Do you think it is right to incite anger in other RP Members with your comments?

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Tue, 10 May 2016 10:18:25 -0400

Can we ALL be Professionals? LET'S RESPECT ONE ANOTHER ALWAYS!

THINK BEFORE YOU RESPOND! THANKS

I've noticed a lot of adverse and derogatory comments made by some of our RP Members lately! When you read some of those comments it's clear those Members are trying to insight anger and/or attack the other individual's intelligence or just plan being unprofessional.

I like RP because the majority of Service Members have been very professional!

What are your thoughts on this topic RP Members?

Response by SGT Ben Keen made May 10 at 2016 10:20 AM

SGT Ben Keen — Tue, 10 May 2016 10:20:49 -0400

There will always be an "issue" with how someone reacts to something they read. There are things we are very passionate about and sometimes that passion can be taken in the wrong direction towards anger. I do think we, as site admins, do our best to keep this type of thing under control as much as possible and deal with those who repeatedly do this type of thing.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2016 10:25 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 May 2016 10:25:01 -0400

I think it is unprofessional to post intentionally inflammatory remarks or topics. It is one thing to invite an open and honest discussion, another to attempt to incite anger.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made May 10 at 2016 10:26 AM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Tue, 10 May 2016 10:26:56 -0400

Guilty as Charged, I am a Hot Tempered Old Kraut and I do take things "Personal". It has always been my thing to stand up for the Underdog. Just my "Social Justice" Catholic Upbringing. I'll try Colonel but even this Old Grandpa is a Work in Progress an subject lots of Human Failings.

Response by SSG Warren Swan made May 10 at 2016 10:28 AM

SSG Warren Swan — Tue, 10 May 2016 10:28:08 -0400

Sex, Religion, and Politics. Guaranteed to get an argument going. On RP I see the second two being a very thorny issue. Never hear anyone argue over beer, pizza, scotch, or how bad the Cowboys and University of Texas suck. I can't throw stones on this one Sir, I'm guilty as all outdoors myself, but I'm willing to work at changing.

Response by MAJ Rene De La Rosa made May 10 at 2016 10:28 AM

MAJ Rene De La Rosa — Tue, 10 May 2016 10:28:43 -0400

COL Mikel Burroughs, you are an expert in leadership, and seem to ask the most pertinent questions. There is no need to tear each other down; there are plenty of others to criticize us. Always remember that 'we fight with the Army we have, and not one we wished we had.'

Response by SPC Brian Mason made May 10 at 2016 10:31 AM

SPC Brian Mason — Tue, 10 May 2016 10:31:38 -0400

No. I think that the military should work toward improving itself, especially with each other. We're all unique; different thoughts and feelings. We agree or disagree on many issues, but taking it to a personal level or insulting and getting in 'internet fights' makes people look childish. We represent and serve the people of this country and we should ALL act like it. Negative actions done by the military are laughed at by other countries. A part, in that 'we' are not behaving like adults and even less like the military that was founded.
It'e easy to do so from behind a computer screen. Unless the other person takes the time to track him/her down and what not, then many of these comments are go back and forth freely.
As a Veteran, I can say what I want, but I support all my military brothers and sisters. I have more common sense and respect to still give rank to soldiers. For some of you, THINK before you type. Do some of you even know or remember what Integrity means? I think it would be quite embarrassing for many of you should your conduct on here or any other site, be brought into your personal life, unit, and made public.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made May 10 at 2016 10:31 AM

CPT Jack Durish — Tue, 10 May 2016 10:31:43 -0400

Will it incite you if I point out the misuse of the homonym in your question? The simple fact is that I have rarely seen anyone deliberately post a comment which is an obvious attempt to incite anger in another. Sadly, some can't stand disagreement, an affliction which seems to occur more frequently among ideologues who lean to the Left. And yes, it also occurs among those who lean to the Right but far less frequently. Now, that premise is going to incite some. Sorry 'bout that, but it is the result of my direct observation having participated in many contentious debates. And no, I'm not going to let up. Too much is at stake. I am a liberty-loving American, an old-school rugged individualist. Like a wild beast, I feel entrapped in an ever diminishing habitat as "progressive civilization" has taken root on the East and West coasts of the continent and spread like a cancer inland. Government has grown exponentially, just in my lifetime and I'm not happy about it. Thus, I am fighting back. I try to be civil about it. Indeed I find myself far more civil than those who oppose me. For example, I have never blocked another in this forum. I have never "unfriended" another on FaceBook. But these things have happened to me. It seems that those who disagree can't handle the truth as I see it whereas I welcome their opposing points of view. I want to learn from them. They obviously don't want to learn from me. So there you have it. Those are my insights...

Response by MCPO Roger Collins made May 10 at 2016 10:43 AM

MCPO Roger Collins — Tue, 10 May 2016 10:43:39 -0400

Interesting point, COL. I just made a similar comment to one of our posters.I truly enjoy a spirited debate with one that is Knowledgeable about a topic. Col. Ted Mc comes to mind, but we seldom , if ever, get nasty or insulting although we have opposing views on most everything. He is one of my favorite RP members because of that. He does make me think and do research.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2016 10:44 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 May 2016 10:44:20 -0400

I agree with CPT Jack Durish. I have been blocked by a person from a RP thread after they insulted my view point, and others that disagreed, and then proceeded to tell me that their rank among their peers on RP was higher than my rank among other SGTs so my opinion was less valid than theirs.
I will not back down from open discourse but I will not attack another person's views without cause either.

Response by CMSgt Mark Schubert made May 10 at 2016 10:46 AM

CMSgt Mark Schubert — Tue, 10 May 2016 10:46:12 -0400

One team, one fight - in the end, that's what it about. We all need each other and if we try to remember that when we converse with each other, we might show a little more respect. I see no reason why anyone would " try... to insight anger and/or attack the other individual's intelligence or just [be] unprofessional" If you think about it, why? Why would you want to be like that? Have I done it? Yes - and I'm sorry for it - I certainly don't want to do it again. Much better to build up than tear down.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made May 10 at 2016 10:57 AM

SrA Edward Vong — Tue, 10 May 2016 10:57:36 -0400

It's hard to mix professionalism and emotion. We have seen this in what we believe to be the most professional individuals (politicians and business leaders). After all, we are human.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2016 10:58 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 May 2016 10:58:17 -0400

I am not a very good writer but I think everyone should be professional and respectful in any type of Social Media sites, especially here and LinkedIn since your name and rank/organization are spelled out. I have seen way too much UCMJ actions or employment terminations base on careless and unprofessional Social Media comments. Remember, Uncle Sam (or your COC) and your employers are always watching. Just don't be that guy/gal, it's not worth it.

Response by Cpl Mark A. Morris made May 10 at 2016 11:12 AM

Cpl Mark A. Morris — Tue, 10 May 2016 11:12:59 -0400

I will have to remind myself to respond, not react to attacks.

Response by SMSgt Thor Merich made May 10 at 2016 11:18 AM

SMSgt Thor Merich — Tue, 10 May 2016 11:18:51 -0400

I guess its just human nature. There will always be some, who for whatever reason, need to start a commotion. I enjoy the overall professionalism that is on RP. I like to hear the opinions of others as I have learned that I don't know everything. There has been times when I have changed my mind about something after seeing the issue from a different perspective.

The most important thing to me is to respect other RP members. Name calling and insulting language just reduces the forum to high school. We should be able to disagree about a topic without resorting to juvenile behavior.

At the same time, many of us have said things (including me) that have been insulting, but were not meant that way. In those cases, its important to clarify our intentions and to forgive others for their mistakes.

We all are human after all.

Response by PO3 Steven Sherrill made May 10 at 2016 11:21 AM

PO3 Steven Sherrill — Tue, 10 May 2016 11:21:48 -0400

COL Mikel J. Burroughs it boils down to being able to disagree with a person's opinion, position, or idea without trying to destroy the person. I admit to having a very short fuse, and when I am pissed it is hard to be rational. I try to still be respectful of the person as a human being despite what I think. The biggest thing is

THIS IS THE INTERNET, IF YOU DISAGREE, IT DOESN"T MEAN THAT YOU HAVE TO SAY SOMETHING!!! WALK AWAY, DON"T ENGAGE!!!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2016 11:26 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 May 2016 11:26:14 -0400

I am trying to be nice as I can, lol

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2016 11:26 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 May 2016 11:26:24 -0400

I'm good with disagreement; not so with disrespect. Come at me with a counterpoint and I'll read and take into consideration. Come at me as a troll and I believe RP has a blocking mechanism. I've come to appreciate RP as the "anti-FB".

FB that allows me to stay abreast of the family I was born into but RP allows me to stay abreast of the family I chose.

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made May 10 at 2016 11:26 AM

SGM Erik Marquez — Tue, 10 May 2016 11:26:50 -0400

Two points..
If the intent of the post is to specifcally to cause an emotional reaction (anger), then that is trolling and inappropriate.
If the intent of the post is to state your opinion, your believe, your answer to a question posed,,and someone finds that response angering..... That falls under the "Hurt Feelings" report clause.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made May 10 at 2016 11:30 AM

Capt Seid Waddell — Tue, 10 May 2016 11:30:33 -0400

There is no place for personal attacks here - they are an indication that the attacker has lost the argument and is simply striking out.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2016 11:31 AM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 May 2016 11:31:08 -0400

Anger can be incited or manufactured by the listener/reader.

I have not seen many posts that I think incite anger.

Response by LTC Thomas Tennant made May 10 at 2016 11:36 AM

LTC Thomas Tennant — Tue, 10 May 2016 11:36:42 -0400

If you purposely provoke then you get a big NO from me. The reason I am here at RP is because almost all of you are adults and professionals. We will not always agree on issues and some subjects but I have yet to deal with anyone being disagreeable.

So my hats off to all of you patrons of RP. Disagree with me with respect and a civil tone because it is in the arena of ideas that we truly make "America Great Again."

Response by SGT William Howell made May 10 at 2016 11:46 AM

SGT William Howell — Tue, 10 May 2016 11:46:13 -0400

Respect is a 2 way street. When someone post up that black West Point Females with fist raised are not supporting BML, but instead rooting for the chess team I get offended. I am not super sharp, but I ain't an idiot. If they are going to insult my intelligence then I should have the right to call BS. If they post up about how great that Hillery is then I should have the right to respond respectfully. If they are going to tell me that she is being falsely accused of crimes she did not commit by nasty conservatives, basically insulting my intelligence, I should have the right to tell you why you are an idiot.

Rule number 6 from elementary school. If you pick a fight and then get your ass whipped, don't go crying about it not being fair.

Response by SGT Paul Mackay made May 10 at 2016 12:01 PM

SGT Paul Mackay — Tue, 10 May 2016 12:01:36 -0400

I don't beleive in incitting anger in otherRP members but i do believe in stating fact backed up with proof. some people can't handle the truth when it comes to themselfs.

Response by Col Joseph Lenertz made May 10 at 2016 12:13 PM

Col Joseph Lenertz — Tue, 10 May 2016 12:13:04 -0400

COL Mikel J. Burroughs Excellent post! We all need to remember our core values, our Service, and our common oath before we say something we shouldn't.

Response by SFC Gary Edwards made May 10 at 2016 12:13 PM

SFC Gary Edwards — Tue, 10 May 2016 12:13:09 -0400

Couldn't agree with you more sir and the reason I don't use Facebook anymore.

Response by SFC Wade W. made May 10 at 2016 12:25 PM

SFC Wade W. — Tue, 10 May 2016 12:25:53 -0400

COL Mikel J. Burroughs, thankfully I don't see it here as often as I do on FB. I believe having a real name attached changes people's behavior a little.
There are a lot of passionate people on these types of forums and that passion can cause some anger on occasion. But I do believe people here when they say "with all due respect". That can make me back off on my defensive behavior quite often.
All of that said I appreciate the dialogue here much more than on FB where some people exist for the sole purpose of creating a hostile environment. They are called trolls for a reason.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2016 12:35 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 May 2016 12:35:28 -0400

For a second there I was getting angry about your post. Then, I realized this is Social Media. That is my only joke in my comment.
Actually, I do not think it is a good idea or tactic to aggravate others or entice them to become angry at you. Maybe if we respected each other on a regular basis the world would be a better place, but we all know that will never happen. I would like to see a time when Veterans and Service Members stop stabbing each other in the back, but I am not going to live that long.

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made May 10 at 2016 12:37 PM

CPT Pedro Meza — Tue, 10 May 2016 12:37:10 -0400

I will admit guilt to at times being harsh on RP members that make comments that insult or disrespect serving service members, mainly the idiots that have issues with women in combat, gay and lesbians in service. My issue is that we should always support those in harms way that have volunteer to serve, because as they face the enemy they should not be attacked by their fellow Americans.

Response by Sgt Edward Padget made May 10 at 2016 1:06 PM

Sgt Edward Padget — Tue, 10 May 2016 13:06:29 -0400

I think we all have a right to say whatever we feel, even if it's not what the majority want to hear. Forums are like radio stations, if you see something that displeases you change it. I would never stop someone from saying whatever they wanted, just as I would never want to be silenced. I think dealing with things like this are just part of life. It's how we respond and react to them that we learn what is effective and what is not.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made May 10 at 2016 1:08 PM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Tue, 10 May 2016 13:08:33 -0400

My agenda is not to incite anger, but to use non PC remarks. I was brought up to say what was on your mind, and then suffer the consequences later. I tell the truth about what I see and read, and that is what cheeses some people off.

Response by Kim Bolen RN CCM ACM made May 10 at 2016 1:23 PM

Kim Bolen RN CCM ACM — Tue, 10 May 2016 13:23:53 -0400

Excellent post again Sir. I do not believe it is right to incite anger anywhere. But we are passionate human beings and I must confess I am guilty of great passion. So if there has been anything that I have said to offend or incite someone, please accept my apology as it is and has never been my intent to be angered but to understand where that anger is coming from within myself. I can not control others anger, but I do remove myself from it.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2016 1:56 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 May 2016 13:56:06 -0400

"Digital Decorum" is something that is lacking throughout social media, and I guess here as well. I believe the normal "third rail" issues (politics, religion, et al.) will always bring heated responses, but I wish passion didn't immediately equate to anger.

That being said, I do a lot of wishing, and rarely does it come true.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made May 10 at 2016 1:58 PM

LTC Paul Labrador — Tue, 10 May 2016 13:58:38 -0400

There is a difference between stating your opinion on something and being adult enough to know that not everyone is going to agree with you, and purposely being an ass and provoking someone.

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made May 10 at 2016 2:00 PM

Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth — Tue, 10 May 2016 14:00:41 -0400

I am relatively new to RP and what attracted me to it was the professional discussions about DoD, the military services, and Veterans issues. As long as we stick to those and how it relates to the way ahead for our young folks in uniform and post retirement then I am ok with it. Good solid humor is good as well...need to laugh, it is good for the soul.
We are grown and we can always disagree without being disagreeable or we can state the facts as we see them and just agree to disagree on civil terms. What I have noticed is that there are some folks out here that post a question and up front state they want to keep it professional and hear everyone's opinions. However, when posts and replies start rolling in, they take it and make it personal with attacks...then folks reply with attacks. When I see that, I wave off and go to the next target...don't even engage anymore. More and more topics aren't about how the next president will do as CINC, or the latest on job hunting for veterans, or women in combat roles and how we are going to integrate and make it work, or VA reforms and how to file claims, or PCS and career advice outside of someone's chain of command. We are talking about social reforms that currently have no effect on military operations, VA, or DoD. There will always be an issue on how something is read and taken. We just have to stop and think before we type. Most times I use the 24 hour rule when I am passionate about something. I type it up in Word, and revisit it 24 hours later and if I read it and it makes me angry from the readers perspective, I don't post...most of the time it gets edited numerous times just to make sure it is across the board. I admit, I have been drawn into some of those discussions and wrapped up in them and just walked away...sometimes the last word is better left unsaid.

Response by MAJ Michael Pauling made May 10 at 2016 2:08 PM

MAJ Michael Pauling — Tue, 10 May 2016 14:08:46 -0400

plain speaking, if you got someone who gets that worked up over a RP posting you have found the person I am not wanting to be anywhere near me when the crap hits the fan.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2016 2:09 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 May 2016 14:09:37 -0400

Sir-Sometimes, I ask myself if in a forum of RP's nature, whether or not it is likely some participants are here for reasons not clearly stated. From those who simply get pleasure from chaos...to those who may be tasked with looking for specific threats; I try to respond in ways that neither add fuel to the fire, or could be misconstrued as slanderous, let alone censurable. Social media is a wonderful tool, but a potentially dangerous one as well if used irresponsibly.

Response by Capt Tom Brown made May 10 at 2016 2:15 PM

Capt Tom Brown — Tue, 10 May 2016 14:15:29 -0400

I have also seen a number of links and URLs posted on RP which consist mainly of very strongly worded, name-calling opinion pieces for or against political candidates or other social/cultural issues. The articles are so inflammatory they naturally incite readers to respond in kind just to keep up tit for tat. The articles are not based on any factual points, examples, or illustrations, just pure opinion. I avoid those postings and try to filter them out by deleting them or trying to 'see less of so & so' etc, short of blocking someone. If that doesn't work I end up blocking the individual and hope the postings go away. RP should be self-policing.

Response by SFC Craig Dalen made May 10 at 2016 2:16 PM

SFC Craig Dalen — Tue, 10 May 2016 14:16:00 -0400

I feel it from some people too. It's crazy but that's people for you.

Response by SFC Andrew Dowell made May 10 at 2016 2:45 PM

SFC Andrew Dowell — Tue, 10 May 2016 14:45:27 -0400

There's no punishment so instead of helping they put others down so they can feel better about themselves

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2016 2:46 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 May 2016 14:46:07 -0400

It's one of the reasons I stopped visiting this site daily.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2016 3:36 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 May 2016 15:36:16 -0400

This isn't FB or Chat-room no place here for insulting anyone's intelligence. Maybe questioning their thought process without being demeaning. I for one am no longer a good writer, as I was years ago, and sometimes my writing may seem like they are just rambling on. We must try harder to understand the other person, and not be in the ATTACK mode! Mutual respect breads trust and loyalties.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made May 10 at 2016 3:39 PM

Cpl Justin Goolsby — Tue, 10 May 2016 15:39:26 -0400

I personally haven't seen any of this, but the idea is laughable to me. We're supposed to be grown adults. At some point in time, we've all had to suck up our pride and keep our mouth shut, otherwise we wouldn't still be wearing the ranks we've earned.

Character attacks are the worst forms of any discussion because there is honestly nothing to be gained. Let's use politics as an example because it seems to bring the worst out of people. I've got friends voting for Bernie and I've got friends voting for Trump. It is possible to disagree with someone and still have a meaningful discussion. Typically on my own personal Facebook, if I post something that hints I side with one party or the other, I almost always guaranteed have members of the opposite calling me a moron, uninformed, whatever.

I'll respect anyone's choice as long as they make an informed one. If not, I might try to educate you, but blatant attacks are just not professional.

Response by SGT Kathi Prato made May 10 at 2016 3:59 PM

SGT Kathi Prato — Tue, 10 May 2016 15:59:54 -0400

I think we are all adults and should treat each other as such. If an individual can't express themselves in a professional manner then maybe they should take some time to calm down and re-present themselves.

Response by Maj John Bell made May 10 at 2016 4:02 PM

Maj John Bell — Tue, 10 May 2016 16:02:10 -0400

Shin kicking never elevates the conversation or persuades the owner of the kicked shins.

Response by Capt Michael Greene made May 10 at 2016 4:05 PM

Capt Michael Greene — Tue, 10 May 2016 16:05:29 -0400

I want all my posts to be respectful, factual, and well explained. I know others might be easily triggered, so I try to avoid trigger words. But how other people react to my posts is their responsibility, not mine.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2016 4:17 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 May 2016 16:17:05 -0400

ive only been blocked once dont know why, ive never intentially provoked anybody but its ok with me, i try to make informed comments based on material available or life experience, if you disagree with me thats ok, give me supporting reasons and create an open , honest dialog

Response by LCpl Cody Collins made May 10 at 2016 4:24 PM

LCpl Cody Collins — Tue, 10 May 2016 16:24:52 -0400

Let's be honest here it seems like the Democrats and liberals for always making a big deal about someone sex or someone's confusion of what sex they are. And when the rest of society that I made a pact conservatives make a comment or Express that they don't want to go along with that kind of thing. Then the Democrats trot out all these phobias like Islamophobia, LGBT phobia and anything else they can stick the word phobia on the back end of to try to Shane people into going along with their ungodly views in the real world you're going to find that most people you work around socialize with do not share your views weather you're liberal or conservative. You can't get angry at everyone that does not agree with you that is a sure sign of immaturity and someone is not ready to deal with the real world and how would really is. My daughter just graduated from Indiana University in Bloomington and our education system has done a good job of brainwashing our children into accepting all these aborant lifestyles. I noticed that they can argue and comment about why I also don't should accept this garbage, but my daughter has yet to explain to me how she's going to get a job before she turns 26 and Obamacare has to come out of her pocket how are young people are not ready for the real world in civilian life much less in military life when that Russian soldier could care less about you being gay where that Chinese soldier doesn't give a who that you're bisexual to them that's just another reason to blow your head off. Regardless of where you stand on the social issues of today when confronted just articulate your position and if it holds up then you have nothing to be ashamed about but if the history of your position shows that a society crashed and burned one everyone decide to go that way then why in the world would you think we will want to repeat the same mistakes just so you can feel good about yourself.

Response by CPO Bill Canada made May 10 at 2016 4:35 PM

CPO Bill Canada — Tue, 10 May 2016 16:35:26 -0400

I have a tendency to just ignore the hell raisers. I may have gotten mellow in my old age, or maybe I just don't care. I believe I will have a drink and think on it ;)

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2016 4:38 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 May 2016 16:38:05 -0400

It is not right to do it intentionally. However, one thing I have learned is that sometimes it is difficult to interpret tone from writing, so an innocent question or comment maybe misinterpreted to be rude and obnoxious. So we shouldn't be quick to judge.

Response by PO3 James Staley made May 10 at 2016 4:46 PM

PO3 James Staley — Tue, 10 May 2016 16:46:03 -0400

There is always going to be a few bad ones no matter where you go. These kinds of people we call them keyboard warriors. Don't feed the trolls.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2016 5:08 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 May 2016 17:08:20 -0400

When all who read RP begin thinking alike, feeling alike and reacting alike to all posts, we may as well close the doors. If my words hurt your feelings, let me know and I'll start blocking you from reading my posts. If you are capable of handling a discussion where the political or personal content may make you uncomfortable that's great, just learn how to put your opinion across where it doesn't offend if possible.

Response by TSgt Jennifer Disch made May 10 at 2016 5:25 PM

TSgt Jennifer Disch — Tue, 10 May 2016 17:25:38 -0400

You are right. Some people take it personal and it's not.

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made May 10 at 2016 5:35 PM

Sgt Tom Cunnally — Tue, 10 May 2016 17:35:45 -0400

I think we RP members ought to take it upon ourselves to jump in when we see someone who is constantly demeaning and degrading those who don't agree with their comments. Or it is up to us to police the conversations so they don't become like what we see on TV every day from our Presidential candidates.

We Rally Point members can make it great or we can let it slide into something we all don't want to be part of. But if someone is easily offended or thin skinned then maybe Rally Point is not for them. We did lose some members who didn't appreciate being called "stupid" or "idiots"...& who can blame them.

I also think the SSG who referred to CPT L S as a "Troll" owes that fine officer an apology because CPT L S is not even close to being a "Troll"... That was way out of line and uncalled for & there is no way I would ever insult an officer .. no matter how much we disagree.

Response by SSG Jose Alatorre made May 10 at 2016 5:54 PM

SSG Jose Alatorre — Tue, 10 May 2016 17:54:25 -0400

Then dont forget your oath to America and to the Constitution to protect them from enemies both foreign and domestic !

Response by SSG Keith Cashion made May 10 at 2016 5:57 PM

SSG Keith Cashion — Tue, 10 May 2016 17:57:29 -0400

COL Mikel Burroughs - As everyone knows, we all have our opinion(s). But what I see is that when people put things on RP and others venues as well, is that, their opinion on "whatever" the topic is, it is their opinion and that should be the defining opinion. To say anything contradictory to it, in a lot of cases is an attack. You have cases, to where, just because someone read an article in one publication, website, forum and so on and so on and had opinion to the article, but others do not subscribe to or think the legitimacy of said site as trustworthy, correct in reporting, or just damn any good. They will attack, and questions ones intelligence, comprehension of the subject, and go at that person hard...and yes, I have had that done to me on this site.

Here is the one thing about RP that I like. Though a lot of what we discuss on this site is Military related (Past, Current & Future Leaders) and there is so much working knowledge within the members, that asking a question, will always get you the Answer, the Advice, and the Story behind that question and how it affected the person answering it. Whether you want it or not.

I find it amusing sometimes at how some people will be so adamant on a subject and refuse to hear or understand anothers point of view, that they get ugly. Don't get me wrong, I am not saint, but I agree that everyone has an opinion, and should be able to voice it, but be big enough to listen to others as they have listened to you.

Hey, if you don't like my opinion, that's fine, But don't think I will lose sleep over it.

Have a great RP day.

Half Nickel of the day.

Response by SSG Jose Alatorre made May 10 at 2016 6:04 PM

SSG Jose Alatorre — Tue, 10 May 2016 18:04:18 -0400

Hey a lot of people are mad because we are now in a world of shit ! So lets use common sense which is not a common as it use to be because the far left wing whacked out leftest liberal democrats are changing and twisting the land called America so yeah , I'm mad too !

