he'd call you the rest of the time you worked for him. He was the only officer that did that with the enlisted as well, but he'd been in so damn long (also prior enlisted) no one ever corrected him on it and it probably wouldn't have been taken very well if they'd tried. We were all actually pretty impressed that he could remember everyone's first name. The confusing part would come in when he couldn't remember a last name and he would keep yelling for someone to find Stefan, but no one had a clue who that was. He's actually the only person in the military to use my first name and not have me say something about it as that is a name that only my wife uses and everyone else just calls me Smitty.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2016 7:32 AM

2016-03-12T07:32:18-05:00

It's called a norm.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2016 11:04 AM

2016-03-12T11:04:32-05:00

Go it, not in regulation, but when was the last time you saw an Infantry Squad Leader refer to one of his soldiers by their first name? What was the result when it happened?

Familiarity breeds contempt, and familiarity that cannot be reciprocal is disrespectful to the subordinate.

Response by SSgt Chris Shultz made Mar 12 at 2016 11:38 AM

2016-03-12T11:38:16-05:00

There isn't a specific regulation as far as I know in the Air Force. I always thought it was weird when commanders try to use my first name to make me feel human or whatever.

Response by SSgt Christopher Brose made Mar 12 at 2016 8:21 PM

2016-03-12T20:21:18-05:00

I think it's probably an unofficial one-grade-up or one-grade-down, and never in public.

Response by SFC Don Ward made Mar 12 at 2016 9:46 PM

2016-03-12T21:46:27-05:00

Whether in regulation or not, it's in the psychology of leadership. That's one that's lost on most officers and nco's these days. Do you all realize that there is a "psychology of leadership"? One put it this way - there is no sweeter sound than the sound of one's name. It is a "device" to get the best out of your people. If I am familiar enough with you to know your name, you are more comfortable following my leadership.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 13 at 2016 12:12 AM

2016-03-13T00:12:37-05:00

It's funny you mention that, because I didn't realize how bad it was until I was in the loop on email strings. I find it unprofessional but then again being an officer is a different world compared to enlisted.

Response by COL John Hudson made Mar 13 at 2016 5:54 AM

2016-03-13T05:54:22-04:00

From the IG Desk: Protocol dictates that common military courtesy requires proper recognition of any service member's rank during address at all times. Some Commands relax that somewhat in close quarters...say, a small office. Others may, with permission, extend that somewhat. The key is "permission." If one is uncomfortable being addressed in that manner, then solve the issue at the lowest level by advising the Officer, with respect, that use of proper military courtesy is welcomed (no 'hair on fire' response). If that request isn't honored, then run the issue up the chain. If the "Chain" itself is the problem, see your local IG for resolution.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 13 at 2016 7:30 AM

2016-03-13T07:30:53-04:00

Interesting. I am surprised so many are treating this as a "rank has its privilges" take and that somehow this is a shortcout or some kind of demeaning action.

This is a sign of respect. The officer corps is supposed to be a tight knit group and being called by your first name by your superior is not laziness or a form of bravado. Its a sign that your sommander/supervisor accepts you as part of the team and connects with you at a personal level. It is meant to put the individual at ease.

Likewise, I remember my first flight in a C17 headed from iraq to kuwait. I went up wanting to see the cockpit. The plane's CPT instructedted me, a 1LT, to call him by his first name as he said I could strap in and ridw with them up there. Strange to me, Airforce is even more lax. But I can understand why given that aviation has its inherant dangers.

There is no regulation. There doesn't need to be.

Response by SGT Philip Keys made Mar 13 at 2016 7:49 PM

2016-03-13T19:49:12-04:00

Off duty or if no one is around I never cared. I never called a LTC or higher by their first name until I was out of the army and my friends that were officers some how became LTC and COL. Some LTs and CPT that I considered friends I did call by their first names off duty and drinking a few beers.

Response by PVT Raymond Lopez made Mar 15 at 2016 5:36 AM

2016-03-15T05:36:07-04:00

Most of my Bosses called me by my first name name both in the Army and in law enforcement. When they were overly formal with me I had my reservations about them. Two of my bosses a now deceased distnguised senior officers, I would have followed in Hell without a second thought!!

Response by SPC James Dollins made Mar 16 at 2016 11:52 PM

2016-03-16T23:52:51-04:00

I know the AF used to be big on using first names. Jr enlisted to E-7. Don't know if that still happens or not.

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made May 7 at 2017 11:04 AM

2017-05-07T11:04:02-04:00

It's a leadership and psychological technique. Recognizing and individual who is responsible to you by their first name or nickname is intended, and normally does, make the junior individual feel he has some personal acknowledgement by his senior. In the Corps, it was normally done in private circumstances or in small groups. When the entire staff met, the senior officer reverted back to rank and last name. When addressing enlisted, rank and last name prevailed in group situations, while in a smaller group or one on one basis, you could be so informal as to address the enlisted man by has rank. The senior man was always addressed as Sir or his rank.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made May 7 at 2017 11:36 AM

2017-05-07T11:36:18-04:00

Never seen a regulation in the Air Force that allows such familiarity. It happens, but it's usually a more senior officer addressing a junior officer--doesn't go the other way. I've had generals and colonels call me, "Jim" when we were alone in their office. On aircrews it may happen a bit more often, but it's usually among a group of officers all of the same rank serving in different crew positions. I never called an NCO or Airman by their first name while in uniform and don't recall doing so out of uniform. When I was in ROTC we were taught a group of traditions about addressing junior and senior people. For example, it was okay to address a more junior person by their last name only if there where no other more junior people in the area. I could turn to an enlisted Loadmaster and say, "Smith, come take a look at the tie downs on this truck." If Smith was a Senior Airman and there were more junior airmen in the area, I was supposed to say, "Airman Smith, come take a look at the tie downs on this truck." It was all very complicated. On an aircrew, crew position designations saved a lot of BS. I probably would have said, "Hey Load, come take a look at the tie downs on this truck."

When traveling overseas, we were cautioned about calling out rank where it might present a danger to the person or group of people. We couldn't hide the fact we were Americans eating dinner together in a foreign country, but we didn't want to highlight the most senior people making them targets. I doubt it matters much to the bad guys these days. We're all infidels.

Response by 1SG James Matthews made May 8 at 2017 1:40 PM

2017-05-08T13:40:56-04:00

when I was ask, by an officer or fellow enlisted what my first name was I informed them it was !st. Sgt.

Response by CW2 Ernest Krutzsch made Nov 3 at 2017 6:29 PM

2017-11-03T18:29:44-04:00

Not in a Reg, but when troops are around, frowned upon. When with other officers of the same rank, acceptable. If I was around and an Officer called another officer by their first name an there were troops around, I would call them out. Officer o officer, no troops, OK

Response by SSG(P) Dan Keene made Nov 4 at 2017 12:16 AM

2017-11-04T00:16:13-04:00

I didn't know there was an AR that covered that, but it was normal in all units I was in, except school house, where students might be present. My pilot explained it was commander's discretion.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2017 1:07 AM

2017-11-04T01:07:05-04:00

I think it an Air Force regulation..... they are after all smarter and a corporation culture

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2017 11:49 AM

2017-11-04T11:49:23-04:00

I don't personally call people by their first name but I think this is one of those things that is ridiculous to get flustered over. We are all people at the end of the day. I work with full birds and generals and they call me by my first name. The pronunciation is a little off but it doesn't bother me. I think there are bigger problems to worry about.

Response by 1SG Thomas Griffiths made Nov 27 at 2017 10:16 PM

2017-11-27T22:16:53-05:00

22-5

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 28 at 2017 9:56 AM

2017-11-28T09:56:10-05:00

I think its “FM Paper Rock Rank”

Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Feb 24 at 2018 3:00 PM

2018-02-24T15:00:14-05:00

I've gotta admit, that:s interestingly phrases, on a humorous level, please understand, for me, in any event, it was a case of basically even needing to put up with "Hey you", sometimes (joke), lol, basically, though, they pretty much aoo called me by my first name, quite honestly, after awhile, it was normal for me. One amusing thuinh that really did happen once, another Lt in my unit, he was a USAFA grad, he worked a good deal with one of the enlisted techs, they were apparently also good friends, so the Lt, whim I knew, though not as well, knew what he could get away with. He enlisted, I think he was SrA, as I recall, he was somewhat heavyset, though apparently within the norms for te period, evidently. Anyway, one day, as I was walking down the halo of my unit, I passed the other Lt, we said hi, ephem, amazingly, he basically helped out to his friend, the SrA tech, and I swear, this is word for word, honest...'YO, FAT ONE!!!!!"

