How do you handle unprofessional behavior by somebody senior to you?

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 31 Oct 2013 22:07:01 -0400

Brothers/Sisters,<div><br></div><div>This has been bugging me ALL DAY. This morning, prior to first formation, my detachment was standing outside talking. Some of the members in our company stay in their vehicles listening to music until the company starts to form. A member (E-5) on another team was in his car, listening to music (which was not in violation of Ft. Bragg regulations, you couldn't hear the lyrics nor was there any bass). Out of nowhere, I hear "HEY!" and turn around to see a senior noncommissioned officer (E-7) yank open the E-5's  car door, screaming at him "TURN THAT S*** DOWN!", then leans over him inside his car, turns down the radio, and slams his car door as hard as he can, in view of the entire company (except the 1SG or CDR). </div><div><br></div><div>That being said, I maintained my military bearing, went to my Detachment Sergeant and explained the events that unfolded. I also spoke to the E-5's Team Leader as well. They said they would talk to the E-7, and that was it.</div><div><br></div><div>Here is my question. I can't help but put myself in my peer's shoes, and imagine how I would have reacted to someone doing that to me. They say "do what you think your rank can handle", what would you have done in both my position observing the incident, and the other NCO's position that had this done to him?</div>

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 31 at 2013 10:12 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 31 Oct 2013 22:12:04 -0400

Maintain, and let the guy know you are available to back him up if the situation goes further. You were a witness to the event. 

Response by LTC Yinon Weiss made Oct 31 at 2013 10:21 PM

LTC Yinon Weiss — Thu, 31 Oct 2013 22:21:29 -0400

I've never been an NCO, from an commander's perspective, I think you did the right thing. You don't want to escalate the situation in front of others, or to paint that E-7 into a corner in which he would have to stand up for his actions in front of his peers/subordinates.

This could be a case of toxic leadership, or a case of somebody just having a really bad day. Either way, I hope the chain of command (your 1SG) will follow up on this. My guess is that they already know about this form of behavior from the E-7, and are dealing with it.

Response by SSG Jason Neumann made Oct 31 at 2013 11:42 PM

SSG Jason Neumann — Thu, 31 Oct 2013 23:42:55 -0400

Sounds like someone was on a rampage and proving himself. I got that alot, well seen alot, when I was stationed at Bragg. I guess may ask what regulation they were breaking to be a good informed NCO. IDK... but by bringing it up to peoples attention might be able to work out the kinks..... If not put some Hootie & the Blow Fish in there and see what kind of action you get out of him....lol

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 1 at 2013 2:59 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 14:59:55 -0400

I would respectfully approach the SFC about it later, when he calmed down from whatever was really bugging him and no one is one. It is always best to deal with things at the lowest level.  It would be good character building for you to ask what his rationale was and express, tactfully, that you think he handled that situation poorly. It is a senior NCO's job to train younger NCO's and set the proper example. Irrational and harsh behavior is not effective or appropriate corrective training, (I realize the SGT wasn't in any violation of rules).  Anyway, my point is that I would have approached him and had a conversation about it to understand his reaction and express to him how it was perceived by others.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 1 at 2013 3:13 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 15:13:20 -0400

Well to play devil's advocate, perhaps the E7 was attempting to preserve the importance of the morning formation and all of its routines. Make no mistake, I am not trying to say what he did was correct because I also think it sounds "personal" to an extent-as in perhaps that E7 and the jr Soldier may have had some kind of run in and this is how he's handling everything that Soldier is doing. Perhaps there is a noise ordnance of some sort and the E7 being senior knew that and expected everyone/anyone else to know the same. Still, the actions were very aggressive to me, considering there was no previous attempts to correct that action. We are PROFESSIONALS 1st and foremost and sounds like he was having a bad day and went about what he did very unprofessionally, from what you've said.

You know this E7 and his history. Was it out of character for him or is he known for these type actions??? Because unfortunately if this is his norm and it just escalated then you may get that "aww you know how he is, he didn't mean nothing by it", but if its out of the norm, then one of his peers seriously need to address it with him bc if he's having personal issues and taking it out on one of the Soldiers, it may get worse.

