Do you think it is disrespectful to call a Private "Private" when speaking to them?

2014-08-21T11:17:56-04:00

I seem to be noticing that Army privates are taking offence to being called a Private. I have seen/heard the rank being used to get their attention and as an intimidation tool. I personally do not see anything wrong with it. We Say Sargent so-n-so, Captain so-n-so, and Specialist so-n-so. Why are Privates acting as if they were just slapped in the face when called by their rank?

Response by MSG Wade Huffman made Aug 22 at 2014 8:12 PM

2014-08-22T20:12:28-04:00

Unless the Army has changed the regulations since I retired in 2006, "Private" was the proper term of address. It is what it is. I was a Master Sergeant when I retired, but the proper way (by regulation) to address me was "Sergeant", I never took offence to that, why would I?
So, my question in return is what do they WANT to be called?? Bob, Jane, Steve??

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2014 8:51 PM

2014-08-22T20:51:56-04:00

For the love of God, that is their rank. I heard or read (CRS) the other day about Petty Officers saying the same thing. It is your frigging rank? Be proud!!

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Aug 22 at 2014 9:00 PM

2014-08-22T21:00:32-04:00

On the contrary, it is a sign of respect for their rank. Just as NCOs and Os are proud of their rank and expect to be called by it, so should E1s to E4s. Some of us senior folks - I was guilty of it - referred to lower enlisted by their last only and that is incorrect.

Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made Aug 22 at 2014 9:03 PM

2014-08-22T21:03:33-04:00

Dunno. Unless it was something official, like a re-up, I usually just addressed my Privates by their last name. Worked for both of us.

Response by LTC Hillary Luton made Aug 22 at 2014 9:05 PM

2014-08-22T21:05:21-04:00

Hmmm.....strange. When I was a private, I was called Private. I didn't know I was supposed to be offended by this. Silly me, and here I thought it was cool.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Aug 22 at 2014 9:25 PM

2014-08-22T21:25:44-04:00

Because they're immature and have not realized they're not civilians anymore.....? It's not any more disrespectful than calling someone "Sargent" or "Lieutenant" or "Major". They don't want to be called "Private"? Fine, do something about it. Earn some more rank like the rest of us had to do....

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2014 9:40 PM

2014-08-22T21:40:58-04:00

SGT Brenneis,

Isn't it TRADOC policy not to call them "Private"? I saw an example of this is TR 350-6.

c. Groups as a whole are addressed as "Soldiers" or "Warriors" vice "You" or "Privates." Civilian, GS workers, and contractors who are in contact with IET Soldiers must attend the appropriate TRADOC course in conjunction with TR 350-6, Appendix B to perform their duties around IET Soldiers.

Maybe their reaction isn't due to being offended. Maybe they're just surprised at the fact that an NCO is so openly using a term that they were told is unacceptable.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2014 9:47 PM

2014-08-22T21:47:53-04:00

Try calling Marine PFC, Private. See what happens!

Response by MSG Wade Huffman made Aug 22 at 2014 10:24 PM

2014-08-22T22:24:44-04:00

OK.. just for fun, and because I'm feeling a little crazy tonight, lets see what AR 600-20, Table 1-1 has to say about the subject. Last I knew, the regulation was the source....hmmm... seems like we are supposed to address personnel in pay grades E-1 through E-3 as "Private". Interesting...
Guess that's case closed, huh?

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 22 at 2014 10:32 PM

2014-08-22T22:32:48-04:00

"Can I call you General Sweetpants?".....Pauly Shore, from In The Army Now. Seriously, Private is a title that is earned. If they want to hear something different, they can get promoted. It should be good incentive to fly right and work hard.

Response by CPT Jacob Swartout made Aug 22 at 2014 10:42 PM

2014-08-22T22:42:41-04:00

Last I knew that was the rank they were wearing and therefore I will call them Private (name). Don't like it, earn more rank and grow up and become adults. This is the U.S. Army not the Columbus Day Care Center.

Response by Sgt Andrew Pouliot made Aug 22 at 2014 10:44 PM

2014-08-22T22:44:41-04:00

I'm not going to lie, when I was a Pvt/PFC first starting out, everytime an NCO or SNCO spoke with me I thought it was disrespectful. They said it like "Hey PFC" as in "Hey you stupid idiot who doesn't know anything get over here". I think I only ever spoke to one Master Sergeant who treated me with respect when I asked him a question.

With that said, I think that if you call someone by their rank then hey that's their rank and it is respectful to them and their rank to do so. I just don't think you should be a dick about it, like hey I know I'm a PFC and I've only been in for 6 months, but cut me some slack Sergeant I'm trying! Haha that's my take on it

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2014 10:47 PM

2014-08-22T22:47:56-04:00

SGT Alicia Brenneis No, but it would bad if you called them a butter bar! Just saying.

Response by SGT Richard H. made Aug 22 at 2014 11:37 PM

2014-08-22T23:37:23-04:00

I think 1LT John Martin is on to something here. Just revert back to calling them "shit for brains". I think they'd come to grips with being called private in fairly short order.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2014 12:14 AM

2014-08-23T00:14:24-04:00

NO.

The rank title of "Private" historically comes from "Privateer" which dates back to the British military (who we were before that whole "revolution" business). Soldiers who were conscripted into service were separated from those who volunteered for service. These volunteers were the Privateers, nicknamed "Privates" and they were paid more and regarded with more respect than conscripts. The US Army, being an entirely volunteer force, uses the rank of Private as it's entry level rank to pay homage to that heritage and to RESPECT our enlisted men.
KNOWLEDGE: it explains things. I pray that you educate your subordinates on this topic while giving them a firm authoritative "knife-hand."

Response by CW3 Clayton C. made Aug 23 at 2014 12:16 AM

2014-08-23T00:16:10-04:00

In TRADOC a group of new Soldiers will be addressed as "Soldiers" or "Warriors", not "You" or "Privates." Individually Soldiers in TRADOC will be addressed as above or by rank and last name. Somehow this part of TRADOC 350-6 has developed this sense among new Soldiers that once they are out of TRADOC that the coddling will continue. They receive their rude awakening by leaders like me when I direct them to AR 600-20, Table 1-1. I occasionally explain that it is not derogatory in any fashion to be called by your rank. Once they attend WLC and understand that ANY rank can be made to sound like an insult, the light bulb comes on. But that's usually years down the road. I offer them this advice. If you don't like being called Private you must work hard, excel, and get promoted.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2014 12:28 AM

2014-08-23T00:28:17-04:00

In the Marines all privates are called private so don't see a problem. It's not disrespectful, would they rather be addressed as dumb ">* come here I have a job for you etc. Private is your rank so your name becomes Private (last name) simple as that.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2014 12:52 AM

2014-08-23T00:52:02-04:00

Leave it to the Army to complicate the simple idea of rank and make it offensive. Old dog faces are turning over in their graves!

Response by SFC William Trent made Aug 23 at 2014 1:15 AM

2014-08-23T01:15:09-04:00

Well calling them PVT better then shitbag !!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2014 1:34 AM

2014-08-23T01:34:25-04:00

SGT Alicia Brenneis Err on the side of Grace. You cannot lose by doing that.

Response by PO1 Michael G. made Aug 23 at 2014 2:02 AM

2014-08-23T02:02:19-04:00

SGT Alicia Brenneis Since it is pretty much the norm to call E-3s and below by their surname, the use of rank, even with the surname, can sometimes have the connotation of intentionally reminding the low-ranking person that they are low ranking.

Another reason is that it is more formal, and sometimes formality in such a manner is in the setting of a chewing-out or an NJP, so there's a negative connotation there, as well. For example, I've seen section leaders (First and Second Class Petty Officers) use rank in the while chewing out a Sailor; it's kind of like when your mom would use your first and middle name when you were in trouble.

