Is addressing an Officer by their rank vs. "Sir" or "Ma'am" disrespectful?

2015-03-30T21:15:15-04:00

Before I joined the Army, I was taught to always say Sir or Ma'am.

From the date I entered the Army, via MP OSUT in 1980, I was always taught to always use the word Sir or Ma'am, when addressing an Officer, and never to address an officer by rank alone. I was taught if rank was used, so too should a name along with Sir or Ma'am.

Similarly, as an MP doing things like vehicle stops, I was again told initially address everyone by Sir or Ma'am, and you will never go wrong. Then if you determine someone has another rank or title, you can switch to whatever title is appropriate (Sir, Sergeant, 1SG etc.). I used this same philosophy for the MP Soldiers in my units throughout my career.

When I was commissioned, via OCS in 1985, I also was trained the same way - "Sir or Ma'am" and never by rank titles.

I have never addressed any senior officer by their title alone, nor would I ever.

I have always considered it be disrespectful for anyone to address me by rank alone, based on my upbringing. I see it as someone who can't bring themselves to say Sir, which I interpret as a lack of respect of the rank first, and/or me. I don't really get it, as I have no issue saying Sir or Ma'am to any superior, military or civilian.

The only time I was ever personally referred to by rank (aside from what I laid out above) was by superiors... right before (or during) a butt chewing.

I raise this question now and here on RP, as this happened to me once again just this past weekend. I was in uniform (ACU) at a JROTC competition, and a Sergeant First Class from Missouri Army National Guard addressed me as "Colonel." Specifically .... "Good morning Colonel." I told him what I thought of that... for what it is/was worth. He was not feeling me.

Since 911, as an MP, I worked extensively with the Army National Guard and Reserve (75% of the MP Regiment is in the Guard/Reserve) , as well all branches of the Armed Forces. It seems to me this is most common among NCOs in the National Guard, and then next would be the Air Force.

I have researched the regulations I could find, for my own edification, but I can find nothing definitive, aside from addressing Officers as Sir or Ma'am in passing, or when exchanging the great of the day.

I am interested in your thoughts and feelings on this, and I am interested in hearing from all ranks. Thank you all for your service.

Hooah.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2015 9:19 PM

2015-03-30T21:19:29-04:00

Sir (or Colonel),
I have seen something similar, however it was with some of our NATO partners where I was addressed by rank only.
I figure that as long as it isn't meant disrespectful, I don't let it get to me (much).

Response by CSM Michael J. Uhlig made Mar 30 at 2015 9:22 PM

2015-03-30T21:22:22-04:00

I typically use Sir or Ma'am. However, I use Sir, Sir as well as rank COL Charles Williams based on the situation, I've never considered it a sign of being disrespectful and never had any seniors identify it as being disrespectful either. Your thoughts?

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Mar 30 at 2015 9:27 PM

2015-03-30T21:27:44-04:00

Generally speaking, I referred to officers by Sir or Ma'am in "one on one" settings, however having always worked in a staff position, this is not always feasible when there is multiple officers around. You get everyone and their brother turning when you say "Sir..."

When dealing with multiple officers, it would be "Col X, or Maj Y," to get their attention, and use "Sir/Ma'am" when responding to them. This wasn't from lack of respect, but a matter of pragmatism.

That said, the only uniform we have that has nametags is cammies. So in Service uniform, there are occasions where I would use "Excuse me Captain" (if I didn't know them), though this was used sparingly, as my philosophy is very similar to your own.

Response by Cpl Tou Lee Yang made Mar 30 at 2015 9:33 PM

2015-03-30T21:33:44-04:00

When I was stationed at 8th & I, we "enlisted" were taught to always refer to officers as "Sir" or "Ma'am" unless they're of the flag rank. Lt. Gen Christmas was pretty cool about it when you call him General. However, I believe you can call them by their rank if you do it discretely such as calling an officer by his/her rank and name if there are more than two of them, to get his/her attention. Normally, that does not happen in the Marines. I used to work for a full bird Colonel at Camp Courtney. I never called him by his rank or name, only refer to him as "Sir". The Navy, on the other hand is totally different.

Response by PV2 Abbott Shaull made Mar 30 at 2015 9:38 PM

2015-03-30T21:38:11-04:00

Yes I would say it has to depend in the situation at hand and where you are at. I can see your point, but some officers aren't as strict, or when you working in a HQ setting, where one may be engaging with several senior leaders, needing to be able to differentiate who they are talking too.

Response by PO2 Mark Saffell made Mar 30 at 2015 9:42 PM

2015-03-30T21:42:58-04:00

Well let's see if I can answer that from an enlisted point of view. Ever watch the TV show JAG? They say Comander or Comander Rab. Usually refer to the Admiral as Admiral. Onboard the Enterpise the CO was referred to as Captain. Never included his name. This was done by enlisted and officers and trust me if the CO of The Enterprise would have thought it as not respectful we all would have heard about it. I referred to the Admiral (CVW14) as Admiral or sir. Never included his name. Maybe it's different in the Navy but we usually referred to an officer by his rank.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2015 9:44 PM

2015-03-30T21:44:17-04:00

Honestly, AR 600-20 explictly states that a proper term of address for an individual *IS* whatever the rank is.

That's why even though I prefer to be called 'Chief', I do not object when anyone addresses me as 'Mr. Walker'.

I really think this is something that is overthought.

Response by COL Vincent Stoneking made Mar 30 at 2015 9:56 PM

2015-03-30T21:56:35-04:00

I voted "it depends" though Francis almost got a vote....

It really depends on intent to me. I think Sir/Ma'am is is the most appropriate followed by RANK + NAME. I generally won't do RANK+NAME+Sir/Ma'am (too formal for my blood).

Rank alone is much like saying "Hey Specialist!" I will state that every time I have addressed a senior officer by RANK alone, it was NOT a term of respect.

Response by SPC Donald Tribble made Mar 30 at 2015 10:51 PM

2015-03-30T22:51:26-04:00

I refered to others by their rank, when speaking directly to an officer it was Sir/Ma'am in response to them. I don't ever remember combining rank with Sir/Ma'am at all. Although like you I was raised to say Sir/Ma'am to adults and when I was in Basic Training I did a lot of pushups for responding to our female Drill with Ma'am.

Response by TSgt David Holman made Mar 30 at 2015 11:39 PM

2015-03-30T23:39:08-04:00

This is a tough one, since a lot of it can come down to "tone" and "inflection". It could also come down to situation. When in doubt, "sir/ma'am" is the acceptable answer, followed by rank and name... The only officers I really ever use just the rank (and it is usually their position, not rank) is with my providers... and then it is usually just "doc"

Response by SGT Chris Reese made Mar 30 at 2015 11:40 PM

2015-03-30T23:40:27-04:00

Personally I always addressed officers by sir or ma'am. It sounds much more professional

Response by PO2 David Hagwood made Mar 30 at 2015 11:51 PM

2015-03-30T23:51:42-04:00

I sometimes address as Sir/Ma'am, Lieutenant, Commander, Captain, Warrant, Mr./Ms., CO or Skipper/XO, MO, AMO, and various others which are basically calling them by their job titles. All of them are accepted and respectful. This is what we do in the Navy, I'm not sure exactly what is done in other services.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2015 11:56 PM

2015-03-30T23:56:44-04:00

Not according to AR 600-20 Ch 1 it isn't. What you going to do when you walk into a room full of officers looking for a particular officer?

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Mar 31 at 2015 2:01 AM

2015-03-31T02:01:01-04:00

Col Williams, every branch has different traditions. In the Navy, there's nothing wrong with using someone's rank without name. I mean if you're walking down the street and you encounter a Flag Officer, and you don't know who he is, you salute and say "Good morning Admiral" and that's perfect...

I will often address people of any branch by rank if I don't know them. I've never heard a complaint about this. You and I started at about the same time, and we're both mustangs, but the similarities obviously end there.

I think things are actually much more difficult these days with chest rank patches - they're much harder to see and since they're so small, they all blend in. I guess that's the point, so people weren't made targets by their rank. It's a different world now, but respect is still respect, and I doubt that the young cadet was being in any way disrespectful...

Hooah, SIR!

Response by LTC Paul Heinlein made Mar 31 at 2015 5:51 AM

2015-03-31T05:51:34-04:00

COL Charles Williams,

Normally, I call everyone Sir or Ma'am. I only use specific rank or name if I'm trying to get a particular person's attention.

I don't normally take being called by my rank as disrespectful. When they say something such as "because your were/are an Officer" then that is when is starts heading in the direction.

I would say to determine if it was intended to be disrespectful would depend on the inflection of the voice at that time. In which case, I would probably return with the same inflection and use of rank to that individual. Usually, that person would say something..which is my cue to take them aside and provide a mentoring/ common respect discussion session which normally revolves around specific oaths taken, Creeds they abide by, and customs & courtesies of the Military. I always finish it out with a thorough discussion about how they can achieve their Commission so they can fix what they think is so wrong with the Military structure.

Response by 1LT William Clardy made Mar 31 at 2015 5:55 AM

2015-03-31T05:55:10-04:00

I prefer to see formally addressing an officer by his rank and name as a means of showing minimal respect to a less-than-stellar officer.

And I can recall doing it precisely once -- with an officer who then spent a solid 5 minutes attempting to order me to address him as "sir". I responded to each of his questions with "I understand, Captain ______." There was no failure to communicate, and my actions were fully compliant with military customs and courtesies.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Mar 31 at 2015 6:09 AM

2015-03-31T06:09:52-04:00

I think it depends on the individual on the receiving end. I always say Sir or Ma'am with an officer to make it simple. I have never had a problem with that.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 7:34 AM

2015-03-31T07:34:56-04:00

That is a very good point. I am in one of those position where I am commonly referred to, ever so lovingly, as "L T." Personally I don't think it is a lack of respect but it is not the most professional term either. In a relaxed environment I don't take issue with it. But if some random guy just said "Hey L T" I would question if that was a professional way to address an officer. Would it be alright for a random soldier to yell "Hey TOP" or "Hey CAP?" I don't think it would be. I have never called a officer by his rank alone. I always use Sir or if I am initially addressing him I will use rank and Name.

I think this is just the sign of the times that the Army is lacking a bit in professional courtesies.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 7:36 AM

2015-03-31T07:36:23-04:00

Sir, to me I use the rank as a sign of respect. I took the time to not just see an officer rank, but to recall what rank it is. It's the same as calling an E8 a Master Sergeant instead of sergeant or (in the navy) a Senior Chief and not Chief.

Response by Sgt Adam Jennings made Mar 31 at 2015 7:45 AM

2015-03-31T07:45:54-04:00

Again, and I know you guys probably get tired of this, I'm going to have to come from a Marine Corps view of this. We are taught in boot camp the USMC customs and courtesies, and in those we are taught that sir, ma'am, or rank are appropriate. But, we are also taught that the officers have a different view and that sir or ma'am should be used. Why? No one knows why, I can only assume that it is like the original post states, that at OCs they are taught that sir or ma'am are the only appropriate greetings. Which brings me tony confusion, why would the customs and courtesies say one thing and then OCS teach something the opposite? Welcome to military miscommunication, unfortunately it runs rampant. Of course we also have names that we call certain ranks of you are close to those people. We call MSgt's and up Top, unless it's a Master Gunnery Sergeant, then we simply call him Master Guns, if we know them and work with them mind you. If we have a Captain that we love, we call him Skipper. All of these are accepted on the smaller into level.

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Mar 31 at 2015 8:50 AM

2015-03-31T08:50:11-04:00

Sir/Ma'am is always right. Personally, if the opportunity is present AND I have some familiarity with the individual, I will change it up to be their rank or sometimes rank/last name. My personal thought is that in the military, Rank is the first name.... so instead of saying 'good morning George', I say 'good morning Colonel'....

Response by SrA Matthew Knight made Mar 31 at 2015 8:57 AM

2015-03-31T08:57:33-04:00

Airman here, I can say that I personally will usually refer to officers by their rank. The way I see it, you put your time and effort into all the extra schooling and everything to earn it so I am doing it respectfully to what you have earned if that makes sense. I did answer it depends for a reason though. Some officers, not even just Army do not like it. We went to tech school with Navy, Coasties, and Marines. I was always told by the enlisted Marines to never refer to a Marine officer by rank and as such never did because for them it is disrespectful I guess. Basically, if you don't want me to then I won't but in most cases, as I said, I feel like you earned the title that goes with your respective brass.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 8:58 AM

2015-03-31T08:58:40-04:00

No, but then I use sir/ma'am when talking to anyone. Most of the time rank is involved I'm talking to or about enlisted members. I don't make it a point to use rank instead of sir/ma'am.

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 9:14 AM

2015-03-31T09:14:39-04:00

Every single day, i go out of my way to greet every officer (except for Ensigns) by their rank. For ensign, i use sir or ma'am for the shear fact that saying "good morning ensign" just sounds weird. In all reality, i think greeting by actual rank is more respectful than saying sir or ma'am. The reason for this because you are showing the officer that you are greeting that you are taking the time to examine their rank and take notice of their experience.

Response by LTC Scott O'Neil made Mar 31 at 2015 9:15 AM

2015-03-31T09:15:06-04:00

It is not disrespectful. Here is what I was taught to use sire or ma'am is a respectful greeting when greeting a person who is senior in rank or grade, or who is senior in age. You use name and rank when you actually know the person but sir or ma'am is not uncommon or disrespectful in this case either.

You can not go wrong with sir or ma'am!!!!!!

