Is it offensive to call service members brother and sister?

2014-08-28T15:11:34-04:00

Is it appropriate to refer to service members as "my brother" or "my sister"?

Response by SSgt Gregory Guina made Aug 28 at 2014 3:22 PM

2014-08-28T15:22:01-04:00

Nope we are all brothers and sisters in arms.

Response by CPO Jon Campbell made Aug 28 at 2014 4:09 PM

2014-08-28T16:09:28-04:00

It rubs me the wrong way, but I don't think it is offensive. It has a religious connotation and I think it should be reserved for people of the same faith or for people with close bonds. I cringe when I hear the guy on Counting Cars say it.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Aug 28 at 2014 4:18 PM

2014-08-28T16:18:12-04:00

It can be, which is why I only use it with people that I know well and know won't take offense.

Response by MSG Wade Huffman made Aug 28 at 2014 4:48 PM

2014-08-28T16:48:20-04:00

This is something I, personally, will plead 'guilty' to since retirement. I do assure you that when I do use the term 'Brother' or 'Sister', I mean it most respectfully and do not mean any disrespect.
The profession of arms IS, in my opinion, a unique Brotherhood (gender inclusive). While I was still active, the sense of camaraderie was always present and this is something that I have found to be missing since my retirement and I believe that may be why I am so much more inclined to use the terms, to rekindle that feeling.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2014 5:13 PM

2014-08-28T17:13:05-04:00

I reserve the moniker of brother for those have proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that they have my back and I have theirs. There are only a handful outside of the Corps who I consider brothers. By default anyone who has earned an EGA is my brother. Something that always sticks with me when I think of this is Henry the V St. Crispin Day speech. Excerpt follows:

"...We few, we happy few, we band of brothers;
For he to-day that sheds his blood with me
Shall be my brother..."

Response by CPT Jacob Swartout made Aug 28 at 2014 7:27 PM

2014-08-28T19:27:19-04:00

Well my sister just ETS from the Army this year so...she better of not taken it the wrong way, lol. Proud of her for serving 5 yrs and doing well too.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2014 7:33 PM

2014-08-28T19:33:29-04:00

SFC Mark Merino In informal settings we do this as a matter of course. We are brothers and sisters and we know who our friends are.

Response by SSG V. Michelle Woods made Aug 28 at 2014 7:43 PM

2014-08-28T19:43:52-04:00

I mean if I'm dating the guy then it's offensive...and creepy lol.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Aug 28 at 2014 9:42 PM

2014-08-28T21:42:48-04:00

I use it as a general term of endearment or when addressing like the audience here. I believe it has a special meaning but would not use it if it put someone off.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2014 11:58 PM

2014-08-28T23:58:43-04:00

I think it's totally okay :)

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Aug 29 at 2014 3:14 AM

2014-08-29T03:14:57-04:00

"brother from anotha drill instructa"

Response by SPC Richard White made Aug 29 at 2014 3:18 AM

2014-08-29T03:18:45-04:00

No it is not offensive I belong to the United States Army Brotherhood of Tankers and we have Brothers and Sisters among us

Response by SSgt Jenna Welch made Aug 29 at 2014 7:29 AM

2014-08-29T07:29:46-04:00

Absolutely appropriate! When I was active, all the guys in my shop referred to me as "brosef". Kinda weird, but you know, I was the girl that was like one of the guys. Tends to happen when you're only one of 5 females in an all male shop. I fondly referred to my fellow Airmen as "brother". It's almost a natural instinct to have that kind of familial feeling for your fellow service members. We are, after all, brothers and sisters in arms.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Aug 29 at 2014 9:20 AM

2014-08-29T09:20:43-04:00

Of course not. We are all brothers and sisters-in-arms. We have seen both the best and worse sides of the human race. We have had to be there for each other during the good and the bad. We have celebrated together and we have mourned together. And regardless how some might act, they are still in the family. Every family has a bad egg or two; the military family is no different. And just like with your family, you don't have to talk to them but they are still part of the family regardless.

