What's the consensus on dependents using rank based reserved parking at exchanges/commissaries?

2015-04-30T08:40:38-04:00

What's the consensus on dependents using rank based reserved parking at exchanges/commissaries? I believe these spots are supposed to be used by the member to rapidly get in/out of a store and get back to work, not as a RHIP reward. To me, it smacks of dependents "wearing" their sponsor's rank.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2015 8:43 AM

2015-04-30T08:43:03-04:00

I agree, rank does not carry over to the spouse! Do we see husbands of pregnant wives parking in spaces designated only for pregnant women? I doubt it.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Apr 30 at 2015 8:42 AM

2015-04-30T08:42:25-04:00

It's intended for the person who actually WEARS the rank.

Response by SGM Eric Lobsinger made Apr 30 at 2015 8:51 AM

2015-04-30T08:51:20-04:00

The space is reserved for the Soldier, not for family members. Although we love our family members, and many of them have been by our sides throughout our military careers, they are not the servicemember and do not wear the servicemembers rank. We love them; we respect them; but they are not the servicemember for whom the reserved parking is intended for.

Response by MAJ Jim Steven made Apr 30 at 2015 9:01 AM

2015-04-30T09:01:46-04:00

It was intended for the person who wears the rank, on the assumption that that particular rank/person was sooooo busy, they needed special parking.
THeir spouse is not as busy, or, is not busy supporting the force as the service member is.

someone once pointed out, you rarely see a GO at the PX...so why do they get special parking???

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Apr 30 at 2015 9:20 AM

2015-04-30T09:20:30-04:00

My personnel opinion. "rank" based parking spaces (as opposed to position) should only be used by the member holding that rank and only in uniform. You are a retired Col? Awesome, and I salute you! Leave the space to the Full Birds still in uniform getting the job done so they can get back to work. Wing Commander/NAF Commander/MAJCOM Commander park in your placarded spot anytime.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2015 9:28 AM

2015-04-30T09:28:07-04:00

SOY/SOQ spots provide a perspective to apply to the PX. When we establish those spots to reward a sailor for this special recognition did we intend for his whole family to use it. And do you extend that privileged to the spouse, kids, grandmother. Where does this all end. Rules are rules unless AAFES has some specific policy that details the parking is reserved for the member and his spouse I would say only the member can use the space.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2015 10:32 AM

2015-04-30T10:32:58-04:00

Why do we still have rank based parking? I understand that senior individual is very busy and has a lot of responsibilities but that close parking should be for the pregnant and the disabled veterans. How much longer does walking across a parking lot add to the overall trip to the PX/Commissary/Class 6? If the senior Officer/NCO cannot afford an extra three minutes, then they really don't have time to be stopping anyway.

I say we do away with all rank based parking and assign the spots for those that truly need them.

Response by MAJ Bryan Zeski made Apr 30 at 2015 2:26 PM

2015-04-30T14:26:37-04:00

I agree with the statements that all of those special spots - except the handicapped and disabled spots - should be eliminated. (And as I understand post policy and "law", they are unenforceable anyway. If I part in the CSMs slot, I don't think there is any legal issue that could cause my vehicle to be towed or ticketed - I'd just be pissing off a CSM. But, I may be wrong on that, and now I'm genuinely curious as to what the actual enforcement of these special spots consists of...)

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Apr 30 at 2015 3:52 PM

2015-04-30T15:52:56-04:00

That has always been one of my pet peeves and I have had the opportunity, on more than one occasion, to "correct" a family member for using a reserved space. It was never well received, but that goes with the territory.

I used to always avoid parking in reserved spaces at the PX, etc., until one day, when in Germany, a group of officers from my office went to the PX Food Court to grab lunch. As I entered the PX parking lot, I bypassed the COL/0-6 reserved parking space and parked in an unmarked space. A Captain in the group asked why I had not parked in the reserved space and I responded that I did not agree with "special privileges" based on rank. He responded with the comment, "But sir, typically there are not enough parking spaces in the lot for everyone and I cannot park in that slot. By you not parking in the reserved slot, you are taking away a slot from me that I could park in, while leaving one you can park in, but I can't, vacant." That made perfect sense and I had never considered it that way before. Thereafter, I parked in the reserved slot. To my knowledge, my wife never did, but I can't swear that she has not.

In my opinion, the only reserved spaces should be for handicapped personnel and pregnant women.

You really want to get my rankles up? People without handicaps parking in handicapped spots, especially those with handicapped stickers on their vehicles belonging to another family member. (Yes, I know that some handicaps are not apparent by just looking at someone).

Response by SPC Donn Sinclair made Sep 9 at 2017 1:25 PM

2017-09-09T13:25:39-04:00

As a former MP, the bile still rises in my throat when I hear, "Don't you know who I am?"

Response by Tara Roberts made Sep 9 at 2017 1:49 PM

2017-09-09T13:49:37-04:00

The spots are for the active member only. Even as a spouse, it annoys me to see others doing this.

Response by COL Brian Shea made Sep 9 at 2017 2:10 PM

2017-09-09T14:10:43-04:00

Bunch of good points raised. I seem to recall at one point designated parking spots, especially for position (CG, Cdr, etc) were a bad thing for OPSEC purposes anyway.

Response by SSG Ray Murphy made Sep 9 at 2017 2:36 PM

2017-09-09T14:36:06-04:00

Absolutely drives me bonkers. CG/CSM and Handicap parking ONLY.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2017 9:02 PM

2017-09-09T21:02:11-04:00

Food for thought: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/leaders-eat-last-do-still-park-closest-christopher-lanier

leaders-eat-last-do-still-park-closest-christopher-lanier

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2017 4:16 PM

2017-11-11T16:16:47-05:00

Why don't MP's issue tickets to those not authorized to park in them.

Response by CPL Lloyd Harkins made Nov 11 at 2017 4:36 PM

2017-11-11T16:36:54-05:00

When I was the CG's driver, his wife always asked me to park in those spots with only her in the car. I told her that it wasn't allowed, that her husband was the one who put out that rule. She was not a happy camper, and I was standing in front of him the next day to explain, why his wife had to walk 4 extra spaces. I explained to him what had happened, he said to just drop her off at the door and circle til she came out. The next time I had to drive her she apologized for what had happened and that she'd wait at the doors til I could pick her up.

Response by SPC Leo Van Groll made Nov 11 at 2017 5:35 PM

2017-11-11T17:35:17-05:00

Are we all missing the point here? Are these spots for expedience, or as a show of respect for senior leadership? Anyone 0-6 or E-8 and above have been there & back again many times to achieve that rank. They have earned the respect that their rank brings, & also some perks.

Response by SGM Mike Hardin made Nov 12 at 2017 12:26 AM

2017-11-12T00:26:27-05:00

RHIP... Comming up thru the ranks over the short time I was in the military was a perk and a privilege. But it was for me, not for my wife or my kids. After I called it a day and ended my "first and last hitch" those privileges went away. One day I went to the PX with bud of mine after we had both retired and when I found a parking spot at the end of the parking lot he bitched at me because I had passed up two empty CSM spots infront of the PX. I told him that he was no longer a warfighter and he needed to learn to get off his dead ass and walk. Sure we were both retired Sergeant Majors but dont let your ego make you lose respect of those who have taken our place. RHIP

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Nov 12 at 2017 10:14 PM

2017-11-12T22:14:15-05:00

The parking spaces reserved are for the Military Member with the rank, if they are not in the car then that car should not be parked there. Same would apply if there is a handicapped plate on a vehicle, that's only for the handicapped person, if they are not in the car the car should not be parked there. One persons privilege doesn't carry over tho their friends and family, its for them and them alone to use, NOT others !

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 13 at 2017 9:13 AM

2017-11-13T09:13:12-05:00

I think it’s safe to say we find them to be the most dispised wretches who have ever walked this earth.

Response by Rochelle Anderson made Feb 6 at 2018 1:04 PM

2018-02-06T13:04:38-05:00

Nope! Totally not acceptable. Unless it's mil to mil and the rank has been earned by your own actions, we as spouses don't carry a rank. We are gifted the privileges and benefits that we get. The only exception are the expectant mother parking.

Response by Amber Moore made Feb 6 at 2018 4:59 PM

2018-02-06T16:59:29-05:00

It’s not for us, it’s for the service member only. Period!

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2018 5:18 PM

2018-02-06T17:18:30-05:00

I would like to apologize on behalf of all spouses who pull this BS. I've never done it but I see women pull the "my husband is a (....)" card all the time. No no no sweetheart. Your husband has rank, not you.

Response by SFC Christopher Taggart made Feb 6 at 2018 6:46 PM

2018-02-06T18:46:21-05:00

Good question, Sir. These are people that think the "world" spins around them in the civilian world. Wearing your husband's rank does not happen so much in the civilian world...but it's still out here too.

Response by A1C Tami Stanley Perkins made Feb 6 at 2018 7:48 PM

2018-02-06T19:48:36-05:00

I can’t stand it when spouses wear their active duty spouses rank.

Response by Cristi Leathers made Feb 7 at 2018 7:41 AM

2018-02-07T07:41:34-05:00

Couldn’t agree more

Response by Capt Denise Lawson made Feb 7 at 2018 8:57 AM

2018-02-07T08:57:22-05:00

I have no opinion on the reserved parking spots, but the spouses that wore their (usually) husband’s rank would get on my last nerve. At one place I was stationed, a general’s wife decided it was appropriate to ram me with her shopping cart in the commissary because I was where she wanted to be. I was a lieutenant at the time. She almost ate that shopping cart.

Response by Dawn Soriano made Feb 7 at 2018 10:13 AM

2018-02-07T10:13:12-05:00

Just as my husband did not earn any of my degrees, I did not earn his rank. I have supported him for the last 22 years as he has supported me in my career and education, but I am not a MSGT any more than he is an MSW.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Feb 7 at 2018 11:36 AM

2018-02-07T11:36:29-05:00

If she ain't the COL, park somewhere else!

Response by Lisa Himmel-Boliek made Feb 7 at 2018 1:17 PM

2018-02-07T13:17:40-05:00

I agree, I can't use a handicapped parking space just because my husband has a handicapped placket

Response by SPC Rene Martin made Feb 7 at 2018 1:56 PM

2018-02-07T13:56:15-05:00

I was a dependent and later active duty then a dependent again. No dependent should assume the rank and privileges of anyone in the military!! I consider it scraping the edges of stolen valor!!

Response by LCpl Dennis Webb made Feb 7 at 2018 3:38 PM

2018-02-07T15:38:14-05:00

Just like gate duty and having to salute the sticker even though it was some teen driving it because it's their daddy's car

Response by Sandy Carey made Feb 7 at 2018 5:31 PM

2018-02-07T17:31:26-05:00

Spouses have been their holding down the fort! The should take the honor to park there!

Response by SPC Alyssa Nelson made Feb 7 at 2018 5:53 PM

2018-02-07T17:53:19-05:00

This unfortunately happens all the time, until they have personally went through training and earned the rank they should not be able to do so. Lot of people here on Schofield Barracks don’t care about the designated spots. When I was pregnant at I think 32 weeks we get a paper having our information and when it expires and when you parked in the spot you put the paper on the dash to be displayed. People will take up the pregnancy spots and not be pregnant, I’ve personally saw a SGT parked in a pregnancy spot and he was alone. Sometimes it’s uncomfortable for a woman about to pop to walk far or for so long. I see people park in motorcycle spots that have sedans. Sorry about the rambling but dependents pull rank all the time and think they are entitled because of their husband.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2018 6:05 PM

2018-02-07T18:05:01-05:00

I agree with you Sir. As 1st. SGT Gainny use to say, "It took me 28 years for the Army to give me a Parking Space, and I'll be Dammed if someone parks in my parking space." Oh, there would be a trash can chained to your POV, with a sign saying, "If you need the key to the lock, ask 1st. SGT Gainny for the key."

Response by Michele Davee made Feb 7 at 2018 7:34 PM

2018-02-07T19:34:20-05:00

Not for spouses. My ex is a retired Major. It was his rank not mine

Response by TSgt Brittney Beene made Feb 7 at 2018 7:46 PM

2018-02-07T19:46:43-05:00

I think it depends. If it is a spouse doing something in conjunction with their Spouse's job or squadron and it is a time sensitive matter than I think there is nothing wrong with running in and running out than using it.

Response by CW5 Robbie Pitts made Feb 7 at 2018 8:39 PM

2018-02-07T20:39:10-05:00

My husband sacrificed 24 years of his life to support my career and take up the slack when I was deployed. He raised our children, was Mom and Dad and did a fabulous job. He DESERVES to park in my CW5 slot!! I gave 33 year, 8 months, and 22 days active duty service to my country. My husband put his needs and goals second to our children and my career. He is the true hero!

Response by CPO Mark Robinson made Feb 7 at 2018 8:47 PM

2018-02-07T20:47:08-05:00

Get rid of all those reserve parking spaces except for maybe one flag officer spot since they are almost always empty. Everyone at my Navy Exchange (PX/BX) has their own reserve spot except for me. Ombudsman, are you kidding me? The only thing they do is call up the wives and tell them the hubby's ship is pulling in early so they can kick the boyfriends out. They are the last person who deserves a parking space, give it to that poor E-3 that just got back from a seven month deployment. They even have reserve spots in front of the gym. That lazy E-9 could use a little extra walk to get to that treadmill.

Response by SPC Mike Lake made Feb 7 at 2018 9:02 PM

2018-02-07T21:02:09-05:00

I agree that the right doesn't carry over to the spouses. I've seen spouses demand salutes because they had a blue sticker on which designates that it's an officers vehicle .....rediculous....

Response by SSgt Jennifer Wolf made Feb 7 at 2018 9:19 PM

2018-02-07T21:19:36-05:00

Spouse doesn’t wear the rank!

Response by Britt Olson made Feb 7 at 2018 10:08 PM

2018-02-07T22:08:40-05:00

It's for the service member only. As should the expectant mother parking.