Good luck,

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 1 at 2013 3:31 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 15:31:27 -0400

Toxic leadership seems to be running rampid across the NCO corps. over the last few years.  To be blunt you did do the right thing.  It says I will "....remain loyal to those whom I serve...seniors, peers, and subordinates alike...."  you may not agree with superiors actions or opinions however you now know as a leader of what right looks like and what wrong looks like.  The internal development of your own leadership style is continually changing.  this is an exmaple of what you would do differently in your own eyes...   Remain steadfast, you will get your opportunity soon enough to implement changes within your own realm....take care buddy good luck

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 1 at 2013 3:44 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 15:44:59 -0400

Sounds like a PTSD overreaction.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Nov 1 at 2013 4:44 PM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 16:44:45 -0400

I think we need to all respect everyone's private property. That method of making an on the spot correction was unprofessional and not nessessary. If he had done that to someone else what if his actions of opening the car door and leaning in was perceived as a threat to one's life and safety and there was a reaction from the alledged victim?

I hate to make this sound like I am really taking this out to left field but in the MP world I call this an illegal search. I believe the SFC owes an apology to the SGT.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 1 at 2013 5:31 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 17:31:11 -0400

Yeah...........hooah! You did the right thing, never a good idea to jump into issue without taking a step back. Let your leaders know (which you did) and trust they will take the appropriate action.

Response by SFC Michael Patterson made Nov 3 at 2013 12:44 PM

SFC Michael Patterson — Sun, 03 Nov 2013 12:44:15 -0500

SGT Williams as a Senior NCO this frustrates me to see a peer act in this manner. Personally I would not have taking this from a Senior NCO that acted in this manner. Number one they have no legal right to touch your personal property in the manner in which you described it or without your consent. Two to scream at a subordinate NCO in that manner is ridiculous and does not seem warranted in this situation. This is based off of your description. If the Senior NCO had done this to me I would have tactfully directed them to keep their hands off of my property and would have addressed the screaming issue with my immediate supervisor.  in an attempt to get this resolved.

Response by SGT Shawn Estep made Nov 15 at 2013 3:55 PM

SGT Shawn Estep — Fri, 15 Nov 2013 15:55:35 -0500

I would have respected the guys rank and then shoot it up the chain of command till I got some answers. I would also tell the other NCO if he reaches in my car again I would file a report with the MP's under article 128 UCMJ Conduct nu-becomeing of a soldier and such.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 24 at 2013 1:28 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Dec 2013 13:28:09 -0500

That's a tough situation to be placed in by your peer and kudos on your part for maintaining your bearing. Best COA for these types of events is to engage your company level leadership and see what they do once the ball is in their court. If nothing happens, most units have a comment box for such issues at their respective battalions to drop off for the BC/CSM to handle.

Response by SFC Rocky Gannon made Dec 24 at 2013 1:38 PM

SFC Rocky Gannon — Tue, 24 Dec 2013 13:38:29 -0500

Well I would say you did the right thing, however if I was that NCO, that E7, and I say E7 not SFC because he seems like a strip wearer, that we need to go talk to the commander, NOW! He can't touch a soldiers property and do as he pleases with it, I would have him with the commander for a talk.

Response by MSG Martinis Butler made Dec 25 at 2013 8:31 AM

MSG Martinis Butler — Wed, 25 Dec 2013 08:31:44 -0500

Immediately I would have informed the 1SG and Commander and expressed my concerns to them about the situation and allow them to handle it. Abusing rank is the wrong answer from that (SFC), but if that SGT was to flip out and hit him then the SFC would have wanted to push punishment or some form of legal action. I would just inform that SGT that you were willing,available, and prepared to write a sworn statement if need be. This type of conduct can not and should not be accepted among our ranks!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 25 at 2013 8:49 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Dec 2013 08:49:23 -0500

I agree with everyone's comments and feedback. I do not see any reason why some NCO's yell and over react. I believe going and doing things tactfully always pays off at the end.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2013 4:07 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Dec 2013 16:07:09 -0500

I think people really need to calm down about stupid stuff like that. That's as simple as that.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2013 5:16 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Dec 2013 17:16:41 -0500

That E-7 acted like a complete moron, if he did that to me I'd report his @$$ to 1SG. You just don't behave like that  and it sounds to me like he might of been one of those Napoleon Syndrome duds.  