Response by Cpl Peter Martuneac made Aug 29 at 2014 9:39 AM

2014-08-29T09:39:03-04:00

Honestly, I don't use it often, and not for anyone who wasn't in my company. My line of reasoning is that calling someone your brother is kind of a big deal, at least to me it is. If you're a fellow service member, we'll probably get along great and be good friends. But the only Marines I'll call my brothers were over in the sandbox with me, by my side a-hookin and a-jabbin with the Taliban. Feel free to disagree, but "brother" does not lightly leave my lips.

Response by Cpl Matthew Wall made Aug 29 at 2014 10:17 AM

2014-08-29T10:17:01-04:00

I don't think it would, but I guess it depends on when you decide to throw it out there as well. If you know the person I believe it is alright. I wouldn't just walk around randomly calling people I don't know brother and sister.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Aug 29 at 2014 10:18 AM

2014-08-29T10:18:47-04:00

No, but some people have a very low threshold for being offended. IF they are offeneded, I don't want to call them brother or sister and am safer knowing that they are so easily offended and lack the core values to be my brother or sister in arms.

Response by SFC Gary Fox made Aug 29 at 2014 1:12 PM

2014-08-29T13:12:00-04:00

The camaraderie you experience in military service is nothing like what you experience in the private sector. In the military the bond between each other is tight because we have to depend upon each other to succeed in the mission; whether it be peace time or war. We help each other out, we grieved during each other's losses, we celebrated each others individual successes, and much more.

In the private sector so many are only looking out for themselves and will stab you in the back to get ahead. There isn't much of a bond between co-workers. The kind of camaraderie we experienced in uniform just isn't there.

So yes, we are like brothers and sisters with those we served with.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 2:12 PM

2014-08-29T14:12:33-04:00

Within the military community and even in other tight knit organizations where common bonds are formed - yes. Absolutely.

Response by SGT Richard H. made Aug 29 at 2014 3:21 PM

2014-08-29T15:21:14-04:00

I don't think it's offensive at all....assuming we aren't talking about in a formal Military setting.

Rich: Hey COL Randall C. What's up, Bro?

COL Randall C.: Not much, Rich. Do pushups until I'm tired.

(in comedy, they call that a "callback")

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Aug 29 at 2014 4:04 PM

2014-08-29T16:04:08-04:00

As I think about this question, the one strange thing to me is that I would never have consider calling or referring to my sister as "sister" when we were both serving? Is this strange?

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 9:29 PM

2014-08-29T21:29:25-04:00

I don't think so, if anything I see it as something to be proud of. But these days who know, people can find anything offensive. Me personally, I would only use it for people that I am close with but either way I don't see it as offensive.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 10:38 PM

2014-08-29T22:38:08-04:00

If it is I'm in trouuuuuble. That is right up there with "roger sergeant" and "no LT we can't do that" in my daily vocabulary. The best part is, I mean it. The folks I work with have walked in my shoes and we have felt pain together. They have also been there for every personnel celebration in my life. Heck yeah they are my brothers and sisters, E-1 to O-10.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2014 10:50 AM

2014-08-30T10:50:22-04:00

I think when we are are talking about our Brothers and Sisters in arms it is not. However, I would never address anyone as that in a professional setting. I do address people that I know very well in a casual setting as that and only when it is just us.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2014 10:52 AM

2014-08-30T10:52:56-04:00

SFC Mark Merino You let me know if they call you a sister....

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2014 12:01 PM

2014-08-30T12:01:48-04:00

In my opinion, we're all family if like it or not. Downrange, we may run into each other and I hope you sure act like you're my family.

Response by SGT Suraj Dave made Aug 30 at 2014 2:27 PM

2014-08-30T14:27:19-04:00

If we are really close I will. If you ever find me on facebook I have a couple of my real close friends in the 101st listed as Brothers, under family. I call my friends who were the same rank as me "bro".

Response by MSG Floyd Williams made Aug 30 at 2014 4:15 PM

2014-08-30T16:15:06-04:00

I'm okay with it, and it depends on the individual!

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made Aug 30 at 2014 8:26 PM

2014-08-30T20:26:44-04:00

I don't think it's offensive. I never used it until I retired and realized the military still considers me one of you. I'm part of the military family and in that regard brother and sister isn't offensive.