Response by CPT Zachary Brooks made Mar 31 at 2015 9:47 AM

2015-03-31T09:47:29-04:00

I was informed while going through ROTC that referring to a superior officer as "rank" and not "Rank + Name" or "Sir/Ma'am" was considered offensive as that is something they generally would say to someone of lower rank.

I think that "Rank + Name" is the ideal way to affirm whom you are speaking to, but then using "Sir/Ma'am" to continue the conversation is acceptable.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 9:49 AM

2015-03-31T09:49:03-04:00

It all depends on the setting. One-on-one is most typically "sir/ma'am". If in a crowd, I always used rank.

As security forces, during a traffic stop I would address them by rank & name initially upon identification, but every other address would be "sir/ma'am". This is because, as a law enforcement officer, it is your scene & you need to convey, in the most respectful way possible, that you are the one in charge there, even if you are a lowly E3 and you have pulled over a O6.

Response by SSG Gerhard S. made Mar 31 at 2015 10:13 AM

2015-03-31T10:13:25-04:00

If I don't use Sir or Ma'am, I use the Rank AND the name.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 10:31 AM

2015-03-31T10:31:57-04:00

Sir, Ma'am, Rank, Rank+Name, all are acceptable and all could be unacceptable.

It's dependent on the culture of the particular unit, branch of service, etc, and the personalities of those involved. Someone calling a Lieutenant "LT" could be belittling, a sign of respect, or a sign of acceptance based on who's saying it, inflection, and intent.

Calling someone "sir" could be considered a sign of respect for both the person and their rank, calling someone strictly by rank Name or rank could be a sign of respect for the rank, but not the person, and visa versa, add any combo possible. Blah Blah......

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 10:55 AM

2015-03-31T10:55:41-04:00

Based on what enlisted culture I do know, the Army has always been a stickler about addressing any enlisted rank by "Sir" or "Ma'am". It is offensive to say those words to an NCO. Junior enlisted are taught to address NCO's by their rank, then after a mutual conversation is started, respectfully utilize "Yes Sir" or "Ma'am". Even after leaving the conversation and you are told to do something, it is respectful to say "Roger that Sergeant" or "Copy Sergeant", not to say "Sir" or "Ma'am". Even in the Air Force now, especially with junior ranking enlisted, I find them addressing me as "Sergeant" instead of "Sir". Mostly due to the fact that it is something being instilled in them due to our Joint environments and their leadership telling them to do so. Most of us Junior NCO's have been in support of OIF or OEF to some capacity, so I believe our Junior enlisted see that and are prideful when they come across an NCO from that era.

Personally, I have addressed my boss (Major) by Major many times. He hasn't been offended. I think as NCO's we are taught early on to pay attention to detail, and that detail has to include the rank of those around you, and the sooner you can recognize that rank and acknowledge it respectfully, shows how sharp you are. A lot of ranks among the services are hard to decipher, but if an Air Force NCO recognizes a Navy Officer's rank and is able to address them respectfully, I think that goes a long way. That scenario would go in any service. Especially Air Force NCO's recognizing Army & Marine NCO ranks. The Chevrons are similar between the two, but different from the Air Forces. Understanding those ranks and addressing them by their title I think emphasizes the respect for that rank.

So if a senior NCO addresses you and says "Good morning Colonel!" I think that shows more respect because he identified your rank and addressed you by what you have worked so hard to obtain in your career. A rightful rank to be respected at that level especially by our fellow SNCO's and NCO's. Our generation has a lot of pride to get out there.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 11:02 AM

2015-03-31T11:02:36-04:00

I have had similar happen to me, but in every instance the intent and content has been clear. Older soldiers refer to me as Colonel, to which I do not correct them any more than I would a soldier (often a junior soldier, more often from the Guard or Reserve). If they are doing it to be respectful, then I am just appreciative of the respect.

Interestingly, I almost always call females "ma'am", regardless of rank when replying to them. Even as a leader, if a junior officer or NCO asked me a question, my default is to say ma'am, as I was raised that way. Some male officers in the past have complained. My position is that my mother's and grandmother's training on how to treat women was more effective than Army training on how to talk to those that work for me. Sorry.

I have been called by rank a few times correctly. I was often at attention, looking straight ahead in front of a nice desk. Usually happened in my younger years.

I offer in terms of this issue of how we are addressed, judge the intent and error to the side of the respect being offered. However, if I think one is saying it out of place...tick, tick, tick...watch out, boom coming!

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Mar 31 at 2015 11:09 AM

2015-03-31T11:09:23-04:00

I was raised the same way everyone is sir or ma'am till basic. I have always called an officer by sir or Ma'am unless introducing them or telling some to go find a specific person by name and rank. Besides LT's I have never, unless I was being sarcastic. For instance Fine Captain!

Response by CW4 Juan Morales made Mar 31 at 2015 11:12 AM

2015-03-31T11:12:57-04:00

I wrote a paper on this subject 22 years ago as an ROTC cadet, referencing 600-20, The military customs and courtesies training pamphlet and the Army Officer's Guide. Addressing a superior officer by their rank is appropriate. Particularly when in a public setting where there might be confusion as to which "sir" he may be referring to. I've had a few lieutenants and captains try to correct me over the years and like a good warrant officer I present them with my references as to why someone taught them wrong. Likewise some lower enlisted young'uns have called a group of officers 'sits' when the correct address is 'ladies' or gentlemen'. It is never disrespectful to address someone by their rank unless it can be understood by time and context. If that's the case, then that's a bigger problem. Respectfully sir, if this is a SFC you deal with often, an apology would show you to be a bigger person.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 11:13 AM

2015-03-31T11:13:53-04:00

I use an officers rank and name often. I work in a staff setting and sometimes it is the best way to get a particular officer's attention. I still use the pronoun in passing though

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Mar 31 at 2015 11:29 AM

2015-03-31T11:29:48-04:00

The "normal" way is to use "sir/ma'am", although I have no issue with someone calling me by my rank.

I think it all depends on the attitude of the person when he/she is addressing you. One can usually discern when it is meant to be disrespectful by the tone or look of the person as he/she says it.

I have rarely called someone by rank only.

Response by SSG Paul Lanciault made Mar 31 at 2015 11:33 AM

2015-03-31T11:33:44-04:00

I was brought up old school like you were Sir. And In MP OSUT (E-11 summer of 1980) I was taught the same way. (SFC Pace and Sgt Nagle) These were even E5 and E6, Soldier of the month and quarter board questions. But years later I did see troops come out of school using rank for officers and enlisted instead of sir or ma'am. I guess as long as the respect is there its fine. I'm not sure how the regs and feeling have changed over the years. I still use Sir or Ma'am for Officers, Or their rank and name. Sir/Ma'am or Mr/Mrs and Name for Warrant Officers.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 11:55 AM

2015-03-31T11:55:07-04:00

I chose lighten up, only because the calling you by your rank is a sign of respect, equally to calling your Sir. If you pulled me aside as a SFC and corrected me for not calling you Sir, you do not know what I would of said under my breath...and honestly if he was professional enough, he would of just said, I meant no disrespect but I have always called officers thst I do no know personally by their rank. I do not see how calling someone by rank can ever be construed as disrespectful. Not sure why some officers are so willy-nilly about it.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 11:59 AM

2015-03-31T11:59:22-04:00

Your last name isn't difficult to say, but I could imagine running into situations where you address someone solely on rank because you're trying to save yourself the embarrassment of butchering their last name. So there would be situations that are appropriate...not saying this was one.

Response by SSG John Erny made Mar 31 at 2015 12:08 PM

2015-03-31T12:08:36-04:00

COL Charles Williams, Waynesville, MO

I think at times it is OK to use the rank first then sir. For example Col. Williams: Sir you have a call on line one. This being true when there are many officers in the room.

Response by PO1 Ken Johnson made Mar 31 at 2015 12:16 PM

2015-03-31T12:16:03-04:00

I chose "Lighten up Francis" for two reasons...

#1 I just love you adding it...

#2 I think the answer is not easy. I had a Chaplain that I lost all respect for as a chaplain, when I was stationed at Parris Island, and from the moment he lost my respect, he was always Commander, your two o'clock appointment is here and never again Chaplain. I never said it with any outward sign of disrespect for he was still an officer, just not a Chaplain in my eyes. The word is not the key, it is the TONE it is conveyed toward you. I can honestly say that I may have addressed you as Colonel if we met and it would have been with the utmost respect. You don't become Colonel by accident.... well, the way I remember it you didn't. It may be different now...

Meeting you as a total stranger, at say an official type function (someone's retirement, a business meeting) I absolutely would have said Good Morning Colonel and never thought it to be anything but respect. To be totally honest, sir or ma'am is the more "COLD" and "generic" reply. It does, however, give the implied "I KNOW YOU ARE SENIOR TO ME AND I HAVE TO RESPECT THAT!" and if that is what someone is looking for, then I don't think the issue is really what this question is referring to....

Response by LTC John Shaw made Mar 31 at 2015 12:23 PM

2015-03-31T12:23:34-04:00

It is sad to see this as a topic as both Sir/Ma'am or Rank are perfectly appropriate. This speaks to the ego of the person who thinks they are being 'disrespected'. In most civilian businesses, people go by first name, we seem to be over thinking this topic.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 1:17 PM

2015-03-31T13:17:18-04:00

Your rank is your name, and has become a part of who you are so embrace it. My first name is Sergeant, and will stay that way from here on out unless I am to be promoted.

Response by SSG Willis Baker made Mar 31 at 2015 1:38 PM

2015-03-31T13:38:45-04:00

If you don't like being called Sir or Ma'am, just get over it. This is the way of the military. Not every encounter you may have with an officer you will know their name and rank until you are up close and personal.

Response by MSgt Aaron Brite made Mar 31 at 2015 2:40 PM

2015-03-31T14:40:35-04:00

What I was taught in the Air Force (AD 1995) while in school with mixed services was to start with the rank if you could identify it. Then any subsequent adressing would be with sir or ma'am, always working from specific to generic addresses. In your example "Good Morning Colonel" would be appropriate in passing and then use sir if we spoke beyond the greeting.

Response by CPL Jay Meloche made Mar 31 at 2015 2:51 PM

2015-03-31T14:51:03-04:00

From an Active Duty Army Enlisted point of view, i generally would allways use sir/mam for officers unless i was around many officers and had to get one persons attention. the only time i ever used just rank for an officer was if i didnt know the individuals name and had to get their attention but even then sir/mam fit better. i do agree with what you said about rank or rank + name generally being disrespectful but that also comes down to tone of voice also.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 2:54 PM

2015-03-31T14:54:17-04:00

Tone! Tone is the key.

If he were being respectful while saying it, I don't honestly see the problem Sir. But like you said, you can never go wrong, normally, with Sir or Ma'am. Much easier too address as well, in my opinion.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 3:03 PM

2015-03-31T15:03:15-04:00

I was always taught to say Sir or Ma'am and you will never go wrong but that is not true, I remember meeting a Navy Captain and I called him Sir and he got really mad he said if an officer was an O-6 or above you should call them by their rank i.e. Captain, Admiral etc... I guess it all depends on the personal preference of the officer you are addressing.

Response by CPT Ahmed Faried made Mar 31 at 2015 3:08 PM

2015-03-31T15:08:00-04:00

I was never a fan of people calling me "LT". I've yet to hear the CPT equivalent. Its now Sir or CPT Faried.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Mar 31 at 2015 3:08 PM

2015-03-31T15:08:42-04:00

I would say it is based upon the reception by the individual being addressed and/or the manner in which said individual is addressed by the subordinate.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Mar 31 at 2015 3:13 PM

2015-03-31T15:13:04-04:00

The way a service member carries him or herself along with tone of voice with a superior NCO or Officer will tell you a lot about how much they have respect for that superior.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Mar 31 at 2015 3:19 PM

2015-03-31T15:19:56-04:00

I've used a service member's rank in a form of greeting many times, such as "Good afternoon Staff Sergeant", in an effort to convey respect. Seemed to work. "G'mornin', Colonel" doesn't seem at all disrespectful. Sir and Ma'am always seem to be accepted. Situation and intonation have a lot to do with it.

Air Force is often a little more casual about ranks. In small groups of officers within one grade of each other it's not unusual for a Captain to refer to a Lieutenant by his or sometimes her first name. Going the other way (Lt to Capt) is not quite as common, but often accepted. Official teaching never advocates using first names in official associations. On aircrews we normally used crew position formally and informally.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 3:42 PM

2015-03-31T15:42:32-04:00

I'm not sure what regulation you are using to determine that you are always supposed to be called "Sir" and never by your rank, but you are not correct. It is not a sign of disrespect to be called by your rank, it is actually a sign of respect for your rank. AR 600-25 says a greeting of the day with a "sir" or Ma'am" is appropriate, but not required. I typically call officers Sir, or Ma'am, but not always, and it doesn't mean I lack respect for them, or their rank. Sir, you need to lighten up. At least they aren't just calling you "John" as some guard units end up breaking down to.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Mar 31 at 2015 3:57 PM

2015-03-31T15:57:06-04:00

Sir,

First, I didn't think your name was Francis?

Second, I think it is more about how you were brought up than anything else...but you are right that sometimes when an officer hears their rank, it reminds them of when their parent used their full name, including their middle name. That was never good.

Response by Col Joseph Lenertz made Mar 31 at 2015 4:06 PM

2015-03-31T16:06:36-04:00

Of course not.
Although, I can remember, there is a WAY to say the word "Lieutenant" which makes it sound like "douchebag".