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2014 3:27 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 07 Apr 2014 15:27:02 -0400

I dont RHIP Senior leaders are above all others and take offense to quickly with a closed mind. They say correct me if I am wrong but get offended easily when corrected so subordinates with cower to corrective verbal acknowledgement.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2014 6:58 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 07 Apr 2014 18:58:58 -0400

Not that I'm defending the E-7, but would it be that hard to "knock" on the E-4's Window and just let him know to turn it down? I think the E-7 took it a bit too far by opening the door and reaching in. As stated as above, if that were to happen off post...someone would get arrested. So what's the right answer? Will his chain of command do anything, or will it be dealt with? Will the soldier receive a apology or will it just get brushed under the rug?

Response by 1SG Frank Rocha made Apr 13 at 2014 11:14 PM

1SG Frank Rocha — Sun, 13 Apr 2014 23:14:19 -0400

Sounds like you already did your due diligence. You spoke to the NCOIC of your detachment and the E5's team leader. They said they would handle it. Allow them to fail before you decide they have failed. You can also let the E5 know you witnessed the event and will provide support if needed. The most important thing to take from this is how NOT to treat fellow NCO's, especially in public, and regardless of the difference in pay grade.

As a side note, I would like to add that, while being yelled at is not uncommon, and most definitely will not go away, doing it in public is never okay. Overreacting can be contagious as well. You have the initial over reaction, then follows an equal and opposite over reaction, which then snowballs if a rational and professional voice of reason does not intervene. Be the rational voice of reason when its needed and appropriate. Raising your voice is rarely needed (unless your trying to speak over a jet aircraft taking off or other such loud noise, or a drill sergeant drilling new recruits). Our subordinates watch what we do and how we do it. Many times they mimic how we react and deal with certain situations and scenarios, regardless of what the "book" says.

According to Confucius there are 3 paths to wisdom, through observation, imitation, and experience. The problem with the first 2 is that you could be picking up someone else's bad habits and thereby passing those bad habits onto others. Be the example.

Response by MSgt John McGowan made Oct 16 at 2016 4:37 PM

MSgt John McGowan — Sun, 16 Oct 2016 16:37:29 -0400

Now I have been chewed out, real good. But never yelled at screamed at or anything like that. But chewing out, some of the best.

Response by SGT Gregory Reilly made Jan 22 at 2017 11:44 PM

SGT Gregory Reilly — Sun, 22 Jan 2017 23:44:18 -0500

I believe it's your duty as an NCO. However remember your rank and the perps rank and administer the proper respect. I was involved in a situation on a civilian flight where a MSgt had been drinking and was cussing and swearing in front of women and children. I presented my ID and suggested to said NCO that she should take a nap for the rest of the flight. She cussed out a few threats but realized she was in the wrong she did shut up. Through out the entire incident I maintained my discipline and showed proper respect of her rank but brought about a peaceful solution to the situation. My point is if you're not willing to protect the NCO Corps and integrity of your chosen branch of service maybe you shouldn't be wearing stripes.

Response by Sean Edmond made Jan 23 at 2017 3:36 PM

Sean Edmond — Mon, 23 Jan 2017 15:36:31 -0500

E2 would be carrying a house plant for the next week to replenish the oxegyn wasted upon them ....