Response by SFC Glenn Kozak made Feb 7 at 2018 10:48 PM

2018-02-07T22:48:18-05:00

I agree. My car was towed because a COL wife used his rank. Long story! Hate it when spouse says “we” got promoted.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2018 10:54 PM

2018-02-07T22:54:15-05:00

I hate spouses who uses their service members rank! Last time I checked I don't answer to spouses!

Response by Emerald Leota made Feb 7 at 2018 11:00 PM

2018-02-07T23:00:51-05:00

This is absolutely true. I hope what I am about to say does not offend anyone on here. I used to like going to FRGs because I wanted to be around women that were going through the same situation as I when our husbands deployed. Now, I don't ever attend because wives with high ranking husbands uses those ranks against us. Tell me if I am wrong but I may have married my husband before he decided to join the military, but it doesn't mean that his rank goes for me. As for the parking, it's sad because sometimes wives of lower ranking soldiers park in the parking thst is not even reserved for them.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2018 12:00 AM

2018-02-08T00:00:43-05:00

Agreed

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2018 1:20 AM

2018-02-08T01:20:24-05:00

As was stated by someone previously in this discussion by not parking in that space you are taking away from everyone else who legitimately can’t park there. I’m a Lcpl and I’m not about to try parking in an officers parking spot. But if a retired officer or a spouse of an officer wants to park there good. Then maybe that frees up a spot closer for me. Look. I don’t agree with the whole spouse thinking they are the same rank as the service member thing but it’s just a friggin parking space. It’s not that big of a deal. As long as when he or she gets out of the vehicle they don’t expect me to salute them and start yelling at me in the parking lot, saying their spouse is so and so, so I should know them and salute them I really don’t care.

Response by Amn Michele Garza-Mathis made Feb 8 at 2018 8:05 AM

2018-02-08T08:05:54-05:00

I’m sorry but I have to disagree. My mother who has been married to my retired CMSGT father for 45 years 30 of which were as is military spouse has earned the right to use that parking space. My father also has earned that right to park in that spot! It should be looked upon as a privilege for all the hard work and sacrifice that the person of rank has earned!!! It should be an incentive too younger airmen. I’m sorry but my mother sacrificed a lot to be married to my father his 30 years off Active Duty. She deserves to park in his spot!

Response by SFC James Welch made Feb 8 at 2018 8:39 AM

2018-02-08T08:39:29-05:00

No, they have no special prevledge, they are Civilians!

Response by PO1 Heather Griffith made Feb 8 at 2018 11:47 AM

2018-02-08T11:47:09-05:00

Dependapotomis’ do it so often! It is the members rank not the spouses!

Response by Angela Warren made Feb 8 at 2018 1:04 PM

2018-02-08T13:04:34-05:00

If the parking lot is full -unless it says handicapped or fire then it’s fair game. I don’t pay attention to the rank on the spot.

Response by SFC Willie Dillard made Feb 8 at 2018 2:04 PM

2018-02-08T14:04:18-05:00

those spaces should be for the service members only, and i do mean active duty service members. Not even retirees should be able to use them.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2018 3:25 PM

2018-02-08T15:25:48-05:00

I am a MAJ married to a COL. I would NEVER park in an O6 slot if he wasn’t with me. And it equally pisses me off when I see perfectly abled people with handicap parking plaquards parking in handicapped spots or males w/o a pregnant wife parking in pregnancy spots. I have seen all versions of lazy.

Response by Amber Reynolds made Feb 8 at 2018 3:29 PM

2018-02-08T15:29:50-05:00

As a military wife I would never park in a spot reserved for my husbands rank or any other. I believe that is so disrespectful as I have not earned that privilege!

Response by SSG Aaron Richards made Feb 8 at 2018 3:38 PM

2018-02-08T15:38:15-05:00

The funny thing is anyone can park in those spots. You cannot get a ticket for parking there. These “reserved” parking spaces are there as a courtesy only. People who park there show they don’t have respect for the rank intended.

Response by MAJ Jim Steven made Feb 8 at 2018 4:14 PM

2018-02-08T16:14:49-05:00

I once heard a rumor that the only legally desinated parking spaces were for handicapped. Need to run that by a barrracks lawyer....

Response by 1SG Susan Hamann made Feb 8 at 2018 4:23 PM

2018-02-08T16:23:07-05:00

I don't get on many bases any more, but I feel the space is for the ranked military member only! That being said...don't be quick to judge if a woman parks in a RHIP spot...she may not be a spouse!!

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2018 5:56 PM

2018-02-08T17:56:45-05:00

My father was a Major in the Army, did 27 years and at one point was the CO for one of the largest companies in the Middle East. Only when he was in uniform on duty would he park in the reserved spots at the PX or just outside of the base. His reasoning was because there might be a major who is on duty with a half an hour for chow who needs that spot, he is merely stopping for a can of dip of a pack of smokes.

Response by Alexia Allen made Feb 8 at 2018 6:16 PM

2018-02-08T18:16:48-05:00

I don’t think it should be allowed.

Response by Donielle Kish made Feb 8 at 2018 6:43 PM

2018-02-08T18:43:32-05:00

Not for spouses

Response by Lisa Lorance Ranson made Feb 8 at 2018 7:23 PM

2018-02-08T19:23:20-05:00

Service member only.

Response by Jacqueline O'Brien made Feb 8 at 2018 8:14 PM

2018-02-08T20:14:52-05:00

Any spouse who thinks they are better than another needs knocked down a peg or two. You’re still a civilian, you have zero rank, and zero pull. The most annoying thing to me was being around higher ranking wives like captains wives and masters wives and such and the way they look at you like you’re smaller and les important than they are. It makes me sick.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2018 8:23 PM

2018-02-08T20:23:54-05:00

What’s the deal with there being 97 reserved parking spaces at the PX at Ft. Eustis? 12 for CSM/SGM and one for CSM TRADOC specifically, 8 for GO/SES, 9 for pregnant women (there aren’t even that many pregnant women on Ft. Eustis at one time!)? There are more reserved spots then there are regular spots and the number grows daily. I swear!

Response by SrA Lisa Doepker made Feb 8 at 2018 8:50 PM

2018-02-08T20:50:39-05:00

As a veteran myself and later a dependent, I feel those spaces are for the military member only and while in uniform.

Response by Leela Roach made Feb 8 at 2018 9:08 PM

2018-02-08T21:08:39-05:00

Agreed those spots are not for family members to use with out the ranking individual

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Feb 8 at 2018 10:18 PM

2018-02-08T22:18:14-05:00

I'm disabled and have to push my oxygen past several General Officer Spots to get to the commissary. We don't even have that many Generals

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2018 10:30 PM

2018-02-08T22:30:21-05:00

Funny thats my battalian commander in the picture lol

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Feb 8 at 2018 11:34 PM

2018-02-08T23:34:48-05:00

There are only two legally enforceable parking spaces, General Officer parking - Armed Forced ticket DA Form 1408 and the HC packing spaced - CVB citation.

Response by 1st Lt Robert Schoeler made Feb 9 at 2018 12:24 AM

2018-02-09T00:24:31-05:00

Only for the designated military member. Not designated and meant for the vehicle.

Response by COL Mary Shively made Feb 9 at 2018 1:52 AM

2018-02-09T01:52:26-05:00

Spouses of higher ranking officers are expected to entertain. The parking space at the commissary can be a life saver when trying to put together a dinner or party for your spouse’s unit. I think it is a small price to pay for the many hours that spouses volunteer.

Response by Mindy Swank made Feb 9 at 2018 2:31 AM

2018-02-09T02:31:52-05:00

Not for spouse use

Response by A1C Diana Hlloway made Feb 9 at 2018 5:01 AM

2018-02-09T05:01:33-05:00

I agree with you. You are married to the ranking individual but you are not in uniform so you do not belong in their spot. As a military spouse your actions reflect upon your spouse. I was on both sides as an active duty member and a spouse of an active duty member.

Response by PV2 Amber Randolph made Feb 9 at 2018 6:01 AM

2018-02-09T06:01:18-05:00

I agree. It’s the same thing as a police officers spouse being allowed to drive the officers car to go to the grocery store and using taxpayer resources.

Response by SCPO David Long made Feb 9 at 2018 6:45 AM

2018-02-09T06:45:05-05:00

I agree spouses did not earn that and should not park there.

Response by Amber Martin made Feb 9 at 2018 7:30 AM

2018-02-09T07:30:31-05:00

I believe this carries on to our Vets as well. My husband was a Major in the AF and is now on disabled status. Some places have dedicated parking for Veterans, and from time to time, he will used them. I, however, have NEVER felt entitled to park in that spot if he’s not with me. I didn’t earn that parking spot, HE did. It frustrates me that other military spouses/dependants feel that they “share” rank with their service member. They do NOT. I take the opportunity to correct those that are misguided, although at times, it falls on deaf ears.

Response by PO3 Angela McKay made Feb 9 at 2018 9:23 AM

2018-02-09T09:23:38-05:00

I agree. The military member needs to be in and out and back on the job. Spouses can walk if they are physically capable too. Now if the spouse is with the military member then they shouldn’t be using those parking spots either. Those parking spot should be designated for solo military members. This is the same concept about with spouses using the other spouses disability plaquared to use the handicap parking spots, or using a wounded warrior parking spot when your spouse is one and you are not. Let’s be courteous and think of those who REALLY need these spots. It would make for a more efficient atmosphere in the long run.

Response by PO2 Diane Van Minsel made Feb 9 at 2018 9:43 AM

2018-02-09T09:43:29-05:00

At our home base of Eglin AFB, FL, there's too many of them in the parking lots.

Response by AN Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2018 12:18 PM

2018-02-09T12:18:44-05:00

Yea brother I just made Cheif.....No hunny we just made Cheif ❤️

Response by CPL Suzanne Regan-Ewert made Feb 9 at 2018 2:53 PM

2018-02-09T14:53:16-05:00

Just remember just because women are in civilian clthes doesn’t mean they are a dependant wife. I was militar police and wold get screamed at for being a lazy dependant wife parking in military only parking.

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2018 2:54 PM

2018-02-09T14:54:58-05:00

I agree it bothers me when I see 18 year old kids parked in those reserved spaces because of their id

Response by MSgt Linda Beale made Feb 9 at 2018 3:23 PM

2018-02-09T15:23:54-05:00

I grew up as a military brat and military spouse! I saw kids say they were third Highest ranking kid on the bus! I dated a colonels son(my dad was a c/Msgt) and actual colonel was a sweetie but his wife didn’t like that my dad was enlisted! As a spouse I see the parking at the commissary and bx and have always said that officers wives and high ranking nco’s wives do not deserve special treatment! In fact another pet peeve is introducing themselves as colonel(whatever rank) do and so wife! It actually means to me that they don’t have their own life! Best line when you have a disagreement with an officers wife is” do you know who my husband is”! Sorry to vent but that has always been one of my biggest pet peeves!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2018 4:16 PM

2018-02-09T16:16:16-05:00

No, family members should not be using parking based on their spouse/parents rank. I know a "pecking order" generally forms with spouses, but it's unofficial at best.

Response by Corrie Toffoli made Feb 9 at 2018 4:50 PM

2018-02-09T16:50:23-05:00

The spouse and vehicle should not have RHIP extended to them without the Service Member wearing the rank, present. This is what I was always taught.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2018 7:34 PM

2018-02-09T19:34:01-05:00

It’s because when they had stickers in use, we were not allowed to judge the people inside we were required to follow the sticker; salute the car. Now that there are no stickers, they actually check ID’s.

Response by Doula Emily made Feb 9 at 2018 8:48 PM

2018-02-09T20:48:45-05:00

the only rank based parking spot civilians should be using is the ombudsman parking spot, and ONLY if they are actually the ombudsman. Otherwise: that spot’s not for you. It’s like a man parking in the expectant mother’s parking spot just because his wife is pregnant, but doesn’t happen to be with him at the moment...

Response by Cpl Brian Ruby made Feb 9 at 2018 9:01 PM

2018-02-09T21:01:02-05:00

Agree. Privilege ends with the person wearing the rank.

Response by MSgt Evelyn Lacey made Feb 9 at 2018 9:48 PM

2018-02-09T21:48:23-05:00

Agreed! The spouse is not due parking privileges!

Response by SGT Craig Plank made Feb 9 at 2018 10:27 PM

2018-02-09T22:27:57-05:00

Solders only. Not spouses

Response by CPT James Jeanes made Feb 9 at 2018 11:25 PM

2018-02-09T23:25:11-05:00

The dependant is not entitled to a salute, so I see no reason for the dependence to park in a rank based reserve parking.

Response by SSG Monica Conger made Feb 9 at 2018 11:56 PM

2018-02-09T23:56:37-05:00

I feel the rank based reserved parking belongs to the service member, however, out of respect to the higher ups, i would hate for the Post Commanders wife to not have a privileged parking spot same with the Post CSM's wife. of course its been awhile since i was in, maybe they have given them their own spot by now.

Response by CMDCM Thomas Daly made Feb 10 at 2018 12:21 AM

2018-02-10T00:21:46-05:00

I agree that these spaces are to be utilized for the active duty member only for the reason stated.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2018 1:20 AM

2018-02-10T01:20:00-05:00

I am going to bite my tongue because I am going to say something and there are too many folks who get butthurt....i am blunt and don't sugar coat BS

Response by Sabrina Gear made Feb 10 at 2018 1:56 AM

2018-02-10T01:56:10-05:00

I've never done anything like that, but honestly I have to say--who cares?? This is the most petty tripe I have read in a long time. I agree with the post above that says that rank-based parking is outdated and ridiculous. Those spots should indeed be reserved for pregnant women and senior citizens.