Response by SFC Don Ward made Mar 31 at 2015 4:23 PM

2015-03-31T16:23:51-04:00

Don't know how many times i referred to my Lieutenant as just LT. In my entire carreer, I only had one officer, a 2nd Lieutenant that objected to a soldier calling him lieutenant, and he was an obnoxious, arrogant SOB.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 4:56 PM

2015-03-31T16:56:15-04:00

It would be Disrespectful not to use Sir or Ma'am ! This shows respect not just for the Rank it shows respect for the person . If they are senior to you in Rank you should always start with Sir or Ma'am . As for enlisted ranks using the Rank is always used . Sir and Ma'am titles show that they are Commissioned Officers . NCO Ranks should never use any title other than Rank as in junior enlisted ranks as title to be addressing them as a person . The only other time is when a person is out of uniform it is always to address them as Sir or Ma'am !
This is the rule I was taught As a young cadet in the NROTC .

Response by MAJ Ronnie Reams made Mar 31 at 2015 5:42 PM

2015-03-31T17:42:31-04:00

In the first person, I always used Sir, such as Good Morning, Sir. Inn the third person, I used the rank, such Does the Colonel wish his vehicle to be brought around? Always worked for me.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 6:07 PM

2015-03-31T18:07:04-04:00

I partially disagree. I have always seen addressing someone directly by their rank as a sign of courtesy, regardless of rank. The only exception was for my 1SGs when I would call them "Top" - it is a sign of respect and recognition that they are the "Top" enlisted dog.

I called my captains "Captain" and my majors "Major", and my lieutenant colonels "Colonel" (giving them the "unofficial" promotion recognition that is often given to them).

HOWEVER, that being said, I reserved "Sir" and "First Sergeant" exclusively for when I was either being called on the carpet (which, depending on who you listen to tell stories about me was either several times a day or never happened"). I also reserved "Sir" for my commanders in certain situations, but usually referred to by rank up to LTC.

Once someone hits full bird or above though, I also usually only called them "Sir or Ma'am" unless I was in a direct working relationship with them, and then, after initially greeting them with "Sir or Ma'am", would go back to using rank UNLESS there were other Soldiers around.

Even when I addressed my lieutenants as "LT", it was still with respect.

Now: to clarify something that's been bugging me: A 2LT should ALWAYS salute a 1LT!

Oh, one other thing: I was schooled by a LT on the proper use of Ma'am in an email. I wasn't aware of this, but spelling it "Mam" is disrespectful (al la reference to 'mammary glands' - which I didn't know that was a reference for.) "Ma'am" is how it should be spelled.

Response by LTC Mark Maitag made Mar 31 at 2015 6:37 PM

2015-03-31T18:37:39-04:00

It depends on tone and intent...I've had Soldiers say "yes, sir"...that was disrepectful in the way they inflected the "sir"...I've also learned later in my career as a major that First Sergeants do not like to be referred to as "top"...primarily in the combat arms...no matter if you intended to be endearing. They prefer "First Sergeant". Tops are things that spin.

Response by SSG Scott Burk made Mar 31 at 2015 6:38 PM

2015-03-31T18:38:32-04:00

I've never run into an officer who objected to being called by rank. If there are several LTC's (or any other officers) standing there and I need to speak to one of them specifically, I'd say "COL. Smith, may I speak with you sir?" If I just said "Sir, May I speak with you?" I would have several officers looking at me like deer in headlights. It all depends on the specific situation, your relationship with that superior, and the tone and context of the "COL" or the "SIR". I always liked to think that the officer I was addressing had some level of common sense and would not take it as disrespect. The way I see it, as long as the Junior shows the proper respect to the superior, there should not be any issues with something as petty as the way he is addressed.

Response by PO1 Cleve Ikaika Waiwaiole made Mar 31 at 2015 6:45 PM

2015-03-31T18:45:08-04:00

I have always called officers sir or ma'am at work, formal / informal events, off duty, To the exception on a few of my red-zone deployments I called my lieutenant "LT". I don't really know I think it was the "command climate" that we were in. We all were much closer like family. From E-1 to O-3. I was an NCO. I am not trying to say that it is right to call officers by their rank, just sharing an experience..

As for a random officer or any officer out in public or at formal/ informal events it should most definitely be sir or ma'am.

Response by CPT Zachary Brooks made Mar 31 at 2015 6:45 PM

2015-03-31T18:45:31-04:00

Incidentally that picture looks like the Root Hall auditorium at the Carlisle Army War College, but considering the patch it is likely a service academy. Can we get a citation for the picture please?

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 6:46 PM

2015-03-31T18:46:35-04:00

Interesting responses here. I can't remember if I was taught or conditioned in this manner, however, I always use "sir" when speaking to an officer. When speaking about the officer, I will use "Rank Last name".

The only deviation to this rule was when I was a junior soldier, and rapport existed in a group, I have occasionally said "the ma'am" or "the sir" when referring to the officer. For example, "The ma'am said don't be an idiot during the safety brief."

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 6:55 PM

2015-03-31T18:55:39-04:00

I think it is dependent on the situation. Typically Sir or Ma'am is preferable, but when trying to get the attention of a specific officer in a group of officers, you need to be able to address the specific officer. To that point I would limit the use of Rank and name, then defer back to Sir and Ma'am.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 6:57 PM

2015-03-31T18:57:42-04:00

As a CPT in the Kansas Guard and a prior service Marine, I have seen both sides of this. I do believe that addressing officers by rank is more prevalent in the Guard, but I don't think it's disrespectful. I think it is a cultural thing. Good or bad these citizen soldiers often work there civilian jobs side by side with their leadership counterparts, often with roles reversed.
I think that if you are looking for signs of disrespect, listen for the "tone" of the conversation rather then the choice of words.

Response by SSG William Rhodes made Mar 31 at 2015 7:34 PM

2015-03-31T19:34:38-04:00

Well Sir, I am glad I have an opportunity to give you my opinion on this issue. I learned to addressed officers as "Sir or Ma'am", and enlisted by their rank but for a Command Sargent Major you could addressed them by Sargent major or Sgt for a Sfc. I was taught and learned these common courtesies in basic back in 1997 and I still do specially whenever I am at a military installation.
Now the one thing that irks me, is because a national guard unit or national guardsmen or women are inefficient or incompetent, right away the notion is that " The national guard" as whole is labeled, and I know this discussion is not about this but there are some units that are and strive to be above the standard and the same thing with the soldiers. I was in the national guard and In my opinion, It basically comes down to the individual soldier, the unit, NCOs and Chain of Command to ensure proper military courtesy is always used. I never learned the rank "top" or "sarge" and why would an officer, stop a soldier that did not see the this particular officer on his way to the px , in anagram to asked why he wasn't saluted?

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Mar 31 at 2015 7:46 PM

2015-03-31T19:46:30-04:00

AFI 1-1.

1.6.5. Titles of Address. Military personnel are addressed by their grade or title. Pay grade terms (e.g., E-9, O-6) are not to be used to address or identify military personnel. Officers are addressed by their grade (e.g., captain, major, general, etc.) or ―sir‖ or ―ma’am.‖ Physicians and dental officers may be addressed as ―doctor.‖ Chaplains may be addressed as ―chaplain‖ or by their ecclesiastical title. Enlisted personnel are addressed as follows:
TITLE
Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force
Chief Master Sergeant Senior Master Sergeant Master Sergeant Technical Sergeant Staff Sergeant
Senior Airman Airman First Class Airman
Airman Basic
TERM OF ADDDRESS
Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force or Chief
Chief Master Sergeant or Chief
Senior Master Sergeant or Sergeant Master Sergeant or Sergeant
Technical Sergeant or Sergeant Staff Sergeant or Sergeant Senior Airman or Airman
Airman First Class or Airman Airman
Airman

So the zoomies, were addressing you properly according to our regs by using rank only COL Charles Williams

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Mar 31 at 2015 9:02 PM

2015-03-31T21:02:57-04:00

I've never thought it would or could be disrespectful to address a senior by their rank, I've done it many times. If you're in a noisy area and need to get someone's attention or your speaking to someone you aren't familiar to, I would think its proper to use their rank.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 9:03 PM

2015-03-31T21:03:47-04:00

I was taught sir or mam for officers below a GO. Use General for GO's. Not sure if this is still the practice.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 9:07 PM

2015-03-31T21:07:22-04:00

I think you're being too sensitive about this Colonel...I mean sir.

Response by SrA Daniel Hunter made Mar 31 at 2015 9:20 PM

2015-03-31T21:20:11-04:00

I was told and always practiced, if they were a full-bird or higher, address them by their rank. It was a way to express greater respect. Hope it was taken that way :) If they were a doctor they were always addressed as Doctor or Doc not their rank or sir/ma'am.

Response by SPC George Adkins made Mar 31 at 2015 10:50 PM

2015-03-31T22:50:02-04:00

I ran into this situation as a young SPC in Germany. I was my PL's driver and we were in the field (Hoenfels.) One evening, I drove the Lt to the TOC for meetings. For whatever reason, I was inside the TOC where 99% of those present were officers. The only way I could make it known who I was speaking to was by using rank. If I had said "Excuse me Sir", 15 people would have turned to me. One 1lt that was there took issue with this and gave me a little grief, explaining how he had earned the courtesy of being address as "Sir". I honestly can't remember my reply, but I do remember at least 10 sets of eyes rolling making it obvious those in earshot thought he was being a douchebag.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 11:34 PM

2015-03-31T23:34:32-04:00

Sir, I don't believe any of offence was intended. It was normal for me to see officers referred to by their rank alone when I was working in a BDE S shop. I personally believe that being addressed by your rank would show more respect as it is something that you put in work to earn. Where as Sir or Ma'am is something a person is born into.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Apr 1 at 2015 12:13 AM

2015-04-01T00:13:46-04:00

Thanks for all the great comments. I gave you all a Thumbs Up at a minimum. I will respond to each veteran personally ASAP. I appreciate your insights and your candor; especially the wise asses.

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 1:47 AM

2015-04-01T01:47:01-04:00

Sir,

Like you, I have always felt that the use of someone's rank, particularly coming from a subordinate or a member who is junior in experience, can be considered insulting, especially given the societal norms that our service imposes on us (i.e. in how we address each other and the overtly hierarchical structure on which our understanding of rank and titles are based). With that said, I am not prepared to characterize the use of a rank as disrespectful without being given the context. I would posit that the member who addressed you directly with "Good morning Colonel..." is someone who is relatively new to the profession of arms and is therefore not as savvy to the nuances that such an address could entail. I do not think it was intended direspectfully, more as a way of addressing you personally while not necessarily reverting to the boiler-plate of "Sir". I would not, however extend the same benefit of the doubt to a member of similar experience and apprehension of the subtleties of military culture. It can and has been used as a form of low-level insult by those who have forgotten the adage: "Always respect the rank, if not the man."

Respectfully,

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 6:25 AM

2015-04-01T06:25:03-04:00

Coming up the ranks as an NCO at the battalion level and now as a Warrant Officer I have always dealt Officers. I was advised early on that you can't go wrong with Sir or Ma'am when speaking directly to an officer. In fact, I was also told that if addressing a junior officer by their rank comes off as condescending. So for me when I instruct a Soldier I stick to that advice. The only deviation from that is when speaking indirectly about that officer when in my presence.

Response by MSgt Michael Durkee made Apr 1 at 2015 6:27 AM

2015-04-01T06:27:27-04:00

I voted "it depends" because I have met individuals over the course of my career that reserved Sir or Ma'am for those they respected personally and opted for addressing my rank for others.

I've used both, dependent upon the Officer's wishes - then again, being Air Force, we typically address someone superior as Sir or Ma'am :)

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 9:56 AM

2015-04-01T09:56:41-04:00

By regulation, Sir or Ma'am is "A" proper way to address an officer. Not a requirement to call them by their rank. But if they request you call them that, then you do have to because it isn't ethically or morally wrong. The only other exception to this is when talking about them I would never address them by just their last name. I would address an officer either by their position "BDE XO" or "BDE CO" or COL Smith.

Response by Capt Meredith R. made Apr 1 at 2015 10:31 AM

2015-04-01T10:31:52-04:00

It depends. In theory no. But if the junior person is doing it deliberately to avoid saying "sir" or "ma'am" then it's disrespectful. I've seen that for example when someone is promoted above their peers, their friends will use rank in order to avoid saying "sir" to them. Then again, I was taught that a General should always be referred to as "General" and not by "sir." As in, "Yes, General, I will bring that coffee right away!"

Response by BG David Fleming III made Apr 1 at 2015 10:36 AM

2015-04-01T10:36:29-04:00

I always practiced addressing them as Sir or Ma'am when first introduced. Afterwards, addressing them by rank is appropriate.

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Apr 1 at 2015 10:51 AM

2015-04-01T10:51:37-04:00

I guess its disrespectful, the one time i addressed a capt as capt he glared at me. I didn't mean to be disrespectful.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 10:57 AM

2015-04-01T10:57:08-04:00

If you have to ask, why mess with it? (This is obviously personal opinion), but the culture is "Sir" or "Ma'am". Just like I call Specialist Johnson "Specialist Johnson", why even enter the realm of offending someone or disrespecting them by not calling them what they want to be called.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 11:42 AM

2015-04-01T11:42:25-04:00

I grew up in the military under a saying, "Bird and above, you state their rank." Admiral, Captain, etc., other than that Sir and Ma'am is the routine response.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 12:05 PM

2015-04-01T12:05:57-04:00

In the Navy it depends on rank, JOs (1,2,3) are referred to as sir or ma’am or job title like Nav (Navigator) then at field grade you start to address them by rank and it is acceptable to drop the LT in LCDR therefore you would call an O-4 and O-5 Commander.