Response by CW4 Angel C. made May 10 at 2016 7:09 PM

CW4 Angel C. — Tue, 10 May 2016 19:09:17 -0400

I'm fairly new to RP and have been more involved in discussions lately due to my recent retirement from the Army. Honestly, I never had a job or position in the military where I had time to be an active member of social media. But here are some lessons I learned based on my own comments and others attacks:
1. Try to stay away from accusing or criticizing others, even in general statements.
2. If you do counterattack do so with tact and professionalism, never personal. Being "retired" or a "veteran" is not a lisence to be disrespectful to an "SM" or the other way around.
3. Lastly, don't be a social media tough guy and say things you wouldn't say face to face. Half the people cussing each other out here will not do it in person. And If you are an "SM" watch what you say and who you say it to because you're still subject to UCMJ even on social media.

Response by MAJ Keira Brennan made May 10 at 2016 7:14 PM

MAJ Keira Brennan — Tue, 10 May 2016 19:14:59 -0400

"Give me the liberty to know, to utter, and to argue freely according to conscience, above all liberties..." Areopagitica by Mr. John Milton, 1644 -----I love the military topics. I love the military news. I love the mentoring that goes on. I despise the partisan, misogynistic, hegemonistic, and sectarian religious topics. As long as those topics make the RP home screen I claim the right to argue freely according to my own conscience (I try to avoid direct ad hominin). I WISH - WISH RP could be more professional. But it isn't.

Response by SGT Rick Ash made May 10 at 2016 7:28 PM

SGT Rick Ash — Tue, 10 May 2016 19:28:48 -0400

I have not had a problem. I add several members as connections each day and I do make the occasional comment on topics like this.
Who is doing this? Why not suspend the abusers for 30 days and see if we get an "attitude adjustment"? We don't have to take it. The Admins and Mods can fix this issue.
I certainly hate to hear about it though and if someone who has been offended reads this post please stay, it will get better. Whoever it is doesn't know you and their words will hurt only if you let them what a great website this is!
Thanks,
Rick Ash

Response by SGT James Colbert made May 10 at 2016 8:24 PM

SGT James Colbert — Tue, 10 May 2016 20:24:12 -0400

my opinion is if someone attacks someone else in this type of forum, they are just projecting their own anger and inadequicies upon you and they have no real recourse

Response by SGT James Colbert made May 10 at 2016 8:26 PM

SGT James Colbert — Tue, 10 May 2016 20:26:01 -0400

however,... like i was told once ..
opinions are like a**holes , some may stink and some may be full of crap

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made May 10 at 2016 8:58 PM

Sgt Tom Cunnally — Tue, 10 May 2016 20:58:06 -0400

I recall one article posted several months ago : "Why Obama Is One Of Our Greatest Presidents" which I & some others all thought was pure and unadulterated BS & we stated why we thought so. The Originator then got ticked off and called us all "idiots, stupid, & racists"... so I just thought this guy has some problems and let it go..

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2016 10:18 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 May 2016 22:18:25 -0400

Anger can be a great motivator?

Response by LTC Terrence Farrier, PhD made May 10 at 2016 10:36 PM

LTC Terrence Farrier, PhD — Tue, 10 May 2016 22:36:54 -0400

I undèstand the question as someone having a definite point of view. That, in itself, should never be a problem. However, the best professional result from all of us, should be one that causes us to see another point of view. Really, we can all benefit if we look at posts that way. Frustration is one thing and attempting to push others to the point of anger is another. Who hasn't been angry from time to time? The actions of leadership takes the time to make pragmatic responses. Just my take.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2016 10:39 PM

2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 May 2016 22:39:54 -0400

RP can be a place about discussing important issues and risking offending someone or it can be a magical land where everyone is a special snowflake and should not get their feelings hurt. It can't be both. If something offends you and is based in facts and logic not personal attacks then it is useful for the community. Nobody has a right to avoid being offended.

The military does not have a problem falling to society, but it is pulled along behind it like a water skier. When society and the nation deteriorates it cannot be expected that the skier skis without a boat (recruits, technology, funding, family support programs, salary commensurate with the private sector, ect...). That is where we are heading. "the military is at war, America is at the mall." We are becoming a land of special snowflakes, censorship, participation trophies and radical equality over the equity a person provides to the world around them.

Response by SSG Thomas Gallegos made May 10 at 2016 11:50 PM

SSG Thomas Gallegos — Tue, 10 May 2016 23:50:04 -0400

RP members need to act in a manner that they would if talking to a superior. With differing opinions, folks need to think about it in a manner of " if the shoe was on the other foot"

Response by PV2 Violet Case made May 11 at 2016 3:52 AM

PV2 Violet Case — Wed, 11 May 2016 03:52:55 -0400

Sometimes people do not mean to cut others down they try to get people to understand things better. Like for example some of us may think that all veterans understand one another when I recently learned they do not. When an x commander is in a room with two other veterans one with PTSD and one with TBI and he is yelling out commands and the two with the health issues can not tell who is being told to do what because the commands were coming out so fast at us both I sometimes wonder who has the problem. So I try to point out what PTSD is and TBI that our brains and attacks can be fatal and that others need to be more understanding. That is like asking a person without a leg to run miles without any helping devices. I do hope the comment I made to try to get others to see this did not take it wrong because I have troubles sometimes getting others to understand what I mean to say. That is why I stopped coming on here. I was attacked so badly by some that I gave up. Like now I probably should not being saying anything here. But please people be more understanding that not all of our injuries or health issues are the same and we need to all be respected for them. Not every one is perfect, and it is hard when some think they are without looking in the mirror first.

Response by SSG Jay OConnor made May 11 at 2016 5:11 AM

SSG Jay OConnor — Wed, 11 May 2016 05:11:27 -0400

Everyone has certain a buttons will inevitably will be pushed at some point. Like for me, a big one is people who vote for someone simply because of the sex or race. When that comes up (among a few others) I lose my temper quick. It seems to me that today's Army has been "Sissified" and some people are just over sensitive about dumb crap

Response by SP5 Mark Kuzinski made May 11 at 2016 6:16 AM

SP5 Mark Kuzinski — Wed, 11 May 2016 06:16:08 -0400

Thank you for the post and the question COL Mikel J. Burroughs - We all have passions for or against things that get posted. We can still get our points across when commenting by having what I call a good bedside manor.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2016 11:22 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 11 May 2016 11:22:08 -0400

I have noticed this uptick in inappropriate comments as well. Lots of name calling- ad hominem attacks, and many other statements or "counter-arguments" (I use the term loosely) that simply degrade or add nothing to the conversation.

I think this is a culture that is being fostered in today's society. I monitor FB and social media sites, and if I was to see my Soldiers involved in some inappropriate, unprofessional activity (such as the recent 670-1 "scandal") you better believe some additional counseling and retrain will take place.

I truly value my career, not just as an occupation and paycheck, but as a way of life.

I was recently told by a SgtMaj that my rank was not weighted enough for me to have any real insight on a subject (...as a Senior NCO in the United States Army). This is really disheartening on a site that I have leaned on to learn from others and garner more experience through valuable, insightful discussion.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made May 11 at 2016 11:24 AM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Wed, 11 May 2016 11:24:49 -0400

We all know what MILITARY BEARING IS. Shouldn't be an issue if we maintain what we know. Remember who you are - A MEMBER OF THE U.S. SERVICES!!
And I don't care if your AD, Retired or a Vet.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2016 1:40 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 11 May 2016 13:40:59 -0400

Unfortunately, some people enjoy making others upset, are oblivious as to how their words are disrespectful, or are not concerned about being professional. This is a small percentage of our society as a whole, but I would hope that it is even a smaller percentage for a Military/Veteran community. Words do have power.
" Throughout human history, our greatest leaders and thinkers have used the power of words to transform our emotions, to enlist us in their cause, and to shape the course of destiny. Words can not only create emotions, they create actions. And from our actions flow the results of our lives." - Anthony Robbins

Response by SSG Wally Lawver made May 11 at 2016 2:26 PM

SSG Wally Lawver — Wed, 11 May 2016 14:26:02 -0400

It appears to many people, everywhere,(even here) these days are easily "offended"...Just because someone is offended doesnt mean they are right:)

Response by LTC Stephen F. made May 11 at 2016 5:10 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Wed, 11 May 2016 17:10:58 -0400

I have done my best to treat each person I interact with in person or on RallyPoint with respect COL Mikel J. Burroughs. As a maturing Christian I have learned that we ae each created in the image of God and therefore worthy of respect. It can be easy to demonize what and who you are unfamiliar with. The more we interact with people the more easier it is to treat each other with dignity. SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL Sgt Joe LaBranche SMSgt Minister Gerald A. Thomas SGT John " Mac " McConnell SrA Christopher Wright LTC Stephen C. SGT Forrest Stewart SGT Robert Hawks SPC Private RallyPoint Member PO2 Ed C. SSG James J. Palmer IV aka "JP4" CW5 Private RallyPoint Member CW5 Charlie Poulton SGM David W. Carr LOM, DMSM MP SGT SFC William Farrell SSgt Private RallyPoint Member CMSgt Mark Schubert

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2016 6:46 PM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 11 May 2016 18:46:15 -0400

One of the problems with on-line interaction is we lose more than half of the communication process. Those audio/visual clues as to the meaning imparted with the words spoken (or typed in this case). Sometimes, I think people will read a comment and immediately discount the importance of inflection and facial expression and immediately take offense when none is meant. Then again, sometimes an insult is an insult.

Response by SGT Paul Mackay made May 11 at 2016 6:56 PM

SGT Paul Mackay — Wed, 11 May 2016 18:56:47 -0400

I didn't try to incite anger I was only telling the truth and offered proof.

Response by SrA William Giraldi made May 11 at 2016 8:18 PM

SrA William Giraldi — Wed, 11 May 2016 20:18:30 -0400

COL Mikel J. Burroughs, I've had the pleasure of being on RP for some time and during this period, re-connected with past military pals I served with and made new friends who it seems like I've known forever and yet, have never met. We fall into such a small part of the US population, let's not be an ass and divide ourselves even more because we're being children and can't agree to disagree. I do respect the right of others to say whatever's on their mind, I just have thick skin and don't let myself be angered over petty nonsensical, opinionated comments. I know not everyone has the best communication skills, but lets do our best to be professional to each other.

Response by SFC William Farrell made May 11 at 2016 11:48 PM

SFC William Farrell — Wed, 11 May 2016 23:48:37 -0400

Excellent message COL Mikel J. Burroughs, thank you for educating those that need it.

Response by MAJ David Vermillion made May 12 at 2016 11:03 AM

MAJ David Vermillion — Thu, 12 May 2016 11:03:10 -0400

I welcome any comment or opinion, but be respectful. You can express yourself, but not in a degrading way. This makes you the responder look bad.

Response by SSG Dennis Grossmann made May 12 at 2016 1:43 PM

SSG Dennis Grossmann — Thu, 12 May 2016 13:43:44 -0400

Well since 2015 was the year of butthurt and everybody get offended. Lets make 2016 and 2017 The time to get back into common sense. Try to understand the other persons point of view before flying off the handle. I love having discussions with those who disagree with me. I don't get offended, I just remind myself that they are just issuing a different view. Time to tighten up the undies and not get them all in a bunch.
If 3 people witness a trainwreck, there will be 3 perspectives.
Of I have offended anyone, then suck it up. You weren't issued feelings.
J/K, I truly apologise.

Response by SGT Paul Mackay made May 12 at 2016 2:39 PM

SGT Paul Mackay — Thu, 12 May 2016 14:39:30 -0400

the probelm with anger is who it's coming from a person who is accused of something they know they did and tried to cover it up so they whine to someone esle to get the accusiers account suspended and then violates a persons first ammendment rights. thi is why I hated to say anything on a military website because some former officers still try to control everything and this is why soldiers from the seventies don't like th socialize with later soldiers who can't handle the truth evev if there is proof. this is why I'll no longer use this website.So you'll nolonger have me to kick arround and you can beleive the other guy until DOA investigation then you will all know the truth.

Response by CPT Quentin von Éfáns-Taráfdar made May 12 at 2016 3:07 PM

CPT Quentin von Éfáns-Taráfdar — Thu, 12 May 2016 15:07:24 -0400

“Criticism is as inevitable as breathing.” -TS Elliot
“There are no free passes in the arena of political debate. If you haven’t the courage to defend you convictions you shouldn’t bother to air them.” Count von Vlorë
“I have a piece of advice for those who object to my views and do not have the courage to debate them, a paraphrasing of the old culinary adage, to wit “If you cannot stand the heat, get the hell out of the battlefield.” - Count von Vlorë,

Response by PO1 Robert Closson made May 12 at 2016 7:58 PM

PO1 Robert Closson — Thu, 12 May 2016 19:58:03 -0400

It is good to have a candid discussion but to insight anger in other members is counter productive I say take the high road and show the respect you wish to receive

Response by COL Charles Williams made May 12 at 2016 11:18 PM

COL Charles Williams — Thu, 12 May 2016 23:18:56 -0400

Nothing here, among us COL Mikel J. Burroughs should incite anger. We should all be civil and professional.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2016 6:32 PM

GySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 15 May 2016 18:32:16 -0400

I like a little fight here and there as long as what is being said has real thoughtful substance behind

Response by SGT Jerrold Pesz made May 15 at 2016 10:45 PM

SGT Jerrold Pesz — Sun, 15 May 2016 22:45:54 -0400

I don't try to incite anyone.

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made May 19 at 2016 9:26 AM

Sgt Tom Cunnally — Thu, 19 May 2016 09:26:46 -0400

"Can we ALL be Professionals? LET'S RESPECT ONE ANOTHER ALWAYS!

THINK BEFORE YOU RESPOND! THANKS"

It looks like most of us are following your suggestions Col or we don't want to mess with SSG Warren Swan aka "Swanie" who is one bad dude....

Response by SGT Paul Mackay made May 21 at 2016 2:36 PM

SGT Paul Mackay — Sat, 21 May 2016 14:36:14 -0400

some people can't handle the truth so they get angry to avoid admiting the truth my legal team sayies.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2016 6:05 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 21 May 2016 18:05:57 -0400

Never do I intentionally attack anyone when a discussion is taking place. First, In the Virtual World, anyone who attacks another with the idea to cause discomfort, is NOT in the real world for sure. Here is something to KEY on during a potentially volatile exchange. If you never READ the word YOU, allowing yourself to feel attacked is a sign of wearing your feelings on your sleeve. A disagreement when discussing worldly things should be expected. If a simple difference of opinions causes anyone to lose control of their emotions, then it's time to reassess your conversational skills. How BORING would this world be if NO ONE ever disagreed with anyone. First, we would have a dictatorship with allegiance to the most powerful, not necessarily the smartest or compassionate. Again BORINNNGGG

Response by SGT Paul Mackay made May 27 at 2016 6:51 PM

SGT Paul Mackay — Fri, 27 May 2016 18:51:40 -0400

if the right guestion is asked you will receive a repond they may not like

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2016 7:26 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 May 2016 19:26:01 -0400

I say your exactly correct COL. We are all human and make mistakes some more than others. If you are an Officer or NCO, exemplifiy what you learned through years of hard work , be a leader and mentor conduct yourself as such.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2016 8:20 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 May 2016 20:20:21 -0400

When someone is insulting and writing personal attacks (not focusing on the topic but you), it makes them a Flamer. Flamming is very serious and should not be tolerated. People that flame like to hurt others. There are strategies to stop flamers in their tracks. I use them to protect myself from online abusive conduct. In Florida when online you tell someone to stop and they do it one more time it is considered cyberstalking. Florida Families lost too many loved ones to suicide from online Flamers, so we have strict laws.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2016 11:48 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Jun 2016 23:48:26 -0400

I recently read an article by DeLeon in college. DeLeon discusses and compares the attributes of a priest and the attributes of a fool. On one hand, the priest is all about order and discipline and structure. While on the other hand, the fool explains things with quick wit, sarcasm, and humor. Do I think it's right to deliberately go out of my way to piss people off? No. I do not live by this rule. However, Colin Powell said that knowing the right person to piss off and when to piss that person off, and I would add that the verbiage used may not fit the perceptions we have of ourselves, could sometimes achieve the desired effect.

I see where you are going with this though. Many online comments are hateful and disrespectful and reflect qualities embodied in neither the priest nor the fool.

Kinda unfortunate to come across people like this.

Response by SPC Kirk Gilles made Jun 10 at 2016 6:53 PM

SPC Kirk Gilles — Fri, 10 Jun 2016 18:53:50 -0400

I know I was brought to anger by current political discussions. I took the advise of the members. I will abstain from the political talk.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Jun 13 at 2016 10:54 AM

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen — Mon, 13 Jun 2016 10:54:27 -0400

Absolutely not. There will always be people on either sides of an issue, but just because you disagree doesn't give carte blanche to be distasteful or disrespectful. RP members are already head and shoulders above most social media users due to their military backgrounds, use that training to keep on point and stay respectful.

Response by SGT Paul Mackay made Jun 15 at 2016 6:08 PM

SGT Paul Mackay — Wed, 15 Jun 2016 18:08:39 -0400

I wouldn't have anger if my former company commander Capt. Ed T. Ciliberti hadn't destory most of my military records to discredit me and deny me duo prossice and distory my career just to protect is own. Only to distry his own and get a less than honorable discharge and became a pvt.

Response by SSG Stephan Pendarvis made Jul 5 at 2016 9:39 PM

SSG Stephan Pendarvis — Tue, 05 Jul 2016 21:39:23 -0400

No Sir....
This should be a forum where we can express and be adults and realize that...even though we served together....we still have different upbringings and conditioned pasts...therefore we should come to understand our differences and have compassion for each other and opposing point of views. There is no right or wrong in most situations...merely different point of views.

Response by 1LT Susan Bailey made Jul 9 at 2016 1:07 PM

1LT Susan Bailey — Sat, 09 Jul 2016 13:07:22 -0400

This is a great question. I signed up for RP quite a while ago, but only recently started posting. In that time I have been cussed at, called names up to and including various expletives relating to female genitalia. Attempted to have my character assasinated because I disagreed with the poster, and I have seen racist and sexist comments all through out posts. I have even seen someone call for the execution of a sitting Senator in Congress.
Do I agree with this behavior? Do I think it's professional? No. Has it upset me personally when I'm attacked, not really. What upsets me more is that people really think that that is the best way to represent themselves and their beliefs. That they don't seem to possess stronger communication skills in the written format, and that all they have left is to spew hate and nasty names and think it's okay. Or to encourage the same.
Having been around the military in total about 15 years, bad language doesn't bother me personally. But when you represent yourself as any member of the military you are representing all of us at some point in time. I don't want people to think military members don't know how to act professionally, or are unable to maintain their bearing under challenging times. It reflects poorly on everyone who ever wore a uniform. My personal view is that we are not here to see through one another, but to help one another through. So I try to offer my opinions on posts in a way that I think at least is professional, constructive, and basically courteous. Everyone is entitled to a bad day, but a pattern of behavior is another thing.
That being said, I would like to see RP develop a better way for members to report to RP members who are out of control, threatening, etc. in their posts. I definitely think saying a sitting Senator ought to be executed is a reportable offense and it was difficult to figure out how to do so. Thankfully, another person posted a link.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 9 at 2016 3:23 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 09 Jul 2016 15:23:50 -0400

I personally don't think that it's right to purposefully incite anger. Unfortunately some people can't debate without losing self control. Just because we don't share the same opinion doesn't mean one is more valid than the other. Closed minded people tend to think their opinion is the only one that matters. Employing mean and hateful rhetoric to make your point isn't professional. If what you have to say is so important it should stand on its on merit versus literally provoking someone.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Jul 18 at 2016 12:59 PM

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen — Mon, 18 Jul 2016 12:59:05 -0400

Nothing wrong with comments that may create controversy, but RP is no place to deliberately try to promote anger. Keep it professional and realize that others may have different opinion from you.

Response by MSgt John McGowan made Jul 19 at 2016 1:35 AM

MSgt John McGowan — Tue, 19 Jul 2016 01:35:33 -0400

COL I have had a couple of members try and start augments but I just will not go there. I did not joint RP to do that. One carried it a little to far and tried to draw me in by making fun of my post and me. A couple of days later what I was talking about came up on RP in a big way. But I was judged by my views as someone on the right. A conservative.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Aug 1 at 2016 12:03 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Mon, 01 Aug 2016 12:03:02 -0400

I've seen a lot of opinions expressed profoundly, I've done it myself. But at the end of the day, I know I need to maintain that military bearing, shake hands and drive on. Sometimes I will not reply because I don't want to say something I will regret. As long as we remember WE ALL ARE BROTHERS/SISTERS -in - ARMS and as family we need to respect each other. But then I guess there are those who can't get along with their family!

Response by SGT Paul Mackay made Oct 27 at 2016 9:59 PM

SGT Paul Mackay — Thu, 27 Oct 2016 21:59:43 -0400

I do respect others unless they don't respect me

Response by SGT Rick Ash made Oct 28 at 2016 2:12 AM

SGT Rick Ash — Fri, 28 Oct 2016 02:12:50 -0400

No, of course not. With less than 1% of the US populace ever serving in the armed forces we should act like the tight brother/sisterhood we are. Sp, first time a member does=30 day ban. Next time=banned forever. This will stop that kind of behavior and provide an incentive NOT to do that.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 28 at 2016 9:32 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 28 Oct 2016 09:32:51 -0400

I must admit I lost my composure and reacted poorly at what I thought was a personal and crude attack. For this I am truly sorry.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 28 at 2016 12:20 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 28 Oct 2016 12:20:48 -0400

Some folks just says what's on their mind. If it makes a service member cry, well, so be it. Additionally, people need a throat punch sometimes. fortunately for them, this is verbal.

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Nov 1 at 2016 5:18 PM

Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth — Tue, 01 Nov 2016 17:18:27 -0400

I think what we have failed to do in society as a whole is communicate and that has spilled over to RP. People used to be able to sit down and have intelligent conversations and in the end agree to disagree and go play golf so to speak. My uncle is a die hard democrat his wife a hippy democrat. I claim neither Republican or Democrat but I do tend to lean to the right. My point is this. I can have great conversations with him all day and debate points but at the end of the day we shake hands and drink a beer or two. I cannot discuss anything with her because she immediately takes defense at anything I bring up because I don't agree with her and sometimes she lobs a grenade in the attempt to get the fire started. There are a lot of people that are like that and are looking for a fight. I sincerely wish that we could discuss openly without making it personal. Too many people can't do that these days. Rally Point drew me in because if the military topics and what it was started for. However, I believe a lot of people are hiding behind the "trons" and get upset when they post or answer versus backing up and thinking before they start slinging the guns. I believe that if people took the time to express their opinions through fact based answers versus fire and forget it would be a lot better and be what Rally Point was originated for. Sometimes not answering is the best answer. I have seen what I call inappropriate posts as well...most times I read through them and then go on. I have to admit, I got drawn in once or twice but now I have to make a conscious decision to keep moving. There are a lot of posts that don't have anything to do with the military, veterans, or mentoring. I think if we went back to that and related everything to those issues it would get better. We can respect each other and each others opinions without being unprofessional...just because you don't agree with someone does not mean they are ignorant. People will always disagree, we just need to be civil about it.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 6 at 2016 9:03 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 06 Nov 2016 21:03:33 -0500

You cannot incite anger in me unless I allow you to.

He who gets angry first loses.

Response by Sgt E Patrick Anthony made Nov 13 at 2016 9:40 PM

Sgt E Patrick Anthony — Sun, 13 Nov 2016 21:40:25 -0500

No we are in the 21st century time to step up except on duty or in the field. And under fire.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 14 at 2016 12:16 PM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 12:16:49 -0500

I think at some point we are all guilty at least once of lashing out to intentionally anger or upset someone. Often individuals lash out because they may not understand or agree with an issue.

Unfortunately regardless of whether you disagree or feel personally attacked, we need to remember "professionalism".

It is much easier to accept emotional responses if you provide actual documented approved sources and regulations to support your concern. It is also important to consider what the issue is, what about it upsets you and be able to provide a solution, not just a complaint.

Response by SPC Kevin Ford made Nov 14 at 2016 12:24 PM

SPC Kevin Ford — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 12:24:31 -0500

This is one of those things where everyone likely tries and strives for it but passion sometimes gets in the way. Periodic reminders are probably the best way to keep us all on a professional footing.

Response by SPC Erich Guenther made Nov 14 at 2016 12:29 PM

SPC Erich Guenther — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 12:29:05 -0500

I have a quick suggestion in this area. Can we get RP Management or Moderators to suspend the FLAME accounts. I define a FLAME account as someone that should not be posting in an open public forum but whose sole purpose is to irritate others and INFLAME discussion environments more. You can identify FLAME accounts as having more than 2-3 posters blocked from responding to the specific poster. I've spotted one in particular that will remain unnamed. Just go through the political threads and look for accounts where they have more than 2-3 people on their block lists and where the poster posts a highly partisan comment and you will find him. I'm sorry but if you can't take a response from a list of people that are regulars here............should you really be considered mature enough to post in a public forum?

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 14 at 2016 12:44 PM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 12:44:46 -0500

Reading other "Social" or should that be anti-social sites I think RP to be very tame. This past year and more to the point the last 2 Months has been hard on America. People break down in to 3 Groups Far left, Far Right, and Sane. Some times we drift to an extreme on a subject we are passionate about but I like to think Military members always come back to the Basics and stay Sane under stress. I have seen one ore two incredulous comments where an individual is fed up and lacks the wit to engage in verbal sparing but it is rare.

I think we see less of this on RP because we are a Community with a defining base, We ALL served. When a member posts something that is over the line others call them out and lets face it none of us want to look foolish in front of our Peers. The anonymity of the Internet does not work on a site like this. As for people posting things just to make others mad While I disagree on doing it intentional, to what end do you go to stop it? Is that not the "triggering" all the Tories are crying about now? Why they need safe spaces, and free speech zones? I have posted information that people disagree with I can not help if they get mad at the facts or the information I present, How can you have conversation, share ideas, and thoughts if you worry with every breath you may make someone mad or hurt their feelings? Its ok to disagree with others but present facts and data when making a case and be polite above all else. (I have found IRL being polite to someone that hate you just makes them madder lol)

Response by SSG Nancy Amore made Nov 14 at 2016 2:31 PM

SSG Nancy Amore — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 14:31:12 -0500

As individual's we won't always agree on everything. We're should be able to have a discussion with being petty. Of course, having a discussion with my two nephews, who are in the Ohio National gaurd, I have called them names.