Response by SSG(P) Mark Foster made Aug 31 at 2014 9:10 AM

2014-08-31T09:10:45-04:00

Never offensive!! I feel you are all, no matter the branch, my brothers and sisters

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2014 11:55 AM

2014-08-31T11:55:11-04:00

I must say I agree with the majority of others on this post. It truly depends on the situation, I know, while I am dealing with one of the soldiers at my unit, if it has to do with work, or the Army in general, it is by rank and name. However, I do see him at times outside of work, and at times am offering some life advice about certain things that are going on with him. The situation depends on how I refer to him, whether it is Brother (never bro, bruh, brah, etc.), or by rank and name.

Response by SSgt James Connolly made Aug 31 at 2014 3:14 PM

2014-08-31T15:14:41-04:00

Call them anything want as long as it is no offensive and it seems like everything is today

Response by SSG Laureano Pabon made Aug 31 at 2014 4:01 PM

2014-08-31T16:01:54-04:00

Attention: SFC Mark Merino
Perspective, use them or lose them.
This is what I personally say, my brothers and sister and my mother at what I call "1st Blood".
However my Armed Forces SM and Veterans are also brothers and sisters, in the sense that, if I put a topic here about what we know, we can all understand what I'm saying. In combat we would fight as a team together as one. Now how does that make us all family, well my biological family doesn't understand this, while my military family does.

You don't have to be in the Marines to really enjoy how they sing there cadence.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h47n691fy3o

U.S Marine Corp Cadance

For my Marine friends at Rally Point

Response by MAJ Jim Woods made Aug 31 at 2014 4:30 PM

2014-08-31T16:30:28-04:00

I have no problems with the terms.

Personally, I only use it for those whom I know and have served with or am aware of their background. Example: As a contractor in Iraq, I worked with some great people (Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps) that I consider as my Brothers and Sisters. And, for those of you who seem a bit sensitive about VN Vets, I include anyone who served during any campaign period. No matter when or where.

SSG V. Michelle Woods, I know you are not referring to some of my favorite people when you say you have dated Infantrymen (note the UPPER CASE letter I) who were offensive and creepy. After all, that is a block of instruction at the Infantry School. I mean the United States Army Maneuver Center of Excellence. Sorry, I got a little teary eyed and "Old School".

Response by SFC William "Bill" Moore made Aug 31 at 2014 5:19 PM

2014-08-31T17:19:34-04:00

It happened quite a bit in a few units I was with. Of Course I'm talking about EOD, then again, from top to bottom, we all went through the same training. It never was used outside of our "family". We seemed to use the Brother/Sister and "first name basis" out of earshot of anyone not EOD. I think anything other than rank, outside of your immediate "family" is a no go.
Now that I a retired, every person that is or has served is considered my Sister or Brother. But, that is one of the perks of retirement! ;-)

Response by PFC Kevin Adrian made Aug 31 at 2014 6:04 PM

2014-08-31T18:04:25-04:00

Nope, not at all and here is why. If I served or you served we are in fact brothers and sisters in Arms. We defended this country and we will always family to each other. I always knew I had their backs and they mine, and even though I have been out over 30 years, I would still feel that way today.

Response by CH (MAJ) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2014 7:47 PM

2014-08-31T19:47:57-04:00

Absolutely!!! I Do It EVERY DAY - We are brothers and sisters IN arm, and UNDER arms!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2014 12:49 AM

2014-09-01T00:49:31-04:00

The bond I have with those I deployed with is as close as my own immediate family. We trained together, lived together, ate together. Experienced events that changed our lives. Shared stories of our families and growing up. We learned to instinctively have each others back when the shit hit the fan and all hell was breaking loose. We grieve and suffered pain together as well as the joys and laughter.

We have our professional military careers. This is what the public sees and we share with them. Our military family - our bond that binds us is what we share between us. It is a bond we share with those who have served before us, serve with us and we will share with those who follow after us.

This bond is often unspoken. We look out for one another. Each of us have different experiences but we are not so different. We are brothers and sisters in the greatest profession of arms.