Response by SSG Michael Underwood made Apr 1 at 2015 12:06 PM

2015-04-01T12:06:39-04:00

It depends on the intent and tone... "Good Morning Colonel" Is a basic greeting... If you take offense to that then you most likely are not respected whether it is "Good Morning Sir" Or "Good Morning Colonel Williams" It is all a facade to placate you.

I had a couple of situations with officers that wanted to be addressed by their rank rather than a simple sir... I think it goes back to the tone and intent.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 12:14 PM

2015-04-01T12:14:55-04:00

I think tone has more to do with it than anything else. I've had people address me by my rank in both clearly respectful and clearly disrespectful tones. That said, I've had people call me "sir" in both manners, so I think it is a wash.

Response by PO3 Steven Sherrill made Apr 1 at 2015 12:37 PM

2015-04-01T12:37:15-04:00

As with everything, it depends on the inflection used when addressing the officer. Sir or Ma'am (an abbreviation for madam, that would not go over well regardless of tone) is a simplified way of addressing a superior. If the tone is sarcastic, then it is disrespectful no matter what is said. If it is said in a disdainful way, again it doesn't matter what is said. If you are in a room full of officers, then addressing the individual by rank is appropriate especially if you are an enlisted person. I have heard officers referred to by their billet. Our division officer was ASWO, it was not meant to be disrespectful, it was just a means of communicating that removed all possibility of misunderstanding. Again, it is all in the delivery.

Response by SSgt Tim Ricci made Apr 1 at 2015 12:59 PM

2015-04-01T12:59:54-04:00

Ask Maj DiazAster

Response by SCPO David Lockwood made Apr 1 at 2015 1:11 PM

2015-04-01T13:11:04-04:00

Like everything it would all depend on the context use of their rank is done in. Other than that I don't think it's wrong or disrespectful to use rank instead of sir or ma'am.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 1:55 PM

2015-04-01T13:55:28-04:00

Whenever I address an Officer I always address them as "Sir" or "Ma'am" whether in passing (Saluting and giving them the greeting of the day) or having a conversation. Its always "Sir" or "Ma'am" thats just me though.

Response by SSG Buddy Kemper made Apr 1 at 2015 1:57 PM

2015-04-01T13:57:09-04:00

I call the Colonel "Colonel" all the time...and he's never corrected me. Respect.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 2:38 PM

2015-04-01T14:38:02-04:00

I consider it rude, but that may be because I was taught to consider it rude. I know the Air Force conducts themselves that way and therefore I tend not to correct Airmen when they do it, although I have been known to tell that I personally view it as rude. I would never refer to a senior officer by just their rank. Also, in the officer realm when a senior officer refers to you by just your rank it usually mean get prepared to lose a piece of your fourth point. I don't get to chew on senior officers so why would I ever refer to them in a manner like that?

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 2:42 PM

2015-04-01T14:42:57-04:00

It's more formal not disrespectful. AR 600-20 addresses how to address all ranks.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 3:15 PM

2015-04-01T15:15:51-04:00

I was always raised to call everyone Sir/Ma'am while growing up. With that being said I will always call an officer by sir or ma'am unless i am trying to get their attention. For example if I am calling a patient back to be seen by the provider and they were an officer, I would address them by rank and last name to get their attention and then follow it by sir or ma'am.

Response by SGT Rick Ash made Apr 1 at 2015 3:25 PM

2015-04-01T15:25:06-04:00

Sir or Ma'am is what I was taught. As referenced, if further conversation ensues the opportunity may present itself to address them by "Colonel Blank" or "Captain Blank". Showing respect is the bottom line.

Response by Capt David Hoffman made Apr 1 at 2015 3:47 PM

2015-04-01T15:47:41-04:00

I was taught it was respectful to use the proper rank when speaking to another military member. No one ever had a problem with it.

Response by SFC James Liedtka made Apr 1 at 2015 3:59 PM

2015-04-01T15:59:42-04:00

Sir, Ma'am, Chief or rank. It's been that way forever. Your preferance is not in play here. It's whichever the Soldier decides.

Response by SGT Leon Brimm made Apr 1 at 2015 4:05 PM

2015-04-01T16:05:00-04:00

When I was first in the military as wasn't sure or very clear on some officer ranks, I would use sir/ma'am just to cover my stupidity as a basic trainee pvt. But obviously as time goes on rank is something you learn and I always thought if I earned the rank of ____ I would like to be called by that rank. So when I see a MAJ, or COL, or even a General, I would say "Greeting of the day" and use rank. Like good morning Major Payne and what a fine day it is for some hooaistical training! I have even listed to some NCO's address a passing officer with a salute and their duty post or something like: When they pass they just say Airborne and salute...Either way im sure if you give a salute (when appropriate) say the hello and use some respect with sir/ma'am or rank, I think you will be ok.

Response by SSG Rob Kumpf made Apr 1 at 2015 4:44 PM

2015-04-01T16:44:49-04:00

According to regs, it's the way we're supposed to address you. During my time in uniform I was assigned to staff jobs on various levels and typically used "sir" and "rank" interchangeably and I always called the GOs I worked around "General" (IE: Excuse me, General, here is the briefing packet you requested, etc).

I was never stopped or asked about doing this, even while on post at USMA or other SMCs. I, as an NCO, would have politely corrected your correction and gladly provided the reference to the section in the regs that deal with this. Either way, I don't believe he meant any disrespect, it's an honor and a privilege to serve as a commissioned officer regardless if you are a "Lieutenant," a "sir," or a "General" when addressed.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 4:54 PM

2015-04-01T16:54:54-04:00

My take on it is for field grade or higher they are sir'ed and ma'amed. Then when you get to company grade you get the more informal rank calling like "LT" and "Cap'n"(side note I don't like Cap'n or Sar'nt for that matter as I think it is just plain lazy). The informal greeting "Morning LT!" is not disrespectful, particularly if he is your PL. But I believe especially with lieutenants calling them by their rank is a form of silent insolence. And yes I am guilty of that, but when I do that it just means that I respect the rank not the man. And believe you me we are talking screw up number 3,569 before I start doing that.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 4:57 PM

2015-04-01T16:57:14-04:00

As enlisted, we're taught from the start to address our enlisted superiors by their rank, not Sir or Ma'am. So to think addressing someone by their rank alone is disrespectful doesn't sit well with me. Also, as you point out, there's not much to go on by regs, so most wouldn't know any better if you were averted to that.
However, I would never use rank alone if having any kind of heated discussion, because the hearer is left to assume whether or not I'm judging them by their rank (e.g. 1SG addressing a CPT with far less experience on the matter at hand). So in that instance, yes, I can clearly understand where you're coming from.
As one who also grew up addressing everyone as either Sir or Ma'am for the last 35 years, I have no problem with continuing that. Unfortunately, it's hard not to call even junior enlisted personnel that sometimes. lol A dear friend of mine is a COL, whom I just ran into by chance the other day (off-duty, away from post) "Colonel!" and gave a hug and went on our way after a brief chat.
So either way, the words themselves seem to be respectful and correct by regulation. I would try to get past the rank and focus on HOW it's being said rather than what word they used unless further guidance comes down for the masses to be aware of. Certainly let those you work with know your preference, but outside of that, if possible I'd smile and carry on.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 5:15 PM

2015-04-01T17:15:19-04:00

Growing up I was taught that every adult was either Sir, or Ma'am. When I joined the Army it became Sir, Ma'am, or Rank depending on the situation. I find all of these to be respectful addresses for anyone. Any of these could be disrespectful if said in a disrespectful tone

Response by PO2 Christopher Foss made Apr 1 at 2015 5:50 PM

2015-04-01T17:50:46-04:00

This is very situational.

One of the things that the Navy taught is that respect is earned, not taken. In my mind, I am required to be courteous to ranking individuals because of their rank. You cannot force me to be respectful to the individual.

That said, much of this discussion depends on how something is said as much as what is said. Placing an undue emphasis on sir can be blatantly insulting while being picture perfect in regard to the regulations; just look at the movie, The Rock, where Sean Connery first encounters the Marine General.

It is just not possible to reasonably make a determination based only on what is said; content is as important as comment and the content includes body language, tone of voice and other non-verbal queues.

Response by MAJ Matthew Arnold made Apr 1 at 2015 5:53 PM

2015-04-01T17:53:23-04:00

I think that it is more in the tone of the words rather than in the words sir or captain.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 7:47 PM

2015-04-01T19:47:22-04:00

The air force guidelines says sir or ma'am is optional last I checked. It's either rank and last name or sir/ma'am. I could be wrong.

Response by SSG Ricky Coon made Apr 1 at 2015 7:53 PM

2015-04-01T19:53:31-04:00

It is absolutely disrespectful and highly belligerent to address an officer by rank alone.

Response by SFC Collin McMillion made Apr 1 at 2015 8:00 PM

2015-04-01T20:00:20-04:00

You know I really liked it when I was stationed at S.H.A.P.E., because you either didn't or didn't have to salute and I refered to everyone as Sir or Ma'am, because at the time there was 16 nations stationed there and some pvts for other countries wore so much brass you would swear they were general staff.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 8:02 PM

2015-04-01T20:02:10-04:00

Sir, I don't believe that it's said in a disrespectful manner, but it's definitely unprofessional. I can see a CSM calling his commander by their rank on certain occasions/situations. Other than a CSM, Soldiers should address all officers (O-1 through O-10) as Sir or Ma'am. Frankly, this is one of the discussions that show the lack of discipline and professionalism that we have in the military these days. I've only been in for 12 years, but would have been shocked to see or hear this in 2003.... Even as a PSG, I cringe when I hear "Lt/PL".

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 8:17 PM

2015-04-01T20:17:13-04:00

My answer is "I don't care". Regs say I can use sir/ma'am or rank. Regs trump hurt feelings.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 9:22 PM

2015-04-01T21:22:41-04:00

Sir,

I'm on the fence on this. I was trained in a similar fashion, both as a junior enlisted Soldier and later Cadet to address Officers as "sir." Furthermore, to address every Officer by their rank seems cumbersome to me. The only time I converse in this manner is when I'm trying to get an individual's attention among a group. I think relevant analogy for this question would be how we address NCOs v. how the Marine Corps does. Army E4-E7 as well as MSGs are addressed simply as "Sergeant" in most circumstances. A Marine Corps Veteran family member of mine thought that was utterly disrespectful to the senior ranks. Both branches are "right" by regulation. Is one more respectful to the individual than the other?

As others have said, I think tone and intent are far more important in this situation. I had a SSG at BOLC II who used "Sir" as a pejorative. As in "Do you know where you are SIR!?" on the land navigation course, implying an utter disrespect for the individual he was conversing with. His leadership should have reeled him in, but that didn't happen. The only time I've been addressed as "Lieutenant" was by a USMC Gunnery Sergeant, and it was preceded by "Good morning." I didn't take it as disrespectful. We were indoors and he could have just as easily went on his way.

In my opinion the SFC in question should've simply said "roger sir." and drove on. Him arguing the point implies to me that his intentions were less than respectful.

Response by LT Wesley Comer made Apr 1 at 2015 9:42 PM

2015-04-01T21:42:51-04:00

As an officer I was never offended by being addressed either way.

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 11:27 PM

2015-04-01T23:27:59-04:00

I'm a former Navy Chief. I came up the hard way, by earning it. No one GAVE ME my anchors or my commission, even though I had my BS in CS before most navy members today were born. That being said, respect goes BOTH ways, up the chain and down the chain. Enlisted call other enlisted by their last names OR by their rank, or by Petty Officer, but SELDOM by rank AND last name. Sorry, but now that I'm an officer, I call other higher ranking officers either by Sir or Ma'am, or by RANK alone. There's nothing wrong or disrespectful about that at all. At least not by Navy standards. Both are respectful. Higher rank is respectful in its own regard, by virtue of being higher. I also don't agree with the "/r," (respectfully) in emails. I find that VERY condescending and offensive coming from higher ranking individuals. I ALWAYS use "V/r," (Very Respectfully) no matter Who I'm sending email too. although I will spell it out when I have enormous amounts of respect for certain individuals regardless of rank. I saw a Navy CAPT (O6) do this in email to lower ranking also, who was the COS of Corpus Christies COMINEWARFARE and just happened to also be the highest ranking LDO mustang of our region. I figured if he could give respect like that to lower ranking individuals that might one day out there lives on the line for him, that by God, so could I.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Apr 2 at 2015 12:28 AM

2015-04-02T00:28:56-04:00

I'm not sure about the Army but in the Navy it was always completely acceptable and within regs to call an Officer by their rank. Hell, it was even acceptable to call an Officer by their title as well. Operations Officer was "Ops", Chief Engineer was "CHENG", etc. That part isn't in the regs.

I never felt it was disrespectful or did the Officer I was addressing. Only once did I get chewed out by a CWO4 (Navy) for every other word out of my mouth not being "Sir" when I was speaking to him.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 12:32 AM

2015-04-02T00:32:15-04:00

COL Charles Williams Sir, I would equate this to calling a doctor "Dr Name". Our rank is a professional title that we have earned and there is no disrespect in being addressed by it.

