Respect the rank or respect the Soldier, which is first?

Respect for rank is automatic. Respect for the person behind the rank is earned. Respect for rank commands discipline and following of orders. Respect for person commands loyalty.

Some think rank is enough, all good leaders know you need more than that.

When the stuff hits the fan and nobody is looking, respect for rank may give way to saving ones own ass. If you respect the man, they may go out on a limb for him.

Demand respect for your rank, prove you deserve respect as a man/woman. Or more simply, give them a reason to respect you regardess of your rank.

You have to respect the rank. But I have had a few superiors that lets just say not are not the best mentors. And really should not have held that rank. But I never once shown disrespect to any of them.

Mixing this up I would say respect the person. The Army Values don't mention rank, it does, however, mention Respect.

Respect:
"Treat people as they should be treated. In the Soldier’s Code, we pledge to “treat others with dignity and respect while expecting others to do the same.” Respect is what allows us to appreciate the best in other people. Respect is trusting that all people have done their jobs and fulfilled their duty. And self-respect is a vital ingredient with the Army value of respect, which results from knowing you have put forth your best effort. The Army is one team and each of us has something to contribute." (Source: http://www.army.mil/values/)

In the Soldier's Creed it states, "I am a warrior and a member of a team." Again, nothing mentions rank, but being apart of a team (One Team, One Fight).

In the Oath of Enlistment we swore to obey the orders of the President of the United States and the officers appointed over us.

I will treat the rank with the respect that it deserves but my respect for that rank goes much further by those that wear that rank. If I don't respect the person, do I really respect the rank? Do I want to come speak to those that are higher in rank than I? Soldiers should feel they are able to come and speak to those appointed over them (NCOs and Officers). If not, then there is a lack of respect for that person, possibly causing trouble down the road.

The Rank! However, just because your an SNCO doesn't mean your a leader. To be a good leader you must have the respect of those you lead.

I respect the soldier first if anything because respect goes a long way regardless of the rank

Each rank has it's own built-in respect so that of course comes first. It is then up to the person wearing the rank to earn their own personal respect.

Always respect the rank. But also remember, personal respect has to be earned. Actions speaks louder than words. During my 20+ years in the Army I saw some folks who didn’t understand this relationship. Some very senior.

Well.... the next time you meet a senior you have never met before, you could always try telling him or her that you will not offer your respect until he or she proves worthy. Then let us know how it turned out for you. Good luck.

I was taught as a brand new private you might not like the person or agree with them but have to respect the rank

You should have respect for the rank. The individual behind the rank needs to earn any personal respect after that with their behaviors and actions