As for peers using rank to address each other, it is a formal way of speaking, which can sometimes be misread as not wanting to socialize, as if the person was better than everyone else and wanted to distance himself.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2014 8:02 AM

2014-08-23T08:02:58-04:00

Let's see you address a soldier by his or her's own rank. If you don't like be called private, hurry up and get promoted then. Nobody told you to join the Army with no life experience. That's a choice you made, otherwise you would have came in as a SPC.

Response by CMSgt James Nolan made Aug 23 at 2014 8:42 AM

2014-08-23T08:42:57-04:00

SGT Alicia Brenneis I could see it if their last name were Parts.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Aug 23 at 2014 10:38 AM

2014-08-23T10:38:40-04:00

It's a LOT better than most of the things I called them...wtf is happening to the Army today??? It's your first frickin name in the eyes of the Army you frickin turds, get the hell over it!!! Ok, retired old-fart NCO rant complete, carry-on!!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2014 11:22 AM

2014-08-23T11:22:20-04:00

Kick em out. We don't need any thin-skinned nancies. Maybe instead of conducting PT and ranges we should take up knitting and scrapbooking to cater to them. We're going to end up with a military full of B-dahls...

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2014 11:44 AM

2014-08-23T11:44:00-04:00

If someone takes offense to being called by their rank, I can only assume they weren't properly militarized in RTC. Maybe a second pass through would help them understand.

Response by SPC Robert Wagner made Aug 23 at 2014 12:45 PM

2014-08-23T12:45:18-04:00

I find it completely acceptable as the rank that has been earned. If you have an issue with being called "Private" don't jack up and get promoted to the E-4 mafia.

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Aug 23 at 2014 1:01 PM

2014-08-23T13:01:06-04:00

If Privates don't like getting called 'Private', they should work harder to get promoted.

Seriously though, MSG Wade Huffman provided the regulatory guidance, with picture.

Response by Capt Chris McVeigh made Aug 23 at 2014 1:21 PM

2014-08-23T13:21:57-04:00

What exactly do they want to be addressed as.....everyone is addressed by rank with the exception of officers where the Sir comes in. If a private ever gets offended with being called private they need to have a long chat with one of their NCOs.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2014 1:27 PM

2014-08-23T13:27:00-04:00

Yawn. It's a rank, if it bothers you get over it.

Response by SFC Andrew Lyons made Aug 23 at 2014 2:01 PM

2014-08-23T14:01:43-04:00

Absolutely NOT!

Response by CPO Jon Campbell made Aug 23 at 2014 2:03 PM

2014-08-23T14:03:03-04:00

I never liked being addressed by my rank until I became a chief. I always addressed lower ranking people by their last name or even their first name if I knew them well. The exception would be if addressing someone in a more formal setting, such as in formation or inspection where there were officers present. In the sea services, calling someone 'Seaman' tends to sound even more derogatory than 'Private' I think.

Response by CSM Harry Jeffries made Aug 23 at 2014 3:21 PM

2014-08-23T15:21:57-04:00

Every rank has a title for a reason; so that we can identify who is where in the rank structure. I wouldn't deem calling someone Private an insult unless of course they were a higher rank.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2014 4:07 PM

2014-08-23T16:07:38-04:00

I find it offensive that there are Privates that are offended by being called Privates.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2014 4:33 PM

2014-08-23T16:33:00-04:00

I think it's totally fine since other ranks are called by what they are. NCOs are being called Sergeants and even Specialist are being called the same when other soldiers don't know the last name

I believe that the the word Private has been used as more of an intimidation tool that's why soldiers take it offensively

Response by SFC Stephen P. made Aug 24 at 2014 12:30 AM

2014-08-24T00:30:05-04:00

I make it a point to address every soldier by appropriate title (other servicemembers too, when I can remember what those titles are). It is a title they have earned, and it is disrespectful to ignore it.

In my 16 years, I've only encountered 2 people (1 private, 1 specialist) that have taken issue with it.

I suspect the tone and inflection employed has the greatest effect on how it is received. The word can be spoken with reverence or contempt.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2014 12:41 AM

2014-08-24T00:41:38-04:00

I'm going to take a crack at this one. While I agree 100% with what everyone said....maybe just maybe their immaturity level makes them think of "Private" parts when they are called by their rank. I've actually heard some soldiers talking about it before. Think of it as being the social equivalent to calling a Sailor a "sea-man". Sounds just like something else and these young folks are crazy enough to take the off-colored connotation of the word as being applied to them.

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Aug 24 at 2014 4:25 AM

2014-08-24T04:25:39-04:00

People take offence to easily these days. If its their rank, no.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2014 4:57 AM

2014-08-24T04:57:30-04:00

A little perspective here. A recipient can infer a slight by the tone presented. In some respects, the Private may just have a point when a Buck Sergeant addresses them as Private in that type of tone. This is so commonplace, it has a military term: "Buck Fever", where their newfound authority drives them to temporary insanity and their respect to their men suddenly fades until corrected. I've had to address this phenomenon with nearly every newly promoted E-5 I've ever had (including when I was a Corporal back in the day).
My kids know they are in trouble when I or Household 6 address them with their First and Middle names. It sounds formal - it isn't - and the difference is immediately known to a 2 year old.
Thing is, RESPECT is an Army Value, and it applies both up and down the chain.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2014 2:43 PM

2014-08-24T14:43:06-04:00

because if they act offended long enough the leadership will make it the next politically incorrect thing to say. Just like Lower Enlisted VS Junior Enlisted, Just something else to cry about in Their New Army.

Response by FN Mike McCormack made Aug 24 at 2014 3:11 PM

2014-08-24T15:11:37-04:00

Better than being called a "Boot"...or a "Wog"! Or worse...being beaten like one haha (gotta love the old-school Navy).

Response by CPT Keith Steinhurst made Aug 25 at 2014 8:30 AM

2014-08-25T08:30:25-04:00

Hmmmm - I think these non-rates have too much time on their hands and have fallen into non-productive contemplation of the greater mysteries of military life, like for instance PVT E1, PV2 E2, and PFC E3 are all - PRIVATES. I think their NCO needs to put them back to work - there must be a detail somewhere in need of under-utilized Privates . . .

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2014 11:30 AM

2014-08-25T11:30:03-04:00

Drill Sergeant (SSG) Carleo,

I agree with all of this, being a DS now days is getting to be a headache...you can say this....but you can't say that...you can do this, but you can't do that...the military is not the same anymore at least not since the late 80's early 90's when I first came in. These soldiers are still called private when I go on the trail period! That's what they are, and that's what I call them!! Every rank above private has earned the right to be called what their rank is, and unfortunately that takes time in service, and time in grade! The military is not a freaking Democracy!! Any way to all my fellow NCO's and Seniors..Hooaaahhh...God Bless you all!

Response by SGT Chris Birkinbine made Aug 25 at 2014 1:10 PM

2014-08-25T13:10:52-04:00

I think this is a prime symptom of new military culture that is encroaching due to the relaxation of the military on discipline and uniformity. The things that make a good military, in my opinion are counter to what our society currently believes in.

Private is their title. It is no more or less disrespectful than any other title. Their whining is something that should have been conditioned out of them in basic, unfortunately we don't do that anymore.

