How would you react to an E2 who "smart mouths" you in formation?

In my first platoon any amount of back talk like that would get said shitbag jumped by all the team leaders in his squad. If it continued then it turned into a haze fest from the squad leaders followed by an ass beating by the entire platoon in the MCMAP pit.

Smoke smoke smoke !!!

First find out what's in his head. If catastrophic issues send for mental health counseling. If attitude, immaturity, have him at attention, and the rest of the formation do a couple hundred push-ups on his behalf. If this is ongoing recommend to board him out

I would have Pvt/Amn Dipstick stand fast after the formation was dismissed. Now we would proceed to the First Sgt's office, where I would present my case against Mr. Funny mouth and make the suggestion on Mr. Funnymouth be on extra duty for a couple of months. Say as grease trap cleaner, before and after all meals. Then cutting grass with sissors for several weekends. Or I would just take him down to the gym one afternoon and kick his ass.

Start with some remedial PT and restriction...if that doesn't work, an Art 15 might cure the no time in the Army punk's problem!

Basically you verbally fuck him/her up in front of peers and then lean on them HARD

This is exactly why I got out. A long, long time ago. Right after Vietnam, it was not the military I grew up with as my father served his long career. Saw an E-4 tell a Captain that he was not going to the field for training. He eventually got out of the Army, which is what he wanted anyway I suspect. Enjoyed my time and many times I have regretted not continuing that part of my life but as they say, hindsight in the best sight.

Tells me to "shove it"? That E2 would be counseled on the importance of discipline within the ranks, my expectations for my team members. The E2 would be briefed on the task, condition, and standard and then directed to ensure the task is completed within standards, failure to meet the standards would result in additional tasks that some may considered "punitive" in nature. Any future transgressions of the UCMJ will be met with aggressive intervention by unit NCO's to ensure that the E2 fully understands their place in the food chain.

Lol, that Private and i would continue our discussion from the front leaning rest position, both of us . Pushups are a great training tool when used properly

Pfc Asswipe will be immediately told in front of the everyone that he is now Pvt Asswipe. He will stand tall before the man. Insubordination must be nipped in the bud then and there. That backtalk will destroy the discipline and effectiveness of the unit.