Posted on Sep 17, 2018
Is calling a Master Sergeant by their full rank showing higher respect, or is just extra?
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I know what the regulation states, and that is that E-5 through E-8 (except for 1SG) is addressed as Sergeant. However, I continually see soldiers addressing MSGs by their full rank. Is it a sign of higher respect for the rank they earned, or is just being extra? I can see both sides of the argument - regulation vs respect towards the rank they have obtained - I want to hear all your thoughts!
MSG
Rank
Sergeant
Customs and Courtesies
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 234
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I got mobilized for Noble Eagle and sent to the MP school at Ft Lenard Wood MO. There I met an Army Reserve Drill Sargeant who insisted I address him as "Master Sargeant. I was an SFC at the time and alittle put off by this but I adopted an attitude of "Let the baby have his bottle" attitude and stuck it up his butt every chance I got. The 1st Sargeant of the training company got wind of this and used it as an excuse to ream his butt (apparently they did not get along). Army regulations state that the NCO ranks be addressed by the title "Sargeant" with the exception of 1st Sargeant and Sargeant Major.
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Suspended Profile
Well, "Sergeant" is simply easier and less confusing, certainly easier on the ears for the said higher-ranking sergeants, but I've seen MSGs get called both, and there wasn't really anything wrong with it. From what I've seen, it's more a term of respect or even endearment.
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Personally, I wouldn't consider calling a MSG just Sgt. There's a lot of time, work, accomplishment between E5 and E8. I just wouldn't feel "right" or "respectful" doing that, and some part of me would expect a reprimand!
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It depends on your Branch of service. I was a MSgt in the USMC and every one SSgt and above was addressed by their full rank
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Growing up a "Navy Brat", I knew better than to call an E8 , "Chief". When I joined the Army, I carried the practice over to calling MSGs "Master Sergeant". Due to my upbringing, it just felt right.
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I never had anyone call me sergeant when I was a MSG, like CSM Z mentioned is a sign of respect, when you wear certain rank is because you earned it. When you make 1sg, msg,sgm or csm you will understand. Thank you for your service.
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Just call them by their full rank... safest bet. However SFC is a mouthful.
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