Who should eat last?

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 14:23:38 -0400

I got into discussions with my 1SG about this awhile back. What are your thoughts?

UPDATED with Background information: It has been four years since I posted this question and it has been interesting seeing some difference of opinion based on services and experiences and I am surprised it is still getting people to post responses. I now want to post why this question was asked and the situation that it came out of. My first sergeant and I (I was a company commander) were both talking as the last few enlisted Soldiers were filing through the chow line and then I told my LTs to grab their food, afterwards I told him to go ahead. He told me to go ahead. I said the commander eats last, and he said no I do. My reasoning is to ensure everyone under my command is feed, his reasoning if there is only one meal left it should go to the primary decision maker and he would get feed later. This is the spirit of which the question came from.

Invite others to respond by typing @name

Response by SGT Nia Chiaraluce made Mar 24 at 2015 2:25 PM

SGT Nia Chiaraluce — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 14:25:23 -0400

Now, it is rare to actually eat with your CO in my unit, so my answer is always the highest ranking of a group of soldiers.

Response by SrA Matthew Knight made Mar 24 at 2015 2:27 PM

SrA Matthew Knight — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 14:27:01 -0400

Here at Scott Officers aren't even allowed to eat at the DFAC unless they are there for special events. However, hypothetical situation, if they were and if I were to be an officer I would encourage the lower ranks to go before me. But that's me, lowly A1C talking.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 2:29 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 14:29:07 -0400

I am of the firm belief that a Leader Eats Last. Unless, of course, they are asked by a subordinate to get in line before them. Goes to my mentality of, being a leader, I want to make sure my people are taken care of first.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Mar 24 at 2015 2:29 PM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 14:29:30 -0400

We eat in reverse order of rank. Leaders make sure their men are fed, then eat themselves.

Non-NCO > NCO > SNCO/Officers

That's if your unit arrives as a group.

If you arrive "staggered" break it down as above, but in smaller chunks.

So if myself and CPT Maurelli arrived together, I would be in line before him, but PFC Schmucketelli would be before both of us.

Response by SGT Jeremiah B. made Mar 24 at 2015 2:33 PM

SGT Jeremiah B. — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 14:33:20 -0400

All present? Eat reverse rank with Junior Enlisted first and senior leadership last. Otherwise, first come, first serve.

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 2:36 PM

CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 14:36:23 -0400

Leadership. Leadership always eats last.

Response by MAJ Jim Steven made Mar 24 at 2015 2:37 PM

MAJ Jim Steven — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 14:37:29 -0400

voted whoever gets there last....

This was a deal back when they were teaching us what leadership is. I think it was relevant then, it was a good lesson - still is, about taking care of your troops and selfless service.
I think there is a TED talk about why leaders eat last, involving a guy talking about an A-10 pilot...

i voted the way I did when I think about the chow halls in Afghanistan, especially a large one. We all have jobs, we are all busy. If I saw a "leader" keep walking to the back of the line, I would think they are kind of dumb.

Ya know what else is kind of dumb.... when a CSM puts out uniform requirements (limitations) in the chow hall...no combat shirts, no weapons and body armor, etc.
In other words, when they damn near will not let you eat at all.
Yeah, it happens.

Response by SFC Scott Prindiville made Mar 24 at 2015 2:52 PM

SFC Scott Prindiville — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 14:52:04 -0400

If you are in a unit. (Ie) ssquad, platoon, company, then the leaders eat last. If you are just showing up at random times then it's first come first serve.

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made Mar 24 at 2015 3:03 PM

SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 15:03:43 -0400

How's this for a twist to the question...

Officers and NCOs should eat after the troops (while in the field) to insure the troopies get fed.