I gotta tell ya, guys, my freaking jaw just dropped open, hung there swinging crashing right against the floor, I swear, it:s all true, verbatim..he other Lt also had this snazzy little sports car convertible he'd drive around on the installation, some kind of Porsche, I think, I'd often see him and his friend the SrA tech in it if they were out getting something to eat...I guess the SrA took it on a good note, with humor...to this day,, though, honestly, I still fi d it strains even my credulity recounting that story to people, you know?

I'm telling UA, guys, sometimes, weirdo things like that really do happen, been there, done that (BTDT), lol....

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Feb 25 at 2018 8:13 PM

2018-02-25T20:13:11-05:00

Not sure if it's reg- but think, play with a dud grenade or call down a superior for calling you Brandon

Response by PFC Elijah Rose made May 27 at 2018 12:06 PM

2018-05-27T12:06:52-04:00

Strickly speaking we don't have to address anyone by their last name, it's an anachronism from the Victorian era that the military retained. Frankly no one cares if you address them by thrir first name even if they're sticklers for D&C. Fact is that it's one of those things everyone does simply because everyone does it. We all call people by their first names out of uniform, so get a few random people's attention by using their first name and you'll see what I mean.

Response by MSG Danny Mathers made May 27 at 2018 12:54 PM

2018-05-27T12:54:41-04:00

I believe there is no regulation. It is both traditional and a gesture of respect. Why do you have a problem with it?

Response by PO1 Javid Benson made Mar 6 at 2019 9:19 PM

2019-03-06T21:19:43-05:00

The Navy does it all the time while at sea. Now I was in the HSL community so we’re were on dets and it was about 15 or us out to sea at one time for deployment. I can’t speak for full squadrons

Response by Cpl Rc Layne made Mar 7 at 2019 3:34 AM

2019-03-07T03:34:44-05:00

When I was a young enlisted Marine and my Officers and Staff NCOs, and NCOs called me by my first name, I took it to mean that they gave a shit about me.

Response by PO2 Skip Kirkwood made Mar 7 at 2019 12:06 PM

2019-03-07T12:06:43-05:00

Have heard some VERY senior officers refer to their aides by first name, but not usually in front of others.

Response by SFC Jimmy Williams made Mar 7 at 2019 4:13 PM

2019-03-07T16:13:27-05:00

I saw officers do this my whole career. Honestly, it was never on my radar to worry about.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 7 at 2019 6:19 PM

2019-03-07T18:19:21-05:00

This is why I loved SOCOM, there was no stupid whinning about getting called by your first name, it was a brotherhood and whether it was my time enlisted or as an officer, having someone use my first name meant I was accepted into the group.

Response by LCpl Jeff Moore made Mar 7 at 2019 7:02 PM

2019-03-07T19:02:36-05:00

As CW4 you know this depends in culture, postion and such. A Colonel should never address a 2nd lt by their 1st name. But a major and a captain that have known each other for some time and in a informal setting would be different

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2019 8:27 AM

2019-03-08T08:27:51-05:00

Take it as a compliment that your superiors care enough to actually know your first name.....

Response by SPC Rick LaBonte made Mar 8 at 2019 11:32 AM

2019-03-08T11:32:47-05:00

Seems to be strictly an officer thing and in my opinion it sets a bad example in all ranks.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2019 11:46 AM

2019-03-08T11:46:22-05:00

It actually is in a regulation. I can't remem which one but I looked it up once and found it. It started something along the lines that seniors were allowed to address their subordinates by their first names. SB: not being facetious

Response by WO1 Mike Dwyer made Mar 8 at 2019 12:03 PM

2019-03-08T12:03:23-05:00

I was a deputy sheriff for several years earlier in my life and I used to say the sheriff and I were on a first name basis. He called me Mike and I called him Sheriff.

Response by SrA Kevin Piatek made Mar 8 at 2019 2:38 PM

2019-03-08T14:38:47-05:00

No regulation I know if. I had someone that used to do it. His explanation was it build a repore in the office and makes it seem that the higher ranks see you as a person not just a warm body

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2019 4:04 PM

2019-03-08T16:04:20-05:00

I had SGM call his Senior NCO'S by their 1st name and no one cared. I was surprised at first being the Buck Sergeant. Then it was explained to me it was a compliment. The SGM was also a Vietnam Vet so we really weren't saying anything to him

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2019 4:08 PM

2019-03-08T16:08:02-05:00

One of my captains started calling me by my first name right before he got out, it was kind of nice to hear from a man I had respected as a leader since I joined the unit. I had no issues with it what so ever.

Response by SGT Johnh Flaherty made Mar 8 at 2019 5:04 PM

2019-03-08T17:04:44-05:00

It was common when i served

Response by COL Kevin Dennehy made Mar 8 at 2019 5:17 PM

2019-03-08T17:17:00-05:00

This is a "lighten up" Francis-type of post. It was okay for a GO, or Group commander or other superior to address me informally by my first name.

Response by 1SG Paul Beal made Mar 8 at 2019 10:24 PM

2019-03-08T22:24:32-05:00

As a 1SG in an aviation company, it was ALWAYS MAJ Whatever and First Sergeant Beal in public. ALWAYS. In front of officers or enlisted folks. ALWAYS. Behind closed doors, it was first names. We both respected the institution and each other.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2019 11:26 PM

2019-03-08T23:26:15-05:00

Air Force allows it and is documented in AFH36-2618 para 3.1 ....." Each rank includes an official abbreviation and term of address,
however Airmen senior or equivalent to the member may use first names and/or call signs"

Response by SFC Derahn Thornton made Mar 9 at 2019 7:40 AM

2019-03-09T07:40:55-05:00

As a former Special Agent, it’s the norm when we’re on investigative status in our field office in civilian clothes.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Mar 9 at 2019 8:03 AM

2019-03-09T08:03:19-05:00

The non-existent one.

Response by LCpl Darrell J. Farley Jr. made Mar 9 at 2019 3:44 PM

2019-03-09T15:44:01-05:00

Air Force does!

Response by SSG Dave Johnston made Mar 9 at 2019 4:31 PM

2019-03-09T16:31:39-05:00

What was the occasion/situation; do you work in the Medical field; or was it conversation you overheard? Maybe they're cousins, siblings, in-laws; or two individuals discussing what they're going to do when they ETS/Retire. The way you have posted this query provides insufficient evidence to determine a definitive answer.

Please rephrase the question, providing the circumstances surrounding the "event" and resubmit the question.

Response by SPC Travis Grizzard made Mar 9 at 2019 6:53 PM

2019-03-09T18:53:39-05:00

Something funny, related to the question though. I spoke to a veteran who told me that when he was in he was usually called by his rank and first name. It seems people weren't comfortable calling him by his last name, except one female LT. Sweetheart was his last name.

Response by SPC Ken Gunnett made Mar 9 at 2019 7:19 PM

2019-03-09T19:19:24-05:00

Article 134, the "just because" article.

Response by Don Messer made Mar 9 at 2019 7:27 PM

2019-03-09T19:27:40-05:00

Don't know of a regulation, but I had a colonel that told me we would be on a first name basis. He would call me Don, and I would call him colonel.

Response by CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 9 at 2019 11:55 PM

2019-03-09T23:55:53-05:00

I was taught if a Senior Officer calls you by your 1st name that you are on that Officer's good side.

Response by 1LT Christopher Gonzales made Mar 10 at 2019 12:19 AM

2019-03-10T00:19:50-05:00

Honestly, I hated this. I didn't want to be friends with my boss; I'd rather have a mentor over a friend in my bosses.

Response by LTC Ray B. (Ret) made Mar 10 at 2019 1:01 AM

2019-03-10T01:01:51-05:00

No reg. But it was not unusual. But mostly in private or semi private settings, staff meetings, between general and aid, etc. As a captain on staff 1CAV I was more than once referred to by my first name by the Div CDR and thought it was no big deal and I understood it was not an invitation to become his BFF.

