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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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........

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…..

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.

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.

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.