Response by SSG William Patton made Aug 25 at 2014 2:40 PM

2014-08-25T14:40:28-04:00

The Army has ranks from private to general and it is appropriate to use the rank and last name when speaking to the other in a duty setting. If I did not know someone and I was in a duty situation, I always used their rank and last name. Both were obvious and appropriate in that situation. We all start at the bottom in the enisted ranks and officer's corps. I was a private and was called private and my last name, or if I was the only private around, it was often just private. The price paid for being a newbe and just getting started. When I left the military, I was SSG and my last name. When it was a setting where we all knew each other well, we used first names. When we spoke to our officers it was LT or Captain or their rank and last name. This was done out of respect for the rank and those I served under, respect for the man.

Response by GySgt William Hardy made Aug 25 at 2014 2:44 PM

2014-08-25T14:44:59-04:00

Private is a rank. If you are that rank then you get called Private. Unless you are a screw-up, you won't be a private for long. There has been Privates and Privates First Class for a long time...what's the beef?

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2014 4:03 PM

2014-08-25T16:03:06-04:00

I am curious how they are reacting. Can you please cite some examples? E.g., SSG walks up and says, "Private Jones, can you please....?" And Private Jones says or does what? Rolls their eyes? Corrects them? Asks that they be called something different?

This grinds my gears. I was in the Army before I transferred to the "Blue". :) I think I can still feel the loving grasp of my NCOs'/SNCOs' dulcet tones if I tried to cut an attitude for being called by my actual rank.

Someone in the thread said it best, "age of entitlement". In this facet of your life, you do NOT get a ribbon for showing up.

Response by Cpl Ray Fernandez made Aug 25 at 2014 5:54 PM

2014-08-25T17:54:20-04:00

I'd probably smack the taste out of someones mouth if they didn't like being addressed by their rank. It's what they've earned so far and if their feelings are hurt they need to earn their way up the food chain. If they see it as disrespectful or not I'm not gonna care or worry about hurting their feelings. If I address someone by their title and don't add any insulting or colorful language to express my frustration with their performance any reaction is on them not me.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2014 7:19 PM

2014-08-25T19:19:03-04:00

This is a question that shouldn't have even need to be asked. Better question would be "how do I knock the stupid out of these crybaby fat body privates that think they are still civilians?"

Response by LCpl Joshua Hetue made Aug 26 at 2014 12:04 AM

2014-08-26T00:04:06-04:00

no its offensive at all they need to get over it I was called private when I was one and I think if theyre going to take it like a slap in the face then they should never have joined at all

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 7:37 AM

2014-08-26T07:37:04-04:00

Considering some of the other less than colorful titles I have addressed privates by in the past I would think they would enjoy something official.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 9:19 AM

2014-08-26T09:19:37-04:00

At the end of the day the soldiers these days cry about everything. We are in a era where nothing is earned and everything is cried about. There are few soldiers these days that can handle the true pressure of being a Soldier and just executing. Almsot every new soldier now has feelings and a voice they feel needs to be heard. The more I was called private the more determined I was to become a SPC, then SGT and so on.

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made Aug 26 at 2014 9:23 AM

2014-08-26T09:23:30-04:00

Somebody at BCT-land seems to think so. We're supposed to call them "warrior(s)" Yah. Right. Most of these people don't know which end of the rifle goes downrange and none of them are MOS-Q'd.

Since I don't know what to call these people, and I know I'm not allowed to call them "crack baby", I call them Private and take my chances.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 9:44 AM

2014-08-26T09:44:03-04:00

Its far less offensive to be called by your rank (like everyone in the military is) than be called; Hooah, Troop, Hey You, whatever. Its society where these young people are being raised. People in general get their feelings hurt easier now than they did 10-15-20 years ago. Privates also dont like to be corrected, or told they are wrong either. They need to suck it up, drive on, learn their job, and do their time, get promoted, and then they can be called something else.

My favorite one though is the PFC who corrects people when they call him/her Private and not Private First Class.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 10:08 AM

2014-08-26T10:08:07-04:00

I hated being called Private. That's why I worked so hard to advance and am looking at SGT in 5 days...just saying. If you don't want to be a Private then keep your PT up, don't get enrolled in the HT/WT program, and do what you're told. It's really not a tough concept.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 12:20 PM

2014-08-26T12:20:04-04:00

All I can really say is that if they're offended by being addressed by the rank they wear and earned then they are in the wrong business and perhaps should join the Air Force....I hear they're on a first name basis....lol. In all seriousness.....you should worry more about getting an education while its still free, perfecting your craft, and improving yourself all around. When I was a Private I was giddy when the DS addressed me as 'Private'......any other time I was joker, high speed, hero, blue falcon or whatever name the DS felt like calling me at the moment. I also noticed that you cant address Soldiers as Privates anymore in basic training (someone correct me if Im wrong) which is very alarming.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 1:42 PM

2014-08-26T13:42:47-04:00

When I was a Private First Class, I never had one NCO or another peer call me Private. They just used my last name. When heard, it was somewhat odd. I recall that when Private was used when I was in 1/6 cav (korea), someone was basically in trouble. It's normal to hear it at basic training or AIT. It should never be an insult, but there should be some tact behind saying "Private". If used in a derogatory tone rather than addressing by their rank in a constructive way, then it could be taken as an offense.

Response by SFC Wayne Robinson made Aug 26 at 2014 2:12 PM

2014-08-26T14:12:17-04:00

If i recollect privates have been called Private from the very first colonial soldier up to today.
if a young snot nosed no nothing doesn't like to be called private. Then it is an incentive to get off the whining and prepare themselves for the future.
I was called Private so many times because that's what i was. i didn't take offense to it ,so i buckled down and wanted to make something of myself.
i didn't whine or cry about it.
At this day and age young people seem to be offended by the least little thing they can get away with.
You are what you are and nothing is going to change that expect you.
Stop the whining you have to start somewhere, just think about private as a stepping stone to something bigger in live than your ego.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 2:22 PM

2014-08-26T14:22:51-04:00

No problem calling a private, "Private!" If me or one of my NCOs need a job done ASAP, we don't have time to stand around and remember last names (even though my NCOs and I know all our soldier's names!)

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 26 at 2014 2:52 PM

2014-08-26T14:52:32-04:00

See what you started SGT Alicia Brenneis ! It's chaos and anarchy all up in here!!!.....lol :)

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 3:16 PM

2014-08-26T15:16:11-04:00

I dont think most Soldiers in AIT are offended. I just left there and I did offend some of them by calling them "guy" which is understandable.
I think the Army is slowly kiling itself withall these changes. You are supposed to call them warriors but most of the time in AIT it is so many and you are moving at a fast pace that it ends up as "you" lol.
Personally think until they graduate AIT they shouldnt even have US ARMy on their uniform. It should just be their name and i also think EVERYONE should be a private in basic training and AIT then when you graduate you get to put on PFC or SPC or whatever rank the army promised you also US ARMY on your uniform.
The army is once again adjusting to the people and not the other way around.

Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made Aug 26 at 2014 3:17 PM

2014-08-26T15:17:04-04:00

Frankly, if I were still in, I'd walk around with straws in one cargo pocket and plastic spoons in the other.

When someone was offended about something silly, I would hand them one of each. If they didn't know what they were for, I'd would send them to the PSG or 1SG for education.

Now, it's probably a good thing that I'm not in the military anymore, because if I started doing this in today's military, I'd be rode out of the Army on a rail.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 3:19 PM

2014-08-26T15:19:38-04:00

1. I can't believe this question has gotten all the attention it has gotten.
2. Please file it with the question "Should a 2LT Salute a 1LT?
3. Better yet "Control-Alt-Delete...the entire thread.
4. Until the regulation changes, those "Privates" who think they are offended by being called "Private", they are not offended-they are "Stupid"! Now Train them IAW the AR.
5. AR trumps TRADOC Reg once the "Privates" leave TRADOC!
6. 5 Privates (PV1-PFC) responded thru this entire thread. They get it. Make them the Primary Instrutors!