Response by PO2 Pete Haga made Nov 14 at 2016 2:41 PM

PO2 Pete Haga — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 14:41:43 -0500

no we should all respect the opinions of our counter parts on here we are to many to think we can all have the same opinions and see eye to eye on everything if you don't like a persons opinion do not respond to it or vote it down. do not try and anger a person just to get a rise out of them or start a feud over nothing.

Response by SPC Phil Norton made Nov 14 at 2016 3:09 PM

SPC Phil Norton — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 15:09:05 -0500

There will always be people that enjoy being unreasonable. I try to diffuse the issue, but some can't be happy.

Response by MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P made Nov 14 at 2016 4:23 PM

MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 16:23:45 -0500

Response by MSgt James Mullis made Nov 14 at 2016 6:12 PM

MSgt James Mullis — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 18:12:16 -0500

I believe that everyone should feel free to write comments and ask questions about subjects you are passionate about. However, you should be honest about your position up front and don't revert to name calling when others disagree with you. Fortunately, it is still legal in America, to say and do things which might upset the delicate sensibilities of others (including myself).

Response by PO3 Grace Bailey made Nov 14 at 2016 6:28 PM

PO3 Grace Bailey — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 18:28:43 -0500

As a Fleet Sailor and IMO, we are trained Professional Operators and are bound by Honor to communicate with each other as Professionals.⚓

Response by Maj William W. 'Bill' Price made Nov 14 at 2016 9:09 PM

Maj William W. 'Bill' Price — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 21:09:19 -0500

COL Mikel J. Burroughs: I offer my comments in the spirit of Digital Decorum (hat tip LTC Private RallyPoint Member)...I do not think it is right to deliberately incite anger in my comments. However, if I do so by pointing out something that is true, I cannot help those I have angered. They have to sort that out for themselves.

To second CPT Jack Durish, I too have never blocked a RP member and I do not plan to do so. I have been on the receiving end, and I refuse to answer in kind. I will not disparage my faith by blaming it for my errors. The errors are solely mine. But I will also not be shy in sharing the light by which I am able to see.

Response by Col Rebecca Lorraine made Nov 14 at 2016 10:07 PM

Col Rebecca Lorraine — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 22:07:31 -0500

There are indeed some who have crossed the line of firey debate to personal denigration of fellow veterans. Infact, I have verbalized my opinions and have steered clear and blocked a few who have forgotten their manners (Assuming they ever had any). Emboldened by rage and role models, there is a sense that life is not fair for them. They see equality for all Americans as a social science experiment, or political correctness. They (those who are filled with bitterness, resentment, disenfranchisement and generalized unhappiness) must find someone to blame. They experience a level playing field in which whites, blacks, hispanics women and men all are on the centerline and it is now unfair for them. Some accept this especially the younger millennial who have been born and raised with working mom and dad, in integrated schools and increasingly diverse neighborhoods. I have lived that anger, the unfairness, I've still believed that there is a balance and majority doesn't apply to race, ethnicity or gender. We are all human. We are all entitled to respect, opportunity, and we should not fear being bullied or demeaned for saying what we think. As I have done here. If this offends you personally, take a time out before you respond. Thoughtful discourse is always welcome by me.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 14 at 2016 10:47 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 22:47:39 -0500

It seems unnecessary for that to be your primary intension but heated emotions bring about the best discussions.

Response by CAPT Michael W. Langston, PhD, DMin made Nov 15 at 2016 9:44 AM

CAPT Michael W. Langston, PhD, DMin — Tue, 15 Nov 2016 09:44:33 -0500

I think it is important to remember we are all related through our service connections and the sacrifices we've made for our country. Brothers and Sisters do not treat each with disdain, contempt and anger. I also support healthy dialogue but keeping it professional is paramount with the vision, values and caring support that RP upholds to. I'm, for one, honored and glad to be a part of such a noble group of men and women. Bless you all.

Response by MAJ David Vermillion made Nov 15 at 2016 9:56 AM

MAJ David Vermillion — Tue, 15 Nov 2016 09:56:57 -0500

We can disagree respectfully, state our opinions and move on.

Response by ENS Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 15 at 2016 12:58 PM

ENS Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Nov 2016 12:58:50 -0500

This holds as true today as it did when you posted it. I think that "trolling" other members with the intention to get them to break professionalism is completely unethical and uncalled for amongst this community. We have a few members who seem to have that as their goal. On the other hand, we are a part of a rough community. The older guys (and gals) have thicker skin than the newer generation.. What phrases you find to be common talk, or the ways you'd put someone back in line, may be deemed completely offensive and over-the-top by today's standards. Remember, under our current administration and leadership, foul language has no place in Americas military. Heck - there was talk of doing away with CAPS writing because it was "adding unnecessary stress to recruits". I'm not kidding..

Response by CDR Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 16 at 2016 4:03 PM

CDR Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Nov 2016 16:03:56 -0500

COL Mike Burroughs - Thank you for the thoughtful post that is good to give a slight rudder steer to those who use the RP as a place to discuss.

Many have posted that they try to be as respectfully as possible and I think that is true. Overall I have noticed for the most part that many here are for the most part very respectful but not entirely careful as to what words they use. And I am just as guilty as the next person.

As they say at the Marine Corps Command and Staff College, “words have meaning.” In many ways, we miss the context and tone of what we are saying and what looks at first blush to be a simple statement is actually an attack because a choice of words can have a negative and condescending connotation. For example, many have used the words liberal, conservative, progressive, republican on here. But what was the tone and context they were used in? In and of themselves the words describe a particular set of ideas and beliefs and that is it. Unfortunately, some people write in a tone that makes those words derogatory and the statement becomes condescending in nature rather than to support a point of view. Examples might be saying all liberals believe this or all conservatives believe this. The tone there is negative in nature even if you are just saying that you think a political ideology believes a particular thing. Plus, you are generalizing a person’s belief which is condescending in nature. You are not taking the time to understand another persons thoughts and ideas. You are not actively listening.

In a way, tone and context can show disrespect without ever actually saying a disrespectful thing. The best example I can I can give is how many refer to the current President. When discussing the current President or his policies I have seen many times people refer to him as Barack Hussein Obama or BHO. In and of itself using a person’s full name is not disrespectful or condescending, but the context and tone of using the full name of this president is all too clear when a person writes that, especially since the tone is one of disrespect and condescension.

There is also a tendency when speaking about a group you disagree with to speak in generalities and lump all people who might be part of that particular belief system in together and towards the extreme ends. As Gorge Bush said, we also tend to speak about the worst qualities in those we oppose and in the best qualities about those we like. For instance when articles about gun control are posted, there is a generalization that anyone who is a liberal is for extreme strict gun control and I’m gonna take your guns while anyone who is a conservative is for zero control and guns for all my friends. We quickly judge and categorize a person off where they fall on a political or social spectrum without any true evidence of how they feel or think about a particular subject.

The same can be said when we criticize a small group and associate their actions with a much larger group. Many times these small groups or individuals are at the extremes of the political or social spectrum yet we make a generalization that because they also fall into a broader political or social group that that whole group is wrong based on the actions of a few. Liberal educators are destroying our education system because 400 students protested at one campus or students a protesting some other thing. Conservatives are all racists because some republican politician said this or that. Neither of these statements are true but they are said all the time. The vast majority of educators truly care about educating children in a manner that can best prepare them for the future without political leaning. I had teachers who voted democrat and republican, we all did. The vast majority of conservatives are not racist and do not condone what a particular politician says. Bad examples, I know, but I hope you get the point.

I hope that all makes sense as I admit I could be way off base but those are my observations.

Response by SGT Paul Mackay made Dec 8 at 2016 8:46 PM

SGT Paul Mackay — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 20:46:29 -0500

only to people that deserve it right ED Ciliberti is it capt or pvt.

Response by MAJ David Vermillion made Dec 9 at 2016 7:44 PM

MAJ David Vermillion — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 19:44:41 -0500

I think we can all get our point across with respect to all, unless your game is to cause trouble. I believe in freedom of speech but it can go too far and cause problems.

Response by SGT Paul Mackay made Dec 11 at 2016 11:22 PM

SGT Paul Mackay — Sun, 11 Dec 2016 23:22:12 -0500

the only anger I have is against the 25th inf div and capt. ciliberti. because last week i got informed by Department of the army that there was no offical court martial on me. that all paper wor 15 monthsk on me had forged signatures of all gag officals involved. that the 25th inf div didn't even know were I was.everytime they asked co said i wasn't availible. that my records was still being maintained in personal. they didn't know until Ft. Riley asked them what to do with me.I was confined for 6 months illegally.gag repeatedly told them to put me in another unit instead of confinement. but was discharged instead with honorable discharge without my records being present. I lost 15months pay and all leavetime for15 months. Discharge now being questioned . pay records are being guestioned because they show I was paid but never received a penny.I lost everything I had house, family, son whose died because dependent health insurance was stopped.My whole life distroyed because co had to cover what he did by ordering a murder and I was a witness and 25th inf didn't stop it. that's why I am angry'

Response by SGT James Colwell made Dec 13 at 2016 10:55 AM

SGT James Colwell — Tue, 13 Dec 2016 10:55:00 -0500

Anger, no. Reasonable debate over a topic? No problem. Maintain military bearing.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 18 at 2016 11:54 AM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Dec 2016 11:54:25 -0500

Is RP becoming a safe space where ideas are trying to be suppressed? Is it inciting anger or inciting conversation? This is exactly the BS question I was waiting to read. As an administrator, you should be ashamed of yourself, Sir to even raise the question. If someone doesn't like the answer they get, too bad. Let's try not to turn this into Facebook Sir. Thank you!

Response by MAJ Karen Wall made Dec 18 at 2016 10:26 PM

MAJ Karen Wall — Sun, 18 Dec 2016 22:26:25 -0500

They should NOT be doing this. People think that because they cannot be seen online, they can take pot shots at people.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Dec 22 at 2016 2:02 AM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Thu, 22 Dec 2016 02:02:30 -0500

I don't mind a different view than I might offer, You are allowed to have a different opinion. I don't attack a person that does sure don't need it from them either if our ideas don't mesh. It seems rare to encounter that problem but if its apparent to me that someone had their mind so firmly made up despite evidence that doesn't support their position and they won't change their mind no point in wasting time arguing with them.

Response by Sgt Ramon Nacanaynay made Dec 22 at 2016 2:13 AM

Sgt Ramon Nacanaynay — Thu, 22 Dec 2016 02:13:53 -0500

I have difficulty seeing the face of God in soldiers and veterans, but I do see a bit of myself in them and I hope they see a bit of themselves in me - A Veteran For peace and Pax Christi member.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2016 2:15 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 22 Dec 2016 14:15:58 -0500

Of course not, but most humans like to see both sides, they like a good guy/bad guy scenario.

Response by SP5 Robert Ruck made Dec 29 at 2016 3:39 PM

SP5 Robert Ruck — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 15:39:16 -0500

I joined this site to have positive discussions about military topics I was interested in, not to fight or anger any one. If I should use a down button it would only mean I did not agree with someone's comment. It does not mean I am trying to insult or belittle an opinion. It surely does not mean that an opinion other than mine is wrong by any means.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2016 7:51 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 19:51:51 -0500

This is not a place for snowflakes ❄️

Response by CPT Endre Barath made Jan 10 at 2017 12:15 PM

CPT Endre Barath — Tue, 10 Jan 2017 12:15:44 -0500

I have not been on the platform in a while so I missed this type of behavior. I find it we are all "brothers" because of having served, some longer others shorter periods and some are still serving. Now with that said I am confident we can have respectful dissagreements and different points of view on many subjects. RLTW!

Response by SFC Douglas B. Hull made Jan 10 at 2017 8:58 PM

SFC Douglas B. Hull — Tue, 10 Jan 2017 20:58:54 -0500

It is hard to disagree to disagree. the fe4eling that I have to react to this is a very real reaction. I say again Reaction. Not a RESPONSE. If you feel strongly about some item, you are going to react to the gloating of a post. But that is a great bait and switch tactic. Incite a individual or organization to the point that they react with femora, thus demeaning the target as reactionary not responsive.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 14 at 2017 11:35 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 14 Jan 2017 11:35:26 -0500

I love being referred to this post. People say stupid things, you say something back, (with no curse words or something distasteful) and ***poof*** mentioned in the anger post.

Response by Sgt Ramon Nacanaynay made Jan 14 at 2017 12:37 PM

Sgt Ramon Nacanaynay — Sat, 14 Jan 2017 12:37:54 -0500

Anger is a natural feeling. What people do with that anger I have little control.

Response by TSgt Kenneth Ellis made Jan 14 at 2017 1:19 PM

TSgt Kenneth Ellis — Sat, 14 Jan 2017 13:19:19 -0500

No I'm feed up with al the people who have agendas.

Response by MSgt Mark Bucher made Jan 15 at 2017 10:19 AM

MSgt Mark Bucher — Sun, 15 Jan 2017 10:19:48 -0500

In posting our opinions Mike, we'll always have our disagreements in here. Just the way it is I guess. What I have noticed is that while there are differences, we as a whole tend to respect those disagreements. We can argue amongst ourselves, we've earned that right by virtue of our service. But let a civilian try and argue with us, we'll be unified, they haven't earned that right. I have more respect for a troop fresh out of basic than I do for 99 percent of the populace.. Just my 2 cents worth.

Response by SSgt Kevin Hopkins made Jan 24 at 2017 9:45 AM

SSgt Kevin Hopkins — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 09:45:11 -0500

Comments have gotten so bad that I have considered leaving RP. I can understand we may not all agree on somethings but we can all do with out the name calling and the negativity. This country is so divided, we need to come together and heal that division. Be part of the solution not the problem

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 24 at 2017 4:27 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 16:27:34 -0500

COL Mikel J. Burroughs I think there are some people who are so brainwashed that they really think they are bringing enlightenment to the unwashed neanderthal masses. I don't think they expect the level of disagreement with their posts, nor are they ready to deal with the level of thought that goes into some responses.

There's an LTC who clearly gets his talking points from the gun grabbers, and when nothing else works, will claim he's afraid for his children, like I'm supposed to be concerned because he is afraid. There's an CW3 who is front and center on every LGBT question, and comments on nothing else that I have seen. There's a SGT who lives in Europe, who backs any call for Socialism.

But in fairness there a 1LT who is a strong Hillary supporter, but is willing to discuss, not just pontificate. I've enjoyed those discussions.

I think it's fair to say that if you want to communicate your dogma, and you aren't really interested in discussion, you really shouldn't post it here. If you are offended by the rejection of your dogma, maybe that's because you were dogmatic, or maybe it's because I'm offended that you think I need to be preached to. In other words, you bring rejection on yourself by being unable to discuss. I'm sorry, but I don't much give a damn about someone's hurt feelings when it's clear they aren't willing to respect my views.

Respect breeds respect. If you need to preach, go find a soapbox or run for office. You'll almost certainly be happier and so will I.

Response by SGT Linda Moss made Jan 24 at 2017 7:18 PM

SGT Linda Moss — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 19:18:08 -0500

I have mad some people mad because I disagreed with or made a comment they did not like. Did I do this to make them angry ? No I did not but I have found that some people can not deal with it when you do not give them the answer they want to hear. I had someone make a negative comment about how I had said something. Did that make me angry ? No . I did not block them . I just said that some time nice words IE non cussing .. just did not express my feelings. I know one young soldier that did not get the "poor soldier they treated you wrong" answer he wanted from every one . So he blocked people and told people to not respond to his question those that did not give him the response he wanted. I have not seen any one really going out of their way to cause someone to become upset. Some people have become upset and took a comment as a direct attack. If you do not want response you may not agree with then do not post I do try to think out most of my response .. but it you get snarky with me I tend to not play so nice and temper that I say. I hope every one here can be adult enough to accept that not everyone is going to say what you want to hear.

Response by SSG Mike Zientek made Jan 24 at 2017 9:00 PM

SSG Mike Zientek — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 21:00:28 -0500

Inciting anger should not be an option. In fact, that would make you a tool.
We all need to understand there are three options if we disagree.
1. See the other point of view. Apologize if you were an insensitive jackass, or if you made a mistake.
2. Respectfully agree to disagree. Compromise is the goal, but not always reached.
3. Don't become part of the problem by whining about your feelings. If I don't agree with something, I can state my disagreement and move on. Sometimes we dwell on inconsequential shit.

We as Veterans are all professionals. We did something many others were unable to do for several reasons;
Civilians were not smart enough to join, couldn't pass the ASVAB
Not morally qualified to join, Too many law violations
Not medically qualified to join, usually something genetic or pre existing
Didnt have the intestinal fortitude to join

We should be the creme of the crop. However, there are many civilians who are more patriotic than some Vets. Being a civilian doesnt mean someone doesnt love their country.
Support each other, support our communities, share our expertise.
We ARE Subject Matter Experts when it comes to leadership, teamwork, sacrifice, etc..
Even though we are SME's, we can't be condescending, and we don't know it all.

Response by Lt Col Derek Plackowski made Jan 24 at 2017 10:31 PM

Lt Col Derek Plackowski — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 22:31:25 -0500

No need for hostilities here.

Response by SSgt Boyd Welch made Jan 27 at 2017 3:26 PM

SSgt Boyd Welch — Fri, 27 Jan 2017 15:26:23 -0500

The active duty members are probably a little more careful than us "old goats" but I think that there is a fine line between getting everyone's take on an issue and being deliberately provocative. I've seen some posts that were designed to stir up strife with no sensitivity. I believe that opinions can be expressed without "sticking your finger in someone's eye." We all are serving or have served to have our brother and sister's back and to keep our military cohesive.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2017 4:34 AM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Jan 2017 04:34:46 -0500

No I don't, but once in awhile We All get upset about something. Right? Disagreements yes we all have them too. But let's not point the fingers at others while we all make the same mistake over and over again. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and opinions with us.

Response by SSgt Sgt Pettit made Jan 31 at 2017 7:17 AM

SSgt Sgt Pettit — Tue, 31 Jan 2017 07:17:44 -0500

I did not see anger in the statement you used as an example above on this post

Response by SN Earl Robinson made Jan 31 at 2017 8:04 AM

SN Earl Robinson — Tue, 31 Jan 2017 08:04:02 -0500

Of course it isn't right to incite anger in another person in any instance much less in a forum where we are supposed to be discussing the important issues of our nation and our shared love of country and service. We should be looking to help and advise each other. We should be looking for commonalities of purpose. And we should be a resource for information for each other.

Response by SPC William C Powell made Jan 31 at 2017 9:57 AM

SPC William C Powell — Tue, 31 Jan 2017 09:57:41 -0500

I say don't say anything you wouldn't say FTF with anyone. Its easy to be big and tough behind closed doors with a keyboard.

Response by SPC Randy Torgerson made Jan 31 at 2017 11:50 AM

SPC Randy Torgerson — Tue, 31 Jan 2017 11:50:02 -0500

There should be considerations for the words you use. However, people get excited mostly all on their own. So I think mostly its no more one persons fault then the other. The last 30 years our leaders have been teaching people to be pussy's. So what do you expect?

Response by SPC Johnny Velazquez, PhD made Feb 1 at 2017 12:05 PM

SPC Johnny Velazquez, PhD — Wed, 01 Feb 2017 12:05:36 -0500

Any opinion, or discussion should be presented in a debatable format. No need to get personal, when one's opinion leads to a rebuttal response. We are a huge family, but we have those who tend to become irate, when their point of view is not received well by all. Think before you answer, and show respect to your brothers and sisters. We are on the same team.

Response by SGT Justin Singleton made Feb 23 at 2017 7:01 AM

SGT Justin Singleton — Thu, 23 Feb 2017 07:01:51 -0500

I know this is an old thread, but it popped up in an email. I've only ever seen one negative commenter here on RP, but I'm not on as much as I used to be. Remember that many of us have very short fuses, so it's easy to set us off. Just remember that it isn't an admission of wrong to simply ignore the bad guy.

Response by SFC Freddie Porter made Feb 23 at 2017 5:51 PM

SFC Freddie Porter — Thu, 23 Feb 2017 17:51:17 -0500

COL; it seems we live in a day and age where internet trolls are everywhere; even in the ranks of the enlisted and commissioned personnel. It a societal problem that is getting worse every day. For a reason I am loathe to explain, a virus has infected our isolated nation that encourages this type of behavior attracting audiences (and news organizations) when the behavior is highly outrageous. The society of trolls we have that engage in this type of commenting I liken to the crowds of the 60s that would yell jump to someone attempting to commit suicide. It is sad and can only be shit down when the conduct of vicious, inflammatory commenting is called out for being just that. Civil discourse and disagreement is the foundation of our nation. It needs to be there and needs to be encouraged but the discourse you are referring to encourages some, SOME, conduct of a violent nature. Hopefully it will end before it gets completely out of hand.

Response by PO3 John Wagner made Mar 7 at 2017 9:42 AM

PO3 John Wagner — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 09:42:16 -0500

I am not innocent that's for sure.
When I receive foolish or denigrating comments I can be prone to letting it rip.
One of my pet peeves is when someone trashes the POTUS...or anyone else currently in public office or worse their families. It really sets me off. Former office holders and also rans I am inclined to allow more negativity about.
I am not too proud about looking at someone's profile and tossing in something negative based on that.
It isn't fair play.

Mea Culpa.

Response by PO1 John Watson made Mar 7 at 2017 9:58 AM

PO1 John Watson — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 09:58:10 -0500

There are plenty of facebook sites where you can pretty much say what you want to say . I came here to hear about the military that I spent 23 years in. I go back aways I retired in 82 and I am trying to understand todays military. Lets keep things at a military level because we are the only ones who understand what we do , where we have been and the sacrifice we have given to serve. If you have a beef with someone or you want to express your anger at some social issue go somewhere else.

Response by SFC Zachary Palacios made Mar 7 at 2017 10:43 AM

SFC Zachary Palacios — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 10:43:51 -0500

Things that incite anger online: Politics, Sex, and Religion. People have their views and not open to an open discussion to learn and grow. Instead they are fueled with anger despite your thought provoking comment(s). This is one reason, in my opinion, why we cannot learn and grow. The more we learn about each other, the more we can come to a medium ground. If we cannot do it at this level, what makes you think it could be done at the highest of levels? Those of us that take things personally or blatantly attack another RP member for their opinions probably display this same kind of attitude and aggression towards others in their personal life. It is also easy to "troll" someone online, especially in this type of forum without consequence to them. Cyber bullying is just as wrong as bullying someone in person. We all need to respect each other and our personal opinions and beliefs regardless of the forum in which it is displayed and discussed. Instead of a attacking ones intelligence, try to understand and by all means, express your personal opinions, but let's do it in a respectful manner to which we all can learn from one another. Ignorance is not bliss.... Good post Sir!

Response by SP5 Robert Ruck made Mar 7 at 2017 10:55 AM

SP5 Robert Ruck — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 10:55:35 -0500

The political climate in this country has. Ecome so derisive I personally do not get involved in political discussions anymore. Even mentioning the Presidents name seems to bring out the worst in some people. I have not seen it much on RP but Facebook became insufferable. If, God forbid" RP got to that point I would drop out. I don't want to be attacked nor do I wish to read hateful comments directed at others

Response by PO1 Ron Clark made Mar 7 at 2017 1:13 PM

PO1 Ron Clark — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 13:13:50 -0500

Colonel I dont think that I will be responding to too many other comments due to the many cry babies on here think because of their rank or whatever they can say what they want with no consequences, but cry when the get the response different than their own thinking! I have had one of my response called "B--S--t, and many other much worse, but hey that's their own little red wagon, I cant change how I think and feel just to protect someones personal emotion!

Response by SPC Johnney Abbott made Mar 7 at 2017 2:58 PM

SPC Johnney Abbott — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 14:58:03 -0500

You are not responsible for how your posts are interpreted.
Again, if you served, you should have a little skin on you.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Mar 7 at 2017 3:43 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 15:43:21 -0500

Way too often these days- folks are wearing their pride/ego on their sleeves, and sometimes we are all a little guilty. 1st thing to remember is that opinions are (you know what) and everyone has one. Its good to be passionate about something, but not at anyone's expense. Many of the Posts are wanting/soliciting opinions, not facts, so there is seldom black or white- just shades of gray. What worked for me in my units may not work or be approved of in your units. But there is no call in being insulting or demeaning- it won't change anyone's opinion. If your opinion doesn't change their mind, then drop it or ignore them.

Response by CPT Ronald Scherick made Mar 7 at 2017 4:50 PM

CPT Ronald Scherick — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 16:50:14 -0500

I do agree we should all be civil and not try to be hurtful or degrading of another opinion but that said I think we each have an obligation and a right to express our opinion on a given subject.

Response by CPT Wallace Dunn made Mar 7 at 2017 7:00 PM

CPT Wallace Dunn — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 19:00:51 -0500

So this would bring up a good question for the Admins on this page. How do you block someone on this page? When I see rude, crude, racist comments... honestly I'd just as soon not see those. Thanks in advance for your answer.

Response by GySgt Melissa Gravila made Mar 7 at 2017 8:56 PM

GySgt Melissa Gravila — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 20:56:36 -0500

I feel we can respectfully disagree- I don't mind an opposing viewpoint, actually I welcome it, but don't cut me down while talking to me...I will come out swinging for the fences every time. I won't start a fight, but I won't back down from one either. I love an intelligent, respectful debate- but if you want to be hurtful, don't go crying when you get called out for it.
S/F

Response by PO1 Rodney Bracey made Mar 8 at 2017 7:46 AM

PO1 Rodney Bracey — Wed, 08 Mar 2017 07:46:40 -0500

Some members cannot respond without being condescending. I just ignore them and move on. Words from people I don't know do not anger me.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Mar 8 at 2017 11:03 PM

COL Charles Williams — Wed, 08 Mar 2017 23:03:04 -0500

No, never COL Mikel J. Burroughs

Response by SSG Stephan Pendarvis made Mar 9 at 2017 2:24 PM

SSG Stephan Pendarvis — Thu, 09 Mar 2017 14:24:20 -0500

No I don't think it right to incite anger in other be it here or in everyday life. That type of behavior is ego based and we all know misery loves company. The ego will constantly try to find other like ego to for an ego group of like thinkers. This is how wars are started. But if you see that plan in action it can be circumvented by just allowing people to live in their truths....even if their truth is different from yours.