Response by SSG Stacy Carter made Apr 2 at 2015 2:23 AM

2015-04-02T02:23:36-04:00

There are multiple ways to address those senior in rank to you. Some of them are disrespectful by intonation and some not.. Addressing an individual that is familiar to you by their rank I feel is not disrespectful unless the tone is disrespectful. Addressing an individual that is unfamiliar to you by their rank in my opinion is disrespectful.

I think it really falls back on the position of respecting the rank not the person. Like in the movie "Band of Brothers" where MAJ Winters is correcting CPT Sobel for disrespecting his rank. You do not have to like/respect the person but you will according to military regulations respect the rank.

Response by CSM Ralph Hernandez made Apr 2 at 2015 2:37 AM

2015-04-02T02:37:25-04:00

Sir, I like you also grew up in what I guess was the same era because I was taught as a young Soldier not to call someone by only their rank. I have been in for a little over 35 years and oh how things have changed. One of my favorite Bosses told me to ensure that all the Senior NCO's read and understood AR 600-20. So not only did I ask my Senior NCO's to read it I also had them give classes on the different chapters ( I gave the first class then they followed) this way I knew that it would sink in a little bit more. I am getting ready to retire the, green fatigues, the jungle fatigues, the BDUs, the DCUs, ACUs and the multicams. I think first I'll go fishing, then go fishing again. Just my nickles worth.

Response by CW4 Larry Curtis made Apr 2 at 2015 3:29 AM

2015-04-02T03:29:27-04:00

One thing I always enjoyed about being a Warrant Officer is that most of the time I was referred to as Mister, and according to the Code of Conduct I can still be referred to as such as a civilian with no reference to (ret) after it. ;) I know, I'm a wise guy...but that used to be one of the prerequisites to becoming a Warrant Officer...I think...maybe...it's been too long for me to remember, really. LOL.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 6:03 AM

2015-04-02T06:03:33-04:00

While I admit there are differences among the services, in the Navy we are brought up to think it is an acceptable alternative to the rank of officers and warrants. Personally, if I am addressing an officer I will call their title at the beginning of a conversation and then the remaining references will be sir/ma'am accordingly. Unlike our Airmen friends sir/ma'am is considered disrespectful for non-coms.

Response by MSgt R Davis made Apr 2 at 2015 8:27 AM

2015-04-02T08:27:00-04:00

It's an official term of address. Sometimes, it's not what is said...it's how it is said. Goes both ways; having a senior officer address us lowly enlisted trash with some scorn in their voice. Using the rank as a term of address CAN be used as a method to demean and dismiss; but it shouldn't be.

Response by SrA David Steyer made Apr 2 at 2015 8:47 AM

2015-04-02T08:47:20-04:00

Most of the time, I start out with Sir/Ma'am. If not, I generally will use rank or position (i.e. doctor) but use Sir/Ma'am etc at least once. But I use Sir and Ma'am, a lot, regardless of rank.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 9:04 AM

2015-04-02T09:04:30-04:00

Sir or ma'am is easier. I don't think it's disrespectful though.

Response by MSG Floyd Williams made Apr 2 at 2015 9:29 AM

2015-04-02T09:29:05-04:00

It all depends on the tone of his/her voice to be classified as disrespectful.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 9:42 AM

2015-04-02T09:42:24-04:00

When I was in the Navy, we addressed the captain of the ship as captain, regardless if they were a full bird or not. Same with the XO, regardless of rank. The same was true for other positions that officers held - Ops, Cheng, Sup, etc. There was never any disrespect intended, nor do I believe those officer felt any. Other officers might have been addressed as Sir or Ma'am or their rank and last name, as far as I remember.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 9:53 AM

2015-04-02T09:53:40-04:00

As Chief A.D. Walker stated AR 600-20 Command Policy clearly defines proper title of address for the entire United States Army. Let's not forget that many of our regulations are out of date being the reason why regulatory guidance is interpreted at the discretion of the Commander. I believe that all Commissioned Officers should be addressed as Sir or Ma'am.

The only time a Commissioned Officer should be addressed by their rank would be when for example calling the names of personnel from a manifest, or when referring to them officer with a third party conversation, or in a ceremony. Chief Warrant Officer's should be addressed as Sir or Chief...Mister is something emphasized by the United States Navy as the enlisted Chief Petty Officer (CPO/E-7) is addressed as Chief.

I am a firm believer that enlisted Soldiers should be addressed by their full grade of military rank. As the rank of Sergeant First Class (SFC/E-7) is a mouthful and many SFC's serve in First Sergeant positions whereby the Department of the Army should revert back to the rank of Platoon Sergeant (PSG/E-7) adding Detachment Sergeant (DSG/E-7) along with the lateral rank of First Sergeant (1SG/E-7) for those who serves in First Sergeant position as a PSG.

The rank of Specialist (SPC/E-4) should be completely eliminated and replaced with Corporal (CPL/E-4) with a required NCOES enforcing the select, train, promote model synonymous to our United States Army requirements.

CPL = Team Leader/Squad Leader
SGT = Squad Leader
SSG = Platoon Sergeant
PSG/DSG/1SG = Senior Platoon Sergeant/Detachment Sergeant/First Sergeant
MSG/DSG/1SG = Staff Master Sergeant/First Sergeant
SGM/CSM/SMA = Staff Sergeant Major/Command Sergeant Major/Sergeant Major of the Army

These changes would streamline our rank structure. They would also bring much needed regulatory updates. At the same time recognize additional responsibilities not normally held at certain grades of military rank. Not to mention that as our forces continue to downsize and become smaller then ever before such changes allow for a force structure command and staff alignment that would lean the United States Army personnel pool.

NOTE: The United States Marine Corps ranks of Staff Sergeant and Master Sergeant came from the United States Army. In addition while the United States Marines do address their Enlisted members by their full grade of rank the United States Army was the first branch of service to do this. At the same time the it is my understanding that their is no written regulation in the United States Marine Corps that clarifies proper address of military grade of rank in them utilizing full grade of military rank being an unwritten practice taken from the United States Army there again.

Response by SFC Rich Carey made Apr 2 at 2015 10:31 AM

2015-04-02T10:31:01-04:00

I remember a GO that required you to call her General xxxxxxxx and if you adressed her as ma'am your chain of command would report to her. Power Trip.

Response by CPO Levoy Morring made Apr 2 at 2015 10:50 AM

2015-04-02T10:50:05-04:00

COL Williams, it seems there are as many views on this topic as there are people talking about it. Let me give you MY sailor view.

I, like you, was raised to be respectful. My Daddy would give me a "big whooping" if he heard me being disrespectful to an elder. I think that it has been stated quite well here that no matter the term used to greet an officer, respect, or lack thereof, is paramount to how the recepient reacts. I agree with that view. For example: I had lunch a few months ago with the former Commanding Officer and Executive Officer of USS Fahrion (FFG-22). Although the Commanding Officer was the Captain of the ship he also held the rank of Captain. I still called him Captain. The Executive Officer, at the time he was XO, was a Lieutenant Commander. He eventually achieved the rank of Captain and was Commanding Officer of his own ship. During lunch I referred to him as XO. Right? Wrong? I don't know, but he seemed to know the utmost respect I have for him as a person and a fine Naval Officer. On another note, I had a division officer that rose to the rank of Admiral. In his days as CS-1 Division Officer we called him CICO (pronounced SICKO), I would not call him CICO today, I would address him as "Admiral" or "Sir".

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 11:56 AM

2015-04-02T11:56:44-04:00

I feel there is a time and place for the rank vs. Sir/Ma'am... At least form a Warrant perspective. Also, anything other than Sir/Ma'am (rank aside) is a term of endearment. Being a Warrant officer, my Soldiers call me chief in general settings, but when ever I address/introduce myself, or answer the phone, I use my rank, or Mr. in stead of "Chief." I prefer Mr or Sir as a Warrant. Now going the other direction to the RLO ranks, I always use Sir/Ma'am -- and very rarely I use the term of endearment "LT" for the Lieutenants that I work with daily -- typically within my unit and known on a personal level.

Really when it boils down to it, Sir/Ma'am is the correct way, and if the time and place is right, and the vibe is ok with the Warrant/LT, the alternate term of endearment is OK. But who can honestly define a "Reasonable person standard" for the correct time? A lot of Warrants will dispute this as "Chief" is something we have earned, but AR600-20 says otherwise... And you never know either; I have met Chief Warrant Officers that do not prefer the "Chief" title at all!

Response by SGT Tyler G. made Apr 2 at 2015 12:50 PM

2015-04-02T12:50:58-04:00

Raises the interesting question of whether individuals, officers or junior enlisted, addressing NCOs as just "Sergeant" should be considered disrespectful. I prefer it, makes things easier.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 12:59 PM

2015-04-02T12:59:32-04:00

I believe3 it depends on the person. In my job I work side by side with officers and I generally just speak to them as I would anyone else. However; there are instances where formalities are extremely important. It depends on the demeanor of the person when they walk up.

Response by SGT Frank Leonardo made Apr 2 at 2015 2:10 PM

2015-04-02T14:10:38-04:00

I think that by saying sir or ma'am is respectful and also by addressing them by rank is also fine just as long as you don't screw it up

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 2:44 PM

2015-04-02T14:44:30-04:00

While I understand your overall sentiment, I don't see why "sir or m'am" should be seen as a more respectful form of address than rank. From my Navy perspective, I think the title of "sir" is a helluva lot easier to come by than Chief. I don't mind being addressed in a way that specifies my achievements.

Response by 1SG Jason Fitzpatrick made Apr 2 at 2015 3:09 PM

2015-04-02T15:09:05-04:00

COL Charles Williams There is obviously a double edged sword lurking just inside the shadows. My $.02.... When I was Havoc 7 (HSC, DHHB, 1ID..DUTY FIRST!), I had an officer who was junior to my Commander kind of raise his voice/ tone with my boss. My immediate response to this travesty was to clear the company operations area of all service members and then ask the officer if I could have a moment of his time.... I believe the conversation went something like..." I would like a moment of your time in your office Lieutenant..." where I then informed him that he may want to extract his head from his fourth point of contact and that if he ever felt the need to raise his voice at the commander again, I would make him disappear and be some housing inspector in Alaska.... long story short, sometimes using an officer's rank instead of "Sir or Ma'am" is exactly what is needed... It sort of cuts through the fog of their over inflated ego.... Especially coming from a lowly Senior Enlisted.

Response by MAJ Terry LaFrance made Apr 2 at 2015 3:54 PM

2015-04-02T15:54:04-04:00

"Lighten up Francis…" LOL, that's beautiful

Response by SGT Matthew Sullivan made Apr 2 at 2015 3:57 PM

2015-04-02T15:57:55-04:00

Well let me ask you Sir.
Does it bother you? Or can you tell in about 1.2 seconds after trying one or the other.....

Let that spidy sense tell you.....

But as a unwritten rule,
If you don't know the officer and see his rank use his rank.

If you know the officer Sir will be fine.

If you don't know his rank use Sir, if it is a CSM or lower you will be notified really quick like.

Just keep your military courtesy going strong.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 7:28 PM

2015-04-02T19:28:54-04:00

I think it just shows that you know your ranks and rates, and I think it should all be interchangeable. I never mean it disrespectfully.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 7:32 PM

2015-04-02T19:32:57-04:00

I worked with FORSCOM in Atlanta, which was loaded with more stars than Haley's comet. The story goes that a young 2LT was walking down the hall at FORSCOM, when a one star approached from the opposite direction. The 2LT braced himself against the wall out of respect. The one star braced himself next to the LT and said....."who's coming".

Response by SGT John Beardsley made Apr 2 at 2015 9:22 PM

2015-04-02T21:22:36-04:00

I wish I had the option to select both "No" and "Lighten up Francis . . ..".

If you are addressed by your proper rank in a respectful manner, well then, you are being shown the respect due. If you are addressed by a SFC, it is a pretty good bet that Sergeant was as well versed in proper customs and courtesies as you are Colonel, and maybe more. It is also a safe bet that that Sergeant walked away with a pretty fair idea just how much respect was due.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 10:59 PM

2015-04-02T22:59:20-04:00

I don't think it is disrespectful to call an officer by their rank, but it should be only when appropriate. Using "Sir" and "Ma'am" should be what any enlisted or lower ranking individual uses 95% of the time, but there are instances when simply their rank is okay.
The only good example I have is that we address our PL as "LT." I am sure this is not an uncommon occurrence. It is done respectfully and generally seen as endearing. In any other instance when I address an officer by their rank, it is in conjunction with their last name and because I am speaking to them directly/specifically.

Response by CW4 John Karl T. made Apr 3 at 2015 2:41 AM

2015-04-03T02:41:47-04:00

It depends on tone of voice and other words accompanying the address. You can enhance your career by learning to use tact with maximum effectiveness. To do this, one must be aware at all times of the definition of the word. To Webster's definition add the following: Telling someone where to go in such a manner as to make the journey thoroughly enjoyable.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2015 3:48 AM

2015-04-03T03:48:52-04:00

While I have heard "El Tee" be derogatory, as long as its one of my NCO's I don't really mind. Myself and my Sergeants are a very tight knit group, and I view it as more of a term of endearment, especially with how its used; we're a fighting unit, and a family. However I do not like it when one of my fresh privates calls me "LT", more of a "You need to have a little time with the unit first" kind of deal. However, most of my Specialists and senior privates do refrain from using it (I think that my NCOs had a talk with the soldiers while I wasn't around after an incident, and that pretty much quashed any derogatory notions). Myself and my soldiers get along very well, and if it is my soldiers I do not really care; outside the company is another matter. To soldiers that aren't my own I respond to them by their rank or title out of respect, because I do not have the level of familiarity I feel is needed to call them otherwise.