Response by SSG John Bacon made Sep 1 at 2014 2:14 AM

2014-09-01T02:14:39-04:00

Not at all. I consider all of you my brother or sister.

Response by PO2 Keith Glasgow made Sep 2 at 2014 11:17 AM

2014-09-02T11:17:47-04:00

If you get offended that i call you my brother or sister, then you never really knew what it meant to serve in the first place. I went to war, so for me it has special meaning to refer to a fellow member as my bro or sis. To me, whether you went to war or not is immaterial, because if you served, then i count you as my brother and/or sister. Period.

Of course, this is merely my humble opinion.

Response by TSgt Tyler Sheppard made Sep 2 at 2014 2:38 PM

2014-09-02T14:38:08-04:00

Not at all. Where do you think the term "Brothers and Sisters at arms," people only get offended if there is nothing for them to occupy their time on that is more productive. That's just my thought on it.

Response by SSG Trevor S. made Sep 4 at 2014 1:08 AM

2014-09-04T01:08:00-04:00

In no way is the term brother nor sister offensive, unless you mean it in a Cain and Able sort of way. Or of course the way SSG V. Michelle Woods thought up.

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Sep 4 at 2014 11:02 AM

2014-09-04T11:02:50-04:00

If I have come to know the person and they have taken the time to know me, I don't mind it. Now, someone who bumps into me in a bar or on the street and notices the hat and seems to use it to ingratiate themselves, yeah that bothers me and I find that half of them are full of it. They also seem to use that Hollywood "The Nam" that I so despise. Any thing that has thumped your life that hard deserves the respect of its full name. Just as the VC/NVA were referred To as Mr. Charles when his shit was particularly together. So when it is done correctly I don't find it offensive but a sign of shared experience and pain.

Response by LTC Hillary Luton made Sep 4 at 2014 9:05 PM

2014-09-04T21:05:36-04:00

Well, if it is, I guess I'm guilty. I always refer to other service members as my bothers and sisters in uniform.

Response by SSG Stan Morrison Jr made Sep 5 at 2014 6:42 AM

2014-09-05T06:42:34-04:00

I feel that anyone who has served, is my brother or sister. Not in any disrespectful means or manner tho. The military is a fairly closed group of people. We all wrote a blank check to our Country, to use us as you see fit to defend the Constitution. Some gave more, some less. It was an honor and a privilege to serve. I have been out for a while now, it still feels good to me that I stood side by side with a bunch of awesome people. To those still on the line. I have your back. You make me proud. Be well and be safe, brothers and sisters.

Response by PO1 Shannon Drosdak made Sep 5 at 2014 2:59 PM

2014-09-05T14:59:38-04:00

I always have. No matter what branch all who have served or are serving have and will be my "Brothers and Sisters in Arms" We are a special type of family. We have bonds to each other, even if we have never served together. I am an only child but through the service have gained many brothers and sisters, along with nieces, nephews and god children. I would lay down my life for any one of them. That is true family!

Response by MSgt Shawn Wood made Sep 7 at 2014 4:43 PM

2014-09-07T16:43:56-04:00

No I consider those people whom I had the brief privilege to have served with to be my brothers and sisters.

"We few, we happy few, we band of brothers. For he today that sheds his
blood with me, Shall be my brother; be ne'er so vile, This day shall gentle
his condition. And gentlemen in England now abed, Shall think themselves
accursed they were not here, And hold their manhood's cheap whiles any
speaks, That fought with us upon Saint Crispin's day."
- William Shakespeare ("King Henry V")

Response by SGT Chris Birkinbine made Sep 8 at 2014 12:08 PM

2014-09-08T12:08:58-04:00

Is this really something you have encountered ( someone thinking it disrespectful?) or is it just a topic you came up with after seeing the other "is it offensive" posts?

I ask because if you have legitimately seen this mentality, it really makes me sad for our current military, that such a thing is even worth considering.

Response by SSG David Lynch made Sep 10 at 2014 9:18 AM

2014-09-10T09:18:57-04:00

Absolutely. "...for he who sheds his blood with me this day, shall be my brother."

Response by SGT Richard H. made Sep 15 at 2014 12:06 AM

2014-09-15T00:06:25-04:00

SFC Mark Merino I consider you my brother. Are you offended?