Response by SSG Curt Pangracs made Aug 26 at 2014 3:40 PM

2014-08-26T15:40:15-04:00

Am I the only one who had the immediate thought that this is perhaps the dumbest question ever asked on this site? Who gives a crap what a Private thinks? They are being addressed by their proper rank. They should feel happy names like "Dickhead" or Dillweed" don't preface their last name, or "Ragbag" or Snuffy" don't follow "Private". Seriously, what the f*ck is happening to our military?

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 4:20 PM

2014-08-26T16:20:19-04:00

I don't know why they are getting offended by being called by the pay grade that they are. When I was in the Corps, you were called by whatever rank you were or by your last name. Same as in the Coast Guard.. I am either called by my rate or Petty Officer. People are becoming to soft these days. If you don't like things or how the military is ran then you shouldn't have joined. Shoot there is alot of people waiting in line at the recruiting offices to get in.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 5:24 PM

2014-08-26T17:24:41-04:00

No it is not offensive nor is it perceived as disrespectful. The new softer gentler politically correct overweight; thin skinned; disrespectful Privates currently serving and training in the Army are so over trained in EO and SHARP they don't know the difference; they take offense to everything. Why? ANSWER: Basement; fast food; video games; lack of personal interaction with peers = smart mouthed, unintelligent, lack of desire or personal courage, fail as a team, MRT(ME ME ME) troops. The development phase executed currently in the Army places Privates in more power than its leaders through threating superiors with negative or punitive actions during counseling's, verbal and physical corrective training, and even harassment charges. Best Answer for Leaders today have a few fellow Peers back you up by being present to see what corrections are being made and as long as they are kept professional and remain in line with the superior standards the Army is supposed to present then there should be no violation nor offense to these Privates. If Privates no longer wish to be addressed by their rank maybe they should stop getting demoted or push and work hard for promotion. Just saying what most Leaders are thinking.

Response by SFC Edward English made Aug 26 at 2014 6:06 PM

2014-08-26T18:06:49-04:00

Hummmm! They are no longer Mr. , Miss., Ms., or Mrs. so on that basis and by authority of AR 600-20, RAR 20 September 2012, Table 1-1, soldiers are addressed as Private, Specialist, Corporal, Sergeant, First Sergeant, Sergeant Major. Get over it and soldier up.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 6:36 PM

2014-08-26T18:36:11-04:00

When I was a Private, I had no issue being called by my rank. I had no issues at all because I didn't challenge the authority of my superiors. At least I wasn't being called "shitbag" or "dumbass" (which I've heard back in my "younger" years) like other Soldiers. Whatever this new generation of Soldier feels they should be called, I'm still going to address them by their proper title and last name.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 6:47 PM

2014-08-26T18:47:36-04:00

I don't see the point of being offended. I came in as an E3 so I heard Private this and Private that. With different rank simply comes a different "name" for people to call you. It's annoying when you find yourself in a group of others you share rank with and "Hey Private" gets called and you find yourself not sure who is the recipient...but oh well you laugh and move on.

Response by CSM Chris McKeown made Aug 26 at 2014 7:37 PM

2014-08-26T19:37:13-04:00

As far as I am concerned those cupcakes can suck it up or get in the front lean and rest position. If they are a Private then that is their rank and should be referred to as such, also they should feel honored and privileged to be referred to as Private as they are a part of the Army or Marines were as their civilian counter parts either didn't cut the mustered or was to self centered to serve their country.

Response by CMSgt Darin Haitsuka made Aug 26 at 2014 9:53 PM

2014-08-26T21:53:17-04:00

I call anyone "private" when they act like one. Generally speaking, I'll address the service member by their appropriate rank. When they act like a total tool I will address them by the lowest enlisted rank for their branch of service. Works really well to get their attention.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 9:55 PM

2014-08-26T21:55:13-04:00

What about when they call us "L-T"

O' the horror.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 9:58 PM

2014-08-26T21:58:09-04:00

This is the first thing I think of when I read this. Aimed at Privates.

Response by SSG John Villagomez made Aug 27 at 2014 1:05 AM

2014-08-27T01:05:31-04:00

Could be worse...could be addressed as "Seaman". Don't want to be called Private, get promoted. Too easy

Response by SSgt Richard Wells made Aug 27 at 2014 8:30 AM

2014-08-27T08:30:31-04:00

I am a Marine, but I don't believe there to be a difference regarding the proposed question. Therefore, as in the Marines one would always address one buy their first name, i.e. Private, Lance Corporal, Corporal, Sargent, Captain, etc. Once one is enlisted in a military branch of service the majority of one's civil rights go out the window; and one becomes the literal property of the United States Government. So, listen up NO it is not disrespectful if one refers to a Private as a Private. That is exactly what a Private is a Private.

Response by 1SG Pete Marcell made Aug 27 at 2014 9:26 AM

2014-08-27T09:26:38-04:00

In a word, "No." Private is their title.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2014 1:02 PM

2014-08-27T13:02:06-04:00

In some cases I can agree with the rank degradation. I joined later in life and it is amazing some people seem to think that if they out rank you they also know more about everything and can talk down to you. Respect is given as much as earned. I know some of the old timers even got physically abused but eventually even the army will catch up with the 21st century.

Response by CW3 Drew B made Aug 27 at 2014 1:02 PM

2014-08-27T13:02:48-04:00

I appreciate this forum and the questions posed by the community. However, this is one of those silly situations. If a Private (E-1 through E-3) is upset when addressed by THEIR rank, they do need some professional guidance. Today's Soldiers need to understand they are initial entry. They are starting at the bottom. If they don't like life at the bottom of the established rank structure, then they need to develop themselves to move up and beyond or simply get out.

Response by CSM Bill Fitzpatrick made Aug 27 at 2014 1:49 PM

2014-08-27T13:49:37-04:00

The only issue I have with using the proper form of address for various ranks is to address a Sergeant Major as "SMAGE", or a Command Sergeant Major as "CSM (as in hey CSM......). The proper form of address for both is "Sergeant Major".

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2014 2:36 PM

2014-08-27T14:36:56-04:00

I think that is the stupidest question that I have heard in a long time, I am a 1SG and I will be called 1SG, a Private is a Private and should be addressed as such. It is respect, respect goes both ways,
1SG Pulczinski (U.S. Army)

Response by SSG Korin Carlisle made Aug 27 at 2014 2:47 PM

2014-08-27T14:47:05-04:00

It all depends on how it is said. Personally, I have seen many NCO's and Officers say it in a demeaning manor. So I can see it being disrespectful.

Response by Cpl Benjamin Long made Aug 27 at 2014 3:11 PM

2014-08-27T15:11:24-04:00

ummm.... how does one disrespect a private....... Did a recruit talk smack or something??????

Response by SGT Jay Ehrenfeld made Aug 27 at 2014 3:42 PM

2014-08-27T15:42:57-04:00

NO, it their rank until they be promoted to PFC there Sgt, would let the lower rank call you by your last name only. It show disrespect toward the Rank you need to go back reads the regulation

Response by SGT Jay Ehrenfeld made Aug 27 at 2014 3:44 PM

2014-08-27T15:44:29-04:00

they need to accept that until that get paperweight on their chest

Response by SGT Craig Northacker made Aug 27 at 2014 6:36 PM

2014-08-27T18:36:28-04:00

We could give them the choice of private, maggot, goat-breath, and many much more colorful variations that were liberally shared with us when we were in...

Response by SFC Mahlon Paul Manson made Aug 27 at 2014 8:04 PM

2014-08-27T20:04:18-04:00

A Private is a Private, the cry baby bed wetter shouldn't have joined. Maybe if they excel at their MOS they will be promoted and won't be called a Private anymore.