Response by Sgt John Meister made Mar 10 at 2019 11:52 AM

2019-03-10T11:52:21-04:00

Calling a subordinate by their first name is a term of endearment and the sign of a caring leader. It is often used with a sarcastic tone but it is a sign of love and respect. A good leader knows about and cares about his/her subordinates as individuals. Calling them by their first name shows that the leader is recognizing the individual.

Response by Cadet 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 10 at 2019 7:25 PM

2019-03-10T19:25:45-04:00

It seems that is the custom in the British SAS...

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 11 at 2019 8:56 AM

2019-03-11T08:56:16-04:00

I think that this has its place depending on the setting and climate of the particular office you’re working in. When in the s3 shop there all the officers called their peers and subordinates by their first name, and nearly everyone, enlisted or officer, had nicknames we would answer to in the shop. If we were outside the office or had visitors it tightened up. When I was in the s3 at 2-7 IN at Stewart everyone was addressed by rank and last name. It was just the atmosphere that was instilled and we all followed.

Response by SPC Jackson Stevens made Mar 11 at 2019 10:47 AM

2019-03-11T10:47:05-04:00

My AIT was at Lowery AF Base in Denver. My father, a retired Maj, was attending my Graduation. He saw the name of my Commander of the Army Detachment Unit. He wanted to see the commander’s photo. As we were walking towards the office, the commander walks out of his office, and my father calls, “Hey Tom!” This E-4 was trying to find a hole, as the Commander is turning around to see who dare call him by his first name. Sure enough, the Detachment Commander had worked for my Dad.

Response by CPT Olen Ridling made Mar 11 at 2019 3:02 PM

2019-03-11T15:02:07-04:00

It is a custom, when the higher ranking officer likes / respects the lower ranking officer.

Response by PO2 Willis Linn made Mar 12 at 2019 8:10 AM

2019-03-12T08:10:12-04:00

Thank You SSG Hartnett "AR 600-20" Without friendly interactions it would limit the ability to confront the problems encountered by command roles- RESPECT IS THE WORD

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Mar 12 at 2019 11:41 PM

2019-03-12T23:41:17-04:00

It matters? Are you pleased to be recognized?? What is the problem?

Would you rather not be noticed?

Response by SSG Steve Finlan made Mar 13 at 2019 2:53 PM

2019-03-13T14:53:18-04:00

There is no reg that I am aware of. It has, I suspect, always just been "tradition". A LTC I used to work for always called me "Fin" (I was her OPS NCOIC) and it just never bothered me.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 13 at 2019 5:44 PM

2019-03-13T17:44:52-04:00

It is probably in the Common Sense Regulations that would cover all situations that may arise in any branch!

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Mar 13 at 2019 7:20 PM

2019-03-13T19:20:58-04:00

There are none. This has become a common practice particularly for senior officers. It never bothered me, or anyone I knew. It was awkward at first, what is the harm. Also, they did not address people that way in open environments. Thank you for your service.

Response by SFC Timothy Sturgill made Mar 13 at 2019 7:46 PM

2019-03-13T19:46:52-04:00

It's not regulatory, but it it is a cultural norm, a tradition among officers.

Response by SPC Donald Donovan made Mar 14 at 2019 9:54 AM

2019-03-14T09:54:41-04:00

When I worked for the division Provost Marshal with the 8th ID In Germany back in the early 80’s. We had a first name relationship. He called me “Don” and I called him “Col . “

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 14 at 2019 10:28 AM

2019-03-14T10:28:53-04:00

True. My squad had it's own chemistry that seemed lost on everyone BUT our senior leadership: we were all on a first name business in the workplace. The mindset is, we are a family. Last names and ranks are for business, first names (which we jokingly called our "free" names,) are for all other matters.

Response by Maj Martin Smith made Mar 14 at 2019 12:27 PM

2019-03-14T12:27:59-04:00

In the Air Force of the 60s the line used was: Rank amongst company grade officers was like virtue amongst whores.

Response by CPT David Miller made Mar 14 at 2019 10:20 PM

2019-03-14T22:20:16-04:00

Naw, scary is when your commander tells you to close the door and addresses you by your rank. Then you know you have really messed up.

Response by LTC James McElreath made Mar 16 at 2019 12:44 AM

2019-03-16T00:44:39-04:00

Brandon,
I looked all over the place trying to find a section specifically allowing the use of first names. I did find information that specifically addresses Senior/subordinate contact.

Response by CPO David Sharp made Mar 16 at 2019 10:27 AM

2019-03-16T10:27:57-04:00

In the Chief's Mess we address each with familiar names. In front of Sailors/Troops it is always Chief, Senior or Master Chief. It is good for order and discipline to maintain proper bearing. You never know what order must be given.

Response by MSgt Kerry Lundy made Mar 16 at 2019 10:34 AM

2019-03-16T10:34:47-04:00

To me being addressed by my senior NCO(s) and officer using my first name meant they had trust in me to ensure during exercises I would provide the right information to execute the actions needed. During deployments the right mix of equipment and personnel would reach the destinations in the stages as needed. The only time I recall addressing an officer by his first name was in Vietnam. LTC Frank Fish worked in the ALCE and we played basketball together while off duty. He insisted I call him Frank on the basketball court.

Response by SFC Jimmy Williams made Mar 18 at 2019 11:49 AM

2019-03-18T11:49:02-04:00

As i said in my first reply, this was never a concern for me. I always thought it unprofessional, but.... However, there was one time that this first name business bothered me. Not just the first name issue, but there were other issues I had with the command in that unit. I was assigned to an Apache unit and we deployed to Germany for Reforger. The Apache was new and ours was the first unit to get it. It was important that the NATO partners see the Apache as a success. Every mission flown was watched by foreign country observers. A mission with 12 AH-64's was supposed to launch at midnight and be over target around 0115. The weather was terrible, fog and low ceilings. the weather detachment said the target would probably be clear at the time the mission was to be on target. The BDE CO was talking with the BN CO who did not want to fly the mission due to weather. The BDE CO said, "(Insert first name), we need to fly this mission." So, the mission launched as scheduled and one aircraft flew into the side of a hill. As I said, I had other concerns about our leadership. But I thought for the BDE CO to have that conversation within hearing of the enlisted soldiers in the TOC was not a good idea. Several months later I moved on and I heard through the grapevine that the Brigade was selected to deploy on Desert Shield, but could not. It seem they were lying on the USR and a lot of things were not combat ready. Granted I heard this through the rumor mill, but I can believe it due to the things I saw first hand for 2 years.

Response by SSgt Gerald Davis Jr made Mar 19 at 2019 3:27 PM

2019-03-19T15:27:02-04:00

In private OK. Otherwise NO.

Response by MSG Robert Reiser made Mar 21 at 2019 11:53 PM

2019-03-21T23:53:56-04:00

I was aid to a one star and in private he would call me by my first name but otherwise he would call me Sgt. He was a solders General and I would have gone across hot coals for him.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 23 at 2019 7:16 PM

2019-03-23T19:16:46-04:00

Google

Response by PO1 Richard Norton made Mar 24 at 2019 3:29 PM

2019-03-24T15:29:56-04:00

No known regulation. Military customs and traditions come first in public. What officers do in private that is between them, but would be set by the senior officer.

Response by SFC Carlos Cruz made Mar 25 at 2019 8:15 AM

2019-03-25T08:15:09-04:00

Their is no regulation yet is the respect to one another & traditionally in SFG. In conventional unit is different but allow with some Office & NCOIC who knows each other very good. This isn’t a big issue.

Response by MAJ Karen Wall made Mar 29 at 2019 8:43 AM

2019-03-29T08:43:43-04:00

A traditional gesture of respect and fondness, nothing more, like the others have said here. I did it as well and it let my subs know they meant something to me in leadership.

Response by LtCol Paul Bowen made Apr 1 at 2019 12:57 AM

2019-04-01T00:57:55-04:00

The behavior is a form of fraternization. It is punishable under the UCMJ.

The senior officer or NCO is “abandoning their rank” and at the moment of fraternizing, they showing favoritism and partiality at the expense of every other member of the military unit.