And this whole "the service member is the privileged person--not the lazy entitled dependants" attitude is the saddest thing that I have discovered upon entering this military life. The military spends millions on PR campaigns to give the illusion of being a family-friendly organization, but these posts here are a great example of the disdain towards military "dependants", especially wives, that I have been so shocked to see. The only dependent likely to use a soldier's parking spot or car is his wife. I have a feeling that he doesn't have a problem with his wife 'wearing his rank' to pick up some groceries after a long day. His wife, who raised his kids alone while he was away for months on deployment. His wife, who stuck by his side faithfully and dutifully despite the distance and disrespectful attitude of the military towards spouses. His wife, who took care of everything else so that he could pursue a difficult career path earn that rank. I dare any one of you to walk up to a General and tell him that his lovely wife, who sacrificed so much to support his career, is undeserving of wearing his rank.

In the meantime, I would recommend focusing on something more productive than dogging on soldier's wives and maybe try to have some solidarity with one another. Military life is difficult enough without garbage like this being flung around.

Response by Kaylee Landis made Feb 10 at 2018 3:33 AM

2018-02-10T03:33:17-05:00

Simple... my husband is in the military and has earned his rank and right to wear the uniform not myself. These are and should never be used by family members of the soldier they are assigned to.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2018 4:30 AM

2018-02-10T04:30:50-05:00

I have to say as a military reservist with 19 years I use “my” benefits. My husband active duty has his. I don’t agree nor have I ever agreed using a spouses rank as my own.

Response by Sabrina Morio-Hale made Feb 10 at 2018 9:27 AM

2018-02-10T09:27:19-05:00

We as dependents including my other has been warned by my service member father we were to never ever under any circumstance park in those slots as they were for military members only and if we ever did and he found out we would have hell to pay

Response by Amber Riggen made Feb 10 at 2018 9:39 AM

2018-02-10T09:39:59-05:00

I am a military spouse. I do not park in reserved parking spaces that are clearly marked. I am not the service member. I am the support team. I will admit that when picking up my husband, if he is on his way out or I am dropping him off I will park in a marked parking spot for no more than five minutes. I have been caught, as it were, by people in their spot a total of two times in 15 years and I apologized whole heartedly that I was wrong and that I was waiting for my husband and had literally just parked and moved immediately. My job as a spouse is to hold down the home front and support my husband so he can excel at his career. Not make my life better, or get better parking.

Response by Dawn Soger made Feb 10 at 2018 10:18 AM

2018-02-10T10:18:57-05:00

The spouse is _not_ military. (Though they serve behind the scenes!)

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2018 10:20 AM

2018-02-10T10:20:26-05:00

If we are being honest, I think the only reserved parking should be for handicap, expected mothers, and MOH recipients. To answer the question though, YOU hold the rank, not the spouse, so why should the spouse utilize the parking?
It drives me absolutely insane when a spouse pulls the ole' "Do you know who I am!?" I have even seen a woman wearing her husband's CSM rank on her collar and demanded that the cashier refer to her as Sergeant Major at the PX...

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Feb 10 at 2018 11:17 AM

2018-02-10T11:17:32-05:00

Federal Law requires Businesses to provide handicapped spaces to provide convenient parking allowing access to the disabled. To have accessible spaces set aside because of position has got to be a problem there.

Response by PO2 Patrick Dwyer made Feb 10 at 2018 2:37 PM

2018-02-10T14:37:48-05:00

Never bothered me.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2018 3:58 PM

2018-02-10T15:58:55-05:00

Absolutely, it is for the person wearing the rank, not a civilian that has no rank. Spouses who use their others rank is pathetic.

Response by Stephanie Morgan made Feb 10 at 2018 5:47 PM

2018-02-10T17:47:43-05:00

I’m a military spouse and my identity has nothing to do with my husbands career. It may move us around and cause us to have to be apart now and again, but I am not the one who puts on the uniform, and although I support him with everything I have, I am not the one who serves. That would be like saying because I work in the automotive industry he should be able to use that as an excuse to receive all free car stuff. (Although I’m sure he’d find that legit). I just think there’s a huge culture with mil spouses and I think, not assuming but thinking that most of these people have no sense of independence and have never had to completely 100% take care of themselves. Thus they use their spouses identity as their own and gives them something to be passionate about and feel like it’s their “job” too. We can support with out going full dependapotomus people.

Response by SSG Darin Rex made Feb 10 at 2018 6:32 PM

2018-02-10T18:32:49-05:00

A reserved space based on rank is just BS. There many others that really deserve a spot

Response by Kate Phelan made Feb 10 at 2018 7:40 PM

2018-02-10T19:40:58-05:00

I never parked in the reserve space that was made for the volunteer of the year at Fort Knox when I received that privilege spouses don’t need to use their husbands rank spouses serve in the silent ranks and are those reserve spots really necessary for the soldiers they talk about keeping people in shape don’t reserve first come first serve for parking that’s how it becomes in the civilian world once they retire

Response by TSgt Marla Parham made Feb 10 at 2018 8:39 PM

2018-02-10T20:39:26-05:00

Spouoshould not park in those designated spots. I retired from the AF and would never park in the space designated for my husband who is still active duty. It is his rank not mine. It is annotate spouses feel they deserve to park there. (I’m sure this will piss some spouses off but they will be ok). If they want to park in those spots then let them put the uniform on and earn it.

Response by Sgt Dion Peters made Feb 10 at 2018 11:05 PM

2018-02-10T23:05:40-05:00

No I think that parking privileges ought to be for the member actually serving. Spouses and family members can walk like everyone else, unless they are handicapped, and there are places designated for that.

Response by PFC Dianne Daum made Feb 11 at 2018 12:27 AM

2018-02-11T00:27:45-05:00

I don't see the problem. I use the Officer's club without my husband, so why not the parking space? His rank allows me certain privileges like FGO housing. Following the above argument, that means the kids and I shouldn't use the club or the house if he's not there.

Response by SSG Brian G. made Feb 11 at 2018 12:54 AM

2018-02-11T00:54:55-05:00

IMO we should not have them. There should only be spaces designated for handicapped and pregnancy and that is it. All others take their chances and use their LPC's as issued. Can't count the number of times that I would be on lunch and need to swing by the Commissary to grab something and all the spots were filled. One time I saw a woman return from shopping, had a full load of groceries and she went to an non-com spot and started having the bagger unload. There was no way she was enlisted, let alone military given her physical state. When I politely said something to her she got nasty and threw the "I can park where ever I damn well please, my husband is the Command Sergeant Major of the post. " Had similar experiences with some officers wives as well but would rather not throw shade.

Response by SSgt Keri Frost made Feb 11 at 2018 3:40 AM

2018-02-11T03:40:25-05:00

No!!! I am both a spouse and a veteran. My husband earned his rank, I did NOT earn it for him! I do not deserve to park in spots reserved for him. He earned that privilege for his hard work and knowledge, not I.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2018 3:41 AM

2018-02-11T03:41:21-05:00

Totally agree.

I even hate seeing the "key spouse" spot at the BX and Comm at JBMDL.

Response by ENS Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2018 7:57 AM

2018-02-11T07:57:40-05:00

Agreed. I wouldn’t park there if my husband wasn’t with me. That’s HIS spot, not mine. I didn’t earn it.

Response by SSG Jackie Rivas-Martinez made Feb 11 at 2018 8:32 AM

2018-02-11T08:32:06-05:00

This is so true in my household we were considered dual military both senior NCOs and when I would correct a spouse she would look at me like why are you speaking to me don’t you know who my husband is he is a COL I would tell her that is correct your husband is the one who wears the rank not you he is the one who leaves Home and deploys with me not you so please remove your vehicle for a COL and not you the spouse

Response by PO1 Laura Peeler made Feb 11 at 2018 8:41 AM

2018-02-11T08:41:36-05:00

I don’t park in the spots (I’m a wife now, but was in the military) However, my husband who’s upper enlisted & the General parks in those spots. He had a good point, when is the General going to come to the commissary...his aids or wife do that for him. Rank doesn’t carry to spouses but let’s be honest, who does all the grocery shopping while the member is working or deployed? The wife! Or the significant other. Those spots are ALWAYS empty.

Response by A1C Debbie Villeneuve made Feb 11 at 2018 11:33 AM

2018-02-11T11:33:04-05:00

I completely agree with the assessment here. Not for dependents but for the military member.

Response by PO3 Deb Fedoronko made Feb 11 at 2018 12:04 PM

2018-02-11T12:04:25-05:00

It happens out in civilian works too. But the parking space thing is ridiculous.

Response by Alychia Copperwheat McKnight made Feb 11 at 2018 12:06 PM

2018-02-11T12:06:43-05:00

I hate dealing with other dependents that wear their spouses rank. It is really upsetting to see, it gives us good spouses/dependents a bad name.

Response by SSgt Christina Kroll made Feb 11 at 2018 12:12 PM

2018-02-11T12:12:56-05:00

Totally agree. I just mentioned this to my husband the other day. I've seen many officers spouse's parking in those spots. It's crap.

Response by Teri Graves made Feb 11 at 2018 12:34 PM

2018-02-11T12:34:35-05:00

Walk, spouses.

Response by Kim Moore made Feb 11 at 2018 12:53 PM

2018-02-11T12:53:42-05:00

Agree, not for dependants. I am a former dependant of an Army Warrent Officer & was told when my husband was in WOC school that spouses do not carry any rank, they are afforded many courtesies but they are not given the same respect as their sponsor/spouse.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2018 2:29 PM

2018-02-11T14:29:12-05:00

Should just get rid of rank based parking to begin with.

Response by Sgt Angela Schminke made Feb 11 at 2018 3:33 PM

2018-02-11T15:33:26-05:00

No way! That’s for the one wearing the rank!!

Response by SSG Michael Raysses made Feb 11 at 2018 4:02 PM

2018-02-11T16:02:20-05:00

I've never parked in "Reserved" spots for field grade/general grade officers at either px/commissary parking lots on bases.... it's disrespectful for one.... but I never gave it much thought.... if at all.... so we walk a little further.... so what!.... "RHIP", does have its privileges but one should never abuse them!... and that includes our dependants....HOOAH!...SSgt Mike Raysses, USAR-Ret....

Response by SPC Amanda Morse made Feb 11 at 2018 5:12 PM

2018-02-11T17:12:31-05:00

I there's retired veterans spots. It's been a while though I could be wrong.

Response by PO2 Penny Hansen made Feb 11 at 2018 6:05 PM

2018-02-11T18:05:53-05:00

Dependents do not qualify for these spots.

Response by Hannah Elkins-Hood made Feb 11 at 2018 8:05 PM

2018-02-11T20:05:24-05:00

I've been a spouse for a very long time and have never used my husband's rank because he's the service member not me. That being said, I really do not understand the purpose of designated parking spaces at places like the commissary, etc., for anyone other than handicapped, expectant mothers, or wounded warriors. I understand the purpose of them at work centers, but at other public establishments I think that unless there is a particular reason why you might need to park close to the entrance then there is no reason why you cannot walk like everyone else. To me it goes against the values taught to Marines everyday. For example, allowing your Junior Marines to eat before you do.

Response by Barbra Hartbarger made Feb 11 at 2018 8:10 PM

2018-02-11T20:10:57-05:00

Spouses did not earn the rank and did not wear the uniform.

Response by MAJ Susan Shockley made Feb 11 at 2018 8:22 PM

2018-02-11T20:22:52-05:00

Working as a nurse at my first duty station report was given on the patients identifying them by their spouses rank ,regardless if the spouse was dead or alive. I didn’t agree with that then because I never did provide care to anyone based upon rank. The military does encourage this behavior in the separation of enlisted and officers in housing areas etc and discourages “fraternization”. This does carry over to the spouses and they do tend to act as if they wear the rank as well as the spouse so I’m sure they feel entitled to park in those spaces. I don’t agree with that either but the military in general encourages this behavior

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2018 8:23 PM

2018-02-11T20:23:13-05:00

Dependas are a thing. As long as they don't bother me I don't care

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2018 8:39 PM

2018-02-11T20:39:19-05:00

I fully agree!! Where I am currently based, actually has designated parking spaces for spouses of deployed military personnel. I don’t understand why that is necessary. Things like this is probably feeding into the reason civilian spouses are extremely rude and have an entitled attitude.

Response by Leslie Howard made Feb 11 at 2018 9:14 PM

2018-02-11T21:14:31-05:00

Agreed. Why should a family member be parking in that spot? Unless they have some sort of disability and a handicapped spot is not available, I can think of no valid reason they need to park there.

Response by SPC Tracy Shelton made Feb 11 at 2018 9:15 PM

2018-02-11T21:15:10-05:00

They would often stop at the gate and expect to be saluted. smh

Response by MSG Charles Turner made Feb 11 at 2018 9:19 PM

2018-02-11T21:19:32-05:00

Dependents, Family Members, Spouses ARE NOT THE SERVICE MEMBER! I dont say much when the CG's or Post CSM's spouse parks in their space. First off, the only person that is suppose to park there is that person, but it is there vehicle! So no issue to me. On the other hand, MY SPOUSE HAS NO RANK! NONE! Neither does anyone else's UNLESS they are in the military as well. THEN THEY SHOULD USE THEIR OWN RANK!

Response by PO1 Victor Slater made Feb 11 at 2018 10:05 PM

2018-02-11T22:05:24-05:00

Happily, I have never had that issue with my wonderful wife. When we were DATING, I made it perfectly clear to her the do’s and dont’s on a military installation. I covered the parking issue a looong time ago. I cannot STAND that! I recall standing a gate sentry post and an officer’s wife drove through with a car load of kids, flashed her military spouse ID card and actually had the ordasity of demanding a salute. I laughed at the lady and waved her in. “Have a nice day, ma’am

Response by A1C Vantrice Skipper made Feb 11 at 2018 11:08 PM

2018-02-11T23:08:03-05:00

I definitely agree

Response by Caoilin Austin made Feb 11 at 2018 11:41 PM

2018-02-11T23:41:51-05:00

As a spouse, I agree. Yes we go through a lot with our significant others because of the military lifestyle but they are the ones putting in the hours and the effort and protecting our country. That convenience is for them.

