How do you react when a civilian offers to pay for your meal or other item?

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 17:22:21 -0400

I was in uniform and ran into a Wendy's the other day and a guy came up and would not take no for an answer. He purchased my meal for me. I really appreciate it but hate it when civilians do this kind of thing. I find it very awkward. I understand that people would like to show their appreciation and some guys like it but it's not for me. I don't serve for recognition. What are some polite and professional ways to tell people thanks for the support but no thank you, I do not want your charity.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 5:36 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 17:36:39 -0400

There are some options m Sir.

1. Accept graciously
2. Tell a white lie: "I appreciate the gesture, but I am not allowed to accept"
3. Pass it forward.

I usually get a free in flight meal. Once I had the attendant give mine to a hungry kid near my seat. Another passenger saw it and bought me a meal anyway.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 5:43 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 17:43:52 -0400

I, too, find it awkward. Usually I'll try to decline if I can, but people tend to be insistent.

I had an incident where I was at a Denny's with some people and an older couple paid for all of us without telling us as they left. Just the other day I stopped at a store and was buying a six pack of beer on my way home, the guy ahead of me in line gave the cashier two dollars toward my purchase and I had no idea until I had gone up to pay.

Often, when out with civilian friends, I pay when I can. If they want to pay I ask of they pay taxes and tell them to consider it a tax refund- always a fun quip!

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 7:48 PM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 19:48:06 -0400

I am thankful there are those who are gracious enough to thank us for our service and do so in many ways. While I have never had civilians pay for a meal, I don't see anything wrong with it. Especially if it appears that it would offend them if the meal wasn't accepted. I don't view it as charity, but instead "thanks". And there should be more thankful people in this world!

Response by SCPO Morris Ramsey made Jun 24 at 2019 1:17 PM

SCPO Morris Ramsey — Mon, 24 Jun 2019 13:17:01 -0400

I usually say Thank you. I always ask most businesses if they have a military discount. I save a considerable amount on purchased at Home Depot and Lowe’s.