Response by SFC Wayne Robinson made Aug 28 at 2014 12:54 AM

2014-08-28T00:54:11-04:00

All Military troops have complained about something or other since the time honored tradition began.
if it wasn't the food stinks
then it was where did my pay go
or why do i have to do this if PVT smuck doesn't have to
Why did I get KP and smuck didn't
Why did i have to pull guard duty
Why me and not her or him
We have to take it with a grain of salt but whining about your rank is totally going beyond the term of whining.
i say suck it up and drive on either better positions are on the horizon or you need to get the F--- out of the military if you can not hang tough.
The military makes men and women out of whiners not the other way around.
if our leadership is this bad then maybe some of them should go back to leadership and leave the liberal thinking to the panty waste Civilians who are trying to destroy our morale every step of the way.

Response by 1SG Calanski Brunson made Aug 28 at 2014 1:02 AM

2014-08-28T01:02:25-04:00

I hear about it, but didn't want it to be true. One of my battles that came out of TRADOC was telling me this. Its how these new Soldiers are raised today. In a society that preaches to these kids that everyone is a winner and everyone gets a trophy so no one crys.

Response by MSG Lance Kelly made Aug 28 at 2014 1:22 AM

2014-08-28T01:22:29-04:00

In another post someone asked what defines "old school". This does. Since when did this become offensive? That's the title of the rank. Who cares if your offended, you're a Soldier, you are trained to fight or nations wars. Besides, in less than two years they will be a Specialist anyway so what does it matter. If you don't want to be called a Private then do the right thing and get promoted. Who complained enough to bring attention to this anyway?

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2014 1:49 AM

2014-08-28T01:49:17-04:00

I think this is a failure of our bottom-up feedback mechanism. If 350-6 says "warrior", and that is offensive to every other (actual) warrior that slogged through multiple deployments (as it rightfully should be), then where is the petition to higher to fix the reg?

We can't just be bobble-heads telling our higher-ups their ideas are grand. We have to stick our necks out a little and tell people "sorry, but no, if you put this crap in a reg, then you're trampling the pride of every soldier who went to war".

I made it sound easy here. I know it's not. But at some point we have to start giving our senior leadership critical (valid and constructive) feedback.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2014 2:28 AM

2014-08-28T02:28:32-04:00

When I was reclassing at Eustis the IET kids in my class said that, at Basic, they didn't use the term "battle buddy", they used "warrior companion"..... I thought about calling the ASP hotline after that conversation...

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2014 3:07 AM

2014-08-28T03:07:23-04:00

The Bleeding Hearts at TRADOC are perpetuating an issue that should never have hit the military. There was a time when a Drill Sgt job was to tear you down strip you to your most basic elements and then build you and shape you into a soldier. Now... well once they are off The Trail they are well prepared for careers as Pre-School workers and Kindergarten teachers.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2014 8:41 AM

2014-08-28T08:41:27-04:00

Is it disrespectful to call a Sergeant First Class. Sergeant? It is their rank, I can't believe this is actually being brought up.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2014 9:08 AM

2014-08-28T09:08:48-04:00

The thought did occur to me this morning that the grand majority of poeple who are Privates, don't get their feathers ruffled at being called a Private. But we have a lot of would-be Officers going to OCS, who chafe at being called a Private or an "over-paid Private" who, once they got some rank on their chest, would have enough power to influence this sort of thing.

If that's the case, then that's a real shame. And again, I stress: we need to fix our bottom-up feedback mechanism. Our leadership need our critical (valid and constructive) feedback. No one is served (in the long run) by being a bobble-head.

Response by Cpl Matthew Wall made Aug 28 at 2014 11:37 AM

2014-08-28T11:37:57-04:00

If they are a private then address them as one. If they are offended then they can go do a working party or some other "training".

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2014 11:59 AM

2014-08-28T11:59:03-04:00

It's their rank. Get over it.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2014 4:53 PM

2014-08-28T16:53:20-04:00

I don't know what TRADOC retard told you this but when did it become offensive/ demeaning to call someone by their proper rank? In the regulation it states that their proper rank is "private" if they don't like it they shouldn't join. Js

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2014 5:37 PM

2014-08-28T17:37:13-04:00

Last time I checked pretty much everyone in the military gets addressed by their rank. If these Privates have such a problem with being addressed by their rank then they shouldn't have joined an organization that addresses its members by rank.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2014 8:47 PM

2014-08-28T20:47:19-04:00

The new generation are easily offended, at least they say that. They know the rules better than anyone and use them to manipulate other people. I went to Fort Sill for basic, and every other new soldier I meet that also went to Fort Sill have no issues whatsoever with being called private. It is my damn rank and I am proud of it. Seems to me other basic training/AIT sites call them "warriors" which is the case here on Fort Lee. In fact, we were told in the support cadre training course not to call them "private" but "warrior". Me personally I don't want to be called anything but my last name, or my rank and last name or even Ham is fine. I have not fought in a war, therefore I am not a warrior. Inform them that according to customs and courtesies it is proper to call someone by their rank and last name in the Army. If they don't like "private" tell them to get some rank on their chest or go back where they came from.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 7:21 AM

2014-08-29T07:21:38-04:00

Absolutely not disrespectful. Saying it's disrespectful would be like me saying it's disrespectful to call me "Sergeant" instead of "Staff Sergeant".

When I was a Private, I loved being called that, as opposed to all the other names my DSs had for me haha

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 12:52 PM

2014-08-29T12:52:00-04:00

Absolutely not. That is their rank and that is how they will be referred to .

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 7:45 PM

2014-08-29T19:45:42-04:00

If they are getting "butthurt" about this, then they really shouldn't be in the military. It's a rank. How does the air force work? Are E-1's called "basic?" Should we change the Army ranks to "Soldier Basic" "Soldier" "Soldier First Class?"

Response by PFC Zanie Young made Aug 31 at 2014 8:33 AM

2014-08-31T08:33:07-04:00

Having been a private, I didn't even whine about it. I was more offended by being call by my first name by everyone who outranked me. Still, I kept my mouth shut. That being said, here's my advice to my fellow privates: Shut your mouth, do as you are told, show respect, work hard. Maybe you can work toward getting more rank if you quit your whining.

Response by GySgt William Hardy made Aug 31 at 2014 12:18 PM

2014-08-31T12:18:22-04:00

There is no disrespect in calling anyone by their rank or the short title for that rank, ie Private First Class may be addressed as Private. Each branch has their own alternative. In lieu of being addressed by your rank, whether in a group or alone, you may be called Soldier, Marine, Sailor, or Airman. No disrespect meant either way. I know that when I was in the Corps, it was common to address a group as Marines. I once went to a huge gathering where a General just looked out at the crowd in the theater and said, "Marines, we are gathered here......" That included everyone that was there from the lowest Cpl to the Deputy Base Commander a Major General. Being called Private is a formal way of addressing a junior member of the Army and Marine Corps.

Having served in two branches, I have noticed that in the Army all Sergeants are called Sergeant except 1SG and CSM. In the Marine Corps it is improper to do so. Each rank is called by it's formal name or accepted nickname. That is, you have Sgt, SSgt, GySgt or Gunny, MSgt, 1st Sgt, or Top, and Master Gunnery Sgt or Master Guns, or Sergeant Major or Command Sergeant Major. A Master Guns can also be addressed as Top if they allow it. There is also a time when you are allowed and not allowed to use nicknames as in a formal inspection mode.

So why would a Private think it was disrespectful? As was mentioned, keep your mouth shut, do what you are told, and you will in a short time be promoted to Specialist or Corporal.