The senior officer should be removed from any leadership position and discharged from the military.

Response by SSG Mark Franzen made Apr 1 at 2019 10:00 PM

2019-04-01T22:00:08-04:00

Don't ever watch mash?

Response by LTC George Morgan made Apr 3 at 2019 5:00 PM

2019-04-03T17:00:27-04:00

Thank you CSM.

Response by MSG Chuck Pewsey made Apr 5 at 2019 2:13 AM

2019-04-05T02:13:28-04:00

RHIP

Response by MAJ Matthew Arnold made Apr 5 at 2019 4:55 PM

2019-04-05T16:55:45-04:00

Up front I'll say that for about 4 years I was airborne and worked with Special Forces a lot. Then for about 20 years a was an aviator and worked with aviators a lot (duh). While in an airborne unit I was a Lieutenant and only other Lieutenants called each other by their first name. My CO in the 82nd always called us Lieutenant followed by our last name. (My battalion commander did not know I existed until I made a big mistake, but that's another story.) The NCOs and men called us Lieutenant or Sir.

When I worked with Special Forces, while I was still a Lieutenant, after the initial getting to know you period, except for Sergeants (E5), they began calling me by my first name, which if you worked with SF in the 80s, was the normal thing. I considered it a compliment, that I was in with the guys. All of the team members used first names within the team with one exception. The Team Commander was usually addressed by a title of endearment such as, Cap, Skip, Boss, Jefe, etc. They were all a little wild and a little crazy, but they were professionals all the way.

After flight school I worked in 6th Cavalry Brigade HQ. As captains we were the low men on the totem pole. We called each other by our first names. My boss, a major, and his boss, a LTC, would sometimes call me by my first name and sometimes call me by my last name and sometimes call me Captain Arnold. (I think it had to do with their mood and my performance.) Warrant Officers in the HQ were treated the same as the captains and were called by their first name.

As an instructor at The US Army Aviation School we were on a first name basis. Warrant Officers were treated the same as the Captains at the school and were called by their first name. Field Grade officers were called Sir, but they called us by our first name.

As a Test Project Officer/Test Pilot for the US Army Aviation Board, like the school, we were mostly Captains and civilians and we were on a first name basis. Again, Field Grade officers were called Sir, but they called us by our first name.

In the 211 Aviation Group (Brigade size HQ) and in the 1/211th Avn. Bn. (AH-64) (which are UTARNG units) generally, WO1 thru Captain were on a first name basis. For me personally, W3, W4, and later W5 were on a first name basis with me when I was a Major. I was fine with that. The Warrant Officers were smart enough to know when not to use a senior officer's first name.

So, bottom line at the bottom, it all depends on the type of unit, the men and women you are working with, and you as an individual. (Sorry that took so long.)

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Apr 15 at 2019 10:36 AM

2019-04-15T10:36:27-04:00

You don't need a regulation to use good old fashioned professionalism and leadership skills.

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Apr 16 at 2019 12:04 PM

2019-04-16T12:04:01-04:00

As for any reg allowingcommanding officers calling junior officers by theirfirst name, none that I know of. Often, a CO will use a junior officer's or an NCO by their first name in private. But all COs must exhit proffessionalism at all times..

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2019 10:00 AM

2019-05-17T10:00:37-04:00

Strange question. First, not everything is in a regulation, although not for lack of effort on the Army's part. In the military and in civilian police departments, it is tradition for the boss to call the subordinate by first name. If your boss is using your first name, that's a good thing when done privately. Whenever I was unhappy with someone or had a total dud under me I called them by their rank, even in private. RHIP.

Response by SSG Jim Schimon made May 23 at 2019 9:27 AM

2019-05-23T09:27:38-04:00

SSG Jim Schimon
SSG Jim Schimon
1 m
SFG SCHIMON It very simple ,You use what is on your uniform Rank/ last name.If the unit allows A nick name like Cowboy when it one on one .Unless you slept with the person the night before you keep it professional . last name /rank is your fiist name

Response by 1SG James Kelly made May 23 at 2019 2:22 PM

2019-05-23T14:22:04-04:00

Well there was this General my wife worked for; we were on a first name basis I called him Sir and he called me whatever he wanted to.
Of course that was old Army.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2019 2:32 PM

2019-05-23T14:32:39-04:00

Posted this original question over 3 years ago as a rhetorical question. There isn't a regulation that allows anyone of any rank to address a fellow Soldier by their first name. Period. Doesn't exist. In fact, 600-20 or 600-40, forgot exactly which one, specifies exactly the proper way to address every single rank. The point of the question was to shine a light on the fact that so many officers feel that there are different standards for them than what exists for enlisted. If you are one of those who feel it is ok and/or justified then you are/were part of the problem. The moment you let someone walk past you with a uniform issue or fail to render proper customs and courtesies you have created a new standard. Same goes for the first name issue. From a 4-Star to a one-striper, same standard for all. It's funny how many people have replied to this topic over the course of 3 years and still get it wrong.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2019 9:49 AM

2019-05-24T09:49:45-04:00

I'm a SSG and have several higher ranking NCO's and officers call me by my first name on a daily basis...at first it startled me but I have become accustomed to it...I just do not call them by their first names...they are great leaders.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2019 5:45 PM

2019-05-24T17:45:12-04:00

In aviation it is a sign among officers of familiarity that rarely extends to enlisted except among airframes that have "ride along" crewchidfs, so for airframes that dont "ride with pilots" first names are against a sense of working class pride but for crew chiefs who do a sense of "crew"

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2019 10:37 PM

2019-05-25T22:37:31-04:00

AR 0.0

Response by PFC Christopher Voechting made May 25 at 2019 11:35 PM

2019-05-25T23:35:52-04:00

When I was attached to the 1st Special Forces group at Ft Lewis they used first names all the time. Let me tell you, as a PFC, being told to go into a command tent and ask for Chris; only to find out the lowest rank in that tent was Colonel! Talk about being as nerves as a long tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs!

Response by LTC James Washington made May 26 at 2019 1:28 PM

2019-05-26T13:28:33-04:00

Just thinking back - I would not call anyone by first name until they had served under me or we had served in the same organization for some time. For Sergeants Major - I didn't refer to any by first name until I was a very senior Major and we had served together closely for a period of years. (Except for my first Tank Platoon Sergeant when he bacame Regimental Sergeant Major - and then not publicly.)

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2019 2:28 PM

2019-05-26T14:28:19-04:00

There has been plenty of good answers given from what I see. I'd just like to add a personal touch. I grew up in the Army and made it to SFC. So of course my rank with my last name was all I knew. When I became an officer, it was a bit weird at first to hear people call me by my first name in uniform. I got used to it super quickly. My boss even uses my first name on my OER sometimes to put a personal touch in a statement. I have only been an officer for 4 years and I must say, once in got used to the first name thing, it just brings a level of comfort to the work environment.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made May 26 at 2019 2:37 PM

2019-05-26T14:37:06-04:00

That follows more under Military Customs and Courtesy. The same as a Commanding Officer (CPT, LTC, etc.) being"the OLD MAN"

Response by MCPO Jason Griggs made May 27 at 2019 6:10 AM

2019-05-27T06:10:05-04:00

Most of my superiors called me by first name I never called them by first name out of respect

Response by SFC Joseph McCausland made May 27 at 2019 4:54 PM

2019-05-27T16:54:22-04:00

During my twenty-two years of service, one of my assignments was the 7th Inf Div, Co C Ft Ord, CA, as the Company Clerk I interacted with my 1SG Victor C. Underwood (quite a character and unquestionably a Warrior) numerous times throughout the day. Our offices were connected but walled off with a small "door-less" doorway for access between our offices. Whenever TOP would call me he would refer to me as SPC McCausland because there was another soldier in his office or he didn't know if there was someone in my office but when we were alone or on our Friday Night NCO Club ( yes, I know SPC in an NCO club, that's another story altogether) outings it was always Mac. We were both Vietnam Veterans and after a few double shots of JD, TOP would open up with the most amazing war stories.
Our experiences as far as facing the enemy in combat were as different as night and day.
If you look up Victor C. Underwood and read his DSC Citation you will see a "real" warrior.
So, yes officially and keeping with military protocol my ISG never broke rank and called me Specialist but when we were alone, we were two Nam soldiers and buddies and it was always "Mac".