Response by SFC Scott Parkhurst made Mar 10 at 2017 1:16 AM

SFC Scott Parkhurst — Fri, 10 Mar 2017 01:16:35 -0500

Absolutely not! This site should be a mature and professional calming learning site. Key word: "CALMING"...We are all adults here I should hope and we have all gone through a lot of trauma and I believe that we just don't need any unnecessary toxic game playing and some folks have indeed enjoyed poking a stick in ones personal opinion and it got of hand. We are all the same when it comes to being the Nation's Protectors and Defenders. And we all know where each other's hearts are as far as being "Military" minded and trained. So why would we attack each other then? Period.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Mar 10 at 2017 12:21 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Fri, 10 Mar 2017 12:21:21 -0500

Taking a position to which one is NOT committed is always wrong. Doing so with the intent of making people angry is very wrong. Conversely, taking a position on an issue to which you are entirely committed with enthusiasm and integrity is okay. If an honest difference of opinion makes other people angry, that's unfortunate, but you can control only your emotions.

Response by SGT James Colwell made Mar 16 at 2017 2:19 PM

SGT James Colwell — Thu, 16 Mar 2017 14:19:28 -0400

What right do any of us to intentionally stir the pot? Free speech is a right protected under the Constitution, but is there a limit? I would say there is. Can crossing that line be punishable under the law? That is no so easily answered, legally. It boils down to the common courtesy and decency. I am all for a reasonable debate of issues, but calling into question a person's beliefs or blatantly rejecting a person because of those beliefs is beyond the pale. The question is how to put a stop to it. On RP, I assume there is a process for excommunicating those who abuse the forum, but that does not change the behavior. Unfortunately, the behavior we are talking about here is becoming the norm rather than the exception in our society in general.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Apr 9 at 2017 8:32 PM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Sun, 09 Apr 2017 20:32:02 -0400

The very fact that others have differing viewpoints than you is enough to spark outrage in some. Some people just don't and never will get it. There will always be someone whose comments are intended to spark more than a civil debate. It's when you call them out on their views to defend their POV things can get blown out of proportion.

Response by SGT Robert Whatley made Apr 10 at 2017 8:48 AM

SGT Robert Whatley — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 08:48:17 -0400

I believe we need to respect each other no matter what branch we served with and help and respect each other I believe we're all family

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 10 at 2017 8:54 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 08:54:16 -0400

COL Mikel J. Burroughs, unfortunately communication via text, e-mails, or posts like this are vulnerable to translation. A single word or phrase can be taken the wrong way and our own icebergs, to take a term from our Resiliency program, block our perspectives. Once we take offense, any additional communication is seen through that malicious lens even unintentionally. If I feel my own anger start to rise, I need to ask myself why I am mad before I reply and I may have to leave the conversation entirely.

Response by MSG Roger Mannon made Apr 10 at 2017 9:10 AM

MSG Roger Mannon — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 09:10:29 -0400

Everyone has a right and, perhaps, an obligation to form an opinion. The right to an opinion does not include the right to tear into someone else because they don't believe the same as you. It doesn't mean you get to tell them they are stupid or naïve or a commie pig. There is a way to learn about other's opinions, why they have them and then compare to your own experiences and opinion. It's called respectful conversation. Everyone sees the world through the filter of their experiences and each set of experience is unique to the individual. Just because I think I am right doesn't make you wrong or vice versa. It just makes us different from each other in this one specific area.

Response by MSG Mark Million made Apr 10 at 2017 9:35 AM

MSG Mark Million — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 09:35:46 -0400

I don't believe it's right to deliberately provoke anger, however I do believe that to make any point at all it is likely to anger someone. This is where all of the politically correct crap comes from, people should be able to say what they feel, (Hence freedom of speech). What I disapprove of is the baiting or snide responses to someone's opinion. If you have an opinion I disagree with, I might politely tell you why I disagree, however I won't deny your right to your opinion.

Response by Sgt Daniel Martin made Apr 10 at 2017 9:43 AM

Sgt Daniel Martin — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 09:43:29 -0400

could not agree more Sir.

Response by 1SG James Lyon made Apr 10 at 2017 9:55 AM

1SG James Lyon — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 09:55:13 -0400

It is important to be able to disagree with an opinion that does not fit your way of thinking bit their is no reason for that disagreement to be rude or incendiary. To often people let the anonymity of the internet to let them behave differently than they would in person. Direct, honest, comments about an issue should be welcomed.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 10 at 2017 10:56 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 10:56:15 -0400

I have no issues keeping a civil tong. If you disagree with any of my view points I encourage you to call me out on them so we can open up a dialogue. I am not easily offended unless you attack me personally eg. Family. I don't need a safe space and can take criticism. I will never bash your view points, however I will let you know where I stand if I am able under the UCMJ. I am active so I will not talk down on the administration in any way or make any statement towards any current events that go against the best interest of the United States. I enjoy rally point because I find there to be good mentorship here, and that is all. If I want to hear people bash the United States or others for their view points I will stay on FaceBook. This is a professional site and we need to do our best to keep it that way. Thank you and have a wonderful day.

Response by PO2 Danetta Troisi made Apr 10 at 2017 11:42 AM

PO2 Danetta Troisi — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 11:42:26 -0400

While people are going to get angry due to differing opinions and beliefs, it is not right to deliberately incite anger in being derogatory, hurtful or hateful. Comments made to get be angry sbout something that is wrong can spur people to do something to correct the problem. Being nasty, though, is not ok.

Response by SPC Don Wynn made Apr 10 at 2017 11:43 AM

SPC Don Wynn — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 11:43:03 -0400

No, it is not. And as some of our members suffer from PTSD, it is quite easy to do so. We should each appreciate what the other brings to the table. Especially in discussing politics, which seems to be the flash point to most derogatory comments. Being conservative doesn't mean admitting a liberal has a valid point lessens your outlook and opinions. Being for gun control doesn't mean you are against guns or for banning. Keep in mind, the people in here are or were service members. Meaning, they have the same basic mindset as anyone else - they are patriots and have done what only 2% of the general US population has done - served!! Keep it civil.

Response by Maj Marty Hogan made Apr 10 at 2017 11:55 AM

Maj Marty Hogan — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 11:55:35 -0400

Always try to be professional. There are others that post such radical positions and try to be inflammatory. Welcome dialogue from others that doesn't match mine, but don't call me an idiot and please don't use a Tweet or some other nonsense to back up your ideas. Great post COL Mikel J. Burroughs

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 10 at 2017 11:02 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 23:02:57 -0400

I see no problem in disagreeing on someone's opinion on any topic we all happen to be discussing. It's how we disagree that may be in question. Disagreeing with someone about a topic is not being "unprofessional", although denigrating the person who made their disagreeing opinion is.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 10 at 2017 11:17 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 23:17:34 -0400

I agree sir. Some forget their training.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Apr 12 at 2017 11:11 AM

SSgt Boyd Herrst — Wed, 12 Apr 2017 11:11:22 -0400

I don't like making an adverse/derogatory comment toward fellow Vets or supporters. It would be towards those that don't respect what the Veterans done for this country of ours (only if absolutely I need to respond .. I like to pick my battles where I know I'll have plenty ammo (facts) and s'one or more has got my "6". Most times I let it their comments run off like water off a duck's back... I got better Activities to partake of...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2017 8:34 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 12 Apr 2017 20:34:34 -0400

It's not right, we should all have more discipline than that. Sadly, there have been times when I myself have had an emotional reaction to some posts and gone over the line a bit in response. We should all be better, unfortunately there seems to be something about social media and societal norms in general these days that makes it easier to leave civility behind.

Response by SFC Don Vance made Apr 16 at 2017 12:43 PM

SFC Don Vance — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 12:43:05 -0400

I've seen very little of that here but then I've avoided discussions on topics that can typically cause anger. Sarcasm doesn't play well in writing so I avoid using it even though I'm a very sarcastic individual. I think respect has also gone by the wayside in most online forums because people are hiding behind a computer screen.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Apr 20 at 2017 12:04 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 12:04:42 -0400

People need to stop wearing chips on their shoulders. We have a right to say what we think/believe, BUT that does not mean in a hurtful or harmful way
Agree to disagree like gentlemen and ladies

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 20 at 2017 4:27 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 16:27:57 -0400

No never. It's against the interest of military and the nation. Good question. Everyone has a responsibility to ask him/herself this question before posting own comment

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 20 at 2017 4:30 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 16:30:21 -0400

Good question. My answer is 'no never' because doing so will be harming the military and the national interests. Everyone must ask him/herself this question before posting such comment.

Response by MSG James Hughs made Apr 20 at 2017 9:31 PM

MSG James Hughs — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 21:31:11 -0400

I see RP as a place where opinions / information is exchanged to build or help.....there is no place for PERSONAL attacks .... Because you disagree with me does not mean either of us is an "idiot".... or some other childish denigrating expletive....prove me wrong with facts / sound logic but leave the personal attacks and nasty names for elementary school recess ....we are adult professionals....not street brawlers

Response by SPC John Davis made Apr 23 at 2017 12:08 AM

SPC John Davis — Sun, 23 Apr 2017 00:08:31 -0400

Think before you talk you have the right to your opinion, but lets keep it to a dull roar we are all brother and sisters here.

Response by SSG John Karr made Apr 25 at 2017 12:44 PM

SSG John Karr — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 12:44:17 -0400

Sir, discretion, respect and tact are some of the tenants of being a professional soldier... till the day I die. I have disagreed with many opinions stated on RP, but I never fail to maintain my military bearing.

When I was on active duty I have had officers behave very badly and even on the Reserve side. There were "some" enlisted but because of the repercussions that could be brought to bear they were few and far between.

Response by PV2 Mark Walston made Apr 26 at 2017 2:22 PM

PV2 Mark Walston — Wed, 26 Apr 2017 14:22:42 -0400

I agree

Response by PO1 Donald Vinson made Apr 27 at 2017 5:27 PM

PO1 Donald Vinson — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 17:27:14 -0400

I feel that if you don't agree with one's opinion, be professional and professionally state your own opinion without directing it to another member disrespectfully, for the most part we all served our Country so we can utilize our First Amendment. Please be respectful of one's opinion whether you support or disagree with "THEIR" thoughts. Thanks for your service to "OUR GREAT COUNTRY".

Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made Apr 27 at 2017 8:43 PM

MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 20:43:27 -0400

Seems like there was this humble historical figure who said something like, "You can fool some of the people all the time, and you can fool all of the people some of the time, but you can't fool all of the people all of the time". Translate that to the opinions that this board is full of and realize that at some point someone is not going to like what is being said, and at some point everyone is going to agree. To me, this site is a place where we can sometimes vent, sometimes mentor the younger folks, and sometimes just have to move on and simply give the writer/speaker credit for his/her opinion. Hopefully those of us who participate in this forum/board are well beyond "safe spaces".

Response by CSM Thomas McGarry made May 2 at 2017 10:39 AM

CSM Thomas McGarry — Tue, 02 May 2017 10:39:19 -0400

Gee kind of a subjective question as how do you know what will incite anger in others. I guess we could become like many of our college campuses and limit any and all topics that may "incite anger in others".

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 2 at 2017 10:41 AM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 02 May 2017 10:41:57 -0400

I don't take offense to words. The military I was in (which is most defiantly newer than probably most of the prior service members on this website) used foul language as well as talked harshly to members who didn't follow orders or made mistakes in attempting to follow orders. Rank or rate/mos regardless, everyone who went to boot and served should be used to it. If someone verbally assaults you to incite anger or offend you shouldn't be anything new. In boot camp and A school/ or ATI(or whatever they call training after boot camp for branches other than the USN which I served in) harsh language was used to break you down and build you back into the soldier/sailor the military needs because one simple mistake could cost several US Military lives,and that method has worked for decades. And to quote General S. Patton "You can't run an army without profanity; and it has to be eloquent profanity. An army without profanity couldn't fight its way out of a piss-soaked paper bag." That applies to all branchs period. When you took that oath, that every service member takes,did you sign up to drink tea and eat scones with the person trying to eliminate you and your country, or did you sign up to wage war and take out the enemy?. . . Language used to incite anger is merely a tool to make others think, sometimes vent, and possibly to get a persons point of view acrcossed, so for those who served harsh words should role off your skin whatever, however if you find offense in those words personally or otherwise, think about why they bothered you and why you, unless your the target, feel offended. Otherwise they are simply words. Thank you and FUCK OFF

Response by SP5 Jeannie Carle made May 2 at 2017 5:54 PM

SP5 Jeannie Carle — Tue, 02 May 2017 17:54:33 -0400

Completely agree with you. Come on, people, in reality we are brothers and sisters. I know siblings fuss, but this isn't the place to diss ANYone, esp for their branch or MOS!

Response by COL Charles Williams made May 2 at 2017 11:36 PM

COL Charles Williams — Tue, 02 May 2017 23:36:27 -0400

1. GWOTSM: The Global War on Terrorism Service Medal (GWOTSM) was established by Executive Order 13289, 12 March 2003. It is authorized for award to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who have participated in or served in support operations in the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) operations outside of the designated areas of eligibility (AOE) for the GWOTEM (see GWOTEM Q&A), on or after 11 September 2001 to a future date to be determined. Battalion commanders and commanders of separate units have the authority to award the GWOTSM for approved operations to units and personnel within his or her command. Service members must be assigned, attached, or mobilized to a unit supporting designated operations for 30 consecutive days or for 60 nonconsecutive days, or meet one of the following criteria:

a. Initial award of the GWOTSM. Limited to airport security operations (from 27 September 2001 through 31 May 2002) and Soldiers who supported Operations NOBLE EAGLE, ENDURING FREEDOM (OEF).

b. All Soldiers on active duty, including Reserve Component Soldiers mobilized, or National Guard Soldiers activated on or after 11 September 2001 to a date to be determined having served 30 consecutive days or 60 nonconsecutive days are authorized the GWOTSM.

c. Service members may be awarded both the GWOTEM and the GWOTSM if they meet the criteria for both awards; however, the qualifying period used to establish eligibility for one award cannot be used to justify eligibility for the other award. The GWOTSM will be worn after the GWOTEM and both will directly follow the Kosovo Campaign Medal (KCM) (that is, KCM, GWOTEM, GWOTSM, Korean Defense Service Medal (KDSM), and so forth.)

d. Subsequent awards. Only one award of the GWOTSM may be authorized to any individual; therefore, second and subsequent awards will not be awarded.

https://www.hrc.army.mil/content/Global%20War%20on%20Terrorism%20Expeditionary%20Medal%20GWOTEM%20and%20Global%20War%20on%20Terrorism%20Service%20Medal%20GWOTSM

404 - File or directory not found.

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made May 3 at 2017 12:56 PM

SFC Jim Ruether — Wed, 03 May 2017 12:56:15 -0400

I may have been mean spirited at times but often felt my level matched that of the person I was trying to communicate with to somehow send my ire in printed word that I disagreed with them. I will respectfully try to use discretion in my response as we all have opinions and I will respond with respect unless you.........................ah we won't go there.

Response by CPL Glynnda White made May 4 at 2017 2:32 PM

CPL Glynnda White — Thu, 04 May 2017 14:32:50 -0400

My first thought would be those people are libs and trolls who are in the business of breaking down our nation......part of that mission would be the destruction of our military. I don't like socialistic viewpoints and there are too damned many of them in the military. I was absolutely horrified the day I saw young male cadets wearing red pumps so they could "understand what women have to deal with". Beware people, not everyone's stated credentials are the truth. Second, if a military man or women cannot handle being upset by someone else's words once in a while, they are not fit for military duty. We are here for readiness, to defend this nation, beat down, kill and destroy our enemies. That means people of a different caliber than the politically correct babies who can't abide "having their feelings hurt" by some unthinking idiot. I believe in respecting the opinions of others, but that respect has to be earned. It cannot be forced and too often now, that is the expectation of the military. The military is not a social experiment or a playground in an elementary school. This is real life people. We have men and women coming home without limbs, being treated horribly by the VA, living in the woods, committing suicide and we are all going to worry about who is getting angry or getting their feelings hurt? MY GOD! Please help our nation.

Response by MSgt Carl Stokes made May 5 at 2017 10:51 PM

MSgt Carl Stokes — Fri, 05 May 2017 22:51:41 -0400

guilty as charged! However not everyones military experience is the same, there are some that worked 9-5 jobs with weekends and holidays off, while others stood watch 24-7. So if someone takes a poke at my MOS I go right for a throat punch! Yes Im wrong but I was built as a weapon of destruction not debate. In service we all had to take some just plain dumb orders but we did them. On here we get a little more liberty to express or individual thoughts. Im a worn out ragged ole sgt whos still pissed at something that im not even sure what it is anymore, 26 years took a toll on my body and my mind. In the heat I would risk all for anymember on here. But on debates I may just not like you - im sorry. I know im one of the guilty ones and will endevore to do better.

Response by CW5 John Vassar made May 10 at 2017 1:29 AM

CW5 John Vassar — Wed, 10 May 2017 01:29:40 -0400

Colleagues:

As I tell my graduate students:
One chooses to be offended, or to become angry ...
Adults do not allow others to control them ....
What goes on in other peoples' heads is none of your business ....
Other peoples' opinion of you is none of your business .....

Respectfully submitted for your consideration ...... :-)

Response by PO3 Tracy Sefcik made May 11 at 2017 1:51 PM

PO3 Tracy Sefcik — Thu, 11 May 2017 13:51:50 -0400

I agree, life is too short to put people down. We all joined so others and us had the freedom of speech however it doesn't include hateful remarks. We are all in the same boat at oone time or another and we should all have each others back. We did when we were in, we did on the battle fields, in the bulls, on the decks. Why have some changed. It is time to come together as one not divide as 4.

Response by SFC Rollie Hubbard made May 14 at 2017 1:09 PM

SFC Rollie Hubbard — Sun, 14 May 2017 13:09:54 -0400

I believe that it is fine to have honest discourse and disagreements but not to the point of a major arguments and to disparate each other life is to short and remember that we are professionals.

Response by SP5 Jeannie Carle made May 16 at 2017 11:57 PM

SP5 Jeannie Carle — Tue, 16 May 2017 23:57:19 -0400

I SO agree! Now I DO get the "teasing" between branches - that's always been and always will be - it's a given - but hatefulness just isn't necessary.

Response by Sgt Albert Castro made May 17 at 2017 3:24 AM

Sgt Albert Castro — Wed, 17 May 2017 03:24:06 -0400

Professionally no you shouldn't try to incite anger with others on a site like the RP. I joined to stay connected with fellow warriors because I miss the life style and the attitudes. But some times now days it does seem like some antagonize and get kinda smart ass just to start stuff. If I don't like a topic because I might say something contradictory or I just don't agree or have something nice to add, I skip the post. I have to agree with Captain Jack Durish on the left right thing. I'm a rouge radical activist Conservative and proud of it. Hell I lean so far right I need a wall jack to keep me from falling over. LMAO Don't piss others off on purpose. It's not good southern manners, but if you do make someone mad by just being yourself or being sincere. Well that's just to bad. You remain the professional. If the other guy don't like it, you know what they say, "don't go away mad." 'Just go away."

Response by SgtMaj Paul Hayes made May 23 at 2017 1:35 PM

SgtMaj Paul Hayes — Tue, 23 May 2017 13:35:25 -0400

Yes, we need to provide a safe place for our young service members.

Response by SSgt James Tadlock made May 24 at 2017 6:10 PM

SSgt James Tadlock — Wed, 24 May 2017 18:10:38 -0400

To every thing there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven. A time to rend and a time to sew; a time to keep silence and a time to speak. But it can be done in a decent way.

Response by SSgt James Tadlock made May 24 at 2017 6:14 PM

SSgt James Tadlock — Wed, 24 May 2017 18:14:57 -0400

Invitation to join Together We Served for all branches. They have a political forum where the attacks are unreal.

Response by PO1 Joseph Glennon made May 27 at 2017 11:45 PM

PO1 Joseph Glennon — Sat, 27 May 2017 23:45:47 -0400

*incite

It's a completely different word than "insight", with a completely different meaning.
Posting this as an educational assist, not to slam you. You had the right homonym, just not the right word... and knowing is most of the battle.

There are some people who get offended really easily, especially when facts don't support them. Any response to those folks will incite their ire. To be honest, sometimes that's just as much fun as sharing knowledge.

Response by Cpl Daniel Fabre made May 29 at 2017 8:07 AM

Cpl Daniel Fabre — Mon, 29 May 2017 08:07:14 -0400

No, because people getting push from a bad judgement don't need more help to a worst judgement. Especially you should be proud. Bad RP is always BAD.

Response by MSgt Thomas Baydala made May 30 at 2017 5:54 AM

MSgt Thomas Baydala — Tue, 30 May 2017 05:54:12 -0400

No and I ask the question Are we grown men and women or just petulant children.

Response by SSG Howard Dennard made May 30 at 2017 6:55 AM

SSG Howard Dennard — Tue, 30 May 2017 06:55:56 -0400

There are some who, for one reason or another, love to incite anger in others. That said, most of those on RP are very professional in their commits, and can concede opposing views

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made May 30 at 2017 6:58 AM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Tue, 30 May 2017 06:58:09 -0400

I personally try to think out what I what to say, and ask myself if it would offend me, then I respond to the share.

Response by GySgt Kenneth Pepper made May 30 at 2017 1:24 PM

GySgt Kenneth Pepper — Tue, 30 May 2017 13:24:37 -0400

Some opinions are just going to cause a negative reaction in certain people. Keeping an acceptable level of respect within our community should be expected, but I guess some of us just can't control their need to lash out at those who dare disagree. I am retired. I outrank no one and no one outranks me. I will treat everyone with equal dignity until they prove they are unworthy.
Another point, how many times has anyone been appointed the unofficial representative of everyone else who may possibly share your point of view? I don't speak for any group, only myself.

Response by LCpl James Robertson made Jun 2 at 2017 7:58 PM

LCpl James Robertson — Fri, 02 Jun 2017 19:58:59 -0400

No, its not right to incite anger, but this Country is so divided when it comes to politics. Its all about beating the other political party. Since former President. Obama left office, the other side is so glad that a so-called socialist is out of office that they can't be civil. You can watch daily how racism and name callings is everyday life. Everyone is very proud of immigrations and building that wall. While Mexican American veterans is being taken over the borders to be dumped back into Mexico, after serving in the Vietnam war, Gulf war and Iraq as well as Afganistan., does America owed these veterans anything are have we become a dumping ground to veterans that have fought for America. We are now on the verge of now not getting along with any allies. Medicaid and food programs in schools are being cut, after my parents died that's the only meal I got until Monday morning in school, poor people have no hope of eating without these free lunch programs. I keep hearing people saying that Welfare Queens are defrauding the Food Stamp Program, but I've been alive 63 years and haven't seen a Welfare Queen yet in North Carolina. Today the Government is all about itself, and forget the people. I wonder how many poor children in school now, will be able to join the military, without being a product of prison, rather then the military for lack of food.

Response by SSgt James Tadlock made Jun 8 at 2017 3:42 PM

SSgt James Tadlock — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 15:42:02 -0400

Thanks to Rally Point. Offering commonsense and good judgment and not trying to push an underlying motive. I believe that we need The National Anthem in schools. I remember standing and saying it each morning in elementary school. Children need to learn and understand what a great country we live in. We are so Blessed to have it. We need to find common ground and stop fighting each other on everything. United we stand divided we fall.

Response by CW4 Rod Sadler made Jun 8 at 2017 7:34 PM

CW4 Rod Sadler — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 19:34:18 -0400

Criticism is part of the military. You need to learn to take it and give it.

Response by Capt Dwayne Conyers made Jun 8 at 2017 11:42 PM

Capt Dwayne Conyers — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 23:42:11 -0400

Response by LtCol George Carlson made Jun 10 at 2017 1:57 AM

LtCol George Carlson — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 01:57:09 -0400

I would (from age and experience) caution all that written communications are not nearly as clear cut as face-to-face verbal ones. There is no facial expression, no tone of voice to base your response on. In one of my positions after military retirement I (as the Director of Facility Services) got in an email "pissing" contest with the campus President (whose PhD was in communications!). When we sorted it out face-to-face, we both laughed at our respective misinterpretations. RP (like email and FB, etc.) is filled withy rapidly typed comments that lack both tone and facial expression. Cut everyone some slack. It will reduce your blood pressure significantly!

Response by SP5 Jeannie Carle made Jun 11 at 2017 12:00 AM

SP5 Jeannie Carle — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 00:00:25 -0400

I'm not going to say this correctly, but gonna try anyway. I think it is ABSOLUTELY wrong to deliberately "incite anger" - and much of the time one can tell that's what they're doing - but it's ALSO wrong to deliberately "take offense" at something that clearly wasn't intended to cause offense. There ARE those just looking for something to be offended about - even on here - and yes, there are those who set out to upset someone else. Not in fun. Now I DO get it that we snipe at each other - well others do, I've not had the courage LOL - but that's just taken in stride. It's just what we did active, it's what we do retired or whatever. There's a difference between that and just having a mean heart.

Response by SGT James (Jimmy) Crone made Jun 11 at 2017 4:06 PM

SGT James (Jimmy) Crone — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 16:06:06 -0400

I myself think that everyone has there own opinion about everything but it's not right to push your opinions on anyone else it nice for me to read both sides and make my own opinion about it

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 12 at 2017 11:55 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 11:55:01 -0400

Both sides of the political coin do it. It's not more often that the Left does it, it's that the Right does it, but cloaks it in soft words and an unspoken assumption that their view is the only proper view...there's a double standard in place here.