Response by SSG(P) Auston Terry made Sep 1 at 2014 11:50 AM

2014-09-01T11:50:35-04:00

I really don't understand why privates do and say some of the things they do. But if one of my Soldier's complained about being referred to by thier rank I'd probably go out of my way to do it; that's just honesty. I worked my way through all three of the private grades and no one called me anything but Private, why should it be any different for them?

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 2 at 2014 7:09 AM

2014-09-02T07:09:16-04:00

I'm not sure but I saw it at school as well and Heaven forbid you tell them to do something...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 3 at 2014 8:15 PM

2014-09-03T20:15:39-04:00

This generation is over-sensitive and expect the same respect at a 10+ year NCO does.

Response by SPC Darin Taylor made Sep 3 at 2014 8:42 PM

2014-09-03T20:42:07-04:00

When I earned the rank of "Private" it didn't offend me when I was addressed as "Private". It made me proud and determined to move forward in rank.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2014 7:15 AM

2014-09-10T07:15:23-04:00

What do they have to be offended about,

Get promotes, grow some skin and move out.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2014 11:53 AM

2014-09-10T11:53:59-04:00

There should be no disrespect taken when being addressed by thier rank. Rather it is getting their attention, or chewing their ass. It all rolls down hill if an E-5 pisses off a senior nco at least in my experience "listen here SGT" comes into play and I don't see them taking offense. It is the same concept.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2014 2:13 PM

2014-11-19T14:13:30-05:00

For me personally it's always been a "not what you say but how you say it", type thing. Although I have noticed a certain sensitivity now days with service members being referred to by their rank. I feel if you have earned your rank and put in work, to be called by it is not a bad thing. However, if the situation is one of "Private, CPL, PO3, ect. Get your lazy a** up, stop lingering around like a jacknob and get that maintenance done as directed:, as opposed to "Pvt, CPL, PO3, etc. Is the maintenance finished? Why not?" I can see how someone could take offense. Would I personally? No. Though some may. As leaders it's our job to remember and recognize that not all of our personnel come from the same background as us or even each other. I am in no way saying to coddle, baby, or become a hugger to these personnel, but to understand our people more so we know how to aptly talk and mentor them. In my mind you can call me SGT, PO2, PO3 whatever as long as my pay is correct. Will I still correct you? Yes. Will I be a sensitive Sally about it no. Your rank is who you are (in a sense) be proud because someone wants it and wouldn't mind being called by it.

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made Nov 19 at 2014 2:48 PM

2014-11-19T14:48:31-05:00

Absolutely not. You're addressing them by rank, the same as i get addressed. I don't understand the problem.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2014 6:13 PM

2014-11-19T18:13:21-05:00

Addressing a Private as Private is not offensive. It is referenced in AR 600-20, Ch 1. Said Private needs to get promoted to Specialist, ETS or grow a thick skin and quit being a whining ass. Seems that spines and thick skin need to become issue items for the new Soldiers coming in and many of those that came in since 2000 need to go to RFI and draw said items once they enter the inventory.

But this is just the opinion of an old Soldier that first served from 1986 to 1992.

Response by SGT James Ayers made Nov 19 at 2014 6:26 PM

2014-11-19T18:26:54-05:00

It is tradition, we were called Private at one time. Endeavor to persevere!!

Response by SSG Selwyn Bodley made Nov 19 at 2014 6:51 PM

2014-11-19T18:51:21-05:00

I always just called them by their last names. When I was an E-1 - E-3 I too was called by my last name, unless I was at a school or a more official role call.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2014 8:35 PM

2014-11-19T20:35:24-05:00

People in the Army nowadays need to get over themselves and grow up. If you are a Private in any of the services then you will be called Private so and so. There is nothing disrespectful about it. These would be the same people that would feel disrespected no matter what rank they attain.

Response by CPL Rick Stasny made Nov 19 at 2014 8:39 PM

2014-11-19T20:39:05-05:00

I was always fond of "Dickweed" and "Numbnuts". Those are just a couple of the names that the more creative Drill Sergeants were able to address us Privates as. I say get over it or head to the PX for some cream to treat that rash.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2014 8:45 PM

2014-11-19T20:45:58-05:00

Maybe they'd prefer being addressed as "POS civilian"

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Nov 19 at 2014 9:08 PM

2014-11-19T21:08:02-05:00

As a young soldier on AM police call, I would only turn around to pick up that --------- , unless I was addressed by the rank I then held.

My kid brother got in big trouble on police call @ Ft Ord when his basic company commander called out, "Soldier" and was ignored!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2014 9:23 PM

2014-11-19T21:23:10-05:00

They are being called by their rank. There is nothing wrong with that. If they take offense to they need to get their sensitive ass out of the military or bust their to get promoted. This is ridiculous...

Response by SSG Maurice P. made Nov 19 at 2014 10:17 PM

2014-11-19T22:17:06-05:00

1.E-1=PRIVATE IN THE ARMY AND MARINE CORPS SO GET OVER IT...
2.E-2=PFC
3.E-3=L/CPL,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,SO ON AND SO FORTH.. WE ALL AS ENLISTED BEEN PRIVATES...

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2014 9:46 AM

2014-11-20T09:46:41-05:00

This is a title they have earned. As a PV1, they earned it by having the courage to join a profession that 99% of the country has not chosen to do. As PV2, they have earned the privilege to be retained and the privilege of being a Soldier. As PFC, they continue to show they are worthy of the title of Private.

Response by SPC Jack Hunt, JR made Nov 20 at 2014 9:54 AM

2014-11-20T09:54:38-05:00

I remember how sensitive some of the younger enlisted members were that were coming in my last year in. We would smoke the h e double hockey sticks out of them until they they pulled they puller their heads out of their fourth point of contact and showed proper respect.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2014 1:34 PM

2014-11-20T13:34:32-05:00

I worked for LTG Keith Huber once. He referred to everyone as Sir; regardless of rank. He respected all.

Response by CSM Bill Fitzpatrick made Nov 20 at 2014 1:49 PM

2014-11-20T13:49:04-05:00

Unless an individual is a personal buddy or shipmate, I think that while on duty, everyone should be addressed by their official rank using appropriate terms of address. By that I don't mean an abbreviation of someone's rank such as using pay grade or terms like "CSM" or "L.T.", but rather the full official rank. A staff Sergeant or Sergeant First Class should always be addressed as "Sergeant", but referred to as "Sergeant First Class XXXX". A Private or Private First Class should both be addressed as "Private" but referred to by their full rank title such as "Private First Class XXXX just reported for duty". It's all a question of respect. One further note, Command Sergeants Major should not be referred to or addressed as "Top". "Top" is the familiar term reserved only for First Sergeants.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 21 at 2014 10:23 PM

2014-11-21T22:23:41-05:00

Addressing a service member by their rank is the standard. To be offended by it makes no sense. What would a private like to be called? Sergeant? Sir? Then they should focus on what they need to do to achieve that rank.

Response by SGT Tom Evans made Nov 22 at 2014 1:56 PM

2014-11-22T13:56:50-05:00

Who cares? They're privates. This is the military. No room for thin skins

Response by SPC Ben Cedeno made Dec 28 at 2014 10:23 PM

2014-12-28T22:23:09-05:00

They're punks that think that just because they wear the uniform they deserve the same respect of someone whose put the time in service & grade. That's what happens when they come in with no life experience.

Response by SSG Tim Everett made Dec 29 at 2014 6:10 AM

2014-12-29T06:10:40-05:00

On the one hand, I want to knife-hand someone and suggest they go find a new job. This is a very big hand, mind you.