Response by SSgt Christopher Sherman made May 27 at 2019 9:47 PM

2019-05-27T21:47:21-04:00

I was in usaf until 2001. This was never an issue. Everyone was rank and last name period. No question about when it is appropriate since this is alway right. Best not to get into the habit of first name then have to think when it is appropriate.

Response by Sgt Jeff Martin made May 30 at 2019 8:49 PM

2019-05-30T20:49:07-04:00

This is speaking strictly about my situation. I served under a Brigadier General that served with my father when they were in the army guard in 1936. He was a colonel then. When I served for a brief time in the guard it just happened to be under this family friend. He knew who I was. He was inspecting my unit one day and as usual was surrounded by all types of officers. I just happened to be walking by and was with several others we rendered the proper salute as we were passing. Then this loud voice called out SGT MARTIN!! I stopped and did about face and saluted again. The General had decided to have a friendly discussion with me. The look on the officers and enlisted faces was priceless. No one could figure out why the General was talking to a lowly Sargent and not to them. After about five minutes of talking I snapped to saluted and left to go back to my tank. Years later after he retired and I was out of the service I interned in his law office. Every one in the office used his christian except me. During that conversation back in the guard he told me I could call him by his first name...I asked what it was and he said General. The entire time I worked for him and was around him that's what I called him.

Response by CW3 Paul Fitch made Jun 2 at 2019 1:38 AM

2019-06-02T01:38:53-04:00

My memory of the "Officer's Guide" was that the superior never remembers the difference in rank and the subordinate never forgets it. Served me well for 13 years in the military. One time I pulled out a cigarette (I smoked back then) and a flame appeared at the end of it attached to a 1 star general. Spoke volumes.

Response by SR Brsouths . made Jun 14 at 2019 8:35 PM

2019-06-14T20:35:26-04:00

Seem to me that if you have to ask the question the answer should be obvious; no regulation needed. Aside from Article 134, or 92 of the UCMJ each service has their own customs and traditions but personally, if I were a CW4 and I had any desire to see CW5 I'd be calling a senior officer by their rank or Sir. As Capt. Seid Waddell said, "I was on a first-name basis with my commander on my first assignment. He called me Seid and I called him Sir.") I think that about covers it. It's been fifty some years since I was in but "familiarity breeds contempt" was the saying then and I suspect it still is; if you need proof just look at the current CinC.

Response by SPC Félix Quiñones Vializ made Jun 18 at 2019 1:37 PM

2019-06-18T13:37:44-04:00

After my three year stint in the army I joined Texas Department of Criminal Justice. During my employment there everyone was addressed by their surname and if you held a supervisory position, then your title was included. After four and half years I left to join the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Part of the culture shock was that staff regardless of position addressed each other by their first names. What I found was that how you carry yourself determines how your peers and those who you supervise respond to your directives.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 23 at 2019 10:42 AM

2019-06-23T10:42:07-04:00

As an enlisted Marine (Gunny) who had been referred to by his first name by senior officers, I viewed that as a sign of trust and respect and was honored. Of course, what did I call them in return? ...... Sir. Semper Fi.

Response by Cpl Robert Robertson made Jun 27 at 2019 2:29 PM

2019-06-27T14:29:50-04:00

Nope it is a mark of the highter to the lower.
"Jimmy" the employer said to his driver, Be here at 4;00 . Yes Mr. Jones replied Jimmy

Response by 1SG Jeffrey Mullett made Jun 27 at 2019 8:16 PM

2019-06-27T20:16:20-04:00

I've never subscribed to the practice of using someone's first name in uniform. I give the Junior ranks the respect of their rank...just like me, they earned it. I've had officers refer to me by my first name, it makes my uncomfortable, and some of them don't deserve the privilege.
I find it is just more appropriate when in uniform to be IN uniform.

I do, however, refer to other NCOs of my rank by their first names, but only if I know them pretty well. But just try and call an officer by his first name...I never have, but I have been tempted when they call me by mine.

Response by SFC Richard Baerlocher made Jun 28 at 2019 4:53 PM

2019-06-28T16:53:33-04:00

If you had more than one person with the same rank and last name how would you differentiate which one you were talking to? At Ft Lee, Va in the Second Instructor Company we had 17 SFC Johnson's. There were three with the same first names. Two had the same MOS's. Confusing, yes but we figured it out. One was married, one was not, They were addressed by rank and first name, MOS, and married or not.It was a little bit tedious, but it still allowed the military dignity to prevail. We never addressed someone by their first names only. That was never done.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 29 at 2019 9:48 AM

2019-06-29T09:48:58-04:00

Nope, if you're going to call a subordinate by thier first name at least give them the option to do it back.

Response by LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 29 at 2019 7:21 PM

2019-06-29T19:21:01-04:00

Back in the late 60’s early 70’s, the USN had a requirement that you meet with junior enlisted and write up a bio. Gave you insight to what was going on with the individual. Senior calling junior by first name ok but not vice versa.

Response by PO2 Paul Dempsey made Jun 30 at 2019 6:44 PM

2019-06-30T18:44:31-04:00

Was common in the Navy for the CO of the ship to use first names. Generally if being Called by rank we had company on board or you stepped into something you shouldn't have. Like your mom using your full name James Thomas Jackson. Gets your attention and you new you messed up something

Response by LTC Gene Moser made Jun 30 at 2019 10:43 PM

2019-06-30T22:43:44-04:00

First of all first names in ranks is not good. In a squad, office, headquarters, for the superior to address the subordinate by first name (or last name without rank) I found common.

Response by SFC Lisa Leverett Bailey made Jul 1 at 2019 8:13 AM

2019-07-01T08:13:34-04:00

I don't see anything with it this, my General use to call me by my first name it made me more at ease and that let me know that he respected as I did him. Now when we where was in mix company or at High Meeting it was my rank and last name. My General was one of the greatest though

Response by SGT Jeremy Andrews made Jul 1 at 2019 6:46 PM

2019-07-01T18:46:00-04:00

FM 7-21-13 chapter 4-6, Customs and Courtesy. Always address lower ranking Soldiers/Officers by their rank, hence the Fraternization Pamphlet and UCMJ code.

Response by LT Richard Mondak made Jul 3 at 2019 9:01 AM

2019-07-03T09:01:01-04:00

Not every part of military life requires a "Regulation" or UCMJ Article to direct or deter behavior.
When I was an Independent Duty Corpsman (E-6, two LCDRs told me we could be on a "First Name Basis" - They called me 'Doc' and I called them 'XO'.
When called by my first name or nickname (Duck) by a senior enlisted or Officer, it felt a though I had their trust and respect. I continued this with my subordinates when I was an Officer, but they knew where I stood as a Division Officer or Training Officer... "L -T" or "Doc" was acceptable and they rarely had to use my last name.

Response by MSG Gary Eaker made Jul 4 at 2019 5:11 AM

2019-07-04T05:11:07-04:00

When I was in BNCOC (not sure what they call it now) everyone in our platoon called each other by first name. We were all SGTs getting ready to pin SSG, so no one outranked anyone else. It drove the drill sergeants crazy, and they hated it. But it sure did solidify us as a team.

Response by Sgt Charles Welling made Jul 4 at 2019 8:34 PM

2019-07-04T20:34:57-04:00

Yes, here is the regulation: Rank has it's privileges. I was a Sgt E-5 when I left the Marines, I worked for a MSgt E-8 (later E-9 MGySgt). He called me Welling, I called him Sgt. Williams...………….. What was I to do, tell him to stop that? So, a Colonel calls a Major by his first name...…………… go ahead, buck the reality and see what it buys you.

Response by LTJG Sandra Smith made Jul 5 at 2019 4:53 AM

2019-07-05T04:53:02-04:00

I only did that once, in a specific situation; it was kind of an instinctive response to a vet who was having a flashback and thought he was in combat in Vietnam again; a place where a woman calling his given name sternly, and telling him to stop it, would be unlikely to happen. Thankfully, it worked and he stopped tossing my corpsmen around like rag dolls. Had I taken time to stop and think, I might not have done that; but my guys were being hurt and he, being our patient, was not someone to do harm to even in self defense. By the time we called in a doctor to order a sedative, who knows what might have happened? Frankly, I know of no such regulation, and too much familiarity does tend to breed contempt, as the old saying goes. There are other ways to gain respect and cooperation generally.