Response by SrA Alexis Hines made Feb 12 at 2018 12:29 AM

2018-02-12T00:29:24-05:00

This is just like the issues we had as gate guards. A blue stickered car would approach the gate and you very well know that it’s son/daughter/spouse of the service member, but they will sit there and wait for a salute. That used to drive me up a wall. I actually had the son of our base commander at the time, sit in one of the 2 traffic lanes, refusing to move until I saluted him. I was so mad, but I didn’t do it. He complained to my squadron commander who then received a call from the base commander, apologizing for his sons behavior. He never sat waiting for a salute again. Haha if the spot is reserved for the service member, the member should be present when the spot is being used. Seems to me that a lot of spouses get big heads and think they deserve all the respect that goes with whatever rank their spouse is, and I don’t agree with that at all. I have all the respect in the world for military spouses, but expecting benefits like reserved parking spots or waiting for a gate guard to salute because the car they are in has a blue sticker.... well, that’s just asinine. Lol

Response by Rhonda Kundrat made Feb 12 at 2018 12:47 AM

2018-02-12T00:47:17-05:00

I'm so sick of this stereotype. Yes, I'm a Senior Chiefs' wife, but I am an accomplished lawyer and political consultant. I am not a dependa...call me that and I will curse you out. I do not wear rank...hell, I still get it all mixed up and really don't care if your hubby is an officer. I just find the stereotypes to be beyond stupid and downright offensive. To have military sites devoted to such crap is pathetic. Many wives make countless sacrifices to help him with his career. It is a family effort, so don't you tell me "he did it on his own".. no he didn't. Many or most of you wouldn't be where you are without that wife who did it all...kids. work, family, school, etc....just so you could be all that you could be. So stop whining about the few idiots that pull that rank crap and fueling the stereotype. When was the last time you said thank you for all that you do...to your spouse?

Response by Chrissy Castleberry made Feb 12 at 2018 5:54 AM

2018-02-12T05:54:23-05:00

I am the child of a marine, ex wife of a sailor and future wife of a retired infantryman. I have never and will never use the marked spaces. My family earned them not me. Though yes I whole heartedly support them that is something they earned and should only get to use.

Response by PO2 Tim Druck made Feb 12 at 2018 3:07 PM

2018-02-12T15:07:05-05:00

My father-in-law was an Army Chaplain for 26 years and he tells an amazing story about a post where the Officers’ wives were using Head of Line privileges at the PX.

To make a long story short, the CO had his wife call a meeting of the OWC at the Base Theater, and when he entered, asked very politely that the ladies stand and re-seat themselves in order of rank.

The ladies had no idea what to do.

The CO’s response? “THAT’S RIGHT!! NONE OF YOU HAVE A FUCKING RANK!!”

The problem ceased immediately.

Response by SPC Margaret King made Feb 12 at 2018 3:15 PM

2018-02-12T15:15:23-05:00

I agree spouses have time to walk to the stores where if you are going during work hrs you should be able to get in quickly

Response by A1C George Turner made Feb 12 at 2018 4:27 PM

2018-02-12T16:27:38-05:00

Completely agree

Response by PFC Sally Branham (Cantu) made Feb 12 at 2018 4:43 PM

2018-02-12T16:43:15-05:00

No spouses should NOT park in these spots. They are meant ONLY for the active member.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2018 8:09 PM

2018-02-12T20:09:01-05:00

I would agree. As a spouse myself I’d never park in a spot reserved for military personnel of a specific rank.

Response by TSgt Lindsay Flick Nelson made Feb 12 at 2018 10:34 PM

2018-02-12T22:34:54-05:00

Do you forget that the spouse does where the rank too? We suffer more forgetably than people realize. I chose to marry my military husband. I knew what it entailed being a military brat growing up. I moved with my husband every time he was restrained, we no guaneteed job like him. I worried and suffered many hardships every deployment, every exersize, every command change... I had to be the ever changing ever ready spouse that took on any and all roles at a moment's notice so that my husband could be the best Airmen he could be to the fullest. So yes, when he retired... I received a retirement certificate for all I endured and did for my country, family and husband as his spouse. Yes. We deserve that spot that we earned. He may wear the rank... But he wears it for both of us.
From an Work and wife who worried everyday for her husband's life, heart soul and family.

Response by Becky Sg made Feb 12 at 2018 10:52 PM

2018-02-12T22:52:10-05:00

I agree and completely agree that rank does not carry over to the spouse however most spouses feel it does. They, “wear their spouses rank on their sleeve” as they say! I noticed it was bad with the higher ranked officers spouses. They feel so very entitled and obligated to put lower ranking spouses in their place. Some bases are worse than others. I know there are duties and obligations that the spouse should uphold but they shouldn’t use that to push the younger spouses around or to get bennifits and purks that are meant for the soldier.

Response by Catherine McGuire Needham made Feb 12 at 2018 10:59 PM

2018-02-12T22:59:52-05:00

Wouldn’t use it myself. I’d rather walk and not use the space when someone that needs it could use it.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Feb 13 at 2018 12:02 AM

2018-02-13T00:02:22-05:00

No issue... Maj Joseph Osborne ... My wife earned it, as much, if not more, than me. But, she never uses it... nor did she...

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Feb 13 at 2018 12:35 AM

2018-02-13T00:35:39-05:00

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act a Handicapped individual should be able to use any of those spaces

Response by PO3 Theresa Dixon made Feb 13 at 2018 8:30 AM

2018-02-13T08:30:55-05:00

Yup. Makes me crazy. As it is female veterans get treated like crap by the spouses wearing thier sponsers rank enough anyway.

Response by Sgt Mechelle Viola-Lewis made Feb 13 at 2018 11:38 AM

2018-02-13T11:38:26-05:00

During active duty I had a run in with the wife of our XO. She tried to cut in line at the commissary with her basket of groceries. She got really upset when we stopped her from doing that. She yelled “my husband is your boss!” I said directly to her “yes he is, and he would never do such a thing to his service members. He cares about us.” That shut her up. She left her cart and walked out of the store.

Response by Angela Johnson made Feb 13 at 2018 11:43 AM

2018-02-13T11:43:37-05:00

I agree and would not park in a reserved spot.

Response by Cpl Elizabeth Abigail made Feb 13 at 2018 1:56 PM

2018-02-13T13:56:41-05:00

Right and what about spouses who come through the front gate saying you owe me a salute because my spouse is a gen. Col etc. I honestly don't see why I should salute a civilian. It doesn't state that in the order that I read so why does it get done? I just don't agree that civilian spouses rate any special treatment based on the rank of a service member. It literally drives me to drink!

Response by SP5 Jennifer Seaman made Feb 13 at 2018 2:19 PM

2018-02-13T14:19:37-05:00

Spouses do not have the rank the member does and I believe this is what the sign means.

Response by Theresa Miller made Feb 13 at 2018 4:49 PM

2018-02-13T16:49:41-05:00

maybe there should be a sign at the reserved spots that say reserved for service members, pregnant women, handicapped but spouses, family, friends and guests park in the main parking lot???

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2018 6:35 PM

2018-02-13T18:35:55-05:00

I pulled into a CMSgt spot on base. I had a young man say, "Ma'am, you know that spot is reserved for Chiefs not wives." I smiled and said, "Good thing that I am a Chief then. Thanks for looking out though." ((I think the blood drained from his face for a nanosecond. He lived though.)) :)

Response by Devon Merritt made Feb 13 at 2018 6:52 PM

2018-02-13T18:52:56-05:00

I literally watched a young wife of a COL. Yell at another wife for parking to long In the spot. When a COL. Himself pulled up and not so gently explained it was meant for him not then lol I laughed the other ladies didn't.

Response by S Karlene Unruh made Feb 13 at 2018 7:17 PM

2018-02-13T19:17:09-05:00

I am a spouse and I feel it should be for the military member. If the family is in the car as well big whoop. But the person that signed their name and serves is who the space is for.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2018 7:53 PM

2018-02-13T19:53:12-05:00

It's garbage. I recall on more than one occasion almost getting run over by some COL or GOs snot nosed teenager as they zoomed through the parking lot and park in the "COL/GO" parking spot. I remember commenting to my spouse and she countered with where are the "Expecting Spouses" parking? Great question. Within a matter of days, I observed a pregnant woman whose husband was deployed, walking in the rain from deep in the parking lot while carrying another child and holding the hand of yet another. Made me sick to see this while there were at least 6-8 close parking for COLs, GOs, and even CW4-5s... After discussing with garrison leadership, there were a couple of expecting mothers spots designated in a matter of a few days... I also know of another post where the CG overheard some COL talking about parking... He immediately had the garrison remove ALL designated parking for all ranks around the public areas... Get over yourselves...

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2018 7:57 PM

2018-02-13T19:57:43-05:00

Additionally, when is the last time or how frequently do you see COLs and GOs shopping in the PX/Commissary? In my 28, and counting, years, I've never seen a GO in the PX or commissary. Come to think of it, I never saw their spouse either... I've also been to bases (usually AF) where they also have "Retired" GO as if the normal GO parking spot isn't enough... All ludicrous...

Response by Erin Raftery made Feb 13 at 2018 8:43 PM

2018-02-13T20:43:37-05:00

Dependants who think they're entitled to any special privileges or discounts because of their spouses are disgraceful.

Response by Victoria Masseo made Feb 13 at 2018 10:12 PM

2018-02-13T22:12:42-05:00

I honestly HATE those spots. They’re empty 95% of the time. Mostly at the hospital when I’m trying to take my child in for her checkups. The parking lot is always packed except for those 7-8 spots, and based on the honor system, I skip them. I’m not pregnant anymore so I skip those 4 spots also. But when it’s raining, snowing, or I’m just plain running late due to a tantrum trying to leave the house, I SERIOUSLY consider parking in one since they’re so close to the entrance.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2018 10:53 PM

2018-02-13T22:53:41-05:00

I agree. These spaces are reserved for the member not the spouse.

Response by Sgt Deanna McHenry made Feb 13 at 2018 11:39 PM

2018-02-13T23:39:10-05:00

Agreed. Spouses do not wear the rank. Only the active duty member does.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2018 1:27 AM

2018-02-14T01:27:10-05:00

I honestly never thought about this. From the way the question is framed I tend to agree with you. But I’m not honestly sure if I mind one way or another.

Response by PO3 Mary Lopez made Feb 14 at 2018 2:51 AM

2018-02-14T02:51:31-05:00

No. Just no! Why does this even need explained. Entitlement pure and simple.

Response by PVT Raymond Lopez made Feb 14 at 2018 4:56 AM

2018-02-14T04:56:53-05:00

It may sound strange but I am very paranoid which is one of the hazards of my profession so I would never park in a rank designated spot nor do I like special base stickers with rank insignia that even retirees use, All they signal is "SHOOT ME I AM HIGH VALUE TARGET!" On September 11th 2001 the other officesr in my agency were saying "We all thought Ray was crazy oh shit he isn't!" One of the people who knew me back in Vietnam just said "That is why he is still alive he is paranoid."

Response by CPO Dani Carroll made Feb 14 at 2018 5:07 AM

2018-02-14T05:07:02-05:00

Couldn’t agree more!

Response by MSgt Joseph Gusek made Feb 14 at 2018 5:09 AM

2018-02-14T05:09:29-05:00

It’s not for the dependent, as far as I’m concerned.

Response by Paula Seymour made Feb 14 at 2018 7:49 AM

2018-02-14T07:49:41-05:00

I agree that it is not right for anyone other than the actual military personnel to use these spaces. My daughter is a United States Marine and I would never be disrespectful to her or the Corp in any way.

Response by Patrick J Rowe made Feb 14 at 2018 8:59 AM

2018-02-14T08:59:30-05:00

I understood it was for the service member. Civilian specialty parking was clearly identified as well. Ex: "expecting mothers".

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2018 9:33 AM

2018-02-14T09:33:13-05:00

I agree it's for the service member who worked hard to get where they are. Yes their family member may have been by there side for support but they didn't go through whatvthe service member went through. A spouse is just that a spouse. I am a spouse of a higher ranking service member and a service member and I will never use my spouse's privileges to my advantage.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2018 10:27 AM

2018-02-14T10:27:26-05:00

Don’t wear your spouse’s rank- just park in a regular spot. I haven’t noticed this being an issue at our station.

Response by Jennifer Shaffer McClure made Feb 14 at 2018 11:32 AM

2018-02-14T11:32:35-05:00

I do not believe that is a privilege that the spouse has earned. Yes, spouses have to sacrifice just as the soldier does. However, the soldier is the one that earned the rank and the privilege of preferred parking.

Response by Nathanael Bas made Feb 14 at 2018 11:48 AM

2018-02-14T11:48:52-05:00

Agree that rank isn't something a spouse should use as a means to avoid consequences. It is ironical and misrepresentating what we do. This is great country and we have to look after each other, let the post be.

Response by Margaret Le Doux made Feb 14 at 2018 12:45 PM

2018-02-14T12:45:31-05:00

I believe those should be reserved for the active duty members

Response by SN Jay Perry made Feb 14 at 2018 1:00 PM

2018-02-14T13:00:50-05:00

While I have been exposed to 'wifezillas' as both a dependent and active duty service member, there is another side to it, I am a firm believer in the 'Command Team' theory of marriage having witnessed it working. Anyone who says wives are NOT active duty are deluded, they support their partners (both by keeping the home going, and aiding their sponsors socially, and the military is indeed somewhat a social organization). My mother (wife of a retired O-8, mother of a retired O-5, and mother former USN enlisted), will utilize those spaces (especially at the PX on crowded days), but will usually look to see if there is a second space. She does not do the "I am the admiral's wife" in any way other than occasionally parking. As a matter of fact my father will usually be more likely to introduce himself with his first name on base rather than use his former rank.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2018 1:05 PM

2018-02-14T13:05:21-05:00

I agree whole heartily that rank does and should only belong to those who wear it and are in uniform. Spouses do provide much needed support to their wives/husband and that is much appriciated but you are the spouse/dependent and not the Service member.