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2017 5:20 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Jan 2017 05:20:55 -0500

Tread VERY lightly, the E-7 and above community has deep roots. Its best to approach a peer of that person (PROFESSIONALY) and speak to them in light of events.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Jan 27 at 2017 1:24 AM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Fri, 27 Jan 2017 01:24:23 -0500

Embarrassing anybody in front of their peers never has positive results. If You have to say something it should be just You and him. If they made a legitimate mistake they know it, You don't have to make a fool of them. In case You were actually mistaken in the same token, You didn't make a fool of Yourself either. In the case of a compliment or a job well done, nobody minds being praised in public in front of others. That always seems to get a positive response.

Response by SSG Matthew Koehler made Jan 27 at 2017 11:25 AM

SSG Matthew Koehler — Fri, 27 Jan 2017 11:25:06 -0500

I'm retired and this situation rubs me wrong. I don't think I would have maintained my bearing with somebody in my personal space like that. I would have wrapped my seat belt around his neck and see how well he negotiated that obstacle...

Response by SSG Scott Thelen made Jan 27 at 2017 12:08 PM

SSG Scott Thelen — Fri, 27 Jan 2017 12:08:12 -0500

I don't think that there is a "one size fits all' reaction to every situation. The real point is, do not lower your professionalism in the process. One problem that I have with "taking the Senior NCO aside" is that the Senior NCO is spared the same embarrassment that he caused this Junior NCO. If he was wrong, others deserve to see it, so that the Junior NCO has some sort of justice and vindication. Otherwise, the Junior NCO will be angry him/herself and treat their subordinates similarly, which only continues the cycle of unprofessionalism.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2017 8:30 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 20:30:02 -0500

Go to the PSG.

That's what I did when a squad leader showed a junior enlisted soldier a picture of a morbidly obese woman online and insisted that the SPC's wife looked like this. The SPC was visibly angered as it came out of nowhere yet he maintained his professionalism and walked away.

Response by SGT Gary DeFelippo made Feb 5 at 2017 8:00 PM

SGT Gary DeFelippo — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 20:00:35 -0500

Make a verbal correction in a professional manner

Response by SPC David Escamilla made Feb 8 at 2017 12:39 PM

SPC David Escamilla — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 12:39:39 -0500

Both should act in a professional way

Response by Sgt Matt Dean made Mar 18 at 2017 4:18 AM

Sgt Matt Dean — Sat, 18 Mar 2017 04:18:33 -0400

Always respect rank but behind closed doors tactfully confront the situation and try to reason. If you get a smart a answer go to another senior and explain the situation. Also suck it up and move on don't get your vafiba hurt over someone who thinks they are a bad a

Response by Sgt Matt Dean made Mar 18 at 2017 4:37 AM

Sgt Matt Dean — Sat, 18 Mar 2017 04:37:32 -0400

Always respect rank. Tactfully approach the higher rank and if he thought it was disrespectful then suck it up and move on. When you achieve that rank you make your decisions to do what you want but always respect rank. If you felt disrespected talk to the higher behind closed doors at the poa and explain you felt disrespected. If he stil treats you like trash, go to another higher but never get smart with higher rank! Done individuals abuse the rank sadly but one day you will be there! Respect the rank

Response by LTC David Zimmerman made Mar 18 at 2017 11:03 AM

LTC David Zimmerman — Sat, 18 Mar 2017 11:03:43 -0400

I Spent time as a E-5 in the 82nd Division. Understanding and completey believing your perception of the incident, you did the right thing. Don't paint this E-7's actions on others nor him. Taking it to extreme, would you understand him differently if he is experiencing bad news. This SFC might be a tool but he's 1 in a 100,000. You doing the right thing is the lesson here. How many others didn't do anything allowing this SFC to continue this behavior. The universal thought is You did the courageous and Right action. Your other young NCOs should see you act, not his actions.