On the other much smaller, stunted monkey's paw type of hand, I know full well that some people have deliberately used a specific type of tone when addressing a private by their rank, as a subtle way to demean the hapless little idiot. So yeah. If you say the word "Private" and it's obvious that what you really mean is "hey dipshit", then you can probably expect someone to maybe be a little peeved.

But yeah, addressing someone by their rank and having them get pissed, that person needs to go join the Peace Corps or something.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 11:09 AM

2015-04-01T11:09:56-04:00

I think they are two things to consider in this...(1) how you say the word "Private", and (2) the pride we all should have at being in the military.

As a former enlisted who made Sergeant, and now a Major, I have learned every rank I was promoted to can be "used against me" by someone of higher rank...each time I thought making Corporal or Captain or Major would be a big deal (and it was), a higher ranking person used my rank "against me" in conversation by conveying the tone that reminded me I am still below them in the organization. I probably needed it (most of the time), other times, people were just being A-holes. Either way, you can demean someone with your tone, without using words.

Also, in working with young service members, I think someone times we forget that its hard to even earn the rank of Private or 2LT...regardless of the fact they rank low in the organization now, they put a lot of hard work and sacrifice into making that rank. Finding ways to gently remind them they are special, and doing good stuff may help speed things along.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 11:19 AM

2015-04-01T11:19:33-04:00

The Participation Trophy Generation needs to grow some skin thicker than the kiss of their mother on the "boo boo" on their pinky finger when they slammed it in the door because they weren't paying attention.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 12:13 PM

2015-04-01T12:13:39-04:00

As a former Drill Sergeant, all soldiers are taught in basic training what each rank means and how to address a person with each rank from Private E-1 to the highest General.
What you wear on your collar is what you are and what you should be addressed as until you progress to the next higher grade. Privates will probably be offended more when they make Sergeant E-5 and they start getting called " Sarge". That was a pet peeve of mine when I at last made NCO status.

Response by Capt Christian D. Orr made Apr 2 at 2015 12:06 AM

2015-04-02T00:06:09-04:00

People get offended by damn near anything in this politically correct, hyper-sensitive day & age.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 8:28 PM

2015-04-02T20:28:49-04:00

If they are taking offense for being called private (which they are), then their not being trained properly. They should have a lot more on their plate then that they should be stressing over.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Apr 3 at 2015 12:26 PM

2015-04-03T12:26:02-04:00

Privates are too new to demand empowerment or to expect to not be offended now and then. To quote a 3-star Army General I once knew: "I didn't become a General to empower anybody."

Appropriate response by sergeant: "Private, it's time to shut up and get to work. If you don't have anything to do, let me know and I'll find something."

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2015 2:31 PM

2015-04-03T14:31:09-04:00

Having come recently from the sea of privateness I'll see if I can answer. There are two question here.
First one: Is it disrespectful? No. It is not disrespectful it is their rank.
Second Question: Why do they look like they were insulted? Calling me private did irk me a little. But that was because it was the manner in which it was used. Most times I had somebody say to me "Hey! Private! C'mere!" They said private like it was demeaning. Before you start saying well you are just oversensitive wuss hear me out. I have had Sergeants call me a whole slew of things from f***er to d***head to a**hole to just "you". None of those bother me. Believe it or not I was actually proud when one Sergeant would call me d***head instead of private. Another reason that privates might not like to be called private that is that is what Drill Sergeants call them saying that they haven't earned the title soldier. So there is that Pavlovian response going for them.
Now that being said, I have never let me being irked show. It is unprofessional and show a lack of mental fortitude.

Response by SPC John Rickel made Apr 8 at 2015 3:42 PM

2015-04-08T15:42:21-04:00

Its not offensive most times but it can be just like anything else, I had a LT who only called a certain people private and he did it in a blatantly disrespectful manner as if to just remind everyone he is the LT.

Response by SGT Rick Waegner made Apr 8 at 2015 5:02 PM

2015-04-08T17:02:23-04:00

Private is a rank, in the military it replaces your first name. PVT Snoopy, LT Butterbar, etc... disrespectful? Beat your face private!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 23 at 2015 10:27 PM

2015-04-23T22:27:03-04:00

There's absolutely nothing wrong with referring a soldier by rank. They refer to me by rank and it would only make sense for me to do the same for them. If they are offended by it then they shouldn't have joined the army in the first place.

The only people I wouldn't call by rank would be officers and I would simply refer to them as Sir or Ma'am respectively.

I was called Private until I became a Specialist, and I was referred to by that rank until I became a Sergeant. I never saw a problem with it being that was my rank.

Response by SGM Eric Lobsinger made Apr 23 at 2015 10:55 PM

2015-04-23T22:55:36-04:00

It is never disrespectful to address a soldier, sailor, marine or airman by their rank. However, it is possible to address someone by their rank with a tone of complete disdain with the intention to denote disrespect, which is an entirely separate matter. Regulations are pretty specific on the proper way to address enlisted soldiers, warrant officers, and commissioned officers. Addressing a soldier in the ranks of private through private first class as "private" is the appropriate term. I normally used the term PFC as a preference, as I did with staff sergeant, sergeant first class and master sergeant instead of "sergeant," which was a personal preference.
A concern I always have on issues such as this is when soldiers (enlisted, warrant, commissioned) begin referring to their fellow soldiers as pay grades, i.e. E-3, E-5, E-8 or E-9 instead of PFC, SGT, MSG/1SG or SGM/CSM. All Soldiers should be proud of their ranks at all times.

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Apr 24 at 2015 4:48 AM

2015-04-24T04:48:53-04:00

No.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2015 12:06 PM

2015-04-24T12:06:22-04:00

The Army has gotten so soft and the new generation of Soldiers are spoiled and don't have much discipline

Response by CPL Aloysius Grimaudo made Apr 24 at 2015 4:50 PM

2015-04-24T16:50:39-04:00

I don't see anything wrong with it...90% have heard it...what's the big deal...PRIVATE.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2015 7:25 PM

2015-04-24T19:25:08-04:00

To any Privates - or fellow Lieutenants being called "L-T" in a slightly patronizing tone...I'll figure most people know what I mean - who feel offended or disrespected or whatever at being addressed as such:

1. It's your f***ing title, get used to it.
2. Life's about choices, deal with yours.
3. And particularly to my fellow LTs out there, butterbars especially:
Congrats on your commission. You are not entitled to anything other than the rank you just earned. Your rank does not make you any more worthy of respect than any other FNG, because you don't know anything more than the others, trust me (I didn't either, hell I still get clueless moments). On paper, you may outrank the enlisted corps, but guess what? In real life, an E-5 effectively outranks you, has vast and untold amounts more experience than you, is more knowledgeable than you, and unlike you is an expert in his/her job, having mastered it over several years. You do not have any obligation to obey them, but you will listen to them and give their opinions a lot of weight. And you will respectfully deal with slight amounts of patronizing tone until you prove to them that you are worthy of their respect. You will absolutely let SNCOs mentor you; a MSgt has almost definitely seen a lot more s*** than a Maj. As an officer, you exist to take care of your troops, not the other way around. If you take care of them, especially your NCOs, then they will end up taking care of you anyway.

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made Apr 24 at 2015 7:53 PM

2015-04-24T19:53:44-04:00

Really?! If a Private has some sort of issue with being addressed as such, I would suggest their leadership sends them back to MCRD (or, their service equivalent). Maybe they preferred "recruit" --or any of the many creative names by which their training staff formerly addressed them.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2015 8:07 PM

2015-04-24T20:07:00-04:00

NCOs use it as an intimidation thing I've never once came across an officer that does it cause they are usually more mature and professional being called a private isn't a bad thing when someone is announcing your name or something but we are forced to call e-4 and above by there rank out of respect its really not necessary to call us privates you can just say our name

Response by SPC Michael Frugoli made Apr 24 at 2015 8:56 PM

2015-04-24T20:56:57-04:00

I feel this is a sensitive or softness the military has become..

its been Private for years. Suck it up.