Response by MAJ David Atkinson made Jul 5 at 2019 6:05 PM

2019-07-05T18:05:11-04:00

It’s not so much being allowed as it is not being prohibited.

Response by CW4 Craig Urban made Jul 6 at 2019 12:09 AM

2019-07-06T00:09:47-04:00

Respect. My battalion commander called me Craig or chief.

Response by CW4 Craig Urban made Jul 6 at 2019 12:10 AM

2019-07-06T00:10:23-04:00

Never had a butter bar call me craig

Response by CPO David Sharp made Jul 7 at 2019 6:37 PM

2019-07-07T18:37:16-04:00

I don't know of a regulation, however, it is bad leadership and could lead to mistrust by junior personnel. Military respect is better than the perception of undo familiarity. Break down in morale especially with evals and fitreps.

Response by CPO David Sharp made Jul 7 at 2019 6:41 PM

2019-07-07T18:41:01-04:00

Military respect is paramount. Undo familiarity can lead to a breakdown in morale and is bad leadership. Eval and Fitrep time will suffer from this kind of behavior and one day you will have to issue an order which will become an issue do to Likership.

Response by SPC Matthew Birkinbine made Jul 8 at 2019 8:37 AM

2019-07-08T08:37:14-04:00

You can call me whatever you want, just don't call me late for a meal.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cichelli made Jul 8 at 2019 11:15 AM

2019-07-08T11:15:51-04:00

This is something that's been around since I joined the Army in 1979. Company level commanders (CPTs) calling their XO's or PLT leaders (LTs) by their first names was common. Bn CDR (O-5) calling their XO (MAJ) his/her XO first name also very common. Why is this an issue?

Response by LTJG Edward Bangor Jr made Jul 8 at 2019 5:24 PM

2019-07-08T17:24:49-04:00

I can't think of a single time I was addressed by my first name and had it be a bad thing. Getting a decent FITREP, goodbye handshake from the CO at his hail & bail, a DH encouraging me to push harder during a PRT (and subsequently getting my best score at that command) or even just a "thanks" from my DH for getting something extra done being what he needed from me that day.

Aside from taking the watch, though, rank was not something you wanted a senior Officer to refer to you by. Billet. Mr Last name. First name in the wardroom. All good. "ENS Schmuckatelli" is probably not going to like the remainder of that conversation, though.

Response by MAJ John Douglas made Jul 15 at 2019 8:45 AM

2019-07-15T08:45:56-04:00

Calling a lower ranking officer by their first name was very common practice in my units. No one ever thought twice about it.

Response by SSG Darrell Dunn made Jul 29 at 2019 4:18 PM

2019-07-29T16:18:37-04:00

lol..there isn't one

Response by CPO William Rys made Jul 31 at 2019 9:47 AM

2019-07-31T09:47:56-04:00

Not sure about the Army, but for most of my 20 years in the Navy, I didn’t people HAD first names-LOL. Seriously though, about the only time I would use a guy’s name was on his annual evaluation. When I made E-7, I was assigned a “first name”, which was “Chief”, and that’s how my guys addressed me for the last ten years I was in. It’s been 30 years since I retired, and that first name has stuck. I love driving on to almost any military base with a civilian guest, the gate guard handing back my ID and saying “Have a nice day Chief”. When my guest asks “Why did he say that, does he know you?”, I always answer “No, but he knew my first name”.

Response by LCpl Kenneth Heath made Jul 31 at 2019 10:57 AM

2019-07-31T10:57:28-04:00

There is no regulation that allows that, it would be ridiculous to dictate such a lapse in military protocol... there are, however, regulations covering the addressing of personnel by rank as the default setting. I've found that most of us were addressed by our last names more often than anything else, except among our 'drinking-level' buddies.

That being said, familiarity in the workplace does foster certain allowances that are generally accepted, working in close proximity with people tends to get somewhat casual as time goes by. It's tough to address your personal staff formally by rank & last name every time you open your mouth without sounding like some unapproachable by-the-book hard-on! I once worked for the S-4 shop (Bn Police Sgt) and our Bn Cmdr was "Sir" or "Lt Col" outside his office, if you went to him with a personal problem, he was "Bob" once his door closed behind you.

Last names are more the norm; There are guys I served with over 35 years ago who's first names I didn't know til they friended me on facebook!

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2019 10:14 PM

2019-07-31T22:14:08-04:00

It’s called leadership. Seniors can take those liberties when they want.

Response by CPT Don Pruitt made Aug 2 at 2019 12:36 PM

2019-08-02T12:36:56-04:00

Choosing to refer to a subordinate by different means is a valuable leadership tool and can improve their reception of the message you are attempting to send. Calling a subordinate by first name, nick name, rank and last name, rank only, other (i.e. more colorful name) communicates as much as the actual words. SFC Ward is spot on regarding the "Psychology of Leadership". I would add that communication (method, timing, and message) is a fundamental component of effective leadership.

Response by GySgt Glenn Blakey made Aug 2 at 2019 9:02 PM

2019-08-02T21:02:31-04:00

During my 20 years this is one of the things that just burned my soul. Even heard officers call enlisted by their first name. Spec ops is the worst at it. I know cause I spent my time in Forse Recon and Bn Recon. Seals are the worst about it. Everyone wants to be like them but not me. Keep some discipline people.

Response by CMSgt Darin Haitsuka made Aug 3 at 2019 2:19 AM

2019-08-03T02:19:48-04:00

General's privilege.

Response by SFC Michael Peterson made Aug 4 at 2019 1:07 AM

2019-08-04T01:07:41-04:00

It's hard for me to believe that this is even a legitimate question, especially from a CW4. It isn't in any regulation. It's based on an individual leadership style. I could have called my lowest enlisted subordinates by their first names but, I chose not to.

Response by CPT Tommy Curtis made Aug 4 at 2019 8:52 PM

2019-08-04T20:52:54-04:00

Its a way for higher ranking officers to show that they care about you as a person, not just a subordinate. I have also had commanders that were by the book and proper that I liked also. It was always an honor for me when my commander addressed me by my first name.

Response by LtCol Paul Bowen made Aug 5 at 2019 3:36 PM

2019-08-05T15:36:36-04:00

Regardless of Serving, the practice of being on a first name basis with any subordinate, whether or not you are in the same “Chain of Command”, is known as FRATERNIZING or FRATERNIZATION, punishable under the UCMJ.

Response by COL Bill Stoltzfus made Aug 14 at 2019 5:03 PM

2019-08-14T17:03:12-04:00

Even as a colonel, I addressed most junior soldiers by rank and name. The exceptions were the occasional friend, also in uniform, but when doing so, they knew they could address me casually as well.

Response by SSG Calvin Grant made Aug 27 at 2019 2:38 PM

2019-08-27T14:38:51-04:00

Yeah US Air Force. All jokes aside, I won't get into any discussions of psychology but SFC Ward may be on to something. As long as you can maintain the line of respect and the integrity between the individuals involved there shouldn't be any issues. I gave my soldiers permission to call me by my first name both on and off duty. They never did, something about that made for a better working environment. Respect went both ways.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2019 2:44 PM

2019-08-27T14:44:04-04:00

Chief - you know there isn't and the fact this question is being presented this way is a quintessential demonstration of Warrant Officer smugness. The fact that you're asking this, this way, telegraphs that it bothers you and that you're asking to invoke argument.

Officers just do this. There is no regulation that says this is OK. There's also no regulation which dictates how to hold a fork as long as it gets food in your mouth, no regulation that dictates what brand of watch to wear as long as it keeps time and keeps you on time, and no regulation that dictates which leg to put in your trousers first, as long as you get them both in there, pull them up and wear them decently IAW Army Uniform Regulations. In the course of leading subordinates and communicating with them respectfully, if a Senior refers to a subordinate incidentally by first name... it isn't going to break the Army, destroy morale, or undermine regulations. It's just irritating you.

The fact you took the time to write about this and make it an issue tells me you have too much time on your hands and should worry less about the interpersonal communications of Officers.