Response by SPC Christina Lawrence made Feb 14 at 2018 1:29 PM

2018-02-14T13:29:41-05:00

I never once acted like I wore my husband's rank, spouses that do are horrible people

Response by SPC Zam Iel made Feb 14 at 2018 3:02 PM

2018-02-14T15:02:10-05:00

I don't think there should be ANY ranked based parking spaces. With that being said spouses should definitely not be parking in those spaces.

Response by Wendy Blanchard Baker made Feb 14 at 2018 5:04 PM

2018-02-14T17:04:40-05:00

I agree that spot is for the active or retired military member not spouse and should be respected. I honestly can’t stand when spouses try to wear their husband or wife’s rank to get faster service as if they are the entitled one

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2018 6:05 PM

2018-02-14T18:05:25-05:00

So at the end of the day if it’s right or wrong. That spot is open, more or less that spot is owned. So whoever holds that spot may let anyone to use it as he or she permits.

Response by LCpl Janine Grako made Feb 14 at 2018 6:24 PM

2018-02-14T18:24:09-05:00

Dependents should NOT parade their spouses rank or status

Response by SFC Paul Mailloux made Feb 14 at 2018 7:11 PM

2018-02-14T19:11:32-05:00

I absolutely agree! As a spouse I would never have the Gaul to take advantage of my husbands sacrifice for a front row parking spot!

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2018 7:24 PM

2018-02-14T19:24:20-05:00

Technically anyone can use any parking spot on base, regardless if it is marked for a certain rank. There is legal precedence in EO complaints that makes this so.

Response by April Flora made Feb 14 at 2018 9:01 PM

2018-02-14T21:01:57-05:00

I would agree

Response by PO2 Tracy Eddy made Feb 14 at 2018 9:26 PM

2018-02-14T21:26:45-05:00

I agree unless they are disabled or have kids in tow

Response by Athena Orlando made Feb 14 at 2018 9:37 PM

2018-02-14T21:37:20-05:00

As a spouse of an officer, I only used them if he was with me and we were on HIS work schedule. If he wasn’t working, we parked elsewhere.

Response by Brandy Sherman made Feb 14 at 2018 11:08 PM

2018-02-14T23:08:20-05:00

As a spouse if a retired navy vet. I feel that the spouse should never wear their Active Duty Members rank. You are not the one that went through boot camp and signed on that bottom line. You as a dependent are not untitled to any special privileges. As my husband's last command FRG President I got so tired of the wives of all our Sailors trying to one up each other with their husband's ranks.

Response by Miranda Saldaña-Rodney made Feb 14 at 2018 11:33 PM

2018-02-14T23:33:01-05:00

Dependents don’t have a rank. Therefore they should find another place to park. That would be like a doctors wife parking in the hospital in a spot that says doctors. It’s dumb, your sponsor/spouse has the rank. You don’t. Plain and simple

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Feb 15 at 2018 12:54 AM

2018-02-15T00:54:22-05:00

If you ain't wearing the rank, you don't park there.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2018 9:29 AM

2018-02-15T09:29:21-05:00

Used just by members only! Sime

Response by PO3 Brian Proa made Feb 15 at 2018 10:04 AM

2018-02-15T10:04:15-05:00

I think rank based parking for should be for the active duty member while in Uniform.

Response by SFC Leah Goody made Feb 15 at 2018 10:20 AM

2018-02-15T10:20:04-05:00

I hate wives they wear there husbands rank park where the rest of us park you deserve no special treatment your husband's the soldier not you

Response by MSG Charles Turner made Feb 15 at 2018 11:13 AM

2018-02-15T11:13:48-05:00

Sir, In some cases maybe. Maybe the "old Man" called his wife and said go get me this and I need it now. So who is using the parking space? Is it our position to question it? I am more concerned with Non Handicapped family Members UTILIZING Handicapped Parking (violating State and Federal Laws) than concerning myself with a Benefit Given to Deserving Service members and their FAMILIES! Unless we are discussing A Benefit to you Sir, I consider the discussion to "SMACK" of Rank Jealousy.

Response by SCPO Mike Widener made Feb 15 at 2018 12:07 PM

2018-02-15T12:07:51-05:00

We don’t have a parking problem, we have a walking problem. Handicap only ( pregnant mothers should be given a temporary placard if they need it for their third trimester).

Response by SN E Yvonne Ouellette made Feb 15 at 2018 3:43 PM

2018-02-15T15:43:43-05:00

For the active duty member only

Response by PFC Christina Soderling made Feb 15 at 2018 4:27 PM

2018-02-15T16:27:47-05:00

I have been an Army wife longer then I was in the service, but to me I don’t deserve the privileges my husband does he’s the one who needs to be recognized not me

Response by Olivia Rubens made Feb 15 at 2018 5:22 PM

2018-02-15T17:22:44-05:00

Agreed

Response by A1C Shana Gentry made Feb 15 at 2018 5:46 PM

2018-02-15T17:46:59-05:00

Amen, those spots are for the active members and not the dependents. The dependents are not he ones working and putting their life’s on ge line for this country and putting on the uniform.

Response by Jeni McGuire made Feb 15 at 2018 5:50 PM

2018-02-15T17:50:55-05:00

I agree. I didn’t earn my mother's eagle...she did.

Response by Jill Ward made Feb 15 at 2018 6:00 PM

2018-02-15T18:00:15-05:00

I was just ranting about this with my husband because a spouse was parked in a reserved CSM/SMG space. It is wrong. I told him it would be like him saying he was medical personal because his wife is. I am a proud military wife, HOWEVER my husband's rank is HIS not MINE. To bad other's don't feel the same.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2018 6:11 PM

2018-02-15T18:11:35-05:00

Agreed

Response by Sheryn Ls made Feb 15 at 2018 6:29 PM

2018-02-15T18:29:25-05:00

Most spouses don’t do this. Of those select few who do, please don’t let them represent us all, they do not. Just like those soldiers who wear their uniform incorrectly don’t represent every soldier or those soldiers who make silly decisions like being out beyond curfew in places like South Korea, do not represent every soldier.

Response by SN Tiffany Moss made Feb 15 at 2018 8:06 PM

2018-02-15T20:06:35-05:00

The use of the reserved spot in general is insulting. Pregnant parking is one thing, the rank spot is just another way to perpetuate pomp and circumstance.

Response by CPL Stacie Marie made Feb 15 at 2018 8:28 PM

2018-02-15T20:28:05-05:00

Depends sorry no rights. When you sign on the line, you can park there.

Response by PO2 Marcher Castell made Feb 15 at 2018 8:43 PM

2018-02-15T20:43:33-05:00

Pet peeve. I really hate it when they try to go to the front of the line based on spouse's rank. I call it out and stop it. My spouse moved up and became a CO. So what? I didn't do that. He did. As a gracious and considerate human being who knows that no one at the top succeeds without their peeople being cared for, it was unsaid between us that I did not wear his rank or take advantage. Do not take those things you did not earn.

Response by MSG John Duchesneau made Feb 15 at 2018 9:16 PM

2018-02-15T21:16:53-05:00

It all depends on how you look at these things. If the space says "O-6 and above" then the wife of an O-6 can use it if she's driving his car. When I was growing up my father was in the Navy and there was a lot of rank segregation in the base facilities - even to the point of having separate barber shops and beauty salons for officers and enlisteds.

Response by Shelby Evans made Feb 15 at 2018 10:22 PM

2018-02-15T22:22:06-05:00

Agreed they didn't work 4 it

Response by PO2 Liz Greenwood made Feb 15 at 2018 11:19 PM

2018-02-15T23:19:16-05:00

They should get towed.

Response by SrA Nikki Cornelius made Feb 15 at 2018 11:48 PM

2018-02-15T23:48:20-05:00

Here’s my opinion... I worked at the air terminal and signed ppl up for space available and space required for flights... to me the same therory applies... if you are with the member who acquired the rank- fine... if you are retired, I’m pretty sure there may be a handicapped spot you may qualify for, if your just a dang dependent, you didn’t earn it, go away and get to the end of the line... but maybe that’s just my annoyance with the years of entitlement I’ve had to endure from retired and dependents....

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2018 4:40 AM

2018-02-16T04:40:58-05:00

Dependents are a part of the support system. That doesn’t mean they deserve the same rights as their servicemember spouse. If they want those rights and recognition for rank, then they can join the military.

Response by Alice Todd made Feb 16 at 2018 5:24 AM

2018-02-16T05:24:57-05:00

I never wore my husbands rank because i never served as him in the navy.

Response by SPC Leslie Sullivan made Feb 16 at 2018 7:30 AM

2018-02-16T07:30:38-05:00

I think it should be for the military member only. We are only allowed certain amount of time on lunch breaks and need to be as efficient with time as possible.

Response by Sgt Jim Belcher made Feb 16 at 2018 11:08 AM

2018-02-16T11:08:39-05:00

Just add "Uniformed Only" to the placard...problem solved. Next problem.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2018 2:32 PM

2018-02-16T14:32:17-05:00

Agreed!

Response by Beverly Jablonski made Feb 16 at 2018 5:18 PM

2018-02-16T17:18:33-05:00

I'm a military spouse, enlisting soon to hopefully be the AD when my husband gets out. Currently at 29 palms MCAGCC the level of entitlement the vast majority of these wives has is astounding. I see it all day every day on base and off with wives wearing rank. I've had wives ask me what my husband does and what rank he is and literally tell me "oh sorry then I can't hang out with you..." My husband's an E5 tank mechanic (Marines)
Smh.

Response by Ashle Myers made Feb 16 at 2018 5:29 PM

2018-02-16T17:29:20-05:00

strictly for the service member. as a spouse i find it disrespectful for spouses to "wear" their spouses rank.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Feb 16 at 2018 5:51 PM

2018-02-16T17:51:39-05:00

There was a sign in front of the Officers Club at Fort Benning that said "Any Second Lieutenant".

Response by Paula Cook made Feb 16 at 2018 6:31 PM

2018-02-16T18:31:12-05:00

Not cool. As a retired dependent, when he was active duty it NEVER crossed my mind to even attempt to use those spaces. I always had the understanding they were for active duty only, so they could in and out quickly. I likely would have said something to a spouse I saw parked there!

Response by SSgt Cindy Reid made Feb 16 at 2018 6:56 PM

2018-02-16T18:56:13-05:00

Should be the member, definitely not the spouse or other Dependant

Response by Sgt Christopher Finken made Feb 16 at 2018 7:17 PM

2018-02-16T19:17:01-05:00

Agreed it is for the Active Duty member NOT the spouse!! Shame on them for abusing!!

Response by Lisa Richter-Fanning made Feb 16 at 2018 8:49 PM

2018-02-16T20:49:21-05:00

I completely agree. I my husband and I have been married for 12 years, 7 while he was in the Marines and never once did I use his rank for anything. He didnt take credit for my promotions at work why would I take credit for his rank?

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2018 10:23 PM

2018-02-16T22:23:34-05:00

I have been in for almost 19 years and I have never seen a reserved space used at either the commissary, or the BX. Not even once. I would be happy to see one of these spots filled, dependent or not.

Response by SrA April Widdis made Feb 16 at 2018 10:33 PM

2018-02-16T22:33:13-05:00

If that’s the case spots should active duty in uniform . They don’t it’s all upper echelon officers.

Response by Kayla Pinkard made Feb 17 at 2018 12:14 AM

2018-02-17T00:14:09-05:00

We (dependents) DID NOT sign the contract, we DO NOT do the training, and we DO NOT go on the deployments! We (dependents) have NO rights to our spouses ranks. We DO NOT ware the stripes, we have NO ranks, and we have NO claim to any perks the AD has because of said rank. We do not serve IN the military, we serve someone that IS IN the military. I worked as a key spouse and was blessed to get to work alongside the shirts. I got to make a lot of friends, but I didn’t step out of line. I knew and know my place. My spouse is doing something I have ALWAYS wanted to do, but am not healthy enough to serve. My dad was military and taught me respect. Part of that respect was to know, as a spouse; be seen and not heard, respect EVERYONE, never put your husband down at all let alone around his troops, and remember you have no rank. I do matter, I am an important member of my family and I do manage the house and “hold down the fourt” but I don’t own his career.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 17 at 2018 12:32 AM

2018-02-17T00:32:33-05:00

....I just say a Facebook post about a military dependapotomous being thanked for her service because she took her husbands uniform and took a picture in it.

Response by SFC Nicole White made Feb 17 at 2018 4:38 AM

2018-02-17T04:38:01-05:00

I have a simple solution for this issue. Take a picture or video of the offending dependents parking in military spots. Then post the photo on the post Facebook page with the subject header “ Do you know whose dependent this is?” We were forced to do that on my last base after a spouse kept throwing bags of dog poop in our neighbors trees where the children play. The issue was resolved within a day.

Response by Amanda Willey made Feb 17 at 2018 10:07 AM

2018-02-17T10:07:05-05:00

As a spouse of 15 years, I completely agree. We haven’t earned the privileges that go along with our husbands promotions. Those are their perks to enjoy

Response by Tonja Brazeau-Dreke made Feb 17 at 2018 11:57 AM

2018-02-17T11:57:41-05:00

A respectful military spouse would never do that. That's an honor not earned by the spouse. And before I get jumped on as "just a civilian" I was a mil spouse for 12 years. Never would I have dreamed of taking advantage of my husband"s rank!

Response by CSM Kathleen Velasquez made Feb 17 at 2018 4:53 PM

2018-02-17T16:53:46-05:00

I’m sorry but seriously we have nothing more important to worry about than who parks in a parking space at the PX or Commissary. That is ridiculous. How about talking about the judges disparity in pay between enlisted and officers. Or about Trieste and how hard it is to find docs willing to take the insurance once retired and no longer receiving care at the installation.

