What’s the proper way to correct someone when not saluting an officer?

I can imagine how difficult and confusing that situation might have been for a SPC4. He may not have known what a Navy officer's rank insignia looks like. I always operated on a 'if you're not sure, salute anyway', basis.

You exercised your general military authority to engage disrespect exhibited by the PFC. Regs are not written with caveats about your approach, especially when discipline has been such an issue recently.

SPC Ball,
You did EXACTLY what a soldier SHOULD do. Not to be denegrating but the Major (if medical corps.) was probably appointed by a direct commission and does not have the same military discipline you have on Customs and Courtesies. Sad, but true! You helped to elevate that PFC to a professional level that she had not been at before. When I was an NCO, I was taught that if you fail to enforce a standard, you establish a new standard. That Maj was in for job, you are living a calling. Big difference! When I would "jack-up" privates for not saluting other officers or ME, I was not overly cuddly, BUT, my point was that their lack of discipline and lack of attention to detail (as they almost always said they didn't see me coming, until they put their head down after recognizing an officer approaching) is what gets people killed. Their lack of discipline makes them the same as those who have done nothing to earn the uniform, act better and professional as they have worked to achieve what they have and they need to have enough self-respect to show it. I am honestly proud of you for enforcing the standard and doing so properly. Airborne!!!

No.

You were absolutely correct for calling out this female PFC. The PFC needs to go back to Basic Infantry School Training refresher course. Jack Charrin 1st Lt. US RA Air Defense

I agree with the Major get over it

I wouldn't say you were aggressive by asking that question.

This would be my response: I'm sorry you feel i was too aggressive, but this is enlisted business and I am totally within my lane. Next time you might want to let the officers get out of earshot before you correct someone.

I think we are seeing some of civilian society spread into the military. The disrespect we see out there, out here every day by a new generation is horrific. When I grew up you were expected to respect your elders, your teachers, all adults and people! Today we see so much disrespect for children and young adults, it is spreading into everything.

As for how to handle this, I am all for making sure that the respect and dignity in the military stays there! This person should be immediately addressed and yes, asked why they neglected to salute! Not saluting was something I would never have done when I was in. And it’s not just about respect, it is also about discipline! In order to maintain the discipline needed in the military, any, and I mean any lack of discipline needs to be addressed immediately and corrected.

I agree; Saluting is a show of respect at the very least. I would have ckucjed.kicjed gher gek=els if i had been there. 1LT Pamela S Lee, USA ADA, RET.