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Apr 3 at 2015 8:55 AM

2015-04-03T08:55:24-04:00

What and how is said... I can and have made either address a clear indication "what you did made me sad, I'm about to make you sadder"

At the same time, either address is respectful when done...well respectfully

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2015 10:05 AM

2015-04-03T10:05:48-04:00

IS it disrespectfull to say hey sgt nooooo I since some LT butt hurt

Response by SSG Christopher K. made Apr 3 at 2015 10:07 AM

2015-04-03T10:07:54-04:00

Basic customs and courtesies dictate that you will not address an commissioned officer by their rank but by sir or ma'am. This is beaten in to every enlisted soldier that goes through basic training and im sure in JROTC and OCS classes as well. I understand sometimes people get nervous and may goof here and there.

Response by PO2 Christopher McClintic made Apr 3 at 2015 10:40 AM

2015-04-03T10:40:50-04:00

Let's see if I can put this in a nice way... we were all taught in Basic to call all officers sir, ma'am, or by their rank. I understand that all branches are different in structure, but in the Navy, all commanding officers are call captain. They do not think it is disrespectful at all. I called every one of my officers by their rank, no name, when I saw them for the first time in the day, for example, "Good Morning LT" if I was in a meeting with all the officers, it was sir or ma'am. No, it is not disrespectful to call an officer by their name, unless one purposely does it in a disrespectful way.

Response by 1LT Brian Yang made Apr 3 at 2015 12:49 PM

2015-04-03T12:49:03-04:00

Honestly sir I've seen it vary from person to person based on preference and unit expectations. It was common for my soldier to address me as "LT" in private and they would switch to sir when out amongst other soldiers or if it was in a formal situation. We had that understanding and it was never an issue. I was always taught to default to Sir or Ma'am unless getting a superior's attention, then switch back to addressing them formally. However as I went through the years, I would work for/with others who would relax the policy. I will acknowledge that the non-uniformity can cause issues if you address a superior too familiarly in front of someone else, but then again I see the benefits of relaxing it somewhat in private situations. My point is sir that honestly I think it's pretty much all over the place.

Response by SFC John Gemmell made Apr 3 at 2015 1:09 PM

2015-04-03T13:09:45-04:00

Hello Colonel Williams.

You see Sir, in addressing leadership formally, as in literature or letters, the appropriate address is to write out the rank followed by the last name.

If I were to pass you on the street, in or out of uniform, I would salute officers six paces before till six paces past, and greet officers with the greeting of the day, in the effect of "Good morning Sir (Ma'am)," as appropriate.

I would never address an officer by his or her rank only. The connotation here is condescending in the same manner as NCOs being taught not to address privates as Private, but as "Soldier" or "Warrior."

This senior NCO has disrespected you by not considering his tone, and has verbally placed you into a position of equality. There is no equality between officers and NCOs. In many cases, the officers in the officer corps have gone to great lengths to achieve their rank. These lengths are greater in many cases than that of the NCO. However, this is not always the case.

What NCOs must keep in mind when they have attained the same, or greater degree, of education, certification, or qualification, than any officer is: "I will earn the respect and confidence of my leadership." The NCO, in fact, if qualified, has made the conscious decision to remain an enlisted Soldier, thereby forfeiting all rights to acclaim equality.

Not to mention, Sergeants First Class (i.e., short of winning the Medal of Honor) have never led more than a company's number of men during peacetime, or during conflict. There is simply is no comparison.

Cordially,
John Roscoe Gemmell, Jr.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2015 3:21 PM

2015-04-03T15:21:42-04:00

I know I don't have long in the service yet (just over two years), and I'm Air National Guard (and you specifically mentioned both the Guard and the Air Force), but even in active duty schools I've attended, I've been lead to believe that addressing someone by their rank, especially a full, formal rank (like technical sergeant, vs tech sergeant) is a sign of respect both to them for having earned that rank, as well as the rank itself. That said, I'm also perfectly happy to address someone by sir or ma'am, and often do, especially if I don't know their rank because they aren't in uniform or I haven't been able to see the insignia yet.

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made Apr 3 at 2015 7:30 PM

2015-04-03T19:30:59-04:00

Back in the "Old Corps," we would often refer to each other in the 3rd-person AND rank. For example: "Sir, would the Colonel like coffee?" If there were more colonels in the room, you follow it up with Sir/Ma'am, Rank, Name. Not rocket science. Can never go wrong being too formal --even in informal settings. Better to have a senior tell you to "relax" vice to be more professional. Sometimes, referring to each other caused confusion with those not familiar with this protocol. They broke the code, however, when the SgtMaj jumped between their eyes for anything less than professional. What are they teaching recruits these days? Hell, why is this even a flippin' question?

Response by SSG Nick Tramontano made Apr 3 at 2015 8:14 PM

2015-04-03T20:14:53-04:00

As an NCO I've addressed Jr. grade officers by their rank but always addressed field grade officers as 'sir' . Also after spending 4 years Airborne I always say 'All The Way' before sir when saluting.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2015 8:20 PM

2015-04-03T20:20:17-04:00

No, Sir. I don't.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2015 8:49 PM

2015-04-03T20:49:00-04:00

Being raised in the South, we are conditioned to refer to men as "sir" and women as "ma'am."

It's not something I have to think about. A PVT holds the door open, and I automatically say 'Thank ya, Sir."

I'm 35, but I even address females as "Ma'am."

What irks me is "yeah" and "nah"...especially in a military environment, and more so when we speak to superiors.

Use the title, respect, or common courtesy.

Response by SGM Eric Lobsinger made Apr 4 at 2015 1:34 AM

2015-04-04T01:34:10-04:00

Sir, Ma'am, COL, CW4, SGM, LT, Chief, Top, PVT, MAJ, SFC: Over 30 years of service, I have addressed individuals in all of the above. At no time, were any of the terms intended to be terms of disrespect. Now when you say "he is an E-5; she is only an O-2; he is a Wobbly 1: all of these are intended to denote disrespect. My general inclination was to use Sir or Ma'am. However, that was my personal preference. Some officers had their own preferences, as is the case with some noncommissioned officers. I have always addressed a first sergeant as "top" out of respect, although some had absolutely hated the term. Those who look to be "insulted," will find what they are looking for. Customs and Courtesies are pretty simple though, if someone does not care to be called sir, ma'am, captain, specialist, major, or sergeant, that's their problem. There is absolutely not issue with that. As SFC Bottoms, my first platoon sergeant, used to tell my, PFC, you are a private. Period. that 1LT over there is a lieutenant. Always remember, you are NEVER a pay grade. ALWAYS be proud of your rank and of what you have achieved.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2015 7:22 AM

2015-04-04T07:22:01-04:00

I don't think it's disrespectful at all. As many others have posted, it's the tone or intent that would cause it to be disrespectful, not the words.

I would also offer that respect goes up and down the rank structure. I've said "Good Morning SGM" or "Good morning 1SG" many a time. Does that denote any disrespect? Why would I be offended if someone said "Good morning Major?"

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2015 12:52 PM

2015-04-04T12:52:43-04:00

If the other verbal and nonverbal communicators seem disrespectful than it may be. I don't think that simply addressing one by their rank deems it inappropriate.

Response by PFC Zanie Young made Apr 4 at 2015 10:22 PM

2015-04-04T22:22:45-04:00

Being a private, it was on the spot correction time whenever I failed miserably to identify an officer without saying "Good morning sir/ma'am" without standing at attention! That's especially true with generals!

Response by PO1 Simon Ballantyne made Apr 5 at 2015 2:10 AM

2015-04-05T02:10:02-04:00

Wow, you turned a polite greeting into a confrontation about your personal pet peeve. I'm sure the SGT would like to call you "asshole" from now on.

Response by MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P made Apr 5 at 2015 8:40 PM

2015-04-05T20:40:12-04:00

I always allowed the situation to dictate approach. For example, if I were in a room of varied ranks (both E- and O-) I would address an individual by rank and name for initial contact. After that, I would revert to Sir or Ma'am. Never got "called on the carpet" or had anyone get their tail feathers in a fluff over it.

I've been retired for a few years. Maybe folks today are more easily offended than my generation. Guess the adage, "Know your audience" is still very relevant.

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made Apr 6 at 2015 3:44 AM

2015-04-06T03:44:13-04:00

If you address an officer by the title CAPT and your voice is sarcastic, yes it can be. Otherwise both ways are appropriate and respectful.

Response by 2LT Charley Gibbs made Apr 6 at 2015 7:04 AM

2015-04-06T07:04:45-04:00

More often than not, I was called 'Doc' by NCOs and fellow privates in the guard unit (I was in nursing school at the time). Prior to that at basic training in Ft. Bliss I was 'the old man' because I was the second oldest in my company except for the Company Commander (who I looked like OMG). As an Army nurse, I was both sirred and Lt'ed often, but when the non-coms and enlisted personnel were the only ones around, I became 'Lt. Chuckles'. Hilarious bunch of 91As and 91Cs at LAMC and RACH. Being both from a professional/officer and enlisted background gave me a certain amount of traction or gravitas with the sergeants and specialists which some officers may have earned but didn't just have.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 8:46 AM

2015-04-06T08:46:05-04:00

I have one of those rare instances where I have multiple people in the office, all of differing ranks, with the last name Smith. The only way to tell the difference is to say rank, especially when there are phone calls.

I do advise Soldiers to address people appropriately except when specificity is needed, such as in that case.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 8:26 PM

2015-04-06T20:26:26-04:00

I agree with you, sir. When addressing a senior person, it's sir or ma'am for me. I would typically use rank and name only when the individual is not in the area and I'm mentioning them by name.

Response by SPC Edward Tapper made Apr 6 at 2015 9:25 PM

2015-04-06T21:25:57-04:00

COL Charles Williams, Sir, this opening is the only way that I would ever address an officer by rank. The officer's rank, followed by his/her last name, and more times than not, follow that up with Sir/Ma'am. In your case, for example, "COL Williams, Sir, you have posed a very good question on respect, courtiousy and proper military procedure. I am only to happy to engage you with my input, Sir."
In the case of WOs, I would still show due respect, such as, in the caze of CW3 Private RallyPoint Member. I would address him as Mr. Walker. If in time, he were my section chief, and only at his request, I might call him Chief Walker, but only with his approval. Same respect should always be shown to a female officer or WO, ising Ma'am for the officer Ms. for thWo. That, Sir, was my training and I am sticking to it.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 10:44 PM

2015-04-06T22:44:41-04:00

At my last assignment, I worked with high ranking leaders on a daily basis. I simply asked them how they preferred to be addressed. As for the others, I think they earned their grade and should be addressed accordingly. But a point to ponder is those in the medical field. Was it harder to become, and be respected as, a Doctor or a Captain?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 10:51 PM

2015-04-06T22:51:46-04:00

I'm in a brigade HHC. We're pretty officer heavy, especially in the 3 shop, it's pretty frequent that I'd be in a room full of officers, so just saying "sir" would be like dropping into a basic training class and saying "private". I feel that as long as there's respect behind it, calling someone by rank should be, and is OK, such as "CPT Smith" or "LT Jones" if you're surrounded by "sirs", etc.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 8:41 AM

2015-04-07T08:41:58-04:00

It all depends on context. "Private" and "L.T." Can definitely sound like the dirtiest pejorative.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 10:04 AM

2015-04-07T10:04:55-04:00

Honestly sir, I always address an officer as sir or ma'am but sometimes I kinda get the feeling to address by rank along with the greet of the day. To me why have a rank if it can't be addressed unless getting smoked

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 11:37 PM

2015-04-07T23:37:43-04:00

90% of the time I always address officers as "sir" or "ma'am". I only address them by their rank when there is more than one and I am initiating conversation with one of them. And when I address them by their rank it's always followed by their last name.

Response by BG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 1:10 PM

2015-04-08T13:10:12-04:00

I have always followed the rule that the first greeting of the day should be more formal and the rest of the day the shortened version. I really don't need someone to say "General Goddard" every time they speak to me. Sheesh! I will say that substituting General for Sir is fine in my book.

I'd actually be OK with using the British system and calling me "Brigadier"!

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 5:33 PM

2015-04-08T17:33:31-04:00

What is the culture of the service? The culture of the command? Desires of the commander?

"Excuse me Colonel" is no more disrespectful than "Excuse me sir".

With the wrong tone and inflection, "Excuse me sir" can be made as disrespectful as the speaker desires.

An example from the enlisted community: Marines are insulted if you do not use their proper rank. It is considered insulting to call a Staff Sergeant (E6) a "Sergeant" (E5) because you are demoting them. For the Navy, it is insulting for a Chief Petty Officer to be called a "Petty Officer". Or for a Senior Chief (E8) or Master Chief (E9) to be demoted to Chief (E7). Conversely it has been explained that many Soldiers often feel insulted when their proper rank is used. "Sergeant" is used for more than just E5 Soldiers. Some SSG (E6) and SFC (E7) feel you are being condescending or derogatory when addressing them by their proper rank even though the intent was to be respectful of their true rank and not demote them to E5.

Overall, I would not worry about it. If the person is addressing you respectfully it does not matter if they say "Colonel" or "sir".

