Posted on Jun 25, 2021
When an E-4 calls me "hey" or "hey man" knowing that I am an officer, should I bother to correct him?
672K
3.62K
1.31K
1K
1K
1
This SPC calls me "hey man" outside work. I don't work with him directly; just happened to come across couple of times at work, and he did call me "sir". Not sure whether I should even bother to correct this SPC.
Edited >1 y ago
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 935
It has been a long time since I served (terminal rate E-5), but I would never address an officer (or, for that matter, another enlisted man) by "Hey" or "Hey, You" unless there is some EXTREME circumstance, "Hey, don't go in there, it's a hazardous area." But, I would also use common sense if off base and in civilian clothes. Many have given examples of such situations (on a sports field, for example). Everyone deserves respect. Perhaps it's a matter of old fashioned upbringing, but I often say Sir or Ma'am to contemporaries in civilian life if the circumstances warrant. They key, in my mind, is to show appropriate espect.
(0)
(0)
If you’re thinking the only thing you can be called is sir? Then your mentality is why the navy is having so many problems. He said it outside work, I’d shit on you outside of work. This kid is doing just fine, you’re a human just like him and you’re no better than him. Do not think you are more than someone, that is not a leader.
(0)
(0)
Just from an ex-enlisted man, I'd say that it may be harmless on his part. Probably heard that you don't have to address by rank while off duty. He may just be trying to be friendly and speak to you as a person. Proper decorum does state that he should call you Sir until you relax that distinction, however. Otherwise, you run the risk of fraternization.
(0)
(0)
He isn't your friend Sir. He is a trooper that is disrespecting your rank. Next time he does it just correct him. If he doesn't listen Jack his ass up. Respect of rank is important.
(0)
(0)
Yes, always correct, reminders of Customs and Courtesies are part of your responsibility as an officer.
(0)
(0)
Probably a typo on someone’s part but,,,,,Hey man. When did an E-4 become an officer?
(0)
(0)
This is very disrespectful. I would personally confront him 1 time, and 1 time only. Reminding him that you are a Captain in the US ARMY, and he is a SFC in the same organization. "If you do not respect me as a man, you sure as hell better respect my rank."
Marines are taught to respect all rank in uniform, and out...anyway what is a
SFC.
Marines are taught to respect all rank in uniform, and out...anyway what is a
SFC.
(0)
(0)
Read This Next

Customs and Courtesies