Response by LCpl Johnny Carroll made Mar 21 at 2017 8:47 PM

LCpl Johnny Carroll — Tue, 21 Mar 2017 20:47:30 -0400

extre duty

Response by Sarah Michaelson made Mar 24 at 2017 8:55 PM

Sarah Michaelson — Fri, 24 Mar 2017 20:55:41 -0400

Its ur superior if u truly believe he has gotten out of hand talk to ur sargeant and if not go higher above him in ur branch and ask to meet with him and the out of hand senior and see if a compromise xan happen if not transfer splatoons

Response by SrA David Sowles made Mar 26 at 2017 12:10 AM

SrA David Sowles — Sun, 26 Mar 2017 00:10:26 -0400

Ima medic...its called bedside manner

Response by LCpl Gregory McDonald made Mar 26 at 2017 1:53 PM

LCpl Gregory McDonald — Sun, 26 Mar 2017 13:53:46 -0400

Nothing u can do.

Response by SGT Kebora Cross Turner made Mar 27 at 2017 12:20 PM

SGT Kebora Cross Turner — Mon, 27 Mar 2017 12:20:10 -0400

Send to medac for eval fir alzheimer/dementia. Probably alcohol induced.

Response by PO3 Vinny Ambrose made Apr 4 at 2017 7:30 PM

PO3 Vinny Ambrose — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 19:30:53 -0400

I was an E-3 ADAN on Air Station attached to AOMD. I was placed in charge of static display of aircraft for upcoming air show. I had a LTJG approach me insisting that a skid gear rotor wing aircraft be parked next to fixed wing aircraft, I attempted to explain why a skid gear helicopter should not be parked next to a fixed wing light aircraft but he would not listen and attempted to pull rank and yell at me that "you will park that helicopter next to that aircraft. I made a request for Duty Ops Officer and my Chief to come to my location with a brief explanation of event. They arrived and Duty Officer asked the LTJG what his request was for parking aircraft? LTJG told Duty Officer that he wished that a specified type of skid gear helicopter be parked next to other aircraft. Duty Officer explained that this Airman was in charge of placement of aircraft for static display and that said LTJG would adhere to my direction and command as I am a direct representative of him, Duty Officer. LTJG responded that he was not going to take orders from some Airman, Duty Officer requested that LTJG accompany him to Air Ops Quarter Deck. I was told that he got wrote up for disobeying a lawful order by my Chief. Dumbass LTJG!

Response by PO2 Anthony Peddigree made Apr 7 at 2017 6:07 AM

PO2 Anthony Peddigree — Fri, 07 Apr 2017 06:07:48 -0400

I pull them to the side to discuss it

Response by Gabriel Volentine made Apr 9 at 2017 2:58 PM

Gabriel Volentine — Sun, 09 Apr 2017 14:58:23 -0400

What I would do is go to a higher rank and ask them to talk to the officer. If they don't then just take it

Response by SPC Mike Dittmar made Apr 13 at 2017 3:48 PM

SPC Mike Dittmar — Thu, 13 Apr 2017 15:48:58 -0400

Chain of command

Response by SGT Sean Hale made Apr 24 at 2017 12:31 PM

SGT Sean Hale — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 12:31:36 -0400

Here is the problem with todays military. Too many seniors hiding behind their rank and too many juniors quick to say I'll sign a swarn statement. This situation calls for an old fashioned behind the motorpool counseling. Then once its over no one cries about an ass whooping

Response by SSG Scott Thelen made Apr 27 at 2017 1:28 PM

SSG Scott Thelen — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 13:28:05 -0400

My best advice for you is to stay professional yourself. No good will come from you lowering yourself to the senior's level of professionalism. The next thing I would advise is to pick your battles carefully. If this senior is virtually "untouchable", then it may be better to suck it up and move out smartly.

Response by Michael Polland made Apr 27 at 2017 2:46 PM

Michael Polland — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 14:46:46 -0400

Every situation is unique but there are some basic principles that you might find helpful in the situation. The first two scriptures give an idea of how to talk with the individual.
Mathew 18:15-17
1st Timothy 5:1
The third scripture is a good place to start a conversation about the responsibility of authority.
Ephesians 6:4

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Jul 15 at 2017 10:58 AM

SSgt Boyd Herrst — Sat, 15 Jul 2017 10:58:38 -0400

I don't know if that E-7 was just pushing his rank or was just showing what a complete a** he just made himself out to be.. I would certainly try to communicate with one of his Sr. NCOs and see what they could or would do to remedy the sit-rep. If I didn't think that was satisfactory, I'd go higher. Got to play your cards right because those more Sr. NCOs could be buddy's of his.. you'd find out by the reaction you'd get. Maybe you'd be fortunate and get a good feedback and the sitrep be taken care of pretty quick.