Response by SGT Richard H. made Apr 8 at 2015 8:20 PM

2015-04-08T20:20:06-04:00

I think in a lot of ways this depends on either context or personal preference. For example saying "Col. Williams, Mary speak with you?" And then beginning your next sentence with "Sir...." once acknowledged does not seem disrespectful at all to me. On the other hand, if you were to ask me a question and I say "yes Col." instead of "Yes sir" that would be inappropriate.

With regard to my comment about personal preference, I once had a Major General (my division commander) tell me that "Second Lieutenants get called 'sir'. I prefer General"

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 9:01 PM

2015-04-08T21:01:09-04:00

Being from the south anyone in charge is sir or ma'am. That is how I was raised. When I joined the military you called a drill instructor drill sgt. Only not by their name. In my book it's disrespect to call by rank unless your rank is above the one you are talking to.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 9 at 2015 8:40 PM

2015-04-09T20:40:20-04:00

I think that it is entirely circumstantial, Sir. For someone to say "Good Morning Sir" or ""Goodmorning Colonel" or "Goodmorning Colonel Sir" seems equally respectful to me. On one hand, you have a general situation which conforms to most all scenarios "Goodmorning Sir", but on the other you have a specific designation which acknowledges your position in particular - acknowledging that you are in fact an Officer comissioned by the President of the United States AND paying respects to the position of senior leadership which you have earned the right to bear and be acknowledged for. Just my opinion though, as a soldier it is my duty, privilege, and honor to give the salute, greeting of the day, and offer the acknowedgement to a superior in the Army we both serve in.
-SGT McCormick, Zachery A. AR Army N.G.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Apr 14 at 2015 8:04 PM

2015-04-14T20:04:03-04:00

60 - 40... Looks like the votes are leaning toward disrespectful. Thank you for your thoughts and comments.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2015 2:14 PM

2015-04-16T14:14:04-04:00

From a Navy perspective, we use a lot of positional titles. For my division on a ship, I work for an LDO Ensign through Lieutenant but the title of the individual is Electronics Material Officer. On the ship this officer is referred to as EMO, not rank or sir/ma'am. The same can be said for multiple positions, the Chief Engineer as CHANG, and so on. It all really depends on the situation or the audience as well.

Response by Lt Col Norman Cannon made Apr 23 at 2015 3:56 PM

2015-04-23T15:56:52-04:00

As a general rule you cannot fault a person for addressing a superior by their rank versus simply Sir. As someone pointed out, regs actually identify rank as an (if not the) appropriate greeting.

That being said, as with any word, "sir" included, it can be laced with sarcasm and disrespect. Superiors can likewise address subordinates with a proper salutation yet laced with disrespect.

As for me, most of the times that I've been addressed as "Colonel" (or "Major", "Captain", etc), it was done so as a clear form of respect. Just as enlisted earned their rank and should be addressed by it, so have I. The first time I heard someone use my rank as a regular greeting it was actually surprisingly nice. It was clear they were trying to afford me a level respect and honor the rank that I held.

I have no problem with it. Just as I had no problem with an informal "L-T" when I was a Lieutenant, so long as it was done with respect and not laced with disrespect. When it wasn't, I addressed the disrespect rather than than the word used.

Having served in both the Army and Air Force, I appreciate that the Army still addresses their enlisted by their rank. Sometime between when my father retired from the Air Force as a Master Sergeant and now, the Air Force has begun teaching Airmen to address enlisted superiors as "Sir" rather than "Sergeant". The only one that gets anything different is "Chief" for Chief Master Sergeants. What ever happened to "I'm a Sergeant! I work for a living!" The Air Force also has begun calling enlisted junior to them by their first name. In the Army that is a sure sign that the officer or senior NCO doesn't really respect the junior member or, they may respect them, but the superior can be a push over and too chummy with their troops.

I firmly believe that all enlisted earn their rank just as officers do and should be addressed by such. Using their first name may be nice in a civilian environment, but in the military it is too informal and doesn't afford respect for their achievements and rank that they've earned. Likewise, addressing a superior by their rank rather than simply "Sir" is affording respect for the achievement and rank they've earned.

Response by 1SG Eric Brown made Apr 23 at 2015 4:05 PM

2015-04-23T16:05:09-04:00

I always felt that addressing an individual as sir/ma'am was showing respect for the individual within the uniform, while addressing someone by their rank only showed a required respect for the rank. While this is not always that case, this is show I felt. I instructed those soldier for which I was responsible that respect is like a ladder. When being introduced to anyone; officer or enlisted, superior or junior in rank, the top of the ladder should always be the starting point (meaning as respectful as you can be). Should the individual indicate that that level of respect is not required, then a step down the "ladder" you come. There is a basic level of respect that all individuals should receive. If I get to know them better that level may increase, or decrease.

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Apr 24 at 2015 4:00 AM

2015-04-24T04:00:21-04:00

Personally I'd have to wonder why it would be. The regulations don't agree so until they're changed I would comply and have no problem doing so.

Response by SGT Kristin Myers made Apr 26 at 2015 11:18 AM

2015-04-26T11:18:55-04:00

I feel that once you get into the Commissioned Officer side of the ranks, simply stating an officer's rank is not right. Granted, you call a 2LT or 1LT by just LT. But I feel they haven't totally earned their "stripes" yet. Plus, it is just easier to say sir or ma'am than a rank. I would feel the need to say their full title if I started out with their rank.

Response by MSG David Chappell made Apr 26 at 2015 11:24 AM

2015-04-26T11:24:08-04:00

I always use rank (using col in place it LTC) as I address all NCO's by rank they earned it I give it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2015 11:25 AM

2015-04-26T11:25:43-04:00

I never understood why it was considered disrespectful to address officers by rank and name because enlisted personnel are accustomed to being called by rank alone sometimes rank and name. Is that to say that Enlisted and NCO's should be disrespected? Just a thought. But I see nothing wrong with addressing each other by rank and name...

Response by SSgt Thomas L. made Apr 26 at 2015 12:20 PM

2015-04-26T12:20:41-04:00

I have never heard of referring to any service member by their rank alone as being disrespectful. From what I understand, it's standard practice in the Navy.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2015 1:00 PM

2015-04-26T13:00:37-04:00

That's why we need First Name Friday's!!

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made Apr 26 at 2015 5:22 PM

2015-04-26T17:22:27-04:00

Colonel! I think its perfectly okay and I never had a problem with it myself! I have run across a few service members that were a little too stuffy for their own good and would have made a big deal out of it! Hell, I still get "Colonel" today in my civilian career!

Response by SPC Christian Ziegler made Apr 26 at 2015 5:50 PM

2015-04-26T17:50:52-04:00

In passing when I was in I would always give the greeting of the day along with Sir (there was no female Officers in the units I was in). But most of the Platoon Leaders I had would rather be called LT by us and I remember many times Officers in the unit getting mad when we would call them Sir after work, they would always say I have a first name just like everyone else.
But I guess its just what type of unit your in, I tend to believe that most SM know the proper thing to do, and if there not doing it there is a reason.

Response by CSM Donald McGlasson made Apr 29 at 2015 6:08 PM

2015-04-29T18:08:47-04:00

You are dead on sir, disrespectful. It would be like calling a supervisor on a civilian job site, Mr or Mrs when speaking to them. Doesn't that sound wrong?

Response by SSG Ed Mikus made Jul 9 at 2015 4:14 PM

2015-07-09T16:14:22-04:00

Different titles are for different uses. b

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Jul 9 at 2015 10:40 PM

2015-07-09T22:40:03-04:00

I have made a some traffic stops and the motorists was an officer or a high ranking NCO and they were mad at me for their speeding. I'd start with Sir or Ma'am and get interrupted, "I am a 1SG!" and I might respond with, "1SG, I address everyone with Sir or Ma'am and I did not know you were a 1SG". He was on his cell phone rolling through a parking lot in his POV. Instead of citing him I wasted his time and most of it.

Response by SN Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 10 at 2015 11:07 AM

2015-07-10T11:07:38-04:00

Honestly, I feel using a title to address an officer is more respectful. I don't have a commission, yet. But you'd address anyone in the real world as sir or ma'am, and rank is something you work hard for. with that being said I'd want to be addressed as captain if I was a captain, considering I would call my barber sir, or my waitress maam. Sir or ma'am just sounds too mundane for me. Whereas your rank sounds prestigious. Just my opinion though. To stay on the safe side, the only time I say captain to a captain is if they're they CO of a ship, considering that's the proper way to address any CO. but personally I wouldn't have any issue being addressed as my rank, if I had that ranked I worked hard to achieve.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Jul 10 at 2015 1:21 PM

2015-07-10T13:21:39-04:00

I have called everyone in the service Sir/Ma'am from E1 all the way to O10. Even as a civilian, I always use sir/ma'am. What offends me is when I hear "don't call me sir, I work for a living". Of course I respect their request.

Response by SGM Steve Wettstein made Jul 10 at 2015 5:27 PM

2015-07-10T17:27:48-04:00

I was taught if you were going to address an officer you either say Sir or Ma'am or by their rank and last name.

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Jul 10 at 2015 11:14 PM

2015-07-10T23:14:11-04:00

I addressed a captain once by saying yes captain, he got mad at me, i never made that mistake again.

Response by SSgt Charles Edwards made Jul 11 at 2015 11:13 AM

2015-07-11T11:13:45-04:00

The Air Force tends to be a little different than the other branches on certain issues. Addressing a military member is one of them. Addressing enlisted should always include rank and if the individual is a NCO, sir or ma'am is perfectly acceptable. Officers require the traditional sir or ma'am greeting, but using their full rank is alright too.

I can understand your line of thinking sir. Some people prefer to be addressed a certain way. I knew a NCO in tech school who required his troops to address him as Technical Sergeant so-and-so. I guess it's just a case of to each their own.

Response by CW4 John Karl T. made Jul 16 at 2015 1:39 PM

2015-07-16T13:39:22-04:00

It really does not matter as long as you address an officer (or any service member) with courtesy and respect. Much depends on tone of voice and inflection. You can say all the right words and be disrespectful in your tone, inflection and manner of address.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 4:47 PM

2015-07-16T16:47:05-04:00

I was taught in military courtesy classes you can say sir ma'am, rank or rank/last name. I don't see the big deal either way; so long as your speak in a respectful tone. Obviously tone of voice in any of these situations can make it sound discourteous even if you use the right words.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 5:19 PM

2015-07-16T17:19:05-04:00

Never an issue. In the Sea Services, O-4 and below to W-1 are addressed as "Mr." with the last name also. This was encouraged over the phone because you didn't know who you were speaking with, so it forces a more formal response. I am addressed by my rank going theough the gate everyday. Being addressed by my rank never presented a problem and I was never was taught to be or felt disrespected at any time.

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Jul 17 at 2015 11:57 PM

2015-07-17T23:57:09-04:00

COL Charles Williams At one time I was instructed that all officers were addressed by Sir/Maam except Generals who were addressed by General. I've never found any reference for that. I'd go with Sir/Maam as always correct

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2015 1:34 AM

2015-07-18T01:34:36-04:00

I would not feel disrespected if someone called me by my rank instead of sir.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 30 at 2015 8:00 PM

2015-07-30T20:00:20-04:00

I prefer by rank!

Response by TSgt Melissa Post made Jul 30 at 2015 11:04 PM

2015-07-30T23:04:41-04:00

For me I naturally say sir or ma'am because I was raised in the south and my step-dad enforced that kind of respect in our home. I was told once after I joined that only Generals were not to be called sir or ma'am but instead General. Perhaps I was misinformed, but seeing as I am only a senior airman I don't think that I will be around many General personally.

Response by COL Jim Kohlmann made Aug 1 at 2015 3:40 AM

2015-08-01T03:40:20-04:00

You are really overthinking this. Either is okay, and if the NCO doesn't know you, he may have thought it was more respectful in front of the cadets to call you by your rank.

Response by CPL(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 2 at 2015 5:45 AM

2015-08-02T05:45:11-04:00

It's often hard to me to do the sir/ma'am when I meet a ROTC butter bar with an ink still well diploma, baby fat, and pimples. I usually say L.T. and save the sir/ma'am for CPT and up. I agree with the reg stating the proper way is to address by rank, and think everything else is a nicety.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2015 4:44 PM

2015-08-26T16:44:39-04:00

Sir-I think it's all about the situation. In the Navy, it's very common for enlisted to address division/departmental officers by rank, even the ubiquitous, "LT" or "Commander" for both O-4/O-5. We even come up with interesting unofficial titles for commanding O-5s and O-6s; "Skipper", "Boss"...etc. However, the only words that I found capable of forming when around stars was "Sir" :)

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2016 12:55 PM

2016-01-25T12:55:53-05:00

My last unit, our BN CO made it a policy for everyone to be addressed by rank. from LTC down to PFC. His philosophy was that CPT Smith, SSG Jones and PFC Snuffy earned that rank and you should address them with that rank. It got to the point where it was asinine after a while. I saw a SPC get reamed out because he called an NCO, SGT XYZ instead of SFC XYZ. Back in the old days, you called every NCO, "SGT" unless they were 1SG or SGM/CSM

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2016 12:08 AM

2016-01-26T00:08:56-05:00

I would never have corrected an NCO that said "good morning colonel (or major, CPT) " especially if it is a greeting by an NCO who may have seen my rank but not my nametape. I don't see anything disrespectful at all. While sir is more commonly used, I don't see a problem with the rank as the alternative. But it is definitely more common right before a senior is going to chew your ass, as in " why don't you stay behind so I can talk to you about your briefing, Colonel". You just knew he wasn't going to tell you how great it was.