Response by TSgt Craig Crews made Jun 14 at 2017 10:39 AM

TSgt Craig Crews — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 10:39:31 -0400

I think we should respect each and everyone's point of view, we can discuss without being abusive with our language. I don't have to agree with your point of view, but I should respect you.

Response by SPC Burt Epps made Jun 14 at 2017 1:23 PM

SPC Burt Epps — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 13:23:19 -0400

I've never seen this happen but if another member tried to "pull rank" on me we would have a problem. My DD214 is almost 30 years old so I'm well outside of that. I may call you Sir, or Ma'am, or by your rank out of respect for you as my brother or sister in arms, though.

Response by AN Donald Miller made Jun 15 at 2017 9:38 PM

AN Donald Miller — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 21:38:39 -0400

Thank you. One person made a medical diagnoses about me in response to a post about Trump being mentally ill. Point is the remark was derogatory, slanderous and since it's in writing libelous. Did not appreciate it at all. Fact is fear had no factor in my post about Trump, personally I do believe Trump is America's Cyrus, as in the old testament. For someone to make a medical diagnoses on me and post it for all to see well ten bucks and everything he owns, he is not even licensed to make any diagnoses at all. Do I hear lawsuit?

Response by AN Donald Miller made Jun 15 at 2017 10:56 PM

AN Donald Miller — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 22:56:19 -0400

Not sure if I want to respond I might be told in public I have a problem with a little winky next. Haha

Response by AN Donald Miller made Jun 16 at 2017 11:31 AM

AN Donald Miller — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 11:31:21 -0400

Agreed

Response by AN Donald Miller made Jun 16 at 2017 11:59 AM

AN Donald Miller — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 11:59:48 -0400

One thing I am passionate about is the future of this nation and what we will leave our descendants to deal with. One my Facebook I have all my representitives. I have seen people post things againts even Trumps son. It is going to far. Saw a beheaded Trump, have seen post of people making death threats. Does not make any sense. One post was about Trumps mental stability by a person who has never even met Trump let alone diagnose him on any way. It is getting old fast. Leave the man alone and let him do his job. All the anger I have seen comes from right wingers thats wanted Bernie or Hilary. Everytime I think about Hilary winning I kept seeing our country being overran with refugees. I have a friend on the city council in Irving Tx that was faci g a law suite because she spoke against Shiria law Court being set up. I grew up in that town. Had a girlfriend who's parents lived in Bloomfield Michigan, go their, you'll never believe what you will see. Another city, all city council, mayor, sherif are Islamic. Then I think about what stallen said about over throwing our country without firing a single shot using our Constitution against us. It's not a fear as someone stated due to a so called small gland in my body, but plain logic that if this trend is not altered we will have problems. One other thong I have noticed is the change in demographics in sizes of population in our major cities. Where are these people coming from, what are their political, religous beliefs and how will that affect our political arena, our way of life? Just food for thought.

Response by CSM Michael L. Mullenix made Jun 17 at 2017 1:02 AM

CSM Michael L. Mullenix — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 01:02:43 -0400

I think the questions lately are getting far to political. Military people should be above that and try to be constructive and encouraging.

Response by CSM Bruce Trego made Jun 18 at 2017 9:18 PM

CSM Bruce Trego — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 21:18:37 -0400

I think every good military person wants to be professional. But let's face it, some people were not raised the same as others. Lo and behold, every one of us is different! We were all raised differently. We all have different values. We are individuals! The military works towards making you a professional ON a team which has the same values, as a team, but still allows and wants you to be an individual! That's how I feel. That's what I've always tried to get across to soldiers that I worked with. It may not be right but it's me!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2017 8:19 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 08:19:04 -0400

I don't think it's right to purposefully incite anger in anyone. It is a very weak form of debating when you abandon the issue and simply attack your opponent. But this is what happens over and over these days. And when it comes to the military we should be better than that. Not that we can't or shouldn't have different opinions of things, but we should recognize our objective and keep it at the front, not our differences. Also, we should celebrate the fact that we can truly be apolitical. Regardless of who is in the white house or congress, we're here to obey lawful orders. Doesn't matter if they come from President Obama, President Trump, or President P Diddy. We have a chain of command and we use it. As soon as we let our personal feeling supersede that the end is near.

Response by SGT Beverly Henderson made Jun 23 at 2017 10:34 PM

SGT Beverly Henderson — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 22:34:00 -0400

No, it's not right. However, this is an internet forum and there will be people who like nothing better than creating drama. If that means getting other people angry, then their mission has been accomplished. Let's just all get along and have a good day.

Response by SSgt Gary Andrews made Jun 25 at 2017 11:37 PM

SSgt Gary Andrews — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 23:37:03 -0400

I like a good, spirited discussion.....but when people load up their commentary with derogatory names and try to belittle the other people in the conversation, it just takes away from their point, and leaves a bad taste. No call for it on this site......everyone on here is worthy of respect.

Response by PO1 Kevin Dougherty made Jun 26 at 2017 12:08 AM

PO1 Kevin Dougherty — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 00:08:49 -0400

Well said sir.... well said indeed. I do try to avoid the derogatory terms as usually you can make your point without using them, and doing so just causes hurt and offense. Having said that, I have yet to see a comment here to make me think "Really? That's the sperm that won?" I can not say that for many other forums.

Response by CDR William Kempner made Jul 3 at 2017 2:49 PM

CDR William Kempner — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 14:49:53 -0400

I made a mistake on here one time-when I disagreed with Navy's handling of a transgender USNA midshipman about to become an ensign. (I will admit that I have some problems with the whole transgender issue-WAY too complex and not in keeping with our first responsibility-the security of the US and our citizens- NOT as a tool for social engineering as we were exposed to for the last eight years.) I got into it with an ANG attorney on here (who did not disclose, but I suspect that was far more involved with the Ensign concerned than he would admit.) He took it to insult level AND ACCESSED MY PERSONAL RECORDS-MILITARY, CIVILIAN, EDUCATIONAL -and probably financial, by using his status as an attorney and as an officer of the Court!!! For a disagreement on Rally Point??? . I THOUGHT about contacting the Texas Bar Association about it-I probably should have- SERIOUS UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT, but he wasn't/isn't worth wasting the time on.(At least not for now.) But he was WAY OUT OF LINE-across the board. Since then, I have been a bit more circumspect in my comment-and have avoided lawyers. Like wrestling with a pig-you both get dirty and the pig likes it.

Response by Capt Andrew Cosgrove made Jul 6 at 2017 1:33 AM

Capt Andrew Cosgrove — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 01:33:38 -0400

Anger is a choice that is made by the person who chooses to wield it.
A person who wields it often is like a carpenter who only has a hammer.

Response by SSgt Rob Millard made Jul 6 at 2017 11:56 AM

SSgt Rob Millard — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 11:56:50 -0400

I am right there with you Colonel! I am a strong believer in spirited debate on any topic. However, a debate can be waged on the merits of an argument and never need to be degraded by name calling and inflammatory comments.

Response by SN Earl Robinson made Jul 6 at 2017 3:07 PM

SN Earl Robinson — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 15:07:48 -0400

Some people have no life so it's like a child that thinks any attention is good attention. Then again some people are half wits.

Response by PO1 Chad Alcock made Jul 6 at 2017 7:04 PM

PO1 Chad Alcock — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 19:04:20 -0400

I have no issue with "Spirited Discussion." Some of the best results come out of discourse, but only if we hold to the topic and be reasonable people. Too many times (once being too many) I have seen individuals blame problems on "class" of people, or hijack a conversation just to attack someone they don't agree with. I wouldn't say this is a problem in RP alone, but society as a whole. How many times do we see people just shouting down somebody speaking that they don't agree with? Unfortunately it is a minority of people that cause the majority of the issues. The rest of us can have an intelligent conversation, not agree, and still show respect for one another.

Response by SGT Brent Scott made Jul 6 at 2017 9:42 PM

SGT Brent Scott — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 21:42:10 -0400

I do believe that not intentionally that some just get roused because as one reads a statement that it can be interpreted many ways, unfortunately our responses can't carry tone to actually determine if its derogatory, defamatory, or just stupidness

Response by SPC Russell T. Andrews made Jul 8 at 2017 2:34 PM

SPC Russell T. Andrews — Sat, 08 Jul 2017 14:34:29 -0400

As one tends to point the finger of fault at another and make accusations of inciting anger ,read some of your own comments and comments from others before a generalized blanket of blame is placed. Read into some of the questions asked by some members that appear to be here only to divide. With this being said ,do you think it's right to post inflammatory questions that cause discourse?

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Jul 8 at 2017 3:49 PM

SSG Edward Tilton — Sat, 08 Jul 2017 15:49:57 -0400

I don't mind people differing with me about a subject BUT when they attempt to insult me or my service I will get nasty. In most cases I reply and then block them

Response by MSgt Jason McClish made Jul 8 at 2017 3:51 PM

MSgt Jason McClish — Sat, 08 Jul 2017 15:51:37 -0400

No I don't. I try to choose my words wisely, but every now and then, I do fall short and it could be construed as angry. Just know from now on, whatever I comment, it's not intentional to come across that way.

Response by Sgt Wayne Wood made Jul 8 at 2017 4:26 PM

Sgt Wayne Wood — Sat, 08 Jul 2017 16:26:59 -0400

Guilty

Response by Cpl Lawrence Lavictoire made Jul 9 at 2017 12:33 PM

Cpl Lawrence Lavictoire — Sun, 09 Jul 2017 12:33:24 -0400

Understand where your coming from Mike! Its actually, "hard to be respectful" when certain discussions are narrated by a fool (and we are all fools at one time or another), and its on a, "topic" which we hold, very dear to our hearts"! As Jesus once said, "shake the dust from your feet"! Show everyone respect regardless of what you think of them or their comments!

Response by AA Joseph Moody made Jul 9 at 2017 1:30 PM

AA Joseph Moody — Sun, 09 Jul 2017 13:30:23 -0400

I think this is a double sided problem, on one hand there are people who become offended far far to often, and there is a point in time in which we are suppose to be offended. Just so that is stated.

But on the other side there are those who seek to provoke because they discovered that if they keep changing the topic, or the context of the topic, and focus on volume of their words rather then the context of them...they can manage to dominate a discussion. And unfortunately some of them think that if they have offended someone then they have proven themselves to be right.

I tend to measure adulthood by a persons ability to listen to a viewpoint they don't agree with, and do so without without becoming tumblered

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 9 at 2017 5:10 PM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Jul 2017 17:10:39 -0400

I agree that this should be a professional forum and that you can disagree with someone's opinion without resorting to being disrespectful and condescending.

Response by SGT Charles H. Hawes made Jul 9 at 2017 9:35 PM

SGT Charles H. Hawes — Sun, 09 Jul 2017 21:35:49 -0400

Simple answer is no.

Response by SSgt David Tedrow made Jul 9 at 2017 10:48 PM

SSgt David Tedrow — Sun, 09 Jul 2017 22:48:37 -0400

If your intention is to incite anger, NO! I would rather see comments that incite thoughts and constructive criticism and comments that can benefit all that are on here to share, learn and listen.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Jul 12 at 2017 12:10 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Wed, 12 Jul 2017 12:10:12 -0400

More often than not, it was not an attempt to incite but the person decided to be offended. The rare times that the give in take could be considered inciting, it was countering another's attacks.

Response by LTC Thomas Tennant made Jul 12 at 2017 2:37 PM

LTC Thomas Tennant — Wed, 12 Jul 2017 14:37:49 -0400

The question as ask....no it is not. But having said that...I am all for a good spirited debate and exchange of ideas and love discussing the issues we all face in today's America and the world as a whole. I try to always say what I mean but I also try not to say "it" mean.

However, there are times where my blunt opinions and positions could offend and infuriate those with contrary positions. What I ask and expect from them is that before they respond they need to look at the root of those feelings of offense. Ask some simple and direct questions with intellectual honesty and integrity. Like, is the source of the feelings simply because there was a good case for opposing positions or ideas? How about, does the expression of a contrary position really threaten my beliefs, positions and wellbeing?

One of the faults of the last 40 years of liberal public education, in my opinion, is that critical thinking is not being taught. It shows in the way some of you respond to some of these discussion threads and to me this lack of critical thinking has me going crazy while reading what are basically emotional circular arguments.

Over sixty years ago the Army helped teach their new leaders to think by a multi step process:

1. Define the problem/issue
2. Get the facts
3. Identify your assumptions/biases and asses impacts if true/false
4. Develop several arguments/positions/COAs/etc.
5. Select one
6. Execute & Re-asses in light of performance.

The key step is the first - define the problem or issue. Often we fail because go about attacking the wrong problem. We do not ask enough questions often enough. We should be question everything and demand substantive and truthful facts and data. We should also question how the facts and data are acquired or generated. We don't dig deep, often take the "headlines" as ground truth and move on. Life is too serious not to ask tough challenging questions and not digest the answers with intellectual honesty and integrity of purpose.

I challenge anyone of you type on Amazon's search bar "Critical Thinking" and pick/read any one or two of the books listed. It just might make your postings more substantive and enlightening. I would recommend:

1. Critical Thinking: Tools for Taking Charge of Your Professional and Personal Life
(2nd Edition)Aug 29, 2013, by Richard Paul and Linda Elder

2. Critical Thinking: Tools for Taking Charge of Your Learning and Your Life
(3rd Edition)Sep 10, 2011, by Richard Paul and Linda Elder

3.

Response by SGT Tony Clifford made Jul 12 at 2017 2:39 PM

SGT Tony Clifford — Wed, 12 Jul 2017 14:39:57 -0400

That truly depends on what you mean by incite. Sometimes incitement can be caused by citing uncomfortable facts. Sometimes you're trying to get people outraged by something that is awful and needs to be addressed. Anger is often a good motivation tool to get people participate in discussions or even to motivate people to vote. Do I advocate saying things that are demonstrably untrue? No. Do I advocate disrespect? No, it doesn't help any debate to be disrespectful. Do I advocate argument? Absolutely.
Disagreement is part of what makes us great. All too often the people on the left and right cherry pick facts that support their own narratives or make a bold claim with no citations to back up their claims. Typically when an argument devolves into personal attacks there is a tacit admission of the weaknesses of the argument. If I were to call someone a lefty or libtard I'm admitting I have no argument left except to use personal insults to shame you into conceding. Likewise using terms like repuglican is an admission that your argument has no validity.
I would not censor these insults for one reason. It provides proof of the absurdities of these people and can better prove my point. This whole left v right thing is tribalism and is bullshit. Rather than look to your party for what opinion you should have, develop an independent thought on each issue. George Washington himself warned of partisan politics and it seems none of us listened to the man.

Response by SGT Kaelin Locker made Jul 12 at 2017 2:53 PM

SGT Kaelin Locker — Wed, 12 Jul 2017 14:53:09 -0400

unfortunately that is just how the internet is.. even with your name on the post people tend to act more freely than they would if the conversation was in real life. I won't bother setting out to change their behavior but I'd encourage anyone reading those posts to recognize that some people are just plainly not respectful to one another or mature and to just move on to the next post. Reacting them usually just stokes the fire. P.S. lets not vet-check either

Response by Cpl Armando Mireles made Jul 13 at 2017 10:21 AM

Cpl Armando Mireles — Thu, 13 Jul 2017 10:21:46 -0400

We are going to have that percentage of knuckle heads who like to stir the pot. I agree, adverse and derogatory remarks have no place in RP! Keep it professional!

Response by TSgt Lars Eilenfeld made Jul 13 at 2017 12:45 PM

TSgt Lars Eilenfeld — Thu, 13 Jul 2017 12:45:14 -0400

Freedom of speech is a cornerstone of this country and that means not everyone will agree with you so if you make a comment which is how you truly feel and someone else dosen't like it then that's more of a them problem than a you problem

Response by SSgt Donald Libby made Jul 13 at 2017 4:26 PM

SSgt Donald Libby — Thu, 13 Jul 2017 16:26:42 -0400

Angry derogatory attacks on others have no place on RP. Intelligent, logical, and coherent responses go a lot further in advancing conversations whether here or in person.

Response by SSgt Terry Hugill made Jul 14 at 2017 2:47 AM

SSgt Terry Hugill — Fri, 14 Jul 2017 02:47:32 -0400

No, it's not right at all.

Response by LCpl Domingo Ariza made Jul 15 at 2017 5:49 PM

LCpl Domingo Ariza — Sat, 15 Jul 2017 17:49:43 -0400

I believe everyone is entitled to their opinion, we being vets and service members are a special breed so to think that we are weak minded and susceptible to trolls is kinda laughable. Now I know there will be some jargon about what branch is the best but that is as old as the military itself besides we all know it's the Marines. So as far as trash talk unless you receive a pinpoint complaint let it be.

Response by SGT David Petree made Jul 15 at 2017 7:08 PM

SGT David Petree — Sat, 15 Jul 2017 19:08:17 -0400

Right or Wrong make a decagon , but make the decagon . Because someone will always 2nd guess you. NCO DP

Response by PO1 Howard Doll made Jul 15 at 2017 7:49 PM

PO1 Howard Doll — Sat, 15 Jul 2017 19:49:18 -0400

Saw this on a bumper sticker, and it says it all. "To anger conservatives, lie to them. To anger liberals, tell them the truth." I read it, and I live it.

Response by Sgt Charles Malcom made Jul 15 at 2017 8:57 PM

Sgt Charles Malcom — Sat, 15 Jul 2017 20:57:55 -0400

Colonel Burroughs: No, sir, I do not believe that Rally Point is the place to incite anger, and it has been seen here frequently. Disagree, yes. Then state you point but this is not the place to use remarks that are disrespectful, derogatory, inciting, or just plain nasty. If you do not like my opinion on a subject, ignore me and move on.

Response by CPT Tom Monahan made Jul 16 at 2017 6:28 AM

CPT Tom Monahan — Sun, 16 Jul 2017 06:28:17 -0400

We have the right to do anything once. As long as our post are inline with the policies of Ralky Point / AMU you should be good to go. Now will people think you are brining an Ass Hat - yep. Do they have to respond to you - nope. The market of ideas will let individuals rise and fall on this site. Some folks may be bitter and others still gung-ho. Personally, I think and edit and delete tool will help posters who Fat finger something or pop off and want to retract it. We are all adults and many of us are not bound by the PC of those still in. Enjoy the freedoms to speak and associate (or not). These are part of what we served to protect.

Response by SGT Angeline Stephens made Jul 17 at 2017 11:42 AM

SGT Angeline Stephens — Mon, 17 Jul 2017 11:42:49 -0400

It's not a matter of inciting anything, it's a matter of keeping in mind that everyone has different perspectives about everything. If we can be mindful of the saying "it's not what you say, it's how you say it.", that alone can help to further positive and respectful dialogue. Regardless of what rank we all are, our backgrounds, political and religious beliefs, courtesy and respect is imperative and should be at the forefront of each post.

Response by SCPO Carl Wayne Boss made Jul 18 at 2017 6:06 AM

SCPO Carl Wayne Boss — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 06:06:50 -0400

Is this the way You Admin types Nudge people into what you want said?

I'm not sure I've seen a concrete example of anyone one "inciting" anger. Perhaps you Admins could "educate" the rest of us by providing us examples of the behavior of which you speak, as well as examples of so called "un-professionalism'. I've seen quite a number of examples of what I'd consider "underhanded remarks", but that just comes natural to some folks, as natural as curse words to some.

Cursing is something I consider "un-professional"... I was always told that folks who cursed, did so because of a lack of vocabulary! I keep a Dictionary & a Thesaurus close at hand because I don't want to be accused of such a thing.

I've seen lots of ideas & ideology that differ from what I believe is "Correct".
I'll refrain from using the terms "Left" & "Right" because I think they're Ill-defined, overused & mis-understood by a large segment of those who throw them around.
Too many equate one "direction" with being "correct" & the other "direction" with being "in-correct"... In my view BOTH Directions have Flaws built in, which neither of them will admit to.

Just so we're clear. If some one sets out to "purposely in-flame" another with their rhetoric, I believe it's mean and often uncalled for, but then there is the First Amendment... Do we have the "Right" to question someone's motivations for what they say? If so, turnabout is fair play!

I've been called down for being a religious zealot by some on RP, & called some other not so very nice things because I'm a WASP Male, sorry... I had no choice what color I was born, or where, few of us do.
But I do have a choice as to how I treat people, & I was raised by my Mother & Step Mother to believe all people are Human Beings & deserve to be treated equally & with respect, until they treat you without respect. And that, all women are "Ladies" until they prove otherwise! And if they don't want to be Ladies or women or... whatever, well that's a whole different can of worms...

I hope that answers your question! If I incited anyone on RP to anger, I apologize, it wasn't intentional!

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Jul 18 at 2017 7:40 AM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 07:40:36 -0400

COL Mikel J. Burroughs: Mikel, you most CERTAINLY have the RIGHT IDEA, HERE. Professionalism and Patriotism are of the Utmost importance; in my estimation. -Best Regards to You, Mikel- Margaret

Response by LTC Thomas Tennant made Jul 18 at 2017 11:31 AM

LTC Thomas Tennant — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 11:31:11 -0400

CPO Private RallyPoint Member - Those four words (Make America Great Again) transcend any one candidate or political party, so I am going to respectfully disagree with you. As a student of history, I have learned many lessons and in that process I have picked up many catch phrases, slogans and ideas...nothing Orwellian intended. I want to see America great again and that will only happen if certain things start happening in our country and culture. The rot of 40 plus yeas of progressive liberalism that I have witnessed and political corruption highlighted in the last campaign will not be reversed over night.

In many ways it will be a process reminiscent of restoring an old Victorian house to is former grander and glory. The old house is not as good as it was, and the same can be said with where we are as a nation. The structure is strong but we have to clear out the dry rot, maybe fix a crack in the foundation. Along the way we may have to repair a few load bearing walls and put new shingles the roof. In terms of making America great again, we have to reestablish the original intent of the Constitution, protect our Bill of Rights while removing any infringements on those rights. support the application of the "rule of law", and hold everyone equally accountable for their actions ... concept of personal responsibility. Sadly this will not be accomplished without a fight because the left are radical and fanatical in retaining the "progressive gains" achieved in over 40 years of lying and deceiving the American public.

To bring out the glory and greatness of the metaphorical Victorian House, often times you have to strip wallpaper & paint, spackle the walls, sand and level floors, and replace damaged moldings and other fixtures. Finally, you then have to wallpaper and/or pant the rooms. Again, in terms of the nation, we have to take back our schools and higher educational institutions. We have to get rid of the "revisionist history" and social engineering crap being taught. Grammar and High School needs to focus on the basics of reading, writing and arithmetic. In HS we need to bring back the Civic Classes which spelled out how our system of government should work and our rolls as citizens within a representative democracy (notice the precise choice of words).

So, no, I did not say America was not a great nation. By saying "Make America Great Again" I am saying I want to restore her to her former glory and potential. We are very much that "Shinning City on a Hill" but we have let it fall into disrepair.

Response by SCPO Carl Wayne Boss made Jul 18 at 2017 1:52 PM

SCPO Carl Wayne Boss — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 13:52:18 -0400

I answered the question already, maybe not to your satisfaction, but to mine.
I don't go about intending to "incite" anger in anyone intentionally, but that doesn't mean I don't succeed in doing so from time to time without even tryin'. Now buzz off Buckwheat!

Response by SSG Robert Perrotto made Jul 19 at 2017 11:46 AM

SSG Robert Perrotto — Wed, 19 Jul 2017 11:46:54 -0400

Depends on what your definition of "incite" is. Harsh words IMHO is not something that should be considered "incite" - personal insults OTOH, are. People are people, we that are military related are no exception, and we have viewpoints that we all feel strongly about. As long as the debate stays true to attacking or defending the argument, it should stand. Once it crosses the line into attacking the person, then it should be shut down. Saying things like "such and such ideology is idiotic" is acceptable IMHO, while saying "you are an idiot for supporting such and such" would be attacking the person - which should be strongly discouraged. I am a strong advocate of the first amendment, I believe everyone has the right to speak their viewpoint, Hate speech and speech that is offensive is the very reason that the first amendment was created, and while I may find speech like Richard Spencer to be extremely offensive, I have served and given blood to ensure that he CAN speak. Silencing, deleting, or banning people such as this will force their ideology underground, where it can fester and spread like a brown recluse bite. Allowing them to speak their viewpoints and ideology in the open, where people with opposing view points can factually, logically, and ethically attack the argument is how you defeat people with viewpoints like a Richard Spencer, otherwise, you turn them into martyrs.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2017 2:13 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Jul 2017 14:13:14 -0400

Why should we be surprised if a veteran responds with a derogatory comment? The military is full of salty assholes. In fact, I always expect one of you types to respond accordingly to my comments. But if an internet diatribe upsets you, heed the words of the wise philosopher, Taylor Swift, "Shake it Off".

Response by SGT Merrill Danner made Jul 20 at 2017 3:28 PM

SGT Merrill Danner — Thu, 20 Jul 2017 15:28:46 -0400

Really, listen up snowflakes, last time i checked, i was the controlling factor related to whether i become angry. This is starting to sound like the other social media sites. If you are here to be a dick, so be it, i have no control over that, have fun. if i get mad, well then i must a thin skinned snowflake straight outta butthurtville. How does it feel to be so weak that mere words make you angry or sad? Geez, this whole touchy feely crap is even creeping in here.