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Sep 15 at 2014 3:44 AM

2014-09-15T03:44:49-04:00

This is what I was referring to. I consider you all family.
http://youtu.be/VcMk85ZsBh0

HBO Band of Brothers: German General's speech

This is the speech that is given by a German General to his men after surrendering to the Americans. This is directly cut from the episode, nothing added not...

Response by CW2 Jonathan Kantor made Sep 15 at 2014 6:16 AM

2014-09-15T06:16:35-04:00

I don't think it's inappropriate, but everyone is different. Some Troops may not like it while others do. I think that using it in a broad application is fine. I usually use the word Troops to refer to all service-members... That or Comrades.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2014 8:51 AM

2014-09-15T08:51:35-04:00

I don't personally find it offensive at all. SSG V. Michelle Woods is my Sister-in-arms as Cpl Brett Wagner is my brother from another mother-in-arms! LOL

Response by SGT Marvin "Dave" Bigham made Sep 15 at 2014 10:17 AM

2014-09-15T10:17:30-04:00

I'd rather hear "brother" than "comrade". If their offended, give'm a "Hoo-AHH".

Response by Sgt Randy Novak made Sep 15 at 2014 2:38 PM

2014-09-15T14:38:48-04:00

You are all my Brothers and Sisters and I would die to protect you all. Without our dysfunctional family or country would not exist.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Sep 16 at 2014 2:52 PM

2014-09-16T14:52:15-04:00

Semper Fi.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Sep 16 at 2014 3:43 PM

2014-09-16T15:43:29-04:00

Only if you are married to them...I was going to make a comment about SSG V. Michelle Woods but I remembered how sensitive she was.

Response by SFC Nestor Nievesmoran made Sep 16 at 2014 3:47 PM

2014-09-16T15:47:44-04:00

Now days we worry too much on what offends others, it is like a pattern, some gets offended of the flag, others of religion, and some of even calling brothers or sisters at those that has put their life on the line for the best of the country. Brothers or sisters is not only those that has the same blood but those that cover you left and your right. We may not know all those that in one way or another had something to do with the success of a mission, deployment, or even R & R. If we look at it closer everyone did their best to protect and defend. During 9/11 the country united and families were form because of the same sacrifice. When we raised our right hand and oath we all became a family. We may not agree with everything and yes in every family there are those that damage the name but at the end of the day everyone will give the life for one another. Those that gets offended to call a fellow veteran brother, I respect your opinion but never forget that we all put our life on the line with the same intent. Without infantry no fight, without radios no communication, without cooks no food, without logistic no ammo, you make the math. Thanks to all the Americans that has gave their all, to all the great warriors that continue to serve, and to all the brothers and sisters that do not get offended for wearing the same T-shirt.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 17 at 2014 6:15 AM

2014-09-17T06:15:23-04:00

Here you go

Response by SSgt Tim Ricci made Sep 17 at 2014 11:50 AM

2014-09-17T11:50:42-04:00

Good Morning Brothers and Sisters!

Response by MSG Carolyn Emery made Sep 17 at 2014 3:12 PM

2014-09-17T15:12:04-04:00

I am so over the politically correct stuff. But I am old Army, when we wore black boots. I use Brother and/or Sister for those I served with. I do have several Brothers from another Mother.

Response by Sgt W Hibshman made Sep 17 at 2014 7:16 PM

2014-09-17T19:16:53-04:00

Like everything, a lot depends on context. If it is respectfully rendered then it will most likely be respectfully received. I have never been offended by it. I have been honored to be referred to as Sister by both fellow Marines and other service veterans. Generally for me, this occurs during a volunteer or social event. At that moment in time we are engaged in some worthwhile function and are bonding due to our shared experience. The older I become the more precious these moments are. There is no experience that forges stronger bonds than military service. I served during peacetime and can only imagine how much stronger this is for combat veterans.