Response by SSG Nick Tramontano made Aug 4 at 2017 4:26 PM

SSG Nick Tramontano — Fri, 04 Aug 2017 16:26:15 -0400

That E-7 was out of line. If he felt there wss a problem he could've approached the vehicle and tapped the window. He had no authority or right to do what he did. Had ir been me in the vehicle, I probably would've grabbed his arm an given him an elbow to the face.

Response by SSG Quince Kreb made Aug 25 at 2017 5:20 PM

SSG Quince Kreb — Fri, 25 Aug 2017 17:20:36 -0400

In a situation like that, I would have to intervene by informing that E 7 on he needs to leave the situation, as he will need cool off time. I wouldn't disrespect if at all possible, but remove him from the equation.

I then would speak with the E 5 to let him know that I was a witness to the situation and that I will accompany them to the 1SG and Commander's offices to deal with this matter.

I also would speak with the perpetrator, the E 7, to professionally and personally inform them that their behavior was bery unprofessional.

To counsel each NCO and to find a reason to why it happened can be beneficial for them and the unit, as everyone has to work together for the unit's mission.

Response by PO1 Tom Follis made Oct 10 at 2017 3:19 PM

PO1 Tom Follis — Tue, 10 Oct 2017 15:19:58 -0400

I was in a closed door session once with a career counselor. In burst an E-7 and started talking smack about some sports activity. When I said something to the Chief and asked if he might cry back later, he stated, " I'm a Chief. I can do this". I thanked the counselor for his time and walked out. Never went back. I almost let this clown Chief ruin my career. I felt as if, this is the actions of an E-7, I want no part of it. Retired after 21 years as an E-6.

Response by PFC Griff Schoen made Oct 13 at 2017 12:36 PM

PFC Griff Schoen — Fri, 13 Oct 2017 12:36:51 -0400

Sounds like an anger management issue. E-7's day somehow went to shit. E-5 happened to be the first joe he encountered. Not defending E-7. Just saying that perhaps something in his personal life went sideways and E-5 was wrong place, wrong time. As others have said, take E-7 aside tactfully and discuss. If E-7 is worth anything, he already feels guilty but pride gets in the way sometimes. I know i'm rambling. Point is, we don't know what triggered the outburst. I'm guessing it wasn't the music. Just my 2 pennies.

Response by SSG David Dickson made Dec 28 at 2017 1:15 AM

SSG David Dickson — Thu, 28 Dec 2017 01:15:12 -0500

NCO's do not debase other NCO"s like that and definitely not in full view of hr. Enlisteds.

Response by LCpl John Hubbell made Mar 8 at 2018 5:16 PM

LCpl John Hubbell — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 17:16:50 -0500

All you can do is go up the chain of command and report what you saw

Response by SP5 Dennis Loberger made May 14 at 2018 7:42 PM

SP5 Dennis Loberger — Mon, 14 May 2018 19:42:46 -0400

I witnessed abuse of a civilian secretary by the soldier she worked for. I heard something hit a wall. The secretary came out crying. I asked her what happened and she told me the individual was upset because a word had been misspelled and she had to do it over. I looked at it and what was originally written and found the handwritten original had the same word misspelled. The poor lady had to duck a model helicopter that had been thrown at her. I was appalled. I addressed the situation with the individual by closing the door and having a one on one discussion about the unprofessional nature of his response. I suggested that this kind of response shouldn't occur again.