Response by SrA Jennifer Pledger Walker made Feb 17 at 2018 5:33 PM

2018-02-17T17:33:08-05:00

Yep...

Response by Lorrie De Rouen made Feb 17 at 2018 6:04 PM

2018-02-17T18:04:40-05:00

Deplorable, and disrespectful! I have blessed to be raised by,married to, and the mother of some of the finest military men. The men in our family have been to Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Not to mention deployments for peacekeeping. As a child, I learned to respect not just my father’s rank, but all ranks. I taught my children the same, as they are teaching their children. Our service members earn their rights to any and all that they are given. My husband’s military honors license plates are on my vehicle, as we use it the most, but that does not give me the right to use those plates to my advantage. Those plates are for my husband to use. He earned them, not me!!!

Response by Caitlynn Gillyard made Feb 17 at 2018 11:18 PM

2018-02-17T23:18:08-05:00

Rank is not for the spouse! If the spouse happens to be with the member when Space is used, okay, whatever, but if not then that’s not acceptable.

Response by Lori Stanford made Feb 17 at 2018 11:53 PM

2018-02-17T23:53:31-05:00

I think it’s simoly called RUDE j - more than if a stranger did that- if you ask me... who do these people think tbey are? Thank you for your service

Response by A1C Stanley Kolakowski made Feb 18 at 2018 7:43 AM

2018-02-18T07:43:29-05:00

My pardons in advance if this comes across more as a stream of thought ramble, but it's about the onlly way I can truly address this...

I see more than a few "Officer's spouse getting all condescending about 'hanging with' lower ranked spouses" complaints. Does anyone think that, since in a "good marriage", one is expected to put Spousey's desires on a level with their own - the POTENTIAL for "chain fraternization" can occur, and this attitude is a natural defense to prevent it?
You know, Enlisted Spousey "convinces" Officer's Spousey to have actual rank holder cut a break to actual Enlisted Peep...

Marriage is a LOT more than just a tax break, access to another person's information, and shortcut to inheritance. It is a very careful balancing act between the needs/desires of two people who have agreed to "act as one" and/or care for their "better half" as much as, if not slightly more, than themselves - part of the "to cherish; from this day forward until death do us part." portion of the wedding vows (specifically, the "to cherish" part...)

"Abuse" of this train of thought is what leads to dependasaurus syndrome - yet, as others have posted, it is all to easy to overlook the sacrifices the spouse makes in order for the actual rank holder to advance - as their part of the balancing act of marriage requires. Such as, perhaps, the one I opened this post with, or other functions like "Officer's Spouse's Group cooking for the Unit Picnic".

These parking spots were, if I remember my time in right, a "perk (privilege)" granted to the high ranking SM "for use in cases when said SM needs to use the facility" - even in this day and age of "Officers eat last", wouldn't you rather said Officer have a reserved parking spot so they can get in - do stuff - get out, or waste 2-3 minutes of time walking to/from the distant reaches of the parking lot that could have been spent caring for a subordinate's need?

And is it just me, or is the difference between some "dependasauruses" and "great military spouses" just the demeanor in which they "pull rank" that a situation may require - say an unfortunate traffic violation in the spouse's haste to support their Ranking SO in a "family care crisis"... (Spousey who's a little.. upset... at the need to give up "family time" to care for an E3's family vs. the one who tries to quickly explain the full situation to the MP/SP)

Response by K Hin made Feb 18 at 2018 8:53 AM

2018-02-18T08:53:28-05:00

Hopefully, there is someone to set these pretentious women back down to their level. I absolutely hate self-important people, especially those who martyr themselves with their husband's rank. My husband just retired after 29 years and it has gotten better than in our early years of marriage, however, there are still the select few who refuse to be independent and stand for themselves. They are the ones who give military wives a bad name. I was Charlie H's wife, and I never introduced myself by his rank because it was important for me to have my own identity. I pity the spouse who has to use her husband's hard work to identify her own self-worth. The spouses who park in those spots should be cited, as they are not the ones who earned it.

Response by Christina Laughlin made Feb 18 at 2018 9:34 AM

2018-02-18T09:34:13-05:00

Spouses put in a lot of work too. They are part of commitee meetings, hold dinners, make arraingements for social events, lead FRG’s all because it’s expected based on the service members rank. We serve too just in a different way so yes they should be allowed to use that special parking.

Response by Cpl Christina Aguilar made Feb 18 at 2018 12:16 PM

2018-02-18T12:16:00-05:00

My husband and I were just talking about this yesterday.

Response by PO3 Tim Huddleston made Feb 18 at 2018 8:18 PM

2018-02-18T20:18:10-05:00

Rank is earned not passed down, or over to children or a spouse.

Response by Shelly Foate made Feb 19 at 2018 7:43 AM

2018-02-19T07:43:15-05:00

I would never do this on Ft Hood those are spots for military specifically. I think maybe if the spouse I Big and pregnant or disabled then that’s the only exception.

Response by Carol Gutierrez made Feb 19 at 2018 11:12 AM

2018-02-19T11:12:15-05:00

I cannot stand a spouse using the service members grade.I was once a CW4 wife. I never thought once to use his grade. Some spouse's can be so petty! I worked in HR and saw it all the time.

Response by TSgt Donald Sharpe made Feb 19 at 2018 11:47 AM

2018-02-19T11:47:50-05:00

I agree

Response by SSgt Dave Heyman made Feb 19 at 2018 1:45 PM

2018-02-19T13:45:20-05:00

This is normally a benefit of the high ranking Officer or high ranking Enlisted Officer...it is not and shoukd not be transferable to thier spouse.

Response by Michelle Miller made Feb 19 at 2018 1:55 PM

2018-02-19T13:55:22-05:00

I’m a spouse and I would NEVER use any of these reserved parking spots. It’s not my rank. Regardless of my husband’s rank, I’m a civilian and I did not earn any rank, whatsoever! I’m even disableded, but I can walk my dependent ass 5 parking spots over to get to the entrance. I think it’s disrespectful.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Feb 19 at 2018 9:12 PM

2018-02-19T21:12:21-05:00

At Langley it was enforced and dependents had to find a regular spot.. one day it was raining terrible .. and a vanagon parked in the Wing CMSGT’s spot.. she was in and out. She had s vag with a few items.. another dependent reported it to the base Cmdr.. usually them guys are pretty chummy.. This was another dependent.. turned out a Army dependent. .. it seems it was enforced at Fort Eustis too and she wondered if Langley enforced it.. she said she would go higher if need be.. whatever higher was.. So to keep things calm.. The base Cmdr invited her over to his office and had the Wing CMSGTs wife and a Security Policeman there.. He gave the Chief’s wife a ticket.. .. which she’d have to wait for the federal magistrate to come next month.. it all came down to her getting a slap on the wrist.. over at Eustis it was $15
(The same magistrate) money went to MWR(morale-WelfAre-recreation). So little miss pissy panties went back and complained toJAG.. their JAG called AF JAG.. Anyway, the Chief ended up forking the $15 over to the magistrate.
(Thing is a lot more went into chasing that $15 .. it’s the principle she said).. I wonder if the next time she went on Langley . Did they nail her for a $20 dollar seat belt ticket? (Base tickets weren’t the same as off-base, didn’t even get points)
Not when I was in ).. in early 80s..

Response by Stacy Gan made Feb 19 at 2018 10:24 PM

2018-02-19T22:24:32-05:00

Agreed, I’ve never used the reserved spots. Then again I park towards the back of the lots, as long as I’m capable of walking a little extra, why wait for a closer one?

Response by Susie Cole made Feb 20 at 2018 12:25 AM

2018-02-20T00:25:24-05:00

An individual earns rank, spouses did not earn this privilege.

Response by Sgt Ellen Herner made Feb 20 at 2018 7:36 AM

2018-02-20T07:36:06-05:00

I was a security police officer working a super busy entry one morning when an officer's wife pulled up and just sat there. I knew she wasn't the officer and I waved the car through. She just sat there. I had a line of cars out to the highway and this lady says "I'm waiting" and I respond "waiting for what?" And she has the audacity to say "my salute"!! I got a little salty and told her she could park her car in the detention area until my traffic died down and I'd come over and salute her sticker. She got pissed and drove off. I figured I'd hear about it from my flight chief but I never did. Lol

Response by SFC Jim Wellman made Feb 20 at 2018 8:40 AM

2018-02-20T08:40:21-05:00

For the service member

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2018 10:21 AM

2018-02-20T10:21:15-05:00

Maj Joseph Osborne I believe it should only be used by those who wear the rank.

Response by SSgt Lori Lemke made Feb 20 at 2018 1:08 PM

2018-02-20T13:08:25-05:00

Rank-based reserved parking should only be used by those who actually wear the rank. I used to get low ranking officers’ wives coming through the base gates expecting us low ranking gate guards to salute the blue sticker...lol

Response by SrA James Cannon made Feb 20 at 2018 1:27 PM

2018-02-20T13:27:55-05:00

Yeah, I agree with others. It is wrong for a spouse to park in a rank specific parking spot.

Response by CPL Eric Bridges made Feb 20 at 2018 4:26 PM

2018-02-20T16:26:18-05:00

Ain't been on any post in 25 years! But those spots are for the men that really earned it!!

Response by Naz Adkins made Feb 20 at 2018 6:40 PM

2018-02-20T18:40:57-05:00

I think it's ridiculous ... if you yourself are not the one wearing the uniform , getting up at the crack of dawn for work everyday , then you should not park there .

Response by SPC Dorothy Gosselin made Feb 20 at 2018 6:52 PM

2018-02-20T18:52:39-05:00

I hate when they do that, they didn’t earn it.

Response by LTC Patricia Giese made Feb 20 at 2018 8:51 PM

2018-02-20T20:51:01-05:00

I agree it’s not for the spouse There are spaces reserved for spouses at the hospitals etc for expectant mothers or if they are volunteer of the year.etc,

Response by Linda Keltner made Feb 20 at 2018 9:26 PM

2018-02-20T21:26:46-05:00

Reserved parking was for the military member.

Response by CW3 Aaron Montana made Feb 21 at 2018 12:14 AM

2018-02-21T00:14:43-05:00

I say it's a no-go

Response by MGySgt Joseph Magyar made Feb 21 at 2018 7:34 PM

2018-02-21T19:34:34-05:00

when I was stationed at marine barracks yorktown va. general Chesty Puller's wife went to the head of the line in our small px. A sgt instructed her that the line for her started at the end of the line. The next day General Puller came in to the barracks and spoke to the co, who called the young sgt into his office. We all believed that was the end of his rank. He came out of the office grinning and stated, the General agreed with him 100 percent. He said if it had been me (the General) he should not have been upset if he had said the same thing to him, but I have to live with this woman who seldom gives me any heartbreak. So if sometime in the future she does this terrible thing in the future would you please do me the favor of excusing her. (General Puller is a legend in the Marine Corps) It is once said a lt made an enlisted man salute him a hundred times for his failure to properly salute him. When the General asked about it and was told the circumstances he told the Lt that the custom is to return the salute. Requiring the lt to return 100 salutes) He was definitely an enlisted mans Marine Officer)

Response by LTC Bob Forrest made Feb 21 at 2018 11:31 PM

2018-02-21T23:31:07-05:00

One argument in favor of the spouse using the reserved space is that if he/she does not use the reserved space, no one else can use it either. That can make a difference in a crowded parking lot.

Response by 1LT Rich Voss made Feb 23 at 2018 1:07 AM

2018-02-23T01:07:49-05:00

Great question, Major. I can only answer based on my experience in Germany in the 60's. We (the actual officers) were out in the field so much that my belief was that the wives (not driving age kids) could use their husbands' spot at the PX. Likewise, there were reserved spots at the Officer's Club for the Brigade and Battalion and Commanders and perhaps their XO's, (wives sometimes drove their husbands) but I don't recall any for the Company grade guys. Heck, it was a big lot, and next to it was the BOQ with even more parking. You sure didn't want to park too far away in a downpour or bitter Winter though ! The German woman I married was a civilian employee of the Army, so she had her own set of parking rules, and her own car with German plates and passes. She never drove my car, therefore, to my knowledge, never attempted to park in a spot reserved for company grade officers at the PX. It sounds like there's a whole lot of other "stuff" going on here, based on the original question and the other responses....

Response by MGySgt Bill Reiber made Feb 28 at 2018 3:38 PM

2018-02-28T15:38:18-05:00

Explain this (NEX Marysville, WA)

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 2 at 2018 8:57 AM

2018-03-02T08:57:12-05:00

Maj Joseph Osborne,
I definitely agree, sir. This reminds me of those handicap review mirror signs that came out in the 80's. People would use them just to get a closer parking space even though no one in the vehicle at the time was handicap. Now that they have handicap tags on vehicles you can't move the them from one vehicle to the next, but abuses still occur everyday. However, on Fort Gordon USASCoE&FG Regulation 210-3, clearly states "Commanders and parking lot custodians are responsible for the enforcement of the reserved parking spaces established within their areas. "...Law Enforcement Personnel will not enforce unauthorized parking in reserved spaces."

Response by C Laughlin made Mar 4 at 2018 4:52 PM

2018-03-04T16:52:43-05:00

Ok in reading all of these how do you feel about gold star spaces? My husband paid the ultimate sacrifice. I park in a gold star space when available. If it wasn’t there I would park in a regular space but it is there and part of me says after 20 years of spousal support of the Army and loosing my loved one I earned that space.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2018 8:23 PM

2018-03-04T20:23:30-05:00

Ha ha, those spots are for senior ranks to feel special about themselves...and they should. Rank has its privileges. The rank of the service member should never be extended to the spouse.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2018 12:35 PM

2018-03-06T12:35:05-05:00

Haha, same goes for some spouses of NCO's.

