Posted on Dec 7, 2015

Does anyone else get uncomfortable when addressed by rank here on RP?

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I've been referred to a lot as "sir" and "Captain" here on Rally Point, but I've been out now for eight years. I'm just Bob. It makes me uncomfortable, not because I'm ashamed of my rank when I was in, but rather because as a veteran I feel like I have the same rank as all other vets, regardless of TIS or rank. What are your thoughts on this?

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RallyPoint

Posted 10 y ago

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SGT (Join to see)

Edited 10 y ago

Posted 10 y ago

I guess I am in minority, I have no issue people calling me by my first name, last name, rank, or other military names like grunt, airborne, ground pounder, etc etc. It doesn't face me, especially not when I am among veterans. i assume that people use the epithet that makes them most comfortable, and I have no issue with that.

With that said, I understand your perspective - but uncomfortable, I am not.

I would never suggest that people call me by my rank ever... well, unless someone that I do not respect would have me address them as Doctor "because they have earned it" - well then I might just have to have them call me a title I have earned. But that would be the only time I can imagine.

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Capt Bob Abbott

10 y

Right, but if I might offer, you are still serving. I was find with it for a few years after I got out, but now many years later I'm like, "hey, just call me Bob."

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SGT (Join to see)

10 y

You have indeed a point, Bob. ;)

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CSM Charles Hayden Passed 7/29/2025

10 y

SGT (Join to see) An MD casually addressed, patient me as 'Chief', I bit back, 'I am a SGM not a chief!'. He responded that he was a retired COL!

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SGT Francis Wright

Posted 10 y ago

Really doesn't matter to me. What ever the writer feels comfortable with. But if the respondent prefers less formal communication is ok too.

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CSM David Heidke

Posted 10 y ago

No Bob... I'm not. ;-)

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Capt Bob Abbott

10 y

Thanks Dave!

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Sgt David G Duchesneau

10 y

Why???

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SFC John Birks

Posted 10 y ago

I'm my humble opinion, you've earned that rank and regardless of your status (active, reserve, retired) I will show that respect. You've earned it. Just like I've earned the right to be called a Tanker. Don't feel uncomfortable Sir, people are showing you respect.

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