Response by SFC Patrick R. Weston, MPH made Apr 25 at 2015 6:50 AM

2015-04-25T06:50:43-04:00

I remember feeling the same way when I enlisted, because of JROTC in high school I was advanced to PFC prior to Basic Training. When I arrived at my first duty assignment I used to cringe whenever I was addressed as Private Weston because I felt being a Private First Class earned me a degree of distinction form my peers. I laugh as I look back and realize that in the eyes of the leadership (as it does to me now) it did not.

Response by SFC Stephen King made Apr 25 at 2015 6:55 AM

2015-04-25T06:55:25-04:00

Privates or anyone who gets upset because of the way they are addressed have been raised in the Military and throughout life in way to believe that they are displaying extable behavior. As a NCO we must be the standard bearer. Our duty is the provide purpose, motivation and direction. I have had a similar situation in my career when others address Soldiers by their pay grade I explain the reason that it can be considered disrespect.

Response by Basic Cadet Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2015 7:58 AM

2015-04-25T07:58:36-04:00

TRADOC Regulation 350-6: From the time you departed the MEPS station, you were considered a mature, responsible adult, A Soldier. You will be addressed as "Soldier," "Warrior," or by your rank and last name.

Response by SrA Kelly Richard made Apr 25 at 2015 11:12 AM

2015-04-25T11:12:21-04:00

I wouldn't worry about that one too much. The Air Force has the same thing with the term Airmen (E1-E4) as the official form of address. All enlisted went through those ranks first. It may be the tone that had been used with that term (and likely, rightfully so) where it developed a negative connotation in thier mind. Like the way they called us female in BMT and some girls took offense because of the tone. Even though I argued with them saying it was silly and overly sensitive for them to think that, but at times with the tone of the instructors, they may as well have been calling me the "B" word or the way some people say, "woman!" as if the end of that sentence has something to do with the kitchen... There's nothing at all wrong with those words, just how we choose to associate it. But the term Private or Airmen have many times taken on that tone, because we have all done something stupid to warrant such a tone at those ranks. It's the individual's choice as to what connotation to apply to the term, and that's not your problem as you are using correct terms of address and you are doing nothing wrong.

You want to really see something, though... Call an Air Force Officer an Airmen! Just like everyone in the Navy is a sailor, and everyone in the Army is a soldier, everyone in the Air Force is an Airmen! Yet anyone not of that rank gets chills when you call them that, but that's what we all are! "Big 'A'!" as they say!!!

By the way, I don't actually recommend doing that, I just recall witnessing a USMC officer calling an USAF officer that, no differently as he did with the rest of us Airmen as A1Cs, SSgts, or Capts alike. But the USAF officer could not stand it!

Response by PFC Tuan Trang made May 15 at 2015 10:35 AM

2015-05-15T10:35:33-04:00

We call the individual by ranks and last name, if they have problem, too bad. If you a private then that how we gonna adress you.

Response by SPC(P) Mark Newman made May 21 at 2015 12:33 AM

2015-05-21T00:33:06-04:00

Of course not. But it seens more respectful if you add a name. "Pvt Newman, I need to see you in my office. " rather than simply "Pvt, I need to see you in my office.

Response by MAJ Keira Brennan made May 25 at 2015 11:15 PM

2015-05-25T23:15:44-04:00

They need to BEAT THEIR FACES!

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2015 10:49 AM

2015-05-26T10:49:54-04:00

It mostly does not bother me. There are the occasional moments where it is used as an intimidation tool, and that can be slightly annoying at times. But that never really gets better as you go on. There is always someone above you, so you should never really be content with your rank. The "intimidation tool" is just a means to drive you forward. I for one found some of the nicknames somewhat comical as a PVT (Fuzzy) and PV2 ((Mosquito wings). Ha! Even my little cousin made an Assassin's Creed reference (video game, for those who don't know the name) when he didn't understand my rank now, so a few of my buddies have run with it.

Being called a Private isn't toxic leadership, its your rank. Don't like it? Wait your two years or get out.

Response by SGT Douglas Blackwood made Jun 28 at 2015 7:07 PM

2015-06-28T19:07:43-04:00

In the Air Force the title is Airman. In the Navy it is Seaman. And the in the Marines they are addressed by rank, Private, Private First Class, and Lance Corporal. In my experience they do not take offense. They do not complain, they do their jobs and promote so they can be addreseed with a more senior title. I am in favor of giving respect to those who earn it, but it must be earned. Bitching about it is NOT earning it.

Response by LTC Kevin B. made Jun 28 at 2015 7:15 PM

2015-06-28T19:15:08-04:00

When I was a Private, I was only offended whenever someone would stress the word "Private" in a demeaning way. If they said "Private BROOM" (or just "Private"), that was no big deal. If they said "PRIVATE Broom" (or just "PRIVATE"), then I was offended (quietly, I might add). In the former, they were calling me by my rank, which was okay. In the latter, it always felt like they were trying to put me down. From a military perspective, it wasn't disrespectful; from a human being level, it sure felt disrespectful. I always tried to be respectful to them as I moved up the chain. After all, my success depended on them in many ways.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Feb 26 at 2018 10:33 AM

2018-02-26T10:33:41-05:00

PVT Jones is flipping PVT Jones E1/E2- That's their rank and that is what they are stuck with, by regulations. Their feelngs on their rank is their personal problem.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 11 at 2018 3:29 PM

2018-04-11T15:29:33-04:00

I think it depends on the context. Some higher enlisted tend to use the word with emphasis as is trying to clarify that they see you as less of a person to them based on your rank. Especially since you said you see this mainly by AIT students, in basic training drill sergeants often did this (of course it’s their job to make you feel like less of a person). Anytime I’ve ever been offended by this is usually because it came off like this:
You’ll be having a conversation with a higher ranking person and when you input your opinion that contradicts theirs, they instantly stop calling you “Snuffy” like they usually do, and call u private, as a show of the fact that their opinion is superior because of their rank. This is especially annoying on subjects that aren’t military related, like cars or something. I’ve been called private by people because they don’t know my name, and that’s a great way to generalize, but generally, privates are called by their last name by their superiors, and we call our superiors based on their ranks.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Apr 24 at 2018 5:32 PM

2018-04-24T17:32:55-04:00

Because their are Privates- I one time had a PFC say something about it- I said what is your rank- he Private- I held my hand up- if you can call Specialists 4-9 Specialist, and WO1-CW5 Mister or Sir, then you will be called Private. End of problem.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Feb 25 at 2021 5:31 PM

2021-02-25T17:31:15-05:00

We need to toughen them up if they are butt hurt by "private".

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2021 5:59 PM

2021-02-25T17:59:12-05:00

If their rank is Private, you can address them by their rank. I don't know where you are that anyone with the rank of "Private" is offended by it. But just let them know if they're offended by their rank, eventually they won't be a private anymore if they do the right thing.

Response by SFC Melvin Brandenburg made Feb 26 at 2021 9:33 AM

2021-02-26T09:33:59-05:00

I think it is disrespectful to consider otherwise. Nobody cares about the opinion of a private, they haven't earned the right to make executive or command decisions. Their job is to keep their mouth shut, pay attention, and execute their role in the missions they've been given.

Response by SFC Melvin Brandenburg made Feb 26 at 2021 9:37 AM

2021-02-26T09:37:23-05:00

I sometimes prefer either hero or high speed when addressing privates.