Response by MSgt Stephen Council made Mar 8 at 2018 1:21 PM

2018-03-08T13:21:19-05:00

My wife held rank. She was an Amn (E-2) when she separated after giving birth to our son. She is still a little uneasy just about having her car registered with disabled vet tags (I am 80%). She never understood wives claiming their husbands rank and/or constantly crying when their spouses were deployed. She held down the fort while I was deployed over 50% of my last 12 years. I will say she was the perfect military spouse and she is the greatest blessing that I have received from God.

Response by GySgt Joseph Jay Johnston made Mar 9 at 2018 11:50 AM

2018-03-09T11:50:51-05:00

Park where you want to park,except Handicap regardless whether it's your spouse or the C.Gen'ls....

Response by CWO2 James Mathews made Mar 15 at 2018 4:21 PM

2018-03-15T16:21:21-04:00

From CWO-2, MCPO, TM (SS) USN [Ret.}

The problem of dependents wearing the rank of the military family member is one as old as the military! The same thing was going on in the 18th century if such tales related in history books are to be believed. In my view, the only way to stop such, on a general basis, is to delete the special parking, perhaps except for disabled personnel! Talking to dependents about the problem apparently doesn't do much good! However, in order to make such a massive change, the order would have to come from a Base Commander or higher, and in order to accomplish that, in my experience, the situation must be so serious as to catch the Commander's Attention@ Just exactly how to do that, will rest on the ability of someone who the Commander will listen to, and seriously consider, the problem being laid before him or her.

Respectfully Submitted;
Marcus Audens

Response by MSG Thomas Currie made Mar 20 at 2018 1:53 AM

2018-03-20T01:53:33-04:00

Hell, my last post had THREE reserved "General Officer" parking spaces in the parking lot nearest the entrance to the hospital -- until the last BRAC reorganization the post only had TWO general officers assigned.
To the best of my knowledge NO general officer ever drove his POV to the hospital -- certainly not during duty hours -- the two star had a sedan and driver 24/7 (plus a spare sedan and a backup sedan), the one star had a sedan and driver during duty hours (and any other time he wanted them). If any of the general officers ever visited the hospital they used their sedan and parked at the door, not in the parking lot.

Now the post does have three general officers, but of course they still never use their POV during the day and the hospital has been downgraded to a Health Clinic, but still has three General Officer reserved parking spaces.

Response by A1C Samuel Leggett made Mar 20 at 2018 7:59 AM

2018-03-20T07:59:51-04:00

Agreed. This era of self-entitlement should not extend to spouses/dependents of ranking military members. I view this similarly to family members, throughout this country, who use handicap placards to park illegally in order to have the closest parking spot.

Response by SSgt James Lanning made Mar 20 at 2018 4:22 PM

2018-03-20T16:22:44-04:00

Reserved parking spaces are ridiculous anyways. What, are you handicapped because of your rank? Do you think you're better than the people below you to get special treatment? Re-think why you posted this question.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2018 11:29 PM

2018-03-24T23:29:19-04:00

I don’t care. It’s not like it’s keeping me from parking in that spot. Maybe someone who would otherwise be able to park there might have an issue. And if they do, they can fight that fight. Last thing you want to do is tell a spouse she can’t park there and then have her husband ball you out cause she was on a fast mission for him. Why take on someone else’s issue. I do have to admit. I have used my wife’s rank to park in a reserved spot- so suck it!!

Response by SSG Calvin Grant made Mar 27 at 2018 4:15 PM

2018-03-27T16:15:06-04:00

There is no such parking on a military installation. Parking spaces that have reserved for...are overrated. If the parking spot is available use it. The only authorized parking where you can get a ticket for violating is reserved for handicap. The rank of a service member under no circumstances carry over to a military spouse. Nor does your rank carry over to a reserved parking spot. Drive on drive on.

Response by SSG Calvin Grant made Mar 27 at 2018 4:28 PM

2018-03-27T16:28:08-04:00

There are no authorized reserved parking at commissaries or exchanges for anyone other than handicap.

Response by SSG Calvin Grant made Mar 27 at 2018 4:30 PM

2018-03-27T16:30:14-04:00

The purpose of these reserved parking is as a curtesy please don't park here not a you can't park here.

Response by CAPT Charles Weishar made Mar 29 at 2018 5:38 PM

2018-03-29T17:38:49-04:00

I am in full agreement with the Major.

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2018 9:40 AM

2018-03-31T09:40:59-04:00

Spouses should not use the DV parking spots but DVs such as E9s and Col/Gen should use them every chance they get. It is a privilege earned and the younger troops should respect that. It is RHIP and I'm OK with that and it is also because those folks are very busy and don't need to be riding around a parking lot looking for a spot.

Response by SFC Joseph Lumpkins made Apr 17 at 2018 4:28 PM

2018-04-17T16:28:18-04:00

For the most part I do not see many spouses that abuse this, but we all know there are a few that wear the rank of their spouse. I do however agree that around a company/Battalion/brigade area that certain spots ie; commander/1SG should be respected and be left alone, but again we all know that the only enforceable reserved spots on a military installation is the flag officer or handicap parking spots.

Response by MSG Michael McEleney made Apr 21 at 2018 6:11 PM

2018-04-21T18:11:26-04:00

The problem with this question is that depending on the service 15-20% of servicemen are women. And the assumption is that the dependent is female.

Response by SPC Jordan Sutich made Apr 26 at 2018 11:31 AM

2018-04-26T11:31:48-04:00

I feel being disabled now, that these spots should be used by people that are in need. Not as a convenience which is more often the case. I always try to remember that there is slways someone worse off than I and if I can I walk a little further.

Response by Kira Alex made Apr 29 at 2018 7:34 PM

2018-04-29T19:34:09-04:00

I'd no sooner use a space for my spouse's rank than I'd expect my spouse to use my handicapped tag in a handicapped space (unless we were together or he was picking me up/dropping me off, of course)

Response by Capt David Bays made May 7 at 2018 7:04 PM

2018-05-07T19:04:19-04:00

As the dependent son of someone entitled to park in such a spot, it never crossed my mind to park there because I knew i was not my Dad. I cannot imagine him coming home, after getting a call that one of his dependents had parked in one of those spots, and asking which one of us had done it. It would not have been a good father/son moment. As an O-1 through O-3, I never cared about whether a dependent was parking in such a spot. If the wife of an O-6 has the balls to park in a spot reserved for O-6 and above, good for her, but that is a matter of concern only between her and the other O-6s and above on base. As for handicapped and expectant mother spots, abusers should be publicly shamed.

Response by 1SG Robert Shaver made May 16 at 2018 7:41 PM

2018-05-16T19:41:56-04:00

I agree!

Response by 1SG Robert Shaver made May 18 at 2018 7:26 PM

2018-05-18T19:26:53-04:00

I understand that senior Officer's and NCO's work hard for their soldiers. I agree they should have special privileges. But to have reserved parking at the commissaries/exchanges is a little to much. I understand reserved parking at the Officer/NCO club and their unit. But the commissaries/exchanges are places to conduct private commercial business. There should only be reserved parking for those who need because some physical condition.

Response by SFC Nicole White made May 23 at 2018 1:12 AM

2018-05-23T01:12:36-04:00

Do what I’ve always done when I see a dependent doing something stupid. Snap a photo of their activity and post it on the unit Facebook. Usually with the caption “Does anyone know whose spouse this is? He or she is parked in handicapped/ Senior officer posted parking”. Their spouse usually solves the issue when someone names their other half online.

Response by PO1 Timothy Organ made May 25 at 2018 8:02 AM

2018-05-25T08:02:13-04:00

Honestly think there's way too much more important things to worry about than where people park. Think if everyone else felt the same way this problem will solve itself.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2018 5:43 AM

2018-05-27T05:43:45-04:00

UPDATE YALL: We are going to drive to Texas to get his birth certificate this weekend. It's gone. Poof. No where to be found. Spent the last three effing days looking for and I'm just going to blame it on the dogs and call it good....

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2018 5:44 AM

2018-05-27T05:44:43-04:00

Disregard my last comment, that was meant for my post

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2018 10:10 PM

2018-05-30T22:10:59-04:00

Spouses absolutely should not be using those parking spots. I believe each base/post should have a policy that forbids it.

Response by MSG Danny Mathers made May 31 at 2018 8:27 PM

2018-05-31T20:27:29-04:00

I believe it is an abuse. I remember back in the day, my wife was at the PX and a women pushed her way to the head of the line telling the woment in line she was the wife of Colonel Smith. My wife ashed me if this was legal. I told her tell someone trying to use their husband's rank as a priveledge to get to the back of the line. May a scene, what can thjey do?

Response by SGM Gerald Fife made Jun 2 at 2018 11:03 AM

2018-06-02T11:03:44-04:00

The spouse does not get to use the spot. That being said, I am retired with 36 years, AD/Res, I have a handicap placard. I park in handicap areas, most of the time they are already filled, if I see a spot that is designated for an E9, I use it. I do my business and get out. Today though with the decals not on cars you can't tell who is parked in one of the spots. It could even be a civilian. Even then if someone starts yelling about where you parked because you have your mufti on, the yeller doesn't know anything either. Right now I use the spots at Nellis AFB. And for the usage, we probably don't go even every other month.

Response by CW5 Randall Hirsch made Jun 9 at 2018 3:08 PM

2018-06-09T15:08:58-04:00

Major, I disagree with your comment on this. My wife helped me get to where I was in the military. She gave up a lot to support me in my 41.5 year career in uniform.

Response by Angela King made Jun 15 at 2018 7:31 AM

2018-06-15T07:31:15-04:00

Sorry but in the 25+ years that my husband served he probably went to the PX and Commissary a handful of times. It is the wife that holds down the fort and should be able to park there. Better yet have no ranks on any space or put ranked spaces at end of a row. I don't know how many times I driven by thoses spaces and always empty.

Response by SGT W. Michael Nawrath made Jun 25 at 2018 12:08 PM

2018-06-25T12:08:19-04:00

Take away all rank based parking. If you are so critical at your duty post sir, you probably should have an enlisted person shop for you...or were you just picking up something your wife asked you to get and responding to HER orders?

Response by Maj Pete Siegel made Jun 26 at 2018 11:32 AM

2018-06-26T11:32:40-04:00

After reading through many erudite and entertaining responses, I wish we could post stickers with our comments. I am a mustang/retread who retired almost 25 years ago, and the more things change, there are still things that stay the same, especially this question. During NCO Academy, OTS, tech school, Squadron Officer School, and other events, the consensus was a resounding NO.

Response by SSgt Brett Ontiveros made Jun 28 at 2018 7:31 PM

2018-06-28T19:31:06-04:00

I am now a spouse of a milk member and I don’t feel the need to ever use their parking space. I am also retired and I don’t even use mine, so why use theirs? Hell, just walk a few extra spaces! It’ll do you good!!!!

Response by TSgt David Whitmore made Jul 3 at 2018 5:51 PM

2018-07-03T17:51:57-04:00

Nope! They don't qualify; spouse is not a rank.

Response by SGT Jon Creager made Jul 6 at 2018 6:56 PM

2018-07-06T18:56:00-04:00

There should not be any rank based parking spaces. Especially for dependents.

Response by MAJ Hugh Blanchard made Jul 22 at 2018 9:02 PM

2018-07-22T21:02:43-04:00

If the car has a rank ID on the license plate, fine. If it's really intended only for the actual person holding the rank, then it's wrong. Spouses do NOT wear their husband's rank.

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Jul 30 at 2018 10:52 PM

2018-07-30T22:52:04-04:00

A really sore subject with me. For countless mileniums wifes, children and assorted other dependants and used the "RHIP" parking spaces at will. Just because they are married/related to general officer or E9s, means they get to abuse what they want, anytime they want. Bull shit! Those little rank stickers that are earned by the men or women who earned them, doesn't mean you get to abuse them ladies. Especially retired folk. I retired an E5, does my rank mean two lumps of ant shit at anytime. NO. Do I get any special privilege other than the disabled parking plaque for my car/truck? NO. And that plaque doesn't always garuantee a spot for me to park in. Pregnant/expectant women get the same treatment as non pregnant women do. RHIP belongs to those who are active duty, not to every Tom, Dick and Mary dependant. I respect everyone no matter race, color, creed or rank. But pull that RHIP crap with me, when you never served day one, and it's "Let's get ready to Rumble!"

Response by LTC George Morgan made Aug 2 at 2018 11:10 AM

2018-08-02T11:10:14-04:00

AGAINST: I came up through the ranks and one thing that pissed me off were Officer wives thinking they held the rank of their spouse. NO. NO. NO. The wife is a civilian and parks with the remainder of the non-serving flock., as did my wife when I was commissioned.

Response by Maj Rob Drury made Aug 4 at 2018 6:04 PM

2018-08-04T18:04:29-04:00

I have mixed emotions. There's nothing wrong with reasonably earned privileges, and nothing unreasonable about one's spouse sharing some of those benefits. Many installations have solved the dilemma surrounding the "purpose" of the slots by designating "on-duty" spots.

Response by COL Mark Crowley made Aug 8 at 2018 12:42 PM

2018-08-08T12:42:52-04:00

Rank is exclusively the sponsor's and should not be considered a perk of the spouse, I am tired of these arrogant spouses assuming that they are a special class and entitled, there's way too much deference given to spouses that are no different than anyone else.

Response by LTC Robin Gronovius made Aug 12 at 2018 3:03 PM

2018-08-12T15:03:18-04:00

The spouse of the service member does not have the right to use the rank, or status (i.e. soldier/NCO of the month, purple heart recipient, "any second lieutenant", etc.) of the service member.
If you're handicapped, your spouse doesn't get that right to park in that spot unless accompanying the person.