Response by SFC Oddie Brown made Aug 27 at 2019 8:05 PM

2019-08-27T20:05:09-04:00

No sir, I don't know but it was common when I was in 84-04. I also heard some 1SGs and SGMs call Lts by their first name also. But never in or around formations.

Response by CW4 Mark Welch made Aug 28 at 2019 8:34 AM

2019-08-28T08:34:39-04:00

AR 600-100

Response by CPO Heidi Cermak made Aug 28 at 2019 9:15 PM

2019-08-28T21:15:13-04:00

No. They should be addressed by their rank and last name.

Response by PFC Edward Mott made Aug 29 at 2019 12:53 AM

2019-08-29T00:53:47-04:00

As far as I know, there isn't one. I've only heard it done by the Air Force, but that was also only in jest.

Response by LTC Ray B. (Ret) made Aug 29 at 2019 3:40 PM

2019-08-29T15:40:56-04:00

Seriously? Hey if you don’t like it simply bring it to their attention in a professional and respectful manner. Then live with the results

Response by LTC Ray B. (Ret) made Aug 29 at 2019 3:57 PM

2019-08-29T15:57:48-04:00

When I was in USASOC it was a lot of first names. But even as an officer I never assumed the privilege with the NCOs unless I knew them and only in very specific situations

Response by CW3 John Young made Aug 29 at 2019 7:10 PM

2019-08-29T19:10:37-04:00

My am CW3 Young....Chief is my first name.....period

Response by LTC Marvin Gibson made Aug 30 at 2019 8:20 AM

2019-08-30T08:20:38-04:00

AR 3825-968...

Response by Sgt Rafael Arriaga made Aug 30 at 2019 4:31 PM

2019-08-30T16:31:51-04:00

No such regulation exist.

Response by Sgt Rafael Arriaga made Aug 30 at 2019 4:32 PM

2019-08-30T16:32:47-04:00

No such regulation exists.

Response by SPC Jimmy Rooks I made Aug 31 at 2019 4:26 AM

2019-08-31T04:26:51-04:00

I know when I was with the 11th ADA Bde the Colonel called my Bn Co "Jimmy"!

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2019 8:13 AM

2019-08-31T08:13:28-04:00

This has been a complaint of mine. I understand why they do it but I feel it is unprofessional. I also feel if they do it in front of senior nco's they may slip up and do it in front of the enlisted. 1SG Wheaton

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2019 8:30 AM

2019-08-31T08:30:24-04:00

I think it is a superior officer’s way of showing familiarity and affinity for a subordinate while also reminding them of the rank structure.

Response by SP5 John Coggeshall made Sep 1 at 2019 12:18 AM

2019-09-01T00:18:40-04:00

Hey, CW4....I was only an E5 in 1967 (SP5--E5---after 18 months of active duty..).BUT...I cannot understand how an intelligent adult in the USA (service or not) can ask such a question. I made E-5 in 18 months--I worked hard for that---in that period, I might have called a superior( E- or O)- by their first names 30 or 40 times (E-90%)-----I was called by my first name.....maybe 300 to 500 times...if a "superior" "officer" does not understand common courtesy...and the privilege of "command"...perhaps they should not be a "superior officer"

SP5--E5---John Coggeshall---US 51-536-582--

Response by PO2 Paul Gerg made Sep 1 at 2019 8:27 AM

2019-09-01T08:27:52-04:00

Our CO knew just about everyone on our ship by first name. But a destroyer is a small community and our CO was a mustang!

Response by PFC William Waha made Sep 1 at 2019 2:19 PM

2019-09-01T14:19:07-04:00

Here's a place to start https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uniform_Code_of_Military_Justice also there are additional links at the bottom of the linked page itself . So with the ability to read and understand, the only thing standing between you and your answer would be some work to find it . Remember the UCMJ is the definitive legal basis for all service members , here say has never been advisable or ad missible ( in other words If I tell you whatever and your dumb enough to take my word for it then your dumb enough to take the punishment as well ) . It's always best to have a complete understanding of the actual authority that you willingly signed yourself up for ( we have a volunteer armed forces networks as the draft has not been currently initiated ).

Uniform Code of Military Justice - Wikipedia

The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ, 64Stat.109, 10 U.S.C. §§ 801–946) is the foundation of military law in the United States. It was established by the United States Congress in accordance with the authority given by the United States Constitution in Article I, Section 8, which provides that "The Congress shall have Power....To make Rules for the Government and Regulation of the land and naval forces".

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 3 at 2019 10:35 AM

2019-09-03T10:35:05-04:00

Always think it's weird at first, but if the person being to that way doesn't have an issue, then no big deal. I just hate it if somebody corrects enlisted or NCO's referring to their subordinates or peers in the same manner.

Response by PO3 Adam Stoflet made Sep 5 at 2019 2:21 PM

2019-09-05T14:21:19-04:00

I remember on rare occasions the Chiefs in the Navy calling each other by their First Names in semi-private conversations. This was generally looked at as a sign of respect and familiarity amongst the senior enlisted that they . A privilege that was reserved for them.

Response by SPC Jodi Harbroe made Sep 6 at 2019 3:18 PM

2019-09-06T15:18:02-04:00

Both of my children are members of the Millennial generation. My son is an Iraqi Vet. As a Vietnam Vet and a single mother, I was strict with my children and I recall participating in a conversation with my peers who were discussing their children's behavior, all of our children were teenagers at the time. I stated that when my children were little I spanked them when they misbehaved (even though Congress passed a law making spanking illegal) and that I took my children to church every Sunday. A line I frequently used when they misbehaved was, "How do you think God feels about what you have done"? Today, both of my children are married with children of their own, they both have excellent jobs, have great homes and both seem to be well adjusted and reasonably happy and their spouses don't complain so I assume they too are reasonably happy. I also want to state here that you will not find any weapons in either of my children's homes. My point here is: I taught my children to have respect, for their elders, for each other, and for those who have earned the right to outrank them. They understand that just because someone outranks you does not mean that person is superior to you or better than you but 'respect' is 'respect' regardless of Tina Turner's song. If a society has no structure it will soon collapse. There are far too many Millennials 'wandering' because their parents and/or grandparents failed to do their jobs as parents and "parent". If you bring a child into this world it is your job to 'parent' that child.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 8 at 2019 5:28 PM

2019-09-08T17:28:24-04:00

Anyone who has a problem with this issue is probably just looking for an issue to have a problem with.
Of all the names one could be called, a first name should be the least of their concerns.
I've always felt respected when a senior officer used my first name, and on the instances where I called a Soldier by their first name, I used it respectfully.
I'm sure that there may be exceptions with other people's experiences, but those times, most likely, had extenuating circumstances involving personality conflicts, their performance, or both.

Response by SCPO Rev. Dr. Thomas Peavy made Sep 8 at 2019 9:52 PM

2019-09-08T21:52:24-04:00

Never had a problem. My name was Senior Chief ____, not Thom. If I encountered a "ring knocker" I would suggest the use my academic title of "Doctor." I was not on a first name basis with any officer, Petty Officer or non rated personnel nor did I want to be. Call it "professional" distance or whatever but familiarity was not my forte. In the Goatlocker it was more usual if one knew the Chief. Senior Chief or Master Chief to use first name informally. Rank and last name were usual forms of address when referring to Petty Officers and Officers. Mister was the accepted Navy address for Lieutenants and lower officer ranks and Warrant Officers.

Response by Sgt Peter Schlesiona made Sep 27 at 2019 2:58 PM

2019-09-27T14:58:09-04:00

You know as well as we all do that all branches of the military can go a bit overboard with regulations. That being said, I simply can’t imagine someone writing a regulation to the effect of “Under the following conditions, senior personnel are allowed to address subordinates by their given name (then goes on to list 7,000 conditions).
I think someone writing that would set his/her hair on fire, then put it out with a hammer.

Response by COL Keith Nightingale made Oct 1 at 2019 11:33 AM

2019-10-01T11:33:44-04:00

I always used the officer's first name in talking to him unless there was a good reason (discipline etc) not to. Calling a subordinate by his rank immediately becomes a bar to open dialogue and emphasizes the hierarchical structure which is counter-productive.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Oct 1 at 2019 3:47 PM

2019-10-01T15:47:10-04:00

Something like this would fall under Military Customs and Courtesy.