Response by SGT David Wyatt made Jun 19 at 2018 9:34 PM

SGT David Wyatt — Tue, 19 Jun 2018 21:34:21 -0400

in the dark of night remove the valve core stems from his tires just for kicks

Response by SSgt John Bedus made Aug 20 at 2018 2:06 AM

SSgt John Bedus — Mon, 20 Aug 2018 02:06:09 -0400

When I was still active, I was a chief range officer at a worldwide Security Police match in California we were testing a new piece of equipment that pertain to the M16 I had a major out there from the Pentagon come up to me and tell me to leave the weapon on the Range and go back to the base I refused considering this to be a unlawful order at that time he started threatening me back me into the wall of the Tower, at that time I told you my reasons for not obeying this order as I felt it was unlawful and could not relinquish control of a weapon to anybody he started swearing at me and threaten court-martial at that time I moved into the tower lock the door with the weapon and call my OIC who was out of the office at the time somehow word of this guy. Kicked up to the base commander within 15 minutes they were for security police vehicles there a full bird colonel and shortly thereafter he was on his way back to Washington. Never heard anything from that guy again

Response by CWO4 Jim Doran made Nov 28 at 2018 3:05 AM

CWO4 Jim Doran — Wed, 28 Nov 2018 03:05:04 -0500

I was a PO1 and work center supervisor. My Division Officer told my Division CPO at morning quarters to select one work center for inspection. He selected mine. I did an about face, called my sailors to attention and told them to fall out. Another about face and I told the CPO if he ever walked up to at 0700 again and gave me an order while breathing 180 proof in my face I'd have his ass. Few years later, I was a CWO4, I came back off leave and saw there was absolutely nothing on the schedule, so I told my CPO to give everyone except the duty section the day off. The Chief said he couldn't do it, the Boss (Mustang LCDR) had sent out a memo saying that all early liberties required his approval. I said Chief who do I work for. He said for the Gun Boss. I said who do you work for. He said You Gunner. Then send the troops home and let me worry about the Gun Boss. Then I picked up a Navy Times, went into the Boss' office, sat down on his sofa and started reading. He asked what was up. I said Nothing Mike, I just thought you were lonely. He said Why would you think that? I replied because you sent out a memo saying all early liberty required your approval and I just sent all my non-duty section sailors home. Before he could say anything I continued, Mike I control my sailors mission and working hours. If I miss a deadline or screw up a mission because I sent my sailors home, then you can have my ass or you can fire me, but I control their liberty. He said Sorry, you're right. By the way, we'd known each other since he was a WO1 and I was a CWO2. My next tour of duty was as Weapons Officer in a Tomcat Squadron aboard an aircraft carrier, 6 months later Mike checked in as the Ordnance Handling Officer for the Ship. We always had a great relationship and are still in contact 40 years after the liberty issue.

Response by SPC Stephen Walsh made Dec 24 at 2018 7:26 PM

SPC Stephen Walsh — Mon, 24 Dec 2018 19:26:25 -0500

I discover a CPT doing a lot of stuff that were big No-No's I turned him in and he was finally given a medical discharge. I had 8 mths left, so the COL. told me to enjoy my vacation. Since no Officer could "trust" me there was no place to assign me. I spent the next months on extended pass. Stood no inspection or training. And was encouraged to spend my time off Post. On my last day when I went to clear Post the 1SG said it was done and a jeep was outside to take me to train station. Camp Darby 67

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2019 5:42 AM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 05:42:49 -0400

Go straight to my Gunny. I have some awesome Staff NCOs that have our platoons back and they're some of the most respected people in the battalion, if they can't help me I'm probably SOL

Response by MSG Brian Wiscott made Sep 24 at 2019 2:35 PM

MSG Brian Wiscott — Tue, 24 Sep 2019 14:35:43 -0400

If the E7 wasn't in the E5s chain of command he or she should have had that E5 take him or her to the E5s supervisor and straighten it out with them, how you handle some problems could make all of the difference. You have to know when and when not to intervene. The soldiers command is the best way to handle this one.