Response by TSgt Keith Webb made Sep 17 at 2014 8:16 PM

2014-09-17T20:16:46-04:00

I don't in anyway see referring to a fellow service member as a brother or sister as offensive. 1) It is a tradition. 2) The military as a whole is a "Family". We all work together to achieve a common goal. 3) There is, was, and probably always will be inter service rivalries. We knock each other, all in good fun. That is a fact, but heaven forbid a non-military member speak bad about any service. We all then stick up for each other, in the exact same way you would for a brother or sister. Just like brothers and sisters fight between each other, but when confronted by anyone else, you face them as a whole. So in that sense we ARE brothers and sisters and would die for each other just the same.

I saw a comment made earlier about those events at Ft Hood and how they were not our brothers. I believe that until they crossed that line they were still a family member. They stopped being part of our family when they became criminals and murdered our brothers and sisters. When referring to "Brothers and Sisters", it is obvious that we are not referring those who have intentionally harmed us. We are referring to those who we would proudly stand next to and those who would do the same for us.

Response by SGT Frank Leonardo made Sep 18 at 2014 11:22 AM

2014-09-18T11:22:20-04:00

I don't see any reason why you should not and I always have no matter who they were and what ever beach they served in.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 3 at 2014 9:20 AM

2014-10-03T09:20:28-04:00

I would say no.

Not all siblings have the same last name.

Response by SPC James Mcneil made Oct 5 at 2014 6:24 PM

2014-10-05T18:24:01-04:00

It doesn't offend me at all. I have one brother, and we pick on each other mercilessly. But let anyone else try messing with either one of us, and it's on.
Pretty much the same with fellow veterans.

Response by SSG Maurice P. made Oct 5 at 2014 6:38 PM

2014-10-05T18:38:29-04:00

hell freakin no when you were in iraq and afghanistan and someone got hit and the smoke cleared we were as close as brothers...our first casualty was a young lieutenant he actually got out of his guntruck and walked up to the ied and kicked it the Sfc told him to get back in the humvee he told him again sir get the fuck back in the humvee but the 22 year old had to do it and he lost his leg...our second casualty was our first on our wall of honor he lost his head when that happened most of our battalion just cried like they were in a shellshocked state
so we older and more experienced n.c.o talked with them and there was alot of manly brotherly hugging going around ................remember people............so now that we are back in our own comfort zones we forgot all that and now your challenging your inner feeling .................if you were in country or just in the uniform your my freakin brother and sister to me maurice scott pownall...........oohrah and hooah

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Oct 6 at 2014 11:30 AM

2014-10-06T11:30:56-04:00

I've never been comfortable with calling anyone my brother or sister... but I've never taken offense by it since I understand the meaning behind it.. basically it's we're all in this together and we cannot chose our parents.

At some point the politically correct police will end the debate anyway... since its bound to be offensive to somebody.

Response by TSgt Mark Vaughn made Oct 6 at 2014 12:46 PM

2014-10-06T12:46:51-04:00

I know the phrase "Brother's In Arms" was coined for the Army but I think any person, Male or Female, Active Duty or Retired is still a brother or a sister. We all are alumni of the armed forces and have undergone more than any civilian will ever understand. I'm proud to call all my "Armed Forces Family" Brother or Sister. I think if any individual weather it be male/female/officer/enlisted/active duty or retired gets offended by me calling them Brother or Sister it is on them as an individual not on all of us as a whole. So to my Brother SFC Mark Merino good question Brother and to me it's a no brainer.

Response by PO2 Keith Glasgow made Oct 7 at 2014 5:51 PM

2014-10-07T17:51:03-04:00

I've responded before, but I will say this... My brother from another mother, and/or my sister from another mister!

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Oct 8 at 2014 12:38 PM

2014-10-08T12:38:28-04:00

After thinking about this issue, I realized it can be offensive if you get their gender wrong? "Hey Brother...oh, sorry Ma'am." Additionally, I think rank differences can play a major factor as well...especially in ones chain of command. Call the BDE CMD "Brother" probably not a good idea?