Response by SFC Mark Klaers made Oct 2 at 2019 5:55 AM

2019-10-02T05:55:26-04:00

For me it was always based on the individual I was dealing with.

Response by CPT Mike Sims made Oct 2 at 2019 11:58 AM

2019-10-02T11:58:59-04:00

There is no regulation. It is held in tradition. In most cases, if an officer of senior rank addresses a lower ranking officer by his/her first name, then it is usually because the senior officer has high regard, admiration and trust in the lower ranking officer - and the lower ranking officer usually has high regard, respect, trust, and loyalty for the senior ranking officer. This is normally forged in a working relationship where both Officers have risen above trials and tribulations through training exercises and real-world missions together where they have formed a trusted and cohesive bond. Usually, if a senior ranking officer addresses a junior ranking officer by their rank instead of their first name, it is normally because they have not worked together or have had very limited exposure to one another and have not formed a trusting bond. To be called by my first name by Colonels, Generals and by a few Admirals meant I was trusted by these senior officers. Those who addressed me only by my rank usually didn't know me or they were the few who didn't like me... and those few had problems anyway for which they were later investigated and one was court martialed. Therefore, take being called by your first name as a sign of trust and respect. Watch the TV show - The Unit... notice how the Colonel always addresses his team.

Response by SPC William MacLean made Oct 2 at 2019 7:47 PM

2019-10-02T19:47:04-04:00

I’ve been for quite a while, but some of my NCOs and officers would call me by my first name or shortened my last name.
I was never bothered by it.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 3 at 2019 1:22 AM

2019-10-03T01:22:51-04:00

What's the regulation for calling you by your last name?

Response by SPC Felix Nunez made Oct 3 at 2019 10:38 AM

2019-10-03T10:38:33-04:00

I don't believe that there's any regulation dictating what you call your subordinates by any names. I think in common courtesy and professionalism that is used as guidelines.

Response by SFC Terry Bryant made Oct 3 at 2019 10:56 AM

2019-10-03T10:56:00-04:00

For a higher ranking officer or NCO to call a lower ranking person by their first name indicates a personal connection or a level of trust. My commander who called me by my first name for years honored me. He was an honorable and strong leader and he didn't call everyone by their first name. So as far as a regulation, well there is no REGULATION on personal connections or a level of trust between military personnel, nor does there need to be. It is all about trust and respect. Not about regulation.

Response by SSG Jacen Black made Oct 3 at 2019 2:20 PM

2019-10-03T14:20:31-04:00

I didn't have any issue with it. I was even allowed to call some seniors by their first names. Outside of work.

However I had an issue one. A CPT called me Tyrone and when I informed him that was not my name, he said whatever. I politely informed him, that if he wasn't aware of the correct saying of my name or deliberately choose not to say it correctly, he could address me by my rank and last name. Again, he blew me off so I walked off.

A fellow NCO told him I had just been apprehended for bringing a firearm on post. He was very polite after that.

Response by CPO Joseph Senko made Oct 3 at 2019 4:31 PM

2019-10-03T16:31:31-04:00

It would be done in privacy only. Otherwise rank and last name only. Never seen it done myself. I have been called son a few times when things got hairy.

Response by 1SG Brian Adams made Oct 4 at 2019 4:05 PM

2019-10-04T16:05:44-04:00

Even at the Senior NCO rank, first names can and are used. Not as much as officers...Never in front of subordinates. I used first names if a Soldier was of equal rank or 1 rank below me during counseling sessions.
There is no regulatory guidance other than courtesy and common sense.
Officers use the first name frequently. Staff meetings at the Battalion level or Brigade level use first name basis very frequently. Not a big deal. Depends on the situation...but IMO should be used privately...

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 5 at 2019 11:25 PM

2019-10-05T23:25:24-04:00

It exists in at least one branch.
Air Force Instruction 36-2618:
“ rank includes an official abbreviation and term of address, however Airmen senior or equivalent to the member may use first names and/or call signs.”

Response by CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana made Oct 6 at 2019 3:01 AM

2019-10-06T03:01:40-04:00

This standard OP Chief Edgar; however, the opposite constitutes an offense in the uniformed services. There is no regulation that stipulates a superior officer should or must address a subordinate officer and non-commissioned officers by their individual first names; I haven't come across such rules yet. It is a fact that personalized contact with subordinates encourages subordinates to perform duties at peak performance. In so saying, the contact must be positive and inclusive rather than negative and exclusive. Do let me know the regulations, once you find them. Thanks and great question.

Response by CPT Larry Hudson made Oct 23 at 2019 8:10 PM

2019-10-23T20:10:39-04:00

Internally, common names was used however among enlisted, professionalism was priority.
To call a sergeant by his given name destroys respect, when used by officer, among enlisted.

Response by CPT Gary Wilkins made Nov 10 at 2019 8:45 PM

2019-11-10T20:45:28-05:00

Don't know of any such regulation and during my time in the Army I never experienced such a situation--but I did experience the reverse: While serving with a joint protocol office in Korea (8th US Army), an Air Force major serving with us once told me to feel free to call him "Charley" in the office (apparently this was not an unusual procedure in some Air Force facilities at that time--though within an office environment only, not outdoors). There was also an Army major in our office, and our boss was an Army LTC. I respectfully told the AF major that, while I appreciated his offer, I would never be able to feel comfortable doing what he suggested (and never would have even considered trying the same with the Army major) and so preferred to call him Sir.

Response by CPO Arthur Weinberger made Dec 10 at 2019 10:01 AM

2019-12-10T10:01:02-05:00

This isnot allowed nor professional in public

Response by LTC Lee Bouchard made Dec 22 at 2019 5:52 AM

2019-12-22T05:52:26-05:00

This may be depend on your environment. In a medical situation and under stress we might call someone by their first name. This is true in all Combat situations too. How about in private social
situations? I say OK. There are questions here too. For example. A very Sr. Officer calls his CSGM by his first name and asks a question. The CSGM replies but does not use a first name and uses Sir! (Situation Normal)? There are many other situation like this.

However, I do draw a line here. Referring to others by their first name in the office, field, Command Center, formal briefings, in front of dignities,.....the list goes on. May appear to be very unprofessional
and degrading to some. I once overheard a mid-level NCO (E-7) say to an officer. "Sir, I have a title, I earned it. My name is MSG. John...….."

Formal name, rank or title should be used when in doubt.

Response by SSG Ralph Watkins made Jan 26 at 2020 1:33 PM

2020-01-26T13:33:58-05:00

Some units work fine this way. Special ops units tend to do this quite a bit especially on missions where the ranks are kept quiet. Also in those units, the most qualified to lead a particular mission gets put in charge, not always the person with the highest rank. The USAF & National Guard also does this. In some units it does not hurt things, other units, it does create a lack of discipline.

Response by SrA Daniel Hunter made Jan 26 at 2020 1:57 PM

2020-01-26T13:57:47-05:00

Anyone can see your rank. If a higher ranking Officer or in my case NCO calls you by your name, it has the effect of: "Your name is known to us. I have heard tales of your deeds, my people sing songs of your glorious victors." Or something like that.

Response by Cpl Steven Horsley made Jan 14 at 2021 1:36 PM

2021-01-14T13:36:52-05:00

There is no regulation that allows or approved of this. People should definitely be weary of fraternization but i think that's officer to enlisted, not officer to officer. Although rank shouldn't matter honestly.

Response by SSG Ralph Watkins made Jan 11 at 2022 4:05 PM

2022-01-11T16:05:17-05:00

Does it hurt the discipline & cohesion of the unit? If you have been around special operations troops, they use nicknames or first names constantly. They understand who is in charge, especially on mission. Higher rank may not be in charge of the mission, it may be those with the best skills. It is very unnerving when you are an NCO & some guy tells you to call him by his first name & then you find out he is a Force Recon major. Senior staff in those units still get the full military respect & titles though.

Response by SFC Bob Coon made Jan 11 at 2022 6:53 PM

2022-01-11T18:53:38-05:00

Same Reg tradition that allows a Soldier to call you Chief instead of Sir or Mr. Edgar.