Response by TSgt Ranie Sturba made Jul 20 at 2017 3:29 PM

TSgt Ranie Sturba — Thu, 20 Jul 2017 15:29:47 -0400

Thanks for posting this! You really hit the overall feeling I have about what RP should be. We should reply or comment with the utmost respect. Controversial subjects always stir up emotions but we all have to rise above those knee jerk reactions and think before we type

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Jul 20 at 2017 4:11 PM

SGM Erik Marquez — Thu, 20 Jul 2017 16:11:41 -0400

So I had not been interested in responding to this thread until now.
Today I likely "incited anger in other RP Members though my comments"
However, I only responded to what the member said in plain English clearly, in my responses to them. I did not comment negatively based on personal opinion, or personal believes.
The member admitted he witnessed drug use from a leader and did nothing.
The member advised another to lie on an official Army form about past drug use.
And I so stated that those to things were an ethics violation and a integrity issue... I suppose it is also a violation of the UCMJ, and likely a published unit policy or Marnie Corps directive.
Never the less, id guess those comments " incited anger in other RP Member" so this topic now applied to me...

Response by Cpl Armando Mireles made Jul 20 at 2017 5:07 PM

Cpl Armando Mireles — Thu, 20 Jul 2017 17:07:34 -0400

Col.,
I don't like it, but you will have those few who love to stir the pot. Maybe it gives them some sort of satisfaction, who knows.
I am all for asking questions or making statements to encourage further discussions.

Response by SPC Duncan Koebrich made Jul 23 at 2017 7:46 PM

SPC Duncan Koebrich — Sun, 23 Jul 2017 19:46:56 -0400

Rudeness isn't right for being perceived as writing from a position of strength in neither the commenter nor the responder.

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 24 at 2017 8:11 PM

Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 20:11:49 -0400

Im a firm believer in free speech, no matter who you are, civilian, enlisted, officer or politician, you should be able to speak your mind regardless if someone gets offended. Holding an office or professional position should not make you exempt from exercising your first amendment rite.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 25 at 2017 3:08 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Jul 2017 15:08:16 -0400

...Do not believe it is ever right or wise to propose a thing into anyone. You may find yourself in the same hole you dig.

Response by MAJ Timothy Hyink made Jul 26 at 2017 9:53 AM

MAJ Timothy Hyink — Wed, 26 Jul 2017 09:53:53 -0400

We all have opinions. And no one is going to deny them. So yes.

Response by SPC Jamie Smith made Jul 27 at 2017 3:17 PM

SPC Jamie Smith — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 15:17:55 -0400

There is no reason to intentionally try to anger another responder. If you disagree with a comment, just say that you don't agree, & maybe state why you feel that way. Being able to disagree without being maligned for your opinion is another reason this is a great country.

Response by SSG Terry Back (Martin-Back) made Jul 30 at 2017 8:26 AM

SSG Terry Back (Martin-Back) — Sun, 30 Jul 2017 08:26:19 -0400

I often find people are a lot braver over the internet or phone than they are in person. I witness people writing comments on rags, they would never make in public. Small minds seek small pleasures and if it's their joy, let them have it, I've been married for 35 years, I know how to ignore.

Response by Cpl Benjamin Long made Jul 31 at 2017 12:33 AM

Cpl Benjamin Long — Mon, 31 Jul 2017 00:33:21 -0400

I was always taught that if they want to attack you hit them back with so much force they get swept away in the flood.... People are grown ups here... They want to attack they can get smited..

Response by SSgt Bruce Probert made Jul 31 at 2017 2:22 AM

SSgt Bruce Probert — Mon, 31 Jul 2017 02:22:00 -0400

Some people will never understand what it is like the face hostile fire with the intent to kill you. These people think that they understand what it takes. Training helps to get through the initial shock and it's good training that takes over and rules the day. We are expected to take the initiative and close with and destroy the enemy not negotiate with or try to take them alive. We have a different mind set than civilians even after being out for years. All that being said, We have an obligation to pass on wisdom to the next generation and the only way we can, is get them to listen. Pissing them off is not the way to pass it along, we need to remember what we used to be as boots and young NCO's and Officers. The same old problem of the new generation is re-inventing the wheel all over and some lessons learned cost too much in blood to be relearned unnecessarily. When we don't bother to be clear, and state the elements needed clearly, we fail to manage the dialog. We have an obligation to prepare our subordinates for success. As we need to operate with the personnel we have, some times we need to tailor our words to the audience, our failure to communicate should not become their problem. As professional leader inciting anger is inappropriate. We can direct emotions in that way and usually get results that aren't acceptable in the long run. Stupid people abound and they are tempting targets, unfortunately they are at times our "civilian" leaders. Especially in this day and age where your words are there for posterity you can end your career, your credibility, and all chance of making a positive difference. Think before you write think before you speak.

Response by SPC Anthony Schepis made Aug 1 at 2017 4:41 PM

SPC Anthony Schepis — Tue, 01 Aug 2017 16:41:25 -0400

Yes it's a free country and a forum so who cares.

Response by SP5 Rich Levesque made Aug 3 at 2017 12:26 PM

SP5 Rich Levesque — Thu, 03 Aug 2017 12:26:57 -0400

Civility is key when in engaged a good lively debate. In a debate, I am trying to bring my opponent over to my way of thinking, or at least to end in equipoise. It is good to hear the other side. Listen to their argument. But keep it civil. To goad someone intentionally just for the hell of it is something that should not be done in any venue. So fat, everyone I have communicated with are professional and civil. I have seen places like Facebook where people "unfriend" others just because they have an alternate opinion on an issue. "Narrow minded people on a narrow minded street".

Response by SPC Sean Martin made Aug 3 at 2017 1:43 PM

SPC Sean Martin — Thu, 03 Aug 2017 13:43:13 -0400

I do NOT think it's right to incite any kind of anger out of anyone intentionally. People have their opinions, and you don't have to like it, but you do have to respect it. They say opinions are like assholes; we've all got one, and they all stink!!

Response by SP5 Tony Lobello made Aug 4 at 2017 12:52 PM

SP5 Tony Lobello — Fri, 04 Aug 2017 12:52:22 -0400

Not only is it not right, but childish and futile. Very difficult to reason with a person who is 'out of control'. Anger is not a solution and anyone who intentionally has that as their goal is not interested in solutions. Hence the military might not be the best career for them. Self-control is an absolute necessity in the military. Of course, that is my opinion. Anyone has the right to disagree, but in a productive and civil manner.

Response by SPC John Bryson made Aug 4 at 2017 11:46 PM

SPC John Bryson — Fri, 04 Aug 2017 23:46:18 -0400

There will always be someone who will be offended and angered by something they do not agree with, this is human nature. But if the intent is to DELIBERATELY anger someone, that is just childish and unprofessional. We are adults here and hopefully professional. I may make a comment that someone may not agree with and it may anger them but it is put forth without malice. Occasionally we must agree to disagree. But I don't condone making comments just to piss people off.... I'm an adult, not a stupid child. Just my two cents

Response by SFC John Jett made Aug 5 at 2017 3:12 PM

SFC John Jett — Sat, 05 Aug 2017 15:12:51 -0400

So now that we are Civilians; you want us to continue to censure ourselves like we had to in the military? I don't think so.

Response by Sgt David G Duchesneau made Aug 6 at 2017 9:05 PM

Sgt David G Duchesneau — Sun, 06 Aug 2017 21:05:06 -0400

I just saw this Post Colonel and it amazes me that people of our caliber would purposely incite anger through their derogatory comments on anyone to just see their reaction. That is totally juvenile and unethical. As someone already commented, we are all suppose to be adults and therefore, we should act accordingly when commenting or Posting anything. However, some people just naturally are trouble makers by nature. They like to stir up things and see how people will react to it without any forethought or considerations about their actions. We all know that whenever we Post anything, RP members will all react different because we are not all the same. Hell, RP members come from all parts of the US and abroad. Therefore, we naturally going to have different opinions and opinions are like assholes , we all have them. Unfortunately, we all have those 10% of people that will cause trouble no matter what and it happens in every organization or on any Social Media sites. It boils down to "virtues." God knows that virtues of yesterday are not the same as those of today. It seems that anything goes today no matter what. No, I do not condone purposely inciting anger with any body, including RP members, by negative comments. No, I do not agree with everybody's comments or opinions but I do have enough common sense to hold my tongue. Unfortunately, you can not teach common sense and I try to treat everyone the way I would want to be treated. In short, one thing I've learned over the years when dealing with them and that is " you do not have to come to every fight that you are invited to." Just my two cents!

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2017 6:48 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 07 Aug 2017 06:48:18 -0400

Great question Col. Burroughs. I would say it goes to show one's maturity level. There have been times where I have had great debates with RP members, then others have gone downhill very quickly. I am also still trying to control my temper on things that I see on here that are wrong.

I recently jumped the gun and had to swallow my pride and made an apology to another officer on here in private. At first I thought why was something I posted deleted, then I was very rude to him. I didn't know that this person was in a different time zone let alone a different country so their responses were going to be at a time while I was asleep. After a few exchanges of private messages to another member and to the person I was angry at I understood their point. Apologized for my behavior and we moved on.

People are brought up differently, and I think that is why they respond to things the way they do. My temper fuse was extremely short before I joined the Army, during my service time and since(except that 1 slip up) I have kept my temper in check. I am a red head and they say red heads are hot headed....I am blunt and I get straight to the point. I don't like to beat around the bush and I don't have time for those who want to.

So it again, for me boils down to the way they were brought up and their maturity level.

Response by SSgt Ancel Robinson made Aug 10 at 2017 1:46 PM

SSgt Ancel Robinson — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 13:46:21 -0400

Wait, we are all talking about Veterans? Right? Are you really surprised, I mean Really? Let's face it, there is a reason why the UCMJ exists.

Response by SSG Tim Thornton made Aug 10 at 2017 6:31 PM

SSG Tim Thornton — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 18:31:44 -0400

Like Capt Durish I am more old school. I was brought up to respect others opinions and rights. I have unfriended people on Facebook not because I disagreed with them but because they disagreed with me and others using derogatory words and showing no respect towards them. Something they claim we don't have as well as the claim that we have no tolerance. The fact that people disagree is why we have discussion in the first place. To know where we stand on issues is what this country started from. Do you really think that our forefathers didn't have disagreements or other ideas as to how something should be done? The point is, what really mattered was that they respected each other's opinions and beliefs. Something that seems to have been lost somewhere between "its all about me and why can't I have that".

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Aug 10 at 2017 7:27 PM

SFC Jim Ruether — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 19:27:45 -0400

I agree with you 100% and have been voted down a few times for my comments and it stings a little when you feel you are more mainstream than others in your comments. I respect other's opinions although I may have stepped on a few toes over the past couple of years. If I have done this to any of you please consider this my apology and in the future just consider my comments as a stark reality in a dreamers world, where crayons and color books are the weapon of choice when you just can't cope with life's reality! Now enjoy your evening!

Response by SSG Rafael Rodriguez made Aug 11 at 2017 3:17 PM

SSG Rafael Rodriguez — Fri, 11 Aug 2017 15:17:46 -0400

Agree that we as members here should hold a degree of character, same one we kept during our military experiences, maintain your warrior ethos to the best you can. I'm pretty sure that most of us have been given a resiliency class (train the trainer) or had to give it, we all gave to our country; one way or the other, thank you all for your Service.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 11 at 2017 9:13 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 11 Aug 2017 21:13:35 -0400

A true leader will raise those up around him (or her). A true leader SERVES those who s/he has responsibility for. And yes, in the military, a true leader sometimes has to make hard decisions knowing some under his command will be killed. A true leader leads with compassion first and foremost.

Response by CPO Mark Robinson made Aug 13 at 2017 3:36 PM

CPO Mark Robinson — Sun, 13 Aug 2017 15:36:13 -0400

I have been pretty much crucified on the Navy Times website because I have opinions that go against others on the site. I generally don't post there anymore because I really don't need the verbal abuse. Mostly when I try to defend todays military. Most of the abuse comes from old timers who think that the military was at it's best during their time and of course it all went to hell after they got out.

Response by PO2 Jerome O'Neil made Aug 17 at 2017 1:39 PM

PO2 Jerome O'Neil — Thu, 17 Aug 2017 13:39:53 -0400

One does not incite someone without their cooperation. Be disciplined. Emotional reactions are usually exactly what the "inciter" is looking for. So don't.

Response by LTC David Speidel made Aug 17 at 2017 3:32 PM

LTC David Speidel — Thu, 17 Aug 2017 15:32:48 -0400

One of the requirements when putting on the uniform is to check your individual biases and accept the disciple essential for a effective unit. That is not to say that young members will not say or do things out of habit or poorly influenced which can be offenses. It is the responsibility of their seniors to provide appropriate guidance and for the individual to recognize it as guidance for the betterment of their unit. There is much less reasonable to accept as a life's lesson when the offence message is put into writing. Time, thought and effort is put into writing. If the message is results in the receiver being offended the intent of the message fails. If the intent is to incite negative reactions and counter productive actions either the sender or the platform needs adjustment.

Response by SFC Jeff Diaz made Aug 17 at 2017 4:17 PM

SFC Jeff Diaz — Thu, 17 Aug 2017 16:17:04 -0400

I think there is an exceptionally fine line between those who may hold very strong opinions which may anger some, and rogue, schadenfreude embracing, abrasive... jerks who love nothing better than to troll for the most drama they can. Sometimes, it is very difficult to determine which is which, because we (as a whole) may reflexively recoil and return fire at a response or topic which we find personally reprehensible. Every single questioner and respondent in the forum should have the right to agree to disagree, and move on. Some individuals see that stance as a vulnerability, or opportunity so attack so strongly as to "seize a victory". To that latter group, I highly suggest you discover, or rediscover the meaning of a Pyrrhic Victory. At any rate, unless I miss my mark, there is an overwhelming population of military folk in this forum. As such, I think I'd be totally on target by saying we would pride ourselves on our military bearing and professionalism by default. It's too easy to be overwhelmed by emotion and fire away, and if we were, or would, allow ourselves to loose our focus during emotionally significant events.... isn't that how battles and wars are lost? At any rate, COL, before I wander down the rabbit hole any further, I think the point you make about thinking and weighing one's words before sending them downrange is just good solid advice. Make your point, by all means discuss differences of opinion, but this is equally NOT a forum for verbal hand-to-hand combat! One doesn't HAVE to agree with different opinions, but one DOES have to respect the other person's right to ~have~ that opinion. It just gets very heated when the topic in question is wrapped up in moral and ethical overtones. As for answering your _original_ question? No... it shows the decided bankrupt lack of character and honor on the part of the individual who's sole purpose is to incite anger with an intentional nuclear comment or response.

Response by SGM James McCullough made Aug 17 at 2017 4:19 PM

SGM James McCullough — Thu, 17 Aug 2017 16:19:59 -0400

Its neither useful nor productive. We should be capable of discussing dissenting views without resorting to that type behavior.

Response by CPT Larry Hudson made Aug 17 at 2017 6:33 PM

CPT Larry Hudson — Thu, 17 Aug 2017 18:33:22 -0400

Political posturing, inciting rebuttals of unanswerable political position violates a principal established in colonial times, for the military. NO discussion in open forum of religion, race politics. Activist in military have no meaningful contribution other than to spread dissention and lower discipline.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2017 12:47 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 19 Aug 2017 12:47:08 -0400

I agree with CPT Durish. It all depends on if you are TRYING to incite anger. If what you say incites anger due to the topic, sobeit. Some topics are prone to getting the juices flowing. I do admit to being a little free with my language since I'm retired. That's the beauty of retirement. You can finally say what you've been dying to for 30 years!

Response by CPT Ted Coulter made Aug 20 at 2017 9:00 PM

CPT Ted Coulter — Sun, 20 Aug 2017 21:00:39 -0400

Hey don't want controversy don't have a forum. For me the more controversial the better.
i certainly don't everyone to agree what would be the point.

i say post that that makes people think and invokes a reaction

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2017 10:31 AM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 21 Aug 2017 10:31:20 -0400

There's a line between being too PC and being disrespectful - we all need to be aware of that line.
With that being said, it's also important to remember what every military strategist already knows; is the key to conquest success is to first "Divide and Conquer".
It seems in recent years, as a country, we've done an amazing job at dividing our self!
Whatever happened to "United We Stand"?

Response by SGT Anna Kleinschmidt made Aug 22 at 2017 6:39 PM

SGT Anna Kleinschmidt — Tue, 22 Aug 2017 18:39:07 -0400

It makes me laugh when you post facts and quotes that are not even from the news and some still cannot help but comment about how I am a demNazi and have to use other childish names and phrases to defend their point. It doesn't anger me, it both saddens me and makes me chuckle about how they cannot defend their position using adult language skills.

Response by LCpl Todd Houston made Aug 23 at 2017 4:10 PM

LCpl Todd Houston — Wed, 23 Aug 2017 16:10:32 -0400

I do not feel that inciting anger for the sole purpose of making someone angry is right. To me it is no different than walking up to a total stranger on the street and sucker punching them. But if you know ahead of time that what you are about to say is going to incite anger in another simply because your point of view is different, so be it. That is not your fault. It is the fault of the other person for having such low self esteem that they would let someone else's opinion steal their emotions so easily. Now, that isn't always the case. Sometimes you have to incite anger in order to get the other person to disclose their true feelings on a particular subject, especially when they are being specifically vague. Such as in an interrogation for example. But the only thing worse than suppressing opinions during political discourse, is when we censure our own ideas for fear of offending or angering another. Just to be clear, offending someone is completely different from insulting someone.

Response by PO2 Nick Burke made Aug 25 at 2017 6:52 AM

PO2 Nick Burke — Fri, 25 Aug 2017 06:52:07 -0400

Incite anger.... Many times that's no more than disagreement with them. And their response can be vitriol filled.

Response by SGT Matthew Reid made Aug 25 at 2017 4:21 PM

SGT Matthew Reid — Fri, 25 Aug 2017 16:21:06 -0400

Absolutely not acceptable. Cpt Jack Durish, although I admire your knowledge of grammar. You lost my attention after the first couple of sentences. Short and to the point is more effective, with all due respect of course.

Response by Bergman Oswell made Aug 25 at 2017 6:49 PM

Bergman Oswell — Fri, 25 Aug 2017 18:49:11 -0400

No matter what opinion you present, no matter where you present it or how or when, someone somewhere will be offended by it. Guaranteed. If someone being offended means your opinion is wrong, then all opinions are wrong.

Response by SP5 Craig Greatman made Aug 31 at 2017 3:47 PM

SP5 Craig Greatman — Thu, 31 Aug 2017 15:47:07 -0400

IMHO - ANY typed comments, although most reasonable people can discern certain degrees of intent on computer screen conversations, squarely identifying the heart (intent) of a person's heart without asking any questions often puts folks in a precarious position. Motive is not ALWAYS what we think it is. Or, let me use an "I" statement. I have made plenty of mistakes in assuming the motive of a person by just reading their comments/statements online, when they are not clearly articulated.
That said, even the seemingly most sarcastic, derogatory, or pejorative of comments are just that, typed comments. Consider the source. I often sit bemused, reading the responses of folks who so quickly TAKE offense in online chat rooms. Don't bite! My own proclivities towards assuming thin skin among many who seem to so easily get offended by certain types of criticism or disparagement of their opinion is heightened when among military service personnel, current or vet. I wonder aloud, exactly what branch of service is or was a person in that tolerated such softness. We're soldiers, right? I mean I can't be the only person who ever heard and believed the command, "Suck it up and drive on!" Dang. The effort required to "take offense" sure seems wasted in the larger scheme of life. And the primary reason that I am responding here, on this particular topic, making it my first foray into actual participation in any discussion in RP (I have read many), is that this is an issue that we (military personnel) should lead the way in our nation, a country wherein "snow flake" has become ubiquitous with a generation. Like others who have commented before on here, I really believe that there exists a bent that is left of center that is drawn towards some sense of fairness and accepted the new millennial age of sensitivity training as valid and viable. WHAT!? If a real person is desirous of taking the time out to be a d-bag in an online discussion or anywhere else, hard cheese. If you read my opinion and don't like it, that is your option. And you are even entitled to make your opinion known in as negative a way as you deem necessary. I don't have to accept your criticism as valid. But, if a person responds with a demonstratively thoughtful disagreement, and brings up a point or multiple points to actually consider that are counter to my own, well cool. Then we can have a discussion. And even a heated discussion, wherein an ad hominem disparagement or two is thrown in can be fun. Rules of engagement? Those are relative. Some people may not have the mental wherewithal to engage the way I would, and vice versa. But, what's at stake? Dignity, professionalism, integrity, eternal life? Nope none of those, especially if you know who you are. No one can take those things or any other character traits from you, unless you give them away. I do think it's important that military service members, past and present, should be able to engage with even the most belligerent among us, without tripping on being made fun of, called out, poked fun at, or whatever. Again, just my opinion. Grace & peace, and Scouts Out! Hooah!

Response by Cpl Jeff Ruffing made Sep 1 at 2017 7:12 AM

Cpl Jeff Ruffing — Fri, 01 Sep 2017 07:12:33 -0400

I haven't seen any responses that I would consider " bad". I however have been told multiple times in my military time , " Ask a dumb question, get a dumb answer." I've never agreed with that statement. You will always have people that act sophomoric in both speech and actions. It's just a fact. You have two choices, either feed their fire, or starve the fire. As my dad would always say," Someone has to be the adult around here."

Response by SSG Nathan Bryant made Sep 4 at 2017 5:29 PM

SSG Nathan Bryant — Mon, 04 Sep 2017 17:29:40 -0400

I personally DO NOT think it is right for anyone to incite anger in anyone with comments or actions. Period. There's way too much of that going on within our Country and within the World. My opinion . . .

Response by CW4 Brian Haas made Sep 4 at 2017 7:56 PM

CW4 Brian Haas — Mon, 04 Sep 2017 19:56:49 -0400

For me, I don't understand. Being a Warrant Officer, I've only made a mistake one time. I actually thought I was wrong about something, but I was mistaken. I was right.

Response by SFC Raymond Koeller made Sep 6 at 2017 8:50 PM

SFC Raymond Koeller — Wed, 06 Sep 2017 20:50:17 -0400

Wow, they took the bait. Hook, line, and sinker. Didn't have time to read all the responses but the "highlights" sure do say a lot. Liberals are just as patriotic as conservatives; although, you would never here a conservative say the same. I can agree to disagree but have found in my real world encounters that the right wing is far less cordial and, much more often down-right cruel in their dealings with others. I only need point to Fox News and the echo-chamber it provides to rest my case. Now, whether you agree with their point of view or not, MSNBC is a much more congenial place to attempt to establish any kind of dialogue. It also happens to be fact-based which Fox cannot even come close to claiming. I wonder how many thumbs down votes folks would get if people that don't absolutely live on sites like this could vote. Needing 15000 experience points or influence points or whatever is a rather burdensome requirement. Have fun tearing me up!!

Response by CSM Andrew Perrault made Sep 6 at 2017 9:18 PM

CSM Andrew Perrault — Wed, 06 Sep 2017 21:18:17 -0400

Don't mistake my passion for disrespect or being unprofessional, I'm rude, crude and socially unacceptable. Some folks just can't handle the truth..........

Response by SFC Charles Temm made Sep 8 at 2017 10:39 AM

SFC Charles Temm — Fri, 08 Sep 2017 10:39:05 -0400

It's extremely hard to avoid POing anyyone anymore unless you stick to subjects like puppies are nice or the sun is warm. Moreover, in many cases it's totally subjective to be accused of deliberately angering people given the increasing sensitivity of many.

I'd say that as serving or ex GIs we are generally adult enough to have feelings that aren't easily crushed like tissue paper.

Response by SFC Charles McVey Sr. made Sep 9 at 2017 4:35 AM

SFC Charles McVey Sr. — Sat, 09 Sep 2017 04:35:02 -0400

I generally avoid the derogatory comments, and concentrate on giving a positive response Sir....In my own experience when I was in, we kept politics out of our daily interactions with our subordinates and even our Senior NCO's and Officers. I realize there are many on RP who are no-longer on active duty, but I still think that politics is something that should not be used as a club or to disparage the comments of other, just keep the comments on topic.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2017 6:08 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 10 Sep 2017 06:08:30 -0400

I don't want to mention names but there are a few Veterans and Retirees that refer to Politicians they don't agree with as demons and a host of other names. I even called one of them out on that last week and his response was the same insult-laden as always. There are very young members who are here to learn. It is possible to disagree with someone without resorting to insults and name calling. Just my two cents.

Response by SPC Franklin McKown made Sep 10 at 2017 12:52 PM

SPC Franklin McKown — Sun, 10 Sep 2017 12:52:55 -0400

If they are demanding incorrect information is factual ,I see a purpose in shutting them down.

Response by CPO Nate S. made Sep 10 at 2017 1:18 PM

CPO Nate S. — Sun, 10 Sep 2017 13:18:48 -0400

Sir, with all due respect Capt Durish is correct.

But if you don't believe that approach, please click here (https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/i-m-so-sickened-by-gun-violence-the-second-amendment-has-failed-us-how-should-it-be-amended-to-right-the-wrongs?loc=recent_rside&pos=1&type=qrc) to read my response to a RP member regarding gun violence.

It is also interesting that Capt Durish use the words "spread like a cancer" because over 45 yrs ago that same warning was put to words first sung by Simon and Garfunkel and now remastered by the artist - Disturbed who sings the Sound of Silence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9Dg-g7t2l4) with the kind of power the words offer.

I'm so sickened by gun violence. The second amendment has failed us. How should it be amended to...

The latest tragedy of gun violence against the LGBTQ community is just a continuance of the attack in the SC church, the campus shootings, Navy Yard assault, Theater attack, and assaults upon our children at schools. Assault weapons are the issue, not "guns." How do we fix this?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 21 at 2017 12:23 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 21 Sep 2017 12:23:44 -0400

Let point out, if I say something and it offends you, keep in mind that It isn't me that caused you to be offended. If you believe a person can make you feel a certain way, you are allowing them to control you....
Why would you let someone control your emotion?
If there is intentional harassing, that's different. To provoke one to anger is against biblical principle and causes a barrier to relationships.
But, if I say something and it just offends you... not my issue.