Response by Cpl Glynis Sakowicz made Oct 8 at 2014 12:46 PM

2014-10-08T12:46:37-04:00

I hate to keep bringing this up, but as a Marine, its ingrained from the moment you arrive at Parris Island, and I assume, San Diego. We are told there are no colors, there are no nationalities, we are simply light or dark green Marines, and from this moment on, we are all family, and Lord knows, you meet some you gag in disgust over, and some you find downright sad, but it really hits you when you get out of service, that those 'family' feelings slam right back into your brain the second you see someone you can identify as a Brother or Sister. With Marines, its "When?" then "Where?" then the all-important "Rank?" and if its the same, "Date of rank" because even two old Marines need to have a clear command chain!

Response by SSG David Lynch made Oct 10 at 2014 9:27 AM

2014-10-10T09:27:27-04:00

Using the term "brother" or "sister" as Vet has NOTHING to do with religion.
I honestly didn't use the term much while I was in. Now that I'm just a medically retired, broke-d**k vet, I do use it a lot more. On the outside, rank doesn't really matter as much (still cal CSMs by their rank & >LTCs, sir though). You connect with those who went through the same sh*t as you. Especially on the outside, Vets stick together & support each other; regardless of rank or branch. We use the terms "brother" or "sister" for those who get you, can relate to you & who would have your back; like family.

"We few. We happy few. We band of brothers. For he who sheds his blood with me this day, shall be my brother!"

P.S. Civilians suck! ....As does being one.

Response by Cpl Glynis Sakowicz made Nov 10 at 2014 5:15 PM

2014-11-10T17:15:33-05:00

Offensive? Its a sad and sorry thing if people are offended, because to a Marine... and yes, I'm bringing them up again, because its my point of view... to a Marine, every Marine IS your brother or sister.
We are ALL taught the same things, by people with the SAME mindset, of giving you an edge for survival in a wartime situation, and yes, its hard, and yes a lot don't make it, but once you do earn that title, you become family because you KNOW every Marine.
You don't have to like them, you don't have to feel warm and fuzzy emotions for them, but you have an instant feeling of respect and brother-sister or even a 'Cousin IT feeling, but the main point is, you KNOW them.
Its unexplainable to most people, but its true. Put fifty old Marines in a crowd, and somehow, t hey are going to find each other, and once they do, you are going to think they have been long lost relatives because they start at 'where and when' and branch out to 'what and how' before settling into the 'who are you, and where do you come from', because its not really important to us... its the simple fact that you earned the "EGA" you earned that at either PI or SD, and you talk long enough, you're going to find at least one thing in common besides the title, it ALWAYS happens...
If being accepted so completely by others is not something you are comfortable with, odds are, you aren't a Marine. Just saying.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2014 5:17 PM

2014-11-10T17:17:30-05:00

Hell no. It's a show of acceptance and belonging. After all we are all brothers and sisters in arms.

Response by PO2 Jonathan Scharff made Nov 10 at 2014 5:41 PM

2014-11-10T17:41:18-05:00

I am absolutely fine with MAJ Michael Scharff calling me brother! lol

Response by MAJ Michael Scharff made Nov 10 at 2014 6:10 PM

2014-11-10T18:10:28-05:00

Band of Brothers... What brought this question up? did anyone have an issue with it?

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2014 6:50 PM

2014-11-10T18:50:39-05:00

No its not offensive

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2014 6:55 PM

2014-11-10T18:55:21-05:00

I think it's a complement.

I was an adopted, only child. I think that I didn't have brothers and sisters growing up, so I'd appreciate those I've found in the military even more. I'm now closer to many of the guys I served with than cousins I grew up with.

Response by SSG Tim Everett made Nov 11 at 2014 8:29 AM

2014-11-11T08:29:47-05:00

I use the terms for anyone with whom I served, and I use the term "comrade in arms" when referring to someone with whom I did not serve. If they get offended over that term, they're not worthy of the term.

Response by PO3 Brendan "Smitty" Smith made Nov 14 at 2014 12:15 AM

2014-11-14T00:15:34-05:00

Generally, I think not. However, it is a rather subjective thing. I call a lot of vets I know brother. However, if one told me not to, I would respect his wishes.

Response by SGT Kristin Wiley made Nov 14 at 2014 1:59 PM

2014-11-14T13:59:37-05:00

No. We may not always like each other or get along, but we will never leave a fallen comrade. Sounds like the defintion of a brother/sister to me.