Besides, colonel was good enough for COL Jessup in A Few Good Men:

Kaffee: I'm not through with my examination. Sit down.
Col. Jessep: Colonel!
Kaffee: What's that?
Col. Jessep: I would appreciate it if he would address me as "Colonel" or "Sir." I believe I've earned it.
Judge Randolph: Defense counsel will address the witness as "Colonel" or "Sir."

Response by MAJ Tex Hall made Jan 30 at 2016 12:17 PM

2016-01-30T12:17:05-05:00

When I'd have someone whom I didn't particularly care for professionally, I'd go out of my way to specifically use rank when addressing him. And of course you can always go completely old school formal and refer to yourself in the third person -- This Captain or This Sergeant -- and still be completely and fully within regulation. On a side note, one can always spell "sir' as 'C U R' in your mind when needed :)

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2016 6:06 AM

2016-03-12T06:06:56-05:00

Won't go into full detail, but I know one specific Ma'am who is called "The Ma'am" in a way that is probably more disrespectful than by addressing her by rank. I picked it depends because it all comes down to the officer and the enlisted person. I currently work for a 1LT that I have known since he was a freshly commissioned 2LT. I have nothing but the deepest admiration and respect for this man and I have deployed with him twice. If I wasn't doing an IST, I would transfer to his unit after this deployment. I address him as LT during private conversation and only as "Sir" when the situation professionally calls for it. I know that if he felt any disrespect by this that he would correct it and if I felt that my familiarity with him could be misconstrued in any way I would correct it myself.

Response by 1stSgt Eugene Harless made Mar 31 at 2016 8:44 AM

2016-03-31T08:44:09-04:00

This reminds me of an incident a few years back when one of the moonbat Senators From the People's Republic of California got a major case of monkey-ass when a General testifying before a commitee addressed her as Ma'am. She made it a point to demand he call her senator. It was either Fienstien or Boxer. I can't tell them apart. Both of them look like a piece of beef jerky with eyeballs.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Mar 31 at 2016 11:28 AM

2016-03-31T11:28:32-04:00

For 31 years it was Sir or Ma'am for me. On the rare occasion that I felt compelled to call an officer by their rank, I was usually in a coaching mode. i.e. Lieutenant the way you addressed the company commander was inappropriate etc. For me it depends on intent when using the rank. I think you get the point. Again for me it was on that rare occasion and never with disrespect.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2016 9:46 PM

2016-03-31T21:46:16-04:00

Their rank or sir .

Response by SrA Ernie Smith made Aug 17 at 2016 9:23 PM

2016-08-17T21:23:13-04:00

As a vet but still out in the field, I like to let the officer/chief know that I recognize them.

Response by MSgt Darryl Plumb made Aug 23 at 2016 4:27 PM

2016-08-23T16:27:43-04:00

If I had respect for them, it was sir/ma'am. If I had no respect for them, it was by the rank. One must respect the rank, but not necessarily the person

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2017 4:38 PM

2017-01-25T16:38:57-05:00

From what I understand, the formula
"Rank Name Sir," for addressing an officer among a group is correct courtesy, and once engaged in conversation then reverting to "Sir" is expected

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2017 2:30 PM

2017-07-12T14:30:30-04:00

I would call my OIC in my S2 LT (but we said LT not lieutenant) and sometimes after either of them got promoted to CPT we would say "Where's the Captain at?" Usually if one of us in the shop came in and she wasn't there we'd say "where's the ma'am at?"

I don't think it's a big deal. I mean it is their rank.

Response by SSgt Holden M. made Jul 12 at 2017 2:48 PM

2017-07-12T14:48:30-04:00

I think it really depends. With being Air Force if I called an officer by their rank I usually used their last name as well like good morning Captain so and so. The only time I have ever called an officer by just their rank if I knew them well and worked with them often but also where I worked and there were a lot of officers if you said hey Major I have a question for you then you might have three people looking at you.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2017 6:41 PM

2017-07-12T18:41:56-04:00

I have addressed officers both ways, neither of which was meant to be disrespectful. Under the AR it is appropriate to address by rank or, in the case of an officer by "sir/ma'am", or warrant officer by "Miss/Mister". When I was a Master Sergeant, I never got bent out of shape by someone calling me Sergeant, I took the more formal use of Master Sergeant as simply a form of greater respect. In my opinion, an officer getting bent out of shape because they were addressed by their proper title of address as specified in the AR, simply conveys an arrogant "-ism" and pet peeve. We need to move away from the pet peeve standard and enforce the Army (or other Sister service) standard, acknowledge the junior service member is doing the right thing and, frankly, get over it. We should be teaching our young that the title "Private" conveys a title of respect, how many have earned that title? And how can we do that if our officers get offended being addressed by their title?

Response by SSG Michael Burdiss made Jul 30 at 2017 8:52 AM

2017-07-30T08:52:46-04:00

Never wrong to call someone by their rank.

Response by CW2 Fred Baker made Jul 30 at 2017 12:34 PM

2017-07-30T12:34:24-04:00

I always referred to general officers as General. Everyone below that was sir or ma'am. No one ever corrected me. All civilians unknown personally are also accorded sir or ma'am.

Response by Sgt Wayne Wood made Aug 18 at 2017 12:48 PM

2017-08-18T12:48:07-04:00

Not in the NAVY/MARINES... if fact, "MISTER" is considered appropriate and allowed under regs. HOWEVER! Using "Mister" is considered a back-handed way of calling an officer an asshat.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Aug 18 at 2017 1:03 PM

2017-08-18T13:03:29-04:00

That's the way I was brought up, only time I used rank was when I was first addressing the officer, then used sir or ma'am.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2017 3:22 PM

2017-08-18T15:22:17-04:00

My general rule of thumb is that if I am referring to an officer in third person or trying to get their attention, then I will use their rank. If I am engaged in conversation with an officer directly, it will be sir and ma'am.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Aug 18 at 2017 11:52 PM

2017-08-18T23:52:13-04:00

It is hilarious how Sir can be said with the utmost respect or complete disdain depending on tone.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Aug 19 at 2017 12:29 PM

2017-08-19T12:29:34-04:00

Not if one respects the rank as well as the person.

Response by GySgt Charles O'Connell made Aug 19 at 2017 4:05 PM

2017-08-19T16:05:04-04:00

I think this is one of those things that falls into the, "Use yer common friggin sense". I think a lot depends on familiarity of the professionals involved. For instance, an officer I have known 20 or so years, I might say something like, "Excuse Maj, could I have a word?". I wouldn't do so in front of juniors. Lets remember we are professionals.

Response by CPT Nicholas D. made Aug 20 at 2017 4:51 PM

2017-08-20T16:51:19-04:00

I don't believe it is disrespectful. I've been called Sergeant. I've been called "Chief." Now I get "LT". Although I am not a huge fan of "Hey LT", I have never thought being addressed by my proper rank to be disrespectful. If someone says "Good Morning Lieutenant", I would accept the that as complete custom and courtesy being extended.

I have always hated being addressed by my last name only ("Hey Dixon"). I have even asked Senior officers (respectfully) not to call me only by my Family name (which is a good name... but comes off degrading when that is the only means of address.) There's three ways to talk to someone: personal, professional, or neither. I have always found first names to be personal. Ranks and/or Ranks and Last names to professional. Even Mr. Dixon was always fine (the 8 1/2 years I was a Warrant). But I have always been a little put off by the basic training battle buddy method of calling everyone by their last names.

But I will caveat that post retirement, my expectation is to be addressed in the personal tense... from past, present, and future E-1 through O-10,"Nick" is perfectly fine with me.

Response by SPC David Willis made Nov 14 at 2017 4:06 PM

2017-11-14T16:06:55-05:00

I tried to talk to officers as little as possible, but the only time I used their rank was when more than one was present, but Id add a sir at the end for good measure. For example Col. Williams, sir, can I get that last frosted pop tart?

Response by SGM Harvey Boone made Dec 10 at 2017 11:30 AM

2017-12-10T11:30:18-05:00

No it just reminds them of what they really are.

Response by MSG Brian Wiscott made Apr 6 at 2018 7:40 PM

2018-04-06T19:40:03-04:00

Since coming up from the 70s I remember my drill sergeant saying that you Will address an Officer as sir or ma'am unless directing someone to them or to single them out in a crowd.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 9 at 2018 11:28 PM

2018-07-09T23:28:36-04:00

AR 600-20, Chapter 1 for the US Army; Not too sure about our sister branches of service, but I’m quite sure its the same or very similar.

Response by SSG Carlos Madden made Jul 12 at 2018 1:38 PM

2018-07-12T13:38:20-04:00

Depends on the context and tone. Generally I'd say 'no.'

Response by SFC Stephen Atchley made Jul 12 at 2018 2:09 PM

2018-07-12T14:09:11-04:00

I do not feel it is inherently disrespectful, though it could certainly skew in that direction. I do believe it is incredibly presumptive and not a particularly good idea. There are some instances where it's not really out of line; e.g., "Excuse me, Colonel, but you have a phone call."

Response by SGM (R) Antonio Brown made Oct 5 at 2018 10:52 PM

2018-10-05T22:52:53-04:00

It is not disrespectful. At work I am surrounded by officers so the use of Sir or Ma'am outside of one on one engagements will get you a response from several officers.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 6 at 2018 3:00 AM

2018-10-06T03:00:32-04:00

Like many others, I work in a officer heavy unit. 3 COL, 4LTC, at least a dozen MAJ. It's prudent and practical to use rank. However, once I have established communication, it's "Sir/Ma'am". What I won't do is walk up to an officer who is alone and say, "COL X....". I revert to the respectful pronoun from the get go.

The only exception I witness, and am guilty of myself is "El Tee". Sure it's informal and colloquial, but it's also nearly tradition. But again, there are time and places. During a staff meeting, "El Tee, do you need my numbers". would be inappropriate.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Oct 6 at 2018 1:18 PM

2018-10-06T13:18:44-04:00

Rank is always proper. I think we should address Army NCO's by their full rank instead of the generic Sergeant. What if you and I were in the same room, addressing you as Colonel would make it clear immediately who was being addressed.
I was also taught that a General is never a sir, always General.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2019 9:06 AM

2019-02-12T09:06:46-05:00

Either is fine, as long as it is respectful and goes both ways. Any officer or NCO who would throw a fit over this is really showing what kind of person they are.

Response by CAPT Michael Toleno made Nov 16 at 2020 4:09 PM

2020-11-16T16:09:18-05:00

Great question and discussion!

I realize this is over 5 years old. There was a recent similar question from an ROTC cadet that led me here. I can understand how the rank alone might be perceived as disrespectful, particularly if (1) the person NEVER says "Sir" or "Ma'am" or (2) the person knows your last name and never uses it along with the rank.

If I am addressed by someone who doesn't know me, I would PREFER to be addressed by rank instead of merely "Sir." I wouldn't be offended by "Sir," but the use of the rank shows that the person cared enough to notice and speak the rank that I have earned. (I try to do the same to subordinates in order to show them respect.) "Sir" alone can convey "Hey, you, I know that you are a captain/lieutenant/admiral/major, but I'm just going to take the easiest approach possible when addressing you. I can't be bothered to call you by your rank and name. I don't really care if you're a lieutenant or a general."

Perhaps people feel this way (that "Sir" is always preferred) because of their early days of being a recruit, cadet, or officer candidate, when everything and everyone were "Sir" and "Ma'am," and you'd be in big trouble if you didn't append "Sir" or "Ma'am" to everything. That's understandable.

I find it off-putting—and somewhat disrespectful, though disrespect is likely not intended—when I get e-mails addressed to me as only "Sir" or even as only "CAPT" when I know that the writer knows my rank and name. A person's name is important to him or her. In the military, a person's rank is similarly important. That's why it is a mark of respect to address someone by his or her actual rank and name instead of by a generic term, even if that generic term is accurate. Not using the name and rank is kind of like saying, "Hey, you"—disrespect may not be intended, but the message is "I don't care to use your name and the rank that you have earned." I wouldn't do it to a subordinate.

Response by CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2020 8:27 AM

2020-11-17T08:27:41-05:00

I'm in the same boat as you, sir. I'm prior Enlisted so it may come from that as well. But if the officer is in a group of other officers, a Rank Name would be appropriate to get that officers attention. But once the attention is gained, or if the officer is not in a group, Sir or Ma'am is what should be used.

Response by 1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2020 9:40 AM

2020-11-17T09:40:31-05:00

BLUF: No. Also, tone and context would shape how that is received. Perception is reality.

Response by SSgt Dennis Kindrick made Apr 2 at 2023 10:49 AM

2023-04-02T10:49:26-04:00

SIR or MA'MA out of respect.

Response by SGT Ruben Lozada made Jun 26 at 2023 2:01 PM

2023-06-26T14:01:45-04:00

Good afternoon COL Charles Williams. Excellent post. Thank You for sharing this Sir. I think it would depend on the branch. For example. I still recall when I was in the Navy for the NCO's I would address Him or Her by their rate and last name. For all E-7s I would them as Chief. E-8, I would address them as "Senior." E-9, I would address them as "Master Chief." When it came to officers I would address them by Sir or Ma"am. Or LT, Commander, Captain or "Skipper." CWO1 to CW04, I would address them as "Warrant" or Sir or Ma'am. The Army is different. I would address NCOs as Sergeant or Master Sergeant. As I was told to address all officers by Sir or Ma'am and not by rank while in the Army.