Response by PFC Dwayne Dittoe made Sep 23 at 2017 3:35 AM

PFC Dwayne Dittoe — Sat, 23 Sep 2017 03:35:11 -0400

to intentionally incite...no, but if you anger them just by arguing with them then they don't belong here...or in the military

Response by CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana made Sep 24 at 2017 1:44 PM

CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana — Sun, 24 Sep 2017 13:44:47 -0400

I agree with you Colonel Burroughs Sir; we share and become Comrades. At times; our experiences may differ, but generally we are dead-on target. Like presently serving are earning their wings now, as Vets, we have earned our honors before them. Therefore, it is best for members to refrain from bullying, antagonizing and denigrating other RallyPoint members, irrespective of their present military rank and, I assure them, Sir, that they, like us, will get recognized too.
Thanks for the podium COL Burroughs, Sir.

Response by CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana made Sep 24 at 2017 1:52 PM

CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana — Sun, 24 Sep 2017 13:52:48 -0400

There is a course these days for positive thinking and anger management. It seems a few RP members that respond negatively consistently towards one or more other members may require these courses. Thanks...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 24 at 2017 11:39 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 24 Sep 2017 23:39:03 -0400

Sir,

1) Anything that is a direct insult or derogatory in nature toward anyone else shows not only a lack of character, but it also shows an inability to appropriately back up a viewpoint with facts and engage in honest, open, and what I like to call "adult" conversations. So, if your viewpoint or opinion is too weak to hold up under scrutiny, you thereby resort to insulting the other person. I see it time and again on both sides of the political spectrum.

2) On the subject of opposing viewpoints - we, as a society, can never allow things to reach a point to where we can't openly discuss opposing views. The electoral college was instituted to protect the nation against the tyranny of the masses. The first step in making things like this go away is restricting free speech within the US.

3) People in this era are of this mindset that someone disagreeing with a viewpoint or attacking a viewpoint is a personal attack against those holding that viewpoint. This leads to a lot of hurt feelings and issues, because instead of having open minds about topics, people separate into tribes and anyone who doesn't agree with the tribe is obviously an idiot, a racist, a bigot, a facist, a leftist nut-job, etc. People need to calm down and realize that it's OKAY to not agree on everything all the time. I'm an atheist. Most atheists are leftist. I'm not. I'm somewhere dead in the middle. I like my guns. I think women shouldn't be told what they can and can't do with their bodies by a government. I like Texas and bbq and chili and rock music. I voted for Trump. Do I think that atheists who are far-left are all a bunch of non-human retards that need to be shot? No. Because I'm enough of an adult to at least hear their opinions on things and if we disagree... so be it. No harm done.

That is until that opinion is screeched at me and littered with a bunch of labels and insults.

At that point - they've lost the debate and I no longer consider their views valid at all. Sort of like how I refuse to engage in serious discussions with flat-Earthers, anti-Vaxxers, young-Earth creationists, and "magic-users."

Bottom line is, open discussion should always be a part of any intellectual society which wants to take itself seriously. If we allow this to go by the wayside, then we're in danger of following Rome and others out the door.

Response by SFC Mark Bailey made Sep 28 at 2017 9:16 PM

SFC Mark Bailey — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 21:16:15 -0400

It is all too easy to post a quick response in the mistaken belief that the other person will understand all of what you have just typed.

I tend to think of each message as a "letter in a bottle" which will have to completely state what I am saying and eliminate any obscurities, misconceptions ,and assumptions (and we all KNOW what an assumptions does to everyone...)

I prefer the Irish way of responding that is flowing with so much rhetoric that the other person has no clue they were insulted until weeks later (LMAO).

I dont completely follow the concept that the insulting is 'Right', 'Left', or 'Center'...but rather born of the concept that this is just a computer terminal and we can walk away from it without ever having to think that anyone else out there is 'Real' or not

We're real....
We all served in some capacity...
...and if we were stationed together, we'd all be at the Bar far into the night swapping War Stories and paying for each others drinks

Response by SGT Frank Pritchett made Oct 4 at 2017 10:51 PM

SGT Frank Pritchett — Wed, 04 Oct 2017 22:51:40 -0400

This forum is probably the most helpful tool our Military can have, what better way to have Soldiers helping Soldiers on issues or task then to reach out to those that have served and have experience and willing to share, if someone is offended by it, then maybe they should reach out for help. Good criticism is constructive when properly used. I dint have this advice as a Young NCO; its priceless.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Oct 5 at 2017 10:59 AM

LTC John Griscom — Thu, 05 Oct 2017 10:59:50 -0400

I was taught to consider the source and go from there.

Response by MSG Michael McKenzie made Oct 5 at 2017 11:18 AM

MSG Michael McKenzie — Thu, 05 Oct 2017 11:18:29 -0400

Sir, I have noticed this trend on occasion. My opinion is that this is more of an issue of demographics. The service members I have observed that engage in this behavior are usually junior (both enlisted and officer). In society today, there is a prevailing attitude of "you are with me or against me". We no longer seek to challenge others in open, spirited debate. We seek to destroy, discredit, and berate those that challenge our side of an issue.
However, it tends to happen to less of a degree on this site than on other social media sites.

Response by SGT Scott Moreland made Oct 9 at 2017 12:55 AM

SGT Scott Moreland — Mon, 09 Oct 2017 00:55:06 -0400

Is it right? No. But the reality is some people have a soft spot or two that is going to be hit and they will respond, it's just a fact of life. That doesn't mean walk around on eggshells 24/7. Deal with it and move on. If one has the stones then by all means do what you think you can afford.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2017 5:21 PM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 Oct 2017 17:21:28 -0400

One reason I am not commenting as much now. The professional trolls come out immediately.

Response by CPT Alfred Smiley made Oct 14 at 2017 8:59 PM

CPT Alfred Smiley — Sat, 14 Oct 2017 20:59:27 -0400

Welcome to 21st Century America, where offending others is considered to be not only a right, but apparently almost a duty to many. I'm glad I only have to put up with this milieu of abusive language and verbal assault for another 20 years, at which time they can ship my old carcass off to the crematorium. Adios, curmudgeons; it's been a pain to know ya.

Response by LTC Ronald Stephens made Oct 15 at 2017 6:12 PM

LTC Ronald Stephens — Sun, 15 Oct 2017 18:12:53 -0400

People who make derogatory or hateful comments should be completely ignored. Those trolls are trying to get a rise out of their target group. They will just bring you down to their level then beat you with experience.

Response by SGT Tony Long made Oct 15 at 2017 8:14 PM

SGT Tony Long — Sun, 15 Oct 2017 20:14:20 -0400

All points of view should be respected among your team members. It’s how we maintain a cohesive unit. Commanders must maintain a politically neutral environment within their command. On Rally Point you should also show respect while helping to educate each other without insults.

Response by CPT Alfred Smiley made Oct 16 at 2017 5:25 PM

CPT Alfred Smiley — Mon, 16 Oct 2017 17:25:34 -0400

I knew a retired Warrant Officer back in the 90s. Far from being "crusty", he would often comment, "It's easy to see the bad in others. Why not look for the good?"
I don't know where he picked up such a finely developed bit of philosophy, but he is absolutely right.
It takes no talent or effort whatsoever to see the bad in another person. We all do it without expending the least amount of mental or emotional energy.
Seeing the good in another person, on the other hand, is often extremely challenging. We don't like to challenge ourselves in that way, but we should do so anyway. It can lead to phenomenal insight and amazing personal growth, and at the end of our lives, insight and growth are all we really have to show for ourselves.

Response by TSgt Denise Moody made Oct 21 at 2017 10:55 PM

TSgt Denise Moody — Sat, 21 Oct 2017 22:55:15 -0400

If the remarks are not meant to incite I have no issues with them. Anything anyone says can push someone else's button. That's life. But when the remark is made with the intention to incite, that I don't like. I've had that happen. When I figured out that was the intent, the purpose, of the remark I stopped responding and made a point of saying just that.

Whether or not RP wants to do something about those kinds of posts is up to RP. They can if they want too. And before anyone says freedom of speech!, that doesn't apply to places like this. Unless I'm mistaken and RP is actually a government run site... ;)

Response by LTC Ronald Stephens made Oct 22 at 2017 11:25 AM

LTC Ronald Stephens — Sun, 22 Oct 2017 11:25:15 -0400

We are all human. That means that we all have our own points of view. Agree or disagree with another person's point of view, there is no excuse, let alone reason to descend into the vernacular or even be discourteous with that person. The old line from Disney's "Bamby" "if you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all" comes to mind. I have found the best way to deal with that sort of talk for me is to just walk away from it. For some its just an attention getting device and if you enter into an exchange with them they get what they wanted. For some folks negative attention is better than no attention at all. Much of the time that happens when the offender has no substantive, cogent argument about the topic of conversation.

Response by SSG David Andrews made Oct 22 at 2017 10:42 PM

SSG David Andrews — Sun, 22 Oct 2017 22:42:20 -0400

In my experience, so far, all RP members have been very professional and very careing for their or our fellow veterans. I have been very proud to have the privilege to associate with them.

Response by SPC Joshua Brumley made Oct 23 at 2017 8:34 PM

SPC Joshua Brumley — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 20:34:24 -0400

Some will agree, some wont, some wont care, some will take offense. That's just life.
The only thing we can and should expect of each-other is that everyone attempts to act like the adults they're supposed to be and adhere to the rules of civil-debate. If you can't do that, then why are even here?

Response by Henning Heinemann made Oct 26 at 2017 1:58 PM

Henning Heinemann — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 13:58:30 -0400

It’s really too vague of a question to answer, there are too many variables involved, the answer could be yes or no depending on the conditions. Sometimes the truth pisses people off, in these cases the answer is “yes”. Sometimes people say stupid stuff just to piss people off, in these instances the answer is “no”. Sometimes people get pissed off because they are generally angry people looking for an excuse to be pissed off, in those instances the answer is “yes” because it can’t be avoided. In the long run, the answer though is “yes” because the meaning of life is learning to make choices, and that is done by dealing with the consequences of one’s choices. Censorship is never really a workable solution to problems. Trolls need to learn the consequences of trolling, and people need to learn the consequences of being angry and responding to trolls, and the truth should always be heard regardless whether people want to hear it or not.

Response by PO1 Tom Follis made Oct 26 at 2017 7:01 PM

PO1 Tom Follis — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 19:01:40 -0400

I have only been on RP for a short period of time. In a sense (?), I like to think of RP as a part of my military career where I can comment and be heard or others can comment and I can listen. I retired from the Worlds Finest Navy as an E-6 after 21 year. NEVER in my career was I ever dis-respectful to one in a higher or lower pay grade. Respect is earned and it goes both ways. Not all of us like who is or who is not President. Some white people may not like black people and vice versa. I NEVER dealt with that during my tenure in the military. The POTUS is and always will be The Commander in Chief, the only thing that was colored, was Old Glory. No matter what your skin color was, if you wore a U.S. Military uniform WE were brothers and sisters. WE STILL ARE. I think a lot of us have forgotten this simply because we have a DD-214. If one wants to mouth off and be dis-respectful, one should go to FB. it's good to disagree on things. However, we should never ever show dis-respect towards others at RP. Someone else said,"Think before you speak". Good advice. There may come a time (again), in our lifetime, when all we have is each other. Our youth today does not understand "brotherhood". Maybe WE, at RP should be out teaching that instead of hatred and racism. Later SHIPMATES.

Response by MSgt Jonathan Stump made Oct 26 at 2017 8:19 PM

MSgt Jonathan Stump — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 20:19:13 -0400

Sounds like an attempt to quell speech. Be careful what you say, you might upset someone. Well, if words upset you, there are other issues that we have to discuss first.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2017 5:14 AM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Oct 2017 05:14:05 -0400

I haven't seen much use of the downvote feature. A downvote along with a comment explaining why would at least hit their reputation a bit.

Response by PO1 Wayne Merritt made Oct 29 at 2017 6:19 PM

PO1 Wayne Merritt — Sun, 29 Oct 2017 18:19:49 -0400

You can incite anything now a days, by accident. Too many fluffer nutters roaming My planet.

Response by SFC Charles Kauffman made Oct 29 at 2017 6:39 PM

SFC Charles Kauffman — Sun, 29 Oct 2017 18:39:58 -0400

Making an abrasive statement with the sole purpose of inciting anger says more about the individual than any words.

Response by TSgt Robert Allen made Oct 29 at 2017 10:24 PM

TSgt Robert Allen — Sun, 29 Oct 2017 22:24:06 -0400

The occasional cross service snipes are something that will always be there. But when they bring it down to a personal attack, that is where it is wrong. You can agree to disagree at any time; there is no reason to take it to that level.

Response by PO3 Phyllis Maynard made Oct 29 at 2017 10:29 PM

PO3 Phyllis Maynard — Sun, 29 Oct 2017 22:29:23 -0400

I was attracted to RallyPoint because I encountered so many intelligent people. And I was anxious to communicate with a familiar community. Then I encountered some very nasty spirited people. I believe we should respect each other, although, definitely the beliefs and values are diverse. Super important, we need to be encouragement for our comrades in harm's way.

Response by SGT George Duncan made Nov 5 at 2017 1:49 PM

SGT George Duncan — Sun, 05 Nov 2017 13:49:52 -0500

it's bad form in any group if you doin't like what you read look elsewhere

Response by CW3 Michael Hess made Nov 5 at 2017 7:57 PM

CW3 Michael Hess — Sun, 05 Nov 2017 19:57:44 -0500

I agree with the COL. Unfortunately some people seem to cut other people down if they do not agree with them. Political topics seem to be the worst. We should all try to be professional and not take things personally.

Response by Jesse Bollar made Nov 6 at 2017 1:42 PM

Jesse Bollar — Mon, 06 Nov 2017 13:42:39 -0500

Inciting anger for a reaction is counter productive. I have differing views from many on here and have been personally attacked a few times it doesnt bother me. Some people just feel that there opinion is the only one and try as we may we wont change it in these people it is engrained in there character. To have productive conversation we must be willing to be disagreed with and also willing to adjust our way of thinking when exposed to non opinion based facts. This is what intelligent conversation does and I have had those and enjoyed them with many of you. So thank you to all of you for allowing me to share in your beliefs and discussions it has been a great pleasure even when the experience got heated.

Response by TSgt James Carson made Nov 7 at 2017 3:06 PM

TSgt James Carson — Tue, 07 Nov 2017 15:06:30 -0500

It all goes bac k to respect for one another and the military. There are some people with way out of the box thoughts about everything. it's OK, but when in the military you need to put your best foot forward to get respect and maybe get changes incorporated.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2017 2:43 PM

SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Nov 2017 14:43:05 -0500

Sadly, this forum, like our military today, is beginning to fill up with thin-skinned, butt-hurt, politically correct people who when faced with the unvarnished truth on a given issue don't know whether to shit or go blind! It has nothing to do with 'professionalism' as such, it has to do with being or NOT being a so-called 'self actualized human being'. They and them often times are neither. I could go into why and how this is happening but it would likely insight anger.

Response by CW3 Jim Ramge made Nov 10 at 2017 9:37 AM

CW3 Jim Ramge — Fri, 10 Nov 2017 09:37:00 -0500

Feelings are not right or wrong. They your very own at a certain time or place. Yes, all of us have gotten ramped up about a certain topic, decision, or remark. However, what marks us as professionals is that we are able to keep things in perspective and not shoot the messenger.

Response by LCpl Donald Faucett made Nov 13 at 2017 8:29 AM

LCpl Donald Faucett — Mon, 13 Nov 2017 08:29:26 -0500

Great question Colonel. I am guessing there is a multiplicity of answers, and all be correct. It is characteristic of personalitities and different perseptions. We have spell checkers, and English scholars everywhere. Some malicious executed to enrage, or honest to goodness trying to educate with no harm intended. Others set around just to find fault. On the other hand people typically aren't fond of being publicaly corrected. Some like to be an asshole and recognized as such.

Response by SPC Link Land made Nov 13 at 2017 9:44 AM

SPC Link Land — Mon, 13 Nov 2017 09:44:14 -0500

I believe that what you're saying here is true in general and not just specifically to RP. Unfortunately so many people in the world are more concerned about what their opinion is and how everyone else needs to heir their opinion. Too many people flapping their gums (even if only metaphorically) and not enough people listening. My oldest daughter is in Debate in High School, and I told her that rule 1 of being a successful debater was to always listen to the opposition. You never know, they might be right... and push comes to shove... at least you know what makes them tick so if they are in fact wrong... you can formulate a better argument to sway them to your opinion. Always show respect to those who hold differing opinions... not because they necessarily deserve it, but because you do.

Response by SPC David Willis made Nov 16 at 2017 3:04 PM

SPC David Willis — Thu, 16 Nov 2017 15:04:55 -0500

If I had a dollar for every time I deleted something I was about to post here Id be rich. I do try to keep it more clean than Facebook, but I don't censor my opinions. Now I have been called out in very unprofessional manners by some people who probably should be wearing stripes right now, and I will come back on them as I would have while in service. I feel like now a days there are many NCOs who think rank means they're god. All it means is that I will obey any lawful order that you give, and give you the respect your rank is due. Rank, however, does not shield you from your own unprofessionalism.

Response by SSgt Harvey "Skip" Porter made Nov 16 at 2017 3:38 PM

SSgt Harvey "Skip" Porter — Thu, 16 Nov 2017 15:38:09 -0500

We all have something in common we have served or either serving. That common bond alone should allow us to be respectful and professional. As humans we all have our religious, political views however we should still be able to respect someone's else point of view. I am from the school of we can be friends and disagree however we can also be brothers and sister's and agree that we have all served and for that only should be able to find common ground and respect each other with personally attacking them or their intelligence. We should leave all of that dirt slinging to the elected officials it seems that's all they do.

Peace!

Response by SSgt Harvey "Skip" Porter made Nov 16 at 2017 4:33 PM

SSgt Harvey "Skip" Porter — Thu, 16 Nov 2017 16:33:34 -0500

I would also like to add there is enough hate and anger in this world already based on differences of opinions. We as a group of current and ex military members should work towards protecting our benefits and not be personally attacking each other. We all need to be aware of the tricknolgoy talk being spewed out by elected officials from both sides of the table. Why do Veterans have to fight a bureaucracy for benefits its absolutely ludicrous! We should be holding our elected officials accountable for not delivering on so many broken promises to Veterans. Let our anger be shifted towards them by holding them accountable for so many broken promises and not at each other on RP! We should use this forum as a platform to help and uplift each other not to attack.

That's my five cent's

Response by Kathlean Keesler made Nov 19 at 2017 1:29 PM

Kathlean Keesler — Sun, 19 Nov 2017 13:29:03 -0500

As a civilian, member of RallyPoint, I find compassion, intgrity, endurance and determination in the comments. I rather focus on how reading other's comprehension, true wounds, political views, even if I think differently, RallyPoint educates me. Respectfully Kathlean Perlin

Response by Carol H. made Nov 20 at 2017 3:57 PM

Carol H. — Mon, 20 Nov 2017 15:57:24 -0500

USA FIRST ADMENDMENT

Response by MAJ Hugh Blanchard made Nov 26 at 2017 1:04 PM

MAJ Hugh Blanchard — Sun, 26 Nov 2017 13:04:26 -0500

No, clearly we get more done with light than we do with smoke and heat. Using an "ad hominem" ("against the person") insult normally means that the user has run out of logical ideas. I get mad as all of us sometimes do, but we won't make much progress trading nasty remarks. I like to think that we are all of us better than that. We've all stood up and served our country, let's remember that as a common point on which we can all respect one another.

Response by MSG Micheal P Floyd Jr made Nov 26 at 2017 4:04 PM

MSG Micheal P Floyd Jr — Sun, 26 Nov 2017 16:04:45 -0500

Not knowing to whom you may be referring to Sir, but as a Senior NCO, I strive to talk-the-talk and walk-the-walk in accordance to my training, experience, growth, and realization that I'm either speaking to my Seniors, Colleagues, or Subordinates. I'm reminded of a Senior Officer, Captain Sonja Funkhouser, who expressed to me "Be careful with whom you may speak with because your words can either Educate, Belittle, Uplift, or degrade the listener to a point where longterm memory may store such for future reference. In short Staff Sergeant, be careful in whom you speak moving up through your career, you might meet that person again as he or she moves pass you."

Response by SFC Greg Bruorton made Nov 26 at 2017 4:14 PM

SFC Greg Bruorton — Sun, 26 Nov 2017 16:14:00 -0500

No, it is never right to incite to anger our fellow members in Rally Point or in any other location. We need peace in the world and it can begin with each of us in how we treat our fellow soldiers, neighbors, and loved ones. May we all remember Christ's second commandment of "Love thy neighbor as thyself."

Response by Capt Hansel Bumgarner made Nov 26 at 2017 10:43 PM

Capt Hansel Bumgarner — Sun, 26 Nov 2017 22:43:31 -0500

Some people are just dicks and the military has always had its share. From Private to General, we have all met them and have had to suffer their presence. Leaving active duty doesn't change them.

Response by N.D. Williams made Nov 27 at 2017 9:01 AM

N.D. Williams — Mon, 27 Nov 2017 09:01:19 -0500

We ask why are we here or more important what journey has lead us here. "Hard Work & Dedication" but, more importantly dedication to our country, ourselves & OTHERS......BE RESPECTFUL

Response by Kevin Courtier made Nov 28 at 2017 12:52 AM

Kevin Courtier — Tue, 28 Nov 2017 00:52:25 -0500

The problem with this country is we advocate for free speech but don't allow it. The constitution doesn't say free speech except if it offends someone. I agree we need to be more tactful. Now don't confuse this with political correctness because fuck that. We need to be respectful and have debates rather than full blown arguments. Also learn to agree to disagree because some people have their own opinion.

Response by SGT Mark Rhodes made Nov 28 at 2017 6:34 PM

SGT Mark Rhodes — Tue, 28 Nov 2017 18:34:43 -0500

COL Mike Burroughs, I totally agree with you 100%, I have seen it as well and even had it commented that way on one of my posts. I do think we should all be professional and act professionally at all times. Thank you for this post and I hope our members take it to heart.

Response by Sgt Christopher Collins made Dec 6 at 2017 12:01 PM

Sgt Christopher Collins — Wed, 06 Dec 2017 12:01:20 -0500

It's not right to entice anger but then again, I was brought to speak my mind and I do that very well.

Response by SPC Steven Depuy made Dec 7 at 2017 9:24 AM

SPC Steven Depuy — Thu, 07 Dec 2017 09:24:02 -0500

In this day and age, you can't say much to anyone about anything without someone getting offended Sir. I realize you have some keyboard warriors with balls the size of 18" shells out there who love to let things rip, and that can be its own category. But we are far beyond the day when you can state your opinion on something in life to other people, and they might not agree with it, and they just move on. Now they feel they need to make it their personal mission in life to re-educate you.

Response by SGT George Duncan made Dec 11 at 2017 7:44 PM

SGT George Duncan — Mon, 11 Dec 2017 19:44:07 -0500

rude

Response by SSG Thomas Barry made Dec 12 at 2017 8:20 AM

SSG Thomas Barry — Tue, 12 Dec 2017 08:20:45 -0500

Hmm so a provocative question is answered with a provocative opinion not directed at an individual and the answer is slammed? Well smh but that is exactly why i answered like i did. Sorry if anyone was butt hurt and made angry by my non pc wording but just saying what i felt. Isnt that wby thw questiin was asked?

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 12 at 2017 8:26 AM

LTJG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 12 Dec 2017 08:26:59 -0500

I think that if you disrespect anyone (regardless of rank, service, etc) then you dont belong here. There is no reason that you cant make your point without being rude and disrespectful. RP is a place for guidance and wisdom. If you want to incite anger in people, then go to a chat room or leave it on facebook.

Response by Cpl Bill Fleischauer made Dec 12 at 2017 10:10 AM

Cpl Bill Fleischauer — Tue, 12 Dec 2017 10:10:47 -0500

If a dweeb posting on a bulletin board incites you,
you've greater issues to address.
Suck it up Buttercup

Response by SSG Thomas Barry made Dec 12 at 2017 10:55 AM

SSG Thomas Barry — Tue, 12 Dec 2017 10:55:23 -0500

I was not repeat not attacking anyone directly. I t was a general post

Response by SSG Thomas Barry made Dec 12 at 2017 9:57 PM

SSG Thomas Barry — Tue, 12 Dec 2017 21:57:04 -0500

what leave and miss the fun of watching people that say dont disrespect anyone and yet they do it to me. HA lol never let your mouth overload your a-- and then runaway

Response by SSG Buddy Kemper made Dec 19 at 2017 8:50 AM

SSG Buddy Kemper — Tue, 19 Dec 2017 08:50:38 -0500

I must say that I have been a bit snarky and obtuse toward some liberal and/or atheistic of my brethren and sisters on RP and other social media spots. I'm not proud of it, tho and steer clear of those conversations now. It's been a long while, now. We must agree to disagree on some issues and move on. I'm finding that the things we have in common, i.e., Service, love for country and doing all we can for our family and friends are more important than political spats or quibbling over petty stuff. Interesting question, since bickering is always a dread I have whenever on this or any other Social Media site. Cheers COL Mikel J. Burroughs! MERRY CHRISTMAS to you& yours and look forward to the other responses here.

Response by MSG Floyd Williams made Dec 19 at 2017 10:37 AM

MSG Floyd Williams — Tue, 19 Dec 2017 10:37:27 -0500

I remember once a person said something that was insulting, and he got mad because I challenged his comment. He claimed, I'm looking too much into it, so I just let it go instead of pc arguing although he still made a cheap shot comment in the end. But the situation didn't make or break me, but I hope the individual learned a lesson regardless of his rank.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2017 12:44 PM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Dec 2017 12:44:58 -0500

I’ve always taken things people say with a grain of salt. 1. This is the internet. People will continue to hide behind their keyboards and cause a ruckus. 2. If you can’t handle it then you shouldn’t be on the internet. Think of it like a video game rating where they say online content may not be rated. It’s a world of unknowns we live in and people should adapt rather than demand safe zones. Most people on here are respectful due to command backlash and that is why you do not see as much trolling or heckling. Make a comment in most other threads on other sites and you will see it more.