While your spouse may have assisted you during your career in attaining your rank, they did not do the service and meet the requirements you did. Likewise, if you are a college graduate and your spouse helped you by working to support the family while you were in school, the school doesn't give them a degree to share.

The only person my wife outranks is her 28 yr old son who was a SPC in the Army with two tours in A'stan.

Response by SSG Harry Herres made Aug 12 at 2018 10:25 PM

2018-08-12T22:25:22-04:00

Total bull. Not military business, no rank has its privilege.

Response by SFC Kevin Teinert made Aug 17 at 2018 3:12 PM

2018-08-17T15:12:04-04:00

By rag there can be only two types of reserved parking on all DOD I solutions. They are handicap and gold star members. Not even the commanding general can have reserved parking at AAFES

Response by CCMSgt William Howell made Aug 18 at 2018 3:16 AM

2018-08-18T03:16:46-04:00

How many flag officers actually shop at the commissary? Then again, how do you enforce this rule? Better to look at the possible rather than to waste time on the trivial.

Response by CCMSgt William Howell made Aug 18 at 2018 3:21 AM

2018-08-18T03:21:39-04:00

Forgot to mention, my wife doesn’t drive so I am the one using that spot. Also, at 80 it’s nice to park close to the BX/Commissary.

Response by LTC Gene Moser made Aug 19 at 2018 12:40 PM

2018-08-19T12:40:38-04:00

These days when most military installations no longer have bumper or window stickers how could one tell which car belonged to a sergeant and which to a major general?

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2018 5:27 PM

2018-08-26T17:27:53-04:00

I find it repugnant that there is special parking for GOs, COLs, and CSMs! If anything, their parking should be as far from PX and Commissary as possible- may be at their unit!

Response by MSG Chuck Pewsey made Aug 28 at 2018 2:58 PM

2018-08-28T14:58:57-04:00

When I was in the First Armored Division I discovered gate guards were ordered to memorize the cars of all full colonels and above and to wave them through without stopping. I lived close enough to post to walk to work and got to know the sergeant in charge of the gate guards. He got chewed out and relieved because he stopped a colonel's car occupied by the colonel's wife who refused to show her ID and to allow her enlisted driver to show his. We were under direct command of the G2 and I sent it up my chain. Red Army Faction was still active at the time and Middle East terrorists and it looked like an obvious security risk. After about a week, word came back down - leave it alone! My understanding was G2 pushed it uphill and a shitstorm came back down.

Response by CMDCM Kermit Cain made Aug 29 at 2018 3:45 AM

2018-08-29T03:45:03-04:00

The CO of the NAB in San Diego back in 1971 had a policy where ALL commands (excluding Flag of course) had to send a rotating E6 or below to assist in manning the gate. Got my butt chewed out for not saluting the blue sticker, regardless of the fact that it was OBVIOUS the woman driving the vehicle was NOT the commissioned officer. That was, of course "back in the day" - now the AFID is checked at the gate prior to the salute. But yes, it supposed to be a privilege of the rank but we've ALL seen wives wearing the rank privilege at a higher level than the husband does.

Response by PVT John Williams made Sep 5 at 2018 7:06 PM

2018-09-05T19:06:50-04:00

It’s not sop.

Response by MAJ Wm. Peters made Sep 6 at 2018 9:27 PM

2018-09-06T21:27:51-04:00

Here's a question I always had. Twenty years Army, E1 to field grade officer retired.
Why are there such reserved parking spaces to begin with?
Any senior EM or officer that can't walk across a parking lot shouldn't be leading troops in my view of military service.
Rangers Lead the Way!

Response by CAPT Michael Toleno made Sep 11 at 2018 3:06 PM

2018-09-11T15:06:56-04:00

Funny, I hadn't thought of it much until now. I've always operated under the assumption that if the parking space is for a specific position (e.g., base CO, division commander, command duty officer), then it's intended only for the actual officeholder, because the intent, as the OP alluded to, is to get that specific person in and out of the facility quickly; the other spaces (I assumed), that are more generically labeled (CO, CO/XO, O-6, etc.), are not so much functional as honorary, and thus could be used by any dependent. The idea, I suppose, is that the rank holder has an interest in his or her spouse's being able to use the facility quickly, and is somewhat affected by it. I'm not saying this is an ironclad argument, and I'm not appealing to (or persuaded by) arguments about who earned the rank. The argument about expectant mother parking does not apply; it's not equivalent. That space is much more akin to the specific position parking spots. Consider this: If the husband of the pregnant woman parked in "stork" parking, how would you respond? Perhaps he's getting the spot to pick up his wife! Same with any of the other spots. Maybe the base CO's spouse parks there, and then picks up the base CO who is inside the exchange. Hopefully, this will be moot for my wife and me within the next few years—we may both end up at the same rank, which would get us nice parking in some places!

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Sep 16 at 2018 6:54 AM

2018-09-16T06:54:03-04:00

If the Spouse wants to "Wear" the rank so bad, they should have joined the Military their DAMN SELVES!!!!

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 16 at 2018 9:38 PM

2018-09-16T21:38:38-04:00

Check with the rules/policy for rank based parking for the installation. This may be allowed. Families are a part of the Army also.

Response by SMSgt Ed Turney made Sep 19 at 2018 8:40 AM

2018-09-19T08:40:31-04:00

I agree, they are designed to expedite the person who holds the rank, but it is going to be a cold day you know where before that happens. Just listen to the horror tales of the Col's. wife, some true some not.
BTW, I swear there are more reserved spaces and MacDill Commissary and BX than open spaces.

Response by Capt Jose R made Sep 19 at 2018 9:29 PM

2018-09-19T21:29:32-04:00

Only if they take the plunge, go through basic training/ROTC/service academy, and earn the rank themselves in either Active Duty or Guard/Reserve component.
Private sector companies don't give special privileges to spouses/kids of employees, why should the military?

I respect the sacrifices military family members make, but that doesn't transfer any military rank on them.

Response by CPO David Sharp made Sep 23 at 2018 6:37 PM

2018-09-23T18:37:41-04:00

I agree Major Osborne, if the person is not the one who earned and holds the rank, then they should not use it as a reason of ease. Smarts close to stolen valor.

Response by PO2 Deborah Landis made Sep 29 at 2018 4:50 PM

2018-09-29T16:50:29-04:00

Who would have the brass balls to tell the spouse of an E3 that you understand they have less money to support their family, therefore they can't park near the store? Dependents are equal; their loved one has volunteered to potentially give their life for their country. Whose idea was this? They can stuff the idea of a dependent caste system up their…..

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2018 5:40 PM

2018-09-29T17:40:15-04:00

There is only one authorized reserved parking on a military installation. That would be for a General.... Parking spots for Col, LTC, Maj, CPT, LT, CSM, SGM, is just for courtesy only....... if you don't believe, just ask a MP........

Response by Cpl Geoff Smith made Oct 7 at 2018 12:48 PM

2018-10-07T12:48:38-04:00

Growing up, my Dad was a Sergeant Major and on occasion reminded the , HE earned the rank, we didn't. Kept us out of trouble while on base.

Response by LTC Dick Hourigan made Oct 9 at 2018 12:59 PM

2018-10-09T12:59:23-04:00

I am a retired Lieutenant Colonel, but I would not want to take a space designed for my rank. I don't mind walking. If it were up to me there would be no rank based parking. Only handicapped would remain.

Response by GySgt Keith Rininger made Oct 15 at 2018 9:19 PM

2018-10-15T21:19:07-04:00

It makes no difference to me, to those complaining it smells of rotten fish. Through combat and many deployments and overseas tours my wife has raised our children and maintained a household, and though not in uniform, was certainly part of the team. Marines look at the whole family as important, and I really don't see the reason for bitching.

KER. GySgt. USMC Retired

Response by MAJ Bruce Davie made Oct 15 at 2018 9:20 PM

2018-10-15T21:20:24-04:00

Back in the day, BN CDR’s wife would get deeply involved in dependent activity. G^d forbid anyone who complained. Back in the 50s, I beat up on a Col’s son in kindergarten, my dad, a MSG/E7 in Verdun, FR was called upon the carpet for not having control of his son.

Response by MSgt Ken "Airsoldier" Collins-Hardy made Oct 21 at 2018 12:08 PM

2018-10-21T12:08:02-04:00

SGM Mike Hardin took the words right out of my mouth: "Rank has its privileges (RHIP)." Here's more context from a former USAF Security Police: All dependents [as respected members of our "Total Force"] aren't a$$holes.

If a "Colonel or above" parking decal/sticker is visible on a vehicle [clearly being parked at the PX/BX or commissary by a dependent in a slot reserved for such sponsors], the voice of extreme reasoning might suggest a balance of IMPERSONATING A MILITARY OFFICER vs. PROXYING on their sponsor's behalf.

Additionally, consider the smackdown reality of "CONSENSUS vs. CAREER." Like it or not, RHIP is a bedrock of military "customs and courtesies." As a former SP/MP assigned to Headquarters 8th Air Force (Strategic Air Command) during the early 80's, cops learned how to use DIPLOMATIC IMMUNITY quick, fast and in a hurry when issuing the DD Form 1805 (Violation Notice) to such dependents, especially when assigned to a higher headquarters installation.

Let's be absolutely clear. Barney Fife will issue that ticket to a dependent; however, he should also anticipate a backlash from Mayberry-brass. Ergo, the clout that a Provost Marshall or Security Forces Commander exercises with HHQ brass can tip the scale in determining the career risks associated with issuing such citations to dependents despite popular consensus. A provocative question indeed, Maj Joseph Osborne... Thanks for asking. Defensor Fortis!

List of References:
Chaucierre, R. (2014, Jan. 20). In regards to Rank Has Its Privileges or Perks (RHIP), what was your most valued privilege during any assignment and why? Retrieved from https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/in-regards-to-rank-has-its-privileges-or-perks-rhip-what-was-your-most-valued-privilege-during-any-assignment-and-why

In regards to Rank Has Its Privileges or Perks (RHIP), what was your most valued privilege during...

Privileges are more tangible to some than others.  I know what my favorite is.  I have also known a variety of people, who would create drama to get a special claim or exemption before other peers.

Response by SGM Harvey Boone made Oct 21 at 2018 12:53 PM

2018-10-21T12:53:10-04:00

There should be none no rank deserves parking privileges no spacers should be reserved except handicap. They push exercise let them do the same for everyone. Reserved spaces just makes them think they are better than anyone else and that's one of the biggest problems today it's called the peter principle. 99% of the rank worn today is a token and never earned And abused like hell. Now put that in your pipe and smoke it.

Response by 1SG Clifford Barnes made Oct 28 at 2018 8:24 PM

2018-10-28T20:24:17-04:00

It’s for the Soldier not the fo

Response by PO1 Richard Norton made Nov 9 at 2018 2:08 PM

2018-11-09T14:08:01-05:00

Your rank doesn't extend to our spouse period. If you are in the car then the spouse can park in appropriate parking for your rank, otherwise they can't.

Response by SGM Thomas Terebesi Sr made Nov 12 at 2018 5:04 PM

2018-11-12T17:04:05-05:00

It's an interesting question. I would ask does the Presidents wife wear her husbands rank. No she does not , but she certainly has privileges. Not a parking spot probably a motorcade to the store.

Response by SFC Francisco Rosario made Nov 17 at 2018 4:12 PM

2018-11-17T16:12:10-05:00

This was one of the things i hated during my time as an Army medic. I was at Tripler AMC and one day a spouse arrived 30 minuets late for her appointment. When i informend her that she would need to be rescheduled beacuse we could not make other patients wait for her. She responded with "Do you know who my husband is".
I informed her that, i did not know, but that her husbands rank would help her in her demands to be seen on the spot. The clinic OIC supported me and gave her the same explanation. She was not happy.
I am a DOD Cvillian now days, and it does bother me when i hear that, or wheni see spouses trying to use the rank of their spouses for thei benefit.

Response by Sgt Charles St John made Nov 17 at 2018 5:10 PM

2018-11-17T17:10:51-05:00

No different than a family member using another’s handicap placard for better parking. It’s wrong!

Response by Angela Woody made Nov 17 at 2018 6:41 PM

2018-11-17T18:41:45-05:00

I think that designated parking should be for uniformed personnel when it comes to the BX/PX and the commissary because they are on limited lunch times. I think my dad would have lost his mind if my mom “wore his rank” and tried parking any where other than the general parking lot.

Response by SFC Nicole White made Nov 18 at 2018 2:29 AM

2018-11-18T02:29:14-05:00

I myself came up with the perfect solution for this growing problem. This is the smart phone era. I just snap a pic of the sign, the vehicle and the occupants of the vehicle. Then I post it on the Post or Base Facebook page with a caption.... "STOLEN VALOR! Whose dependents are these that claim to be... a Colonel, General or Chaplain?" It has been working for me for quite a few years now. I've never caught a dependent more than twice. Some folks don't get it the first time.

Response by MSgt Jose Rivera made Nov 19 at 2018 10:21 AM

2018-11-19T10:21:23-05:00

Nope, sponsors rank doesn’t convey to the dependents.

Response by SGM Charles Twardzicki made Nov 25 at 2018 2:30 PM

2018-11-25T14:30:35-05:00

Same as guards at gates saluting the sticker on the windshield, must be in uniform or show ID to get salute.

Response by MSG Andrew Whitish made Feb 28 at 2020 7:47 PM

2020-02-28T19:47:31-05:00

The only required space per ADA is disabled parking. Courtesy spaces for pregnant women and women with toddlers are just that a courtesy. General officers and reserved spaced in the PX/commissary are pure BS. CO/XO/1SG at the unit is an RHIP for a position that works long hours. All others can walk.

Response by CMSgt David Bridge made Jun 27 at 2021 3:21 PM

2021-06-27T15:21:33-04:00

Spouses and members serve together. My wife never used my rank but if she is going to the commissary or BX for me and my family. I recommend she park in my CMSgt parking. I’ve earned it. 28 years veteran and 100% disabled.