Response by SSG Nathan Blair made Jan 17 at 2020 5:38 AM

SSG Nathan Blair — Fri, 17 Jan 2020 05:38:22 -0500

Stay in your lane comes to mind. Being a martyr for the sake of being right often gets you nowhere. As a young E-4 I managed to get on the bad side of a senior E-7 who had a huge chip on his shoulder (not sure why), anyway I was serving in a maintenance company and you had to "prove yourself" to go to a flight company. Loving to fly I often on my own time flew goggles at night just so I could fly and learn. When it came time for me to go to a flight company my platoon sergeant told me I was going to a flight company. My excitement could hardly be contained, until that is I asked which company. The SFC informed me and I said oh great and the SFC's name (not his rank) who in my experience hated me. My platoon sergeant wound up following me to the flight company and became the acting 1SG. Months later after a PT session I being the forgiving cordial person I am saw the SFC (Mr. Hateful) while driving and waved at him. Later that day I was called on the carpet in my 1SG's office. Mr. Hateful was screaming at me and the 1SG that I was rude and disrespectful and had flipped him off while driving (which I had not, just waved), and was trying to press for an Article 15. I took it all in and then when it was my turn to speak I reminded the 1SG of our conversation word for word several months before (oh great, Mr. Hateful) the 1SG hung his head, looked up at fuming Mr. Hateful and said, "That's exactly what he said, I don't believe you, I believe the Specialist." I thought Mr. Hatefuls head was going to explode as he left the office. Moral of the story, stay in your lane so you don't make enemies, there may already be some out there you don't know about. If he's a bad egg already it's a pretty safe bet the command already knows. A SFC requires an act of Congress to get rid of so the command is probably just biding their time, gathering information to deal with your own Mr. Hateful.

Response by SFC David Xanten made Feb 3 at 2020 12:01 PM

SFC David Xanten — Mon, 03 Feb 2020 12:01:29 -0500

The fact that you reported it to the immediate leader and then the E-5's leader, you should wait to see if anything happens. If no one talks to the E-7 then you should go to the 1SG.

Response by SGT Herbert Bollum made Apr 24 at 2020 4:55 PM

SGT Herbert Bollum — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 16:55:33 -0400

I wrote up my own 1SG for using foul language directed at a female member of my section.
She came to my office at the shop very upset and told me what had happened (hair had come undone in the rear and came below her collar). I wrote up a complaint with typed copies (old style typewriter), cc: iSG / CO / BN CO / IG / file. then set copies on each of the desks while they were at lunch (middle of blotter). BN CSM called me in shortly afterwards and we discussed his options. He asked if the copy was already delivered to IG and I informed him IG complaint period in two weeks at rec center was my intended time to deliver it. He asked if that meant he had two weeks to correct issue, and I assured him he did. I never again heard a foul word out of that 1SG in formation (he was always cussing) or any other time. The BN CSM seems to have turned that 1SG around.

Response by SGT Herbert Bollum made Apr 24 at 2020 5:03 PM

SGT Herbert Bollum — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 17:03:09 -0400

I forgot to say earlier -- I stated in my write up that it was conduct unbecoming of any member of the Armed Forces and especially from a Senior NCO.

Response by SFC Steven Malato made Apr 29 at 2020 11:13 AM

SFC Steven Malato — Wed, 29 Apr 2020 11:13:07 -0400

Behavior unbecoming

Response by MSgt Jim Bumgarner made Jun 14 at 2020 7:57 PM

MSgt Jim Bumgarner — Sun, 14 Jun 2020 19:57:36 -0400

Maybe you don't know the whole story? Maybe, he's been told before, or maybe you couldn't hear the lyrics and SNCO could. He could he handled it better, but ag

Response by SSgt Daniel Batista made Jan 29 at 2021 7:14 AM

SSgt Daniel Batista — Fri, 29 Jan 2021 07:14:34 -0500

It could've been handle differently by the E7 but the best way to solve this situación is by speaking to the E7 first then if no progress,escalating it to the chain of command.

Response by SP6 M. R. Teeters made May 24 at 2021 12:01 AM

SP6 M. R. Teeters — Mon, 24 May 2021 00:01:10 -0400

At the invasion of my car, survivability kicks in...volently render the threat, evaluate, if threat is not neutralized, conclude the matter!!