Response by SFC Charles Temm made Dec 22 at 2017 1:46 PM

SFC Charles Temm — Fri, 22 Dec 2017 13:46:47 -0500

Given the national environment, I think it's become unavoidable to anger some people if you disagree w/them. I'm not saying b/c of that it's alright to stop being civil as acting like an adult is a big part of what makes us truly civilized individuals. On this site it does seem we have a bit higher level of civility but we are also a self selected group of people who were taught both in our professional lives & private ones manners that are at odds w/what is publicly accepted today.

But as anyone who discusses almost anything but the weather has found, having a civil discussion between disagreeing people is getting hard to find. The public examples of entertainers, the media, academia, and most pols does not lend many public examples for polite discourse anymore.

Response by 1stSgt Edward Jackson made Dec 23 at 2017 1:34 PM

1stSgt Edward Jackson — Sat, 23 Dec 2017 13:34:41 -0500

I fully agree with you, Col. Burroughs. We can all agree to disagree without making someone mad. We were all trained to be professionals when we served, we can keep our professionalism long after our honorable discharge or retirement. You don't have to accept an opposing view, but you don't have to get ugly about it, either

Response by SGT James Murphy made Dec 24 at 2017 12:11 PM

SGT James Murphy — Sun, 24 Dec 2017 12:11:26 -0500

I'm old school Lee Ermey type of guys so when I say "SUCK IT UP SNOWFLAKE" You know I've already pulled back! Just saying!

Response by SSG Glenn Morse made Dec 27 at 2017 1:24 PM

SSG Glenn Morse — Wed, 27 Dec 2017 13:24:48 -0500

Those who find it necessary to do this should be banned from RP as this is not who we are.

Response by SFC Scott Parkhurst made Dec 29 at 2017 1:22 AM

SFC Scott Parkhurst — Fri, 29 Dec 2017 01:22:59 -0500

Yes I totally agree. I have found that "some" and thank God it's just a very few, have for some reason have found it in themselves to insight anger with some of their post's. I too have been attacked by just my "writing" and I'm sorry but I did suffer a couple of TBI's while serving in the Military. "Some" of these "guys" flat out are truly not looking for a real conversation nor are they wanting to hear both sides of the story....it seems that they have to be right and it's their way or the highway. Well, as a former police officer and a NCO, I must listen and hear both sides and be very professional and calm and conduct myself to whereas the public will always want to come to me for help and can always trust me in the future. The last thing we as professional's is to want to insight any kind of a riot and or anger in anyone....for God's sake we fight other people's Wars! Why would we want to do it to each other? I come here to learn and hopefully help "fellow" Military folks....not get into it with them....Thank you and lets all just be cool and be safe.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2017 10:30 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Dec 2017 10:30:22 -0500

Honestly, I think its very childish to even have a discussion on here even remotely derogatory. We are all professionals in our jobs and our branches and serve proudly. Will we have disagreements? Of course, we are all from different walks of life and different MOS's let alone branches. But disagreements are what this national was build around. I mean isn't the whole point of discussion forums like this for people to disagree and put their opinions on here? I feel everyone should respect opinions and its ok to disagree with them. You can have a respectful argument with no disrespect or harsh words. We should be men and women of higher class and know we all do our jobs to keep the giant work horse of military running.

Response by Rachel Donovan made Dec 30 at 2017 9:12 AM

Rachel Donovan — Sat, 30 Dec 2017 09:12:09 -0500

Perspectives differ. If I am looking at a fountain from the first floor my perspective will be different than someone looking at the fountain from the 2nd floor. That doesn't make our perspective wrong, just different. Viewing another's perspective as just that, a different view of the same concept, allows us to be more generous with our words.

Response by SSG Ken Gilder made Jan 7 at 2018 4:07 PM

SSG Ken Gilder — Sun, 07 Jan 2018 16:07:34 -0500

It's going to happen, mostly inadvertently, but sometimes, deliberately. Personally, I think we should be able to disagree without being disagreeable, but then, having spent my career (before medical retirement) in public affairs, that was one of our "prime directives."

I think that deliberately pissing another member off, is not good thing Most members will see it for what it is, and react accordingly, even if in agreement.

Response by SrA Rex Brown made Jan 10 at 2018 5:08 AM

SrA Rex Brown — Wed, 10 Jan 2018 05:08:21 -0500

When I comment on things I don't try to incite anger but I know sometimes I do that unintentionally. We hae to face the fact that we live in what is now called a " butthurt" society. No matter what is said or done someone is going to get mad, upset, depressed and may even need to go to their "quiet space". I believe in being true to myself and keeping it 100. I admit mistakes and say I'm sorry if it hurts someones feelings. Somewhere a long the lines people quit being able to handle the truth and now are offended by everything that is said. People today can not do something simple touch the little " thumb up/ thumb down" buttons and move along when they disagree with something that is said or they can't just move on to the next subject. People today seem to have to be negative and make hateful comments. Some may be trying to start an argument while others are simply just trying to have a conversation. The ones getting ( as i like to call it) " bitchy" are the ones that have never been taught to respect the opinions of others and that their opinion is the only one that matters. Now if this incites anger in some and sounds unprofessional so be it, it is my opinion and I tell it like it is. I don't sugar coat things. simply put though it all boils down to the fact that some people can not respect the opinion of others and get mad that they don't share their point of view. I'm not trying to incite anger here just voicing my opinion but watch the comments and you will see that what I said is correct. Someone is going to be offended. by something if not everything I said.

Response by Cpl Wayne Wallace made Jan 13 at 2018 3:52 PM

Cpl Wayne Wallace — Sat, 13 Jan 2018 15:52:24 -0500

In my opinion when replying to a comment that a person disagrees with, the person posting the reply should do it in a manner that would cause a civil debate. If we can't discuss different points of fews as adults here on a site that is dedicated to men and women that have served in the military as brothers and sisters, then this Country is in more trouble then most of us can imagine.

Response by MCPO Kurt Stauff made Jan 14 at 2018 1:02 AM

MCPO Kurt Stauff — Sun, 14 Jan 2018 01:02:21 -0500

No one in this forum should be here if your goal is to irritate others. We are all military and should not be too thin-skinned to deal with a little criticism, if we have been around the block, so to speak. I was a submariner for my first 11 years in the Navy, and it was de rigeur to be tested for our weak points when we first reported onboard. I was raised in an intelligent but sarcastic family that prepared me for this, so I had to set up some "decoys" that convinced others they had gotten to me, while I was merely acting offended--I got them off my back with this ploy. As a seasoned Master Chief, it would take nearly an act of God to get me to really lose my temper now. Look at what is written, reason it out, and respond respectfully.

Response by CSM William Payne made Jan 14 at 2018 7:04 PM

CSM William Payne — Sun, 14 Jan 2018 19:04:33 -0500

It seems to me the issues that lead us down the rabbit hole are those that people either agree with or don’t agree with socially instead of professionally.

While the military may be made up up a majority of people with certain backgrounds or values, it is also made up of people of all races, genders, religions, places of birth, sexual preferences and yes political affiliations.

It was that way during my forty years of service and in my research, has been since the recorded history of warfare. No particular group can claim the exclusive of “Patriotism”. And when we start to pigeon hole people in the service because they fit into one or several of the categories listed above, that’s where the discussion seems to go sideways.

I served under eight presidents during my time in service and I did not vote for or agree with the policies of all of them. I did not criticize them while in uniform and did my best to obey the oath that I swore to when I enlisted back in 1973. Today, not so much. Over the last several years I have heard many Soldiers both young and old and of all ranks openly make their personal feelings for the current Commander-in-Chief at the time known.

I’m here to learn, discuss and if I have the opportunity to assist and / or mentor my fellow veterans and service members. All that other noise I reserve for FaceBook.

Response by LCpl Edward Wynn made Jan 19 at 2018 2:18 AM

LCpl Edward Wynn — Fri, 19 Jan 2018 02:18:26 -0500

Well, your question is odd in my opinion. Inciting anger is never positive. I do my best to not do so yet I find some sre so far overboard it is time to cut them loose. But..that is just me.

Response by PO3 Curtis Tower made Jan 28 at 2018 1:52 PM

PO3 Curtis Tower — Sun, 28 Jan 2018 13:52:02 -0500

In the interest of free speech, we all have the right to say things that may well hack other people off. Let's not forget, however, that with rights come responsibilities. Anger is not always a bad thing in that when there is righteous indignation towards a particular issue, it motivates people to work towards change. Hopefully, civil and professional communication is something that is developed across all ranks and rates. Military service has the tendency to bring about maturity in everyone who strives to live up to their particular branch's highest values. This is a tall order for everyone who serves; however, there is still an inherent responsibility regardless.
I think the question is better phrased, "How do we share our views professionally and remain civil during the discourse?" It is inherent within the military ranks that there are individuals of all different influences and backgrounds. Along with this comes the occasional ill response or worst yet, a response that is born of emotion without temperance. An educated, or well versed, individual can certainly drive their point home without resorting to ad hominem attacks.

Response by CMSgt Steve Pennington made Jan 28 at 2018 11:30 PM

CMSgt Steve Pennington — Sun, 28 Jan 2018 23:30:20 -0500

There continues to be a lack of civility in discourse today. We continue to attack the individual and not their premise or idea. I truly miss the opportunity to debate without persoal attack. Some of my dearest and closest friends and I have had diverse opiions and been able to talk about them with honest beliefs and never revile each other

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Feb 3 at 2018 10:12 AM

1SG James Kelly — Sat, 03 Feb 2018 10:12:57 -0500

I tell the truth, how it is and how I feel; the rest is up to you.

Response by Col Robert Wallace made Feb 4 at 2018 10:57 PM

Col Robert Wallace — Sun, 04 Feb 2018 22:57:35 -0500

Good evening Col. Burroughs and all RP members. "Is it right to incite anger in RP members....?" Why just RP members? I, for one, would like to see that statement amended to include everyone. Any "dispute" could be settled by rational, intelligent minds, but instead each individual has his/her sense of what is right or wrong, usually with no compromise. Add to that is emotions and the stage is set for creating anger. Long ago I read a quote: "There is none who is so blind that have eyes but cannot see; nor so deaf as those who have ears but cannot hear; nor so mute as those who have mouths but cannot speak". When it comes to issues or disputes, do most people react as the ones in the quote? Or do we try to have an open mind, listening to all that is said, seeing any "evidence" and speaking to ask questions and learn? When one has a closed mind, believes his way is the only way then this fosters anger. I ask the question "What is solved by inciting anger?" Ever see/hear two people arguing? Yelling/screaming at the top of their lungs and not hearing what each other has to say. It is only when there is some degree of calmness, rational thinking and maybe some compromise is anything able to be solved. So what purpose has "inciting to anger" prove? Actually, nothing only some ignorance on the part of those doing the inciting to anger.

Response by SFC Greg Bruorton made Feb 5 at 2018 6:38 PM

SFC Greg Bruorton — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 18:38:39 -0500

I have seen the venom and animosity among the membership when cussing and discussing the topic of politics here. For the sake of brotherly and sisterly love let us dispense of the political leanings in the written word so we may return to the state of togetherness. Our political opinions are best left to our involvement with our legislatures. Further, the goal of Rally Point is our affiliations with the military. Let's hope we can revitalize that concept and move ahead.

Response by SPC Mike Lake made Feb 5 at 2018 10:23 PM

SPC Mike Lake — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 22:23:43 -0500

We are all brothers here and we all have different opinions and outlooks but putting down other brothers other incitng anger is something that shouldnt be done I love this group because it is more professional than the private groups on FB. So let's keep that professionalism and great reputation

Response by PO1 Donald Hammond made Feb 5 at 2018 10:31 PM

PO1 Donald Hammond — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 22:31:04 -0500

Oh hell no. What? You fall out of the stupid tree and hit all the stupid branches on the way down and then beat yourself with the stupid sticks at the bottom? Polite is for officers only.

Okay okay. Just for you. This one time. Sooorrrrrrry, sir. Carry on. As you were. Good thing I'm a civilian now.

What got me about this is my Div Off is a LT in the Navy and he will walk through the cube land and greet everyone politely. Scurries past my cube saying "just don't say a word, Hammond" lol

On the other hand when he is bringing new military around to meet the civilians he says "Don't talk to him. He will only lie to you. But you can rely on his stuff running good. If it is broke, he won't tell you, he will just fix it. He was a nuke on submarines. That's all you need to know." :) I have him well trained.

But, seriously, we should always keep it polite between us. Even if you hate somebody on here, just be polite. It won't hurt you. Honest.

Response by Sgt John Mizell made Feb 5 at 2018 10:46 PM

Sgt John Mizell — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 22:46:49 -0500

I think each one of us needs to respect one another, even if its different than our own opinion, I myself need to learn to be more tolerant of other ideas

Response by LTC Jordan Clouse made Feb 6 at 2018 9:34 PM

LTC Jordan Clouse — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 21:34:19 -0500

Is it right? No. Though some people have thin skin and some have thick skin. Some people will be offended no matter what people say. It's just an online community for people to voice their opinion, though we share a common bond. I'm not on here to piss anyone off, but if I make a comment and someone doesn't like it, too bad for them because I don't base my contentment on the feelings of others online.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2018 7:03 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Feb 2018 07:03:00 -0500

Hooah! We're all the same team here.

Response by SFC Jim Chrisner made Feb 9 at 2018 9:22 PM

SFC Jim Chrisner — Fri, 09 Feb 2018 21:22:38 -0500

Some people are so easily offended that there is no way to have a civil conversation about some subjects. Name calling and ignorant slurs are not part of a civil discussion, even when you disagree. I despise people who label others without proof but I refuse to lower myself except to point out their ignorance.

Response by LTC Ronald Stephens made Feb 11 at 2018 6:43 PM

LTC Ronald Stephens — Sun, 11 Feb 2018 18:43:15 -0500

If you are military and can't maintain civil discourse on this forum then you really don't belong on this forum. If you are non military and can't maintain civil discourse on this forum you should be blocked from participating with the recommendation that you join twitter or some similar forum that is better suited for your lack of class.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2018 4:35 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Feb 2018 16:35:01 -0500

No Sir.

Response by MSG Charles Turner made Feb 15 at 2018 4:39 PM

MSG Charles Turner — Thu, 15 Feb 2018 16:39:34 -0500

Sorry Sir, If I did it was not my intent.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2018 12:42 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Feb 2018 12:42:30 -0500

I agree with you COL Mikel J. Burroughs . I like RP because it is military oriented. I feel like it is a good place for me to come and read articles, ask for help/opinions. I am not at all a fan of when people make personal and unprofessional attacks. Remember the "Golden Rule"

Response by Sgt Jeff Kayl made Feb 26 at 2018 5:52 PM

Sgt Jeff Kayl — Mon, 26 Feb 2018 17:52:44 -0500

It's impossible to not incite anger from time-to-time. The issue is whether or not one intentionally seeks to arouse anger; however, absent evidence to the contrary, comments that elicit disagreement shouldn't be seen as attempts to arouse anger.

Response by SFC Joseph McCausland made Mar 3 at 2018 5:10 PM

SFC Joseph McCausland — Sat, 03 Mar 2018 17:10:13 -0500

It's called "Civil Discourse", unfortunately the "Progressives" in our society are doing everything in their power to shutdown alternative views. Very sad and very dangerous.

Response by 1stSgt Stanley J Klein Sr made Mar 8 at 2018 2:46 PM

1stSgt Stanley J Klein Sr — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 14:46:06 -0500

I do not think it right to post something with the intent to incite anger. That is called "trolling" and serves no useful purpose.

Response by Sgt Charles Malcom made Mar 8 at 2018 8:30 PM

Sgt Charles Malcom — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 20:30:46 -0500

I have posted on this site many times and have been disabused by only one individual, and I honestly believe he misread what I posted. I have posted a lot about my personal life, things that happened to me while in the Corps, and things about my civil life. Hell, folks, I just turned 85 in Feb. I'm probably one of the oldest vets on here, and I've had some experiences that I like to share. For instance, I just kissed a brick wall at full speed ahead and broke the first two vertebrae in my neck, and I've been in this HARD collar now for over two months and have another two to go. Why the Lord has not called me home yet is unbelievable. Now, to answer the question: No, it is not right to incite anger on this thread. Most of us are former high-ranking-officers or long-term NCOs. If you can't keep the conversation civil, stay out of the conversation. If any of you wish not to read my posts, look at the picture. That was taken when I was finishing up DI School at Parris Island in 1956. Handsome dude, eh!

Response by SFC Russell Shaw made Mar 9 at 2018 4:23 PM

SFC Russell Shaw — Fri, 09 Mar 2018 16:23:14 -0500

We all have different world views. I have had a few comments that I thought were not well thought out, but I could be wrong. They could have thought them out very thoroughly it may be there world view that makes it seem that way to me. When you put a comment out here you will have some who do not agree with you completely. We should be respectful of others and even if we disagree we can do so nicely. Then again we are from different worlds and the way I say it, and they way they understand it, could be the other side of our world view. Without tone, body language and inflection it is hard to say how things are meant to sound or taken the only thing we can do here is use WORDS AND LETTERS TO GET OTHERS TO UNDERSTAND; DID YOU HEAR THAT. Sorry I didn't mean to yell at you.

Response by Chris Harshfield made Mar 25 at 2018 9:55 PM

Chris Harshfield — Sun, 25 Mar 2018 21:55:48 -0400

Remember when there was no internet, no cell phones? Yes we had social issues but not like we do now. Kids don’t think they need to study anymore because all the answers are in that little black box called a cell phone that they never call anyone on. Just throwing that out there.

Response by MAJ Charles Mercer made Mar 29 at 2018 5:05 PM

MAJ Charles Mercer — Thu, 29 Mar 2018 17:05:27 -0400

Do you think it is right to incite anger in other RP members with your comments? This is a difficult question to answer. It boils down to motive. Are you saying thems with the motive to anger another? Or, are you stating heartfelt beliefs that aren't accepted or are rejected by another? Our country is split as clearly revealed by the last presidential election
My own brother is a leftist and totally disassociated me and my sisters because he can't tolerate conservative siblings. I stated my views on faceboik. He stated his veiws. There was no middleground. He grew angry when I said he must be the milkman's son.

Response by PO1 Todd B. made Mar 30 at 2018 6:52 PM

PO1 Todd B. — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 18:52:35 -0400

You are not the only one that has seen this trend.

Response by 1SG Henry McDonald made Apr 4 at 2018 9:40 AM

1SG Henry McDonald — Wed, 04 Apr 2018 09:40:40 -0400

While I completely agree with the comments here being uoset or being “incited” to anger is a personal choice. If you want to offend me go ahead. Tell me when you’re done and I will tell you how you did. I choose NOT to be fragile. I choose NOT to be invited to anger. I choose to remain calm and professional even I. The face of that which should anger me. It’s my choice..... I learned that very early on in my military career. Even in combat the level head will help with the preservation of rational thought and survival. I have seen this in several occasions.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2018 8:33 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 08 Apr 2018 08:33:39 -0400

Col. Mikel, I am seeing this for the first time as it has posted to my email account. You have posed a very good question along with some very sound and strong advice as well.

What I see is when a person gets backed into corner they see no other way out but to lash out at those who are trying to advise them. When the person that is trying to be the advisor and they see they are not getting anywhere with that individual then maybe it’s time for the advisor to take their own advice and step away from the argument or disagreement.

Captain Jack, you always are very respectful of others on here and that is a great quality in a leader like yourself. You are very articulate in your responses and I wish I could be that way as well because there have been several times that I have been on Facebook that I have been “brutally honest “ and people get offended and “butt hurt” so I have been attacked both on a personal level and professional level and it is not fun. I would compare it to a toddler throwing a temper tantrum because they come out of left field for no apparent reason the majority of the time. Then you have people like me that cannot articulate her questions or responses as clearly as you do. So I end up in an argument that should not have taken place at all getting attacked from all sides. I have been called ugly names on here and I have started some stuff that I must say I was not proud of. In the end I apologized to that person and asked to have the entire thread removed. Then I have been called stupid and other names on here because of a situation that was out of me hands on a medical procedure that was done on me. I asked for people’s thoughts and advice and there was one person calling me ignorant and stupid to let the procedure continue. I tried to explain I was notified after the fact then the person got more angry with me.

I’ve only had to block 2 people on here and it was because of personal attacks. Facebook I have a laundry list of people. It’s because they are still friends of friends or family and I don’t need or want them seeing my page or what my family is doing and yes one is my mother in law and another is my sister in law. :( I block people to keep out of their drama, I don’t want to be dragged back into it is why they stay on the blocked list.

You all have a blessed day today. Thank you for being such wonderful and supportive members to not just RP but to new members like myself that are still learning the ropes.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Apr 10 at 2018 10:56 AM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Tue, 10 Apr 2018 10:56:36 -0400

Impassioned points of view often incite anger in those not of like mind and viewpoint. It is only natural that this will occur in both directions. The idea is to try and maintain civility throughout the debate. I enjoy a good debate but draw a line when the other side resorts to name-calling, total obscenity and using anger to make a POV that cannot otherwise be made with fact. I do my best to make my points in a rational and civil manner but some people just don't get it. When the debate gets totally debased I will walk off with the line: I'd love to carry on this lively conversation but refuse to have a battle of wits with an unarmed man.

Response by PO2 Dale Brown made Apr 11 at 2018 7:35 PM

PO2 Dale Brown — Wed, 11 Apr 2018 19:35:23 -0400

I am offended that you are offended by my remarks!

Response by SSG Rick Miller made Apr 28 at 2018 12:53 PM

SSG Rick Miller — Sat, 28 Apr 2018 12:53:59 -0400

And here I thought this site was for current and former military to exchange information, opinions and the lies we all tell (war stories), not a political forum. See what being a dumbass grunt gets you. Foolish me.

Response by SGT George Duncan made Apr 29 at 2018 7:03 PM

SGT George Duncan — Sun, 29 Apr 2018 19:03:14 -0400

not very healthy round here

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2018 1:30 AM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 01:30:08 -0400

I always remind my self of the principals of our constitution when I see questions like this. Having said that, it is not a right of anyone to get any respect from anyone so if you believe someone is being stupid. You don't have to pay them any attention either for that matter. The only way we can every have any real conversations or debates is to risk pissing someone off and making others uncomfortable. That's my two bits.

Response by MSgt Brian Williams made May 7 at 2018 7:39 PM

MSgt Brian Williams — Mon, 07 May 2018 19:39:46 -0400

It is tough to regulate what will set someone else off especially on the internet where it is impossible to gauge someone's emotions behind a posting. When I was active duty and received a message, email or even a phone call that sent me from 0 to 90 in seconds, I would type out a message with my true feelings to get it out of my system. Then type something professional with a sincere ending like I typed this with my fist.

Response by Brad Miller made May 10 at 2018 8:49 AM

Brad Miller — Thu, 10 May 2018 08:49:55 -0400

This is a forum for discussion and comment, not vicious attacks and incitement to trouble. I dislike the casual use of the term "troll", but I've been seeing a sharp rise of that behavior on a number of websites.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2018 12:23 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 14 May 2018 00:23:36 -0400

In this life you will always have people who are jerks. Sadly, being a veteran does not exempt us from those who fall into that category. I just try to keep it in perspective and remember that inciteful and derogatory comments say more about the individual saying them that the one it is directed to. Also, the words of Jesus come to mind to keep us all in check..."do until others as you would have them do unto you."

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2018 12:32 AM

Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 14 May 2018 00:32:49 -0400

Good question, Col. I have never seen a comment that was Deliberately posted to incite anyone !
IF, something raises my ire, I have the choice, I may respond to incite(very good word) Or I may share my view in a Non-threatening manner Or I may choose Not to respond ! We are all adults! If the other party desires a discussion may ensue where Both points of view may be explained fully so that harmony & friendship may grow !
HOORAH !!!

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2019 5:37 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Jul 2019 05:37:58 -0400

Well, the military is full of incompetence, unsurprisingly, and many who are given rank and authority in the military are often genuinely incompetent with bloated egos, but through corruption and lies they acquire positions they should have never been granted; the same goes for officers.

As such, many military members are arrogant, conceited, cowardly or lacking any sense of integrity or honor, and many of these are NCOs or Officers. The military is sadly experiencing a serious decline in quality, both in its management and in its cadre of personnel. If you're acting like a jackass, then you deserve to be called out on it, and if no one calls them out on it for fear of rocking the boat, that's just adding to the problem.

As my old Drill Sergeant used to say, "I don't sugarcoat shit"; words to live by. If someone is offended by hearing the truth, that's too bad for them, but I won't apologize or lose sleep over it, either here on RP or elsewhere in life.

As for "professionals", I'll remind you that many such military "professionals" are nowhere near as professional as you think they are; they're only human, after all. Many people portray a facade of professionalism and it looks good from a distance, but up close and personal you can spot many chinks and hypocrisies that even they may not be aware of.

CPT Jack Durish - perhaps said it best on his answer here, and he's right on the money. If you're so easily offended by something factual or truthful, you probably don't have any professionalism to begin with and shouldn't be taken seriously.

In response to trolls however, assuming there are any genuine trolls on RP, we can just ignore them and no one will care for their silly behavior.

Response by SFC Chad Sowash made Oct 7 at 2019 8:47 AM

SFC Chad Sowash — Mon, 07 Oct 2019 08:47:41 -0400

Inviting anger usually starts with the propagandized posts, which rises the ire of the community. I haven't logged into RP for 6 months due to this incredibly divisive group. I once believed that I needed to provide the other side of the story, but it became incredibly caustic and untenable.

I only jumped back in this morning and after the posts and comments I've reviewed won't be back.

Facebook is less caustic.

Response by PO1 Mary Vermont made Jan 12 at 2021 5:08 PM

PO1 Mary Vermont — Tue, 12 Jan 2021 17:08:50 -0500

Right? Sorry but if they don’t like what you say they can go find a safe space