Posted on Jul 8, 2016
Is it appropriate to confront a higher rank when they are blatantly disregarding regs?
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So last week I was at the chow hall with another girl from my squadron, and we see this SSgt wearing nearly black lipstick across the room. This is very obviously out of regs as makeup is to be conservative and lipstick can not contrast with your skin tone. She was obviously a higher rank than me or the airman I went to chow with, and neither of us said anything even though both of us desperately wanted to. She looked ridiculous. It was so bad that some male airmen at the table next to us noticed it and asked us about the reg. Anyway my question is, is it appropriate to confront a higher rank when they are blatantly disregarding regs?
PS There was a visiting 2 star across the chow hall at the time
PPS Sorry the pictures are so bad. We were far away.
PS There was a visiting 2 star across the chow hall at the time
PPS Sorry the pictures are so bad. We were far away.
Edited 8 y ago
Posted 8 y ago
Responses: 310
The best way to respond is, 'I'm sure you didn't realize that ________ is not in regulation. So I just wanted to help before someone of a higher rank noticed. I wouldn't want you to get in trouble. '
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Tact and respect. Before I sewed on my name tape and US Army tape, I went to work one day with the tapes placed on the opposite sides. A retired CSM wanted to ask me a question in private. In a very nice way he made me aware that my tapes were opposite to each other. jokingly I said to him "It is certainly Monday and I am glad you still have sharp CSM skills, thank you for squaring me away."
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SSG Bob Teachout
And I'm sure the CSM appreciated you proper response! - We are ARMY STRONG because we are a team and work together.
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As long as "With all do respect" is stated along with the rank or sir or maam, that will protect you from the ego explosion that will happen. Afterwords stand by for some un predictable response.. Good luck
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Sgt Windell Clark
ok ok range control we have a misfire with grammar.. Cease fire! I will call in auto correct for support. lol
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Sgt Windell Clark
In the real world egos flair up and thumbs are sucked and high rank pouting will erupt ..
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It's appropriate to let her know in person even if she outranks you. Everyone is accountable for everyone. However, it's inappropriate to post this in social media and worse... you took a picture.
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LT Mordechai Schwab
My exact same thoughts about posting her picture here. That was completely inappropriate. Not sure why you think it was inappropriate to ask that question here though.
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I've made uniform corrections, both above my rank and below. The idea is to be courteous regardless of the other person's rank, but above all be correct. And make sure you're squared away first. As an A1C, I once told a captain she had her nametag and ribbons reversed. She immediately went into a nearby bathroom and fixed the problem, then came out and commended me and also told my boss. I usually approached such things in the manner of, "I don't want to have anyone embarrass you, but . . . " There's no need to degrade someone who's made an honest mistake while getting dressed in the morning. On the other hand, if they're blatantly thumbing their noses at the regs, then it's time to get on their case.
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Tact is great but if you have a 2 Star that might see this walking infraction, thus placing the higher chain of command in a bad light tact is over. I would have approached this person and pointed out the unsat reg and that the 2 Star was there. Then explained the possible ramifications this may have on them and the CoC. It is our duty to enforce proper military bearing at all times. Im not saying sign up for the reg gastopo but atleast do your part. Lol.
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I think it is ok, but I would ask to speak to her in private. Explain to her your concern and others that have noticed the same thing. Walk away letting her know you wanted to make sure she was aware. Just alway remember to maintain your professionalism.
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Yes it is do it tactfully and one on one show respect for the rank and let her know her violation undermines her authority
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Yes, just make sure to approach with tact. If you aren't comfortable with it, talk with your supervisor.
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