Response by PO2 Robert Haskins made Nov 14 at 2014 3:46 PM

2014-11-14T15:46:34-05:00

Not at all offensive to me.

Response by PO3 Heather Brown made Nov 14 at 2014 8:32 PM

2014-11-14T20:32:37-05:00

I welcome the endearment!

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2014 4:56 AM

2014-12-30T04:56:01-05:00

I don't say 'my brother', but I do refer to all SM's as brothers and sisters...so if it's offensive, I'm guilty. I certainly want everyone to feel like I feel; family that is.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2014 11:44 AM

2014-12-30T11:44:25-05:00

The real question is who is really finds that offensive? What happens when they come across the enemy? Time out?

"I will never leave a fallen comrade..." maybe we should call each other combat comrade instead of battle buddies while were at it.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2015 9:25 PM

2015-01-01T21:25:07-05:00

You are all my brothers and sisters in arms. My flight is my family away from home.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2015 1:54 AM

2015-01-02T01:54:07-05:00

SFC Mark Merino what came of this post, are you saying you feel insulted when I call you brother? Granted I don't say, 'my brother', but there is little difference. Just checking...because I do refer to a lot of my military brethren as brothers...we need a date and time stamp on the original post so we can tell how old a post is...admin, get on it.

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made Jan 2 at 2015 3:37 AM

2015-01-02T03:37:21-05:00

Look, this is ridiculous...We are a select few that volunteer to do our countries dirty work. We put on the uniform, go play in Afghanistan or Iraq knowing that we may not come home and the only people I can count on are the Soldiers on my left and right...yea, we are brothers and sisters and if it offensive to you, then you probably never deployed so you don't understand, but you are still my brother or sister.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Jan 2 at 2015 3:39 AM

2015-01-02T03:39:05-05:00

Tone and context go a long way...like when my Navy brothers call someone shipmate through clenched teeth

Response by SPC Leisel Luman made Jan 2 at 2015 8:48 AM

2015-01-02T08:48:00-05:00

SFC Christopher Feathers. I liked your comment. I generally get called Mr. Luman. When I walk up it's with a big smile and laugh. Takes the pressure off when they are under such scrutiny over not offending any one. Which is a impossible task.

Response by SPC David Hannaman made Jan 2 at 2015 9:35 AM

2015-01-02T09:35:52-05:00

Context is everything, if both are in uniform and one is higher ranking, then yes a SP4 calling a CSM "My Brother" would be offensive.

Twenty years after ETS, rank impresses me less, but I still have a habit of calling my CSM friend "Sargent Major"... but if he says "drop and give me 20" I just laugh in his face.

Response by SFC Keith Frain made Jan 2 at 2015 11:50 AM

2015-01-02T11:50:56-05:00

sure thing, we all must be from the same gene pool, given that we make up the "1%" that serve our country. BUT I AGREE WITH SSG V, "If I am dating another SM, I wouldn't recommend calling her "Sister!" lol

Response by LCpl Christopher Leonard made Jan 2 at 2015 7:26 PM

2015-01-02T19:26:00-05:00

Truthfully, all service members, regardless of rank, are my brothers and sisters. We all did the honorable duty of enlisting and or getting drafted, but regardless of the job we did or how we entered the military, we ARE family and the only ones we can depend on is our brothers and sisters veteran or active.

Response by CPO Andy Wright made Jan 4 at 2015 12:21 PM

2015-01-04T12:21:46-05:00

Not offensive at all and definitely appropriate. These days, people are "offended" by nearly everything under the sun - not my problem. I do (and will continue to) call the folks I served with, my brothers.

Response by PO1 Chris Crawley made Jan 4 at 2015 3:06 PM

2015-01-04T15:06:53-05:00

It is always appropriate to call each other Brother and Sister, if one has served honorably.

Response by PO2 Skip Kirkwood made Jan 4 at 2015 9:19 PM

2015-01-04T21:19:13-05:00

Although I grow weary of people being "offended" at almost anything, I will say this.

No, I will not be offended.

The only "being called" that will offend me is being called late for a meal or cocktails!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2015 5:44 PM

2015-01-29T17:44:53-05:00

Why would that be offensive?