However .. someone needs to eat 1st to make sure the cook didn't slip a bar of soap into the beans.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 3:06 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 15:06:59 -0400

Your soldiers always eat first. I thought this was a no brainer.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 3:19 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 15:19:51 -0400

Priority of work, normally it doesn't matter (though leadership usually eats last), but if someone has somewhere to be and something to do of value to the mission then they should be permitted to eat first.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Mar 24 at 2015 3:26 PM

LTC Paul Labrador — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 15:26:05 -0400

I was always taught that the officers eat last. Part of taking care of your troops by ensuring that they get to eat.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 3:46 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 15:46:46 -0400

#Who cares! lol

Response by SGT Tyler G. made Mar 24 at 2015 3:47 PM

SGT Tyler G. — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 15:47:02 -0400

In order of leadership. Your troops should be the first to eat. Followed by your junior NCOs, mid level NCOs and officers, followed by your First Sergeant and CO. And if you have higher level staff, continuing in the same fashion. If you have to send people in shifts, do it such that your troops eat first, but so that no position is ever left completely unattended if possible. Of course, this assumes everyone is eating at the same time as a unit, otherwise I'd say the order that people arrive.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 3:55 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 15:55:30 -0400

As a leader of soldiers, regardless of comission or non-com, you should ALWAYS eat, drink, relieve yourself, etc AFTER your subordinates. Always, do your subs come first.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 3:58 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 15:58:29 -0400

As the Detachment Sergeant, I eat last after everyone....to include the CO and XO of my unit

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 4:38 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 16:38:34 -0400

Unless it's a formal event with protocol I think the leadership folks should ensure their people get food first. Doesn't matter if it's a Commander, First Sergeant, Flight Chief/Platoon Sergeant, etc, or the Squad Leader.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 4:40 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 16:40:10 -0400

I have a hard time relating to this. During lunch release on battle assembly people go where they want. During annual training breakfast depends on when you get your ass out of the shower and over to the DFAC. Lunch is MRE..eat when you want. Dinner depends on individual mission and schedules.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 4:45 PM

SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 16:45:31 -0400

Agree with others, if everyone is present leadership eats last. If it's just a day, then the people I brought with me will eat before me. To stand there and wait for everyone that I/you out rank to eat before you at a chow hall is ridiculous.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 4:46 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 16:46:27 -0400

My last job on active duty was as Squadron Section Commander. I ate in the dining hall at least once a month. I never thought about cutting in line and I di allow others to move forward at times but not always.

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Mar 24 at 2015 4:54 PM

TSgt Joshua Copeland — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 16:54:09 -0400

Leaders Eat Last #SimonSinek

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 4:55 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 16:55:59 -0400

Leadership should always eat last!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 5:02 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 17:02:56 -0400

With officers it should be highest in rank eats first, with enlisted/NCO's it should be highest in rank eats last. I always appreciated the sentiment when officers wanted to eat last, however I'd explain that it was my job to ensure they always had as much time as possible to accomplish their mission and it was also my job to take care of soldiers.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 5:04 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 17:04:46 -0400

Commander unless 1SG request otherwise due LOGPAC requirements.

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Mar 24 at 2015 5:14 PM

Maj Chris Nelson — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 17:14:57 -0400

I feel that it is the leadership.... Plt Sgt, Plt Leader should eat after their Plt has eaten, likewise, Commander/1SGT after the unit.

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 5:26 PM

1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 17:26:47 -0400

Always lowest ranking person east first. A leader takes care of his/her people

Response by LTC Jason Bartlett made Mar 24 at 2015 5:31 PM

LTC Jason Bartlett — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 17:31:54 -0400

Leaders always eat last.

Response by SFC(P) Aaron Fore made Mar 24 at 2015 5:40 PM

SFC(P) Aaron Fore — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 17:40:14 -0400

In my humble opinion, a leader ensures the needs of the led are taken care of first.

Response by SSgt Dan Montague made Mar 24 at 2015 5:45 PM

SSgt Dan Montague — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 17:45:52 -0400

It has always been JR Marines first and top Snco's and officers last.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 5:47 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 17:47:11 -0400

I voted for whoever gets there last. I suppose if you were in a unit formation and all went together then the Commander would, but how often does that happen these days?

Response by CSM Michael J. Uhlig made Mar 24 at 2015 6:04 PM

CSM Michael J. Uhlig — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 18:04:56 -0400

The 1SG eats last!

The 1SG is a selfless leader & puts his units needs before his/her own, that includes taking the time to serve chow on the weekend, not just on Thanksgiving.

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made Mar 24 at 2015 6:30 PM

CPT Pedro Meza — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 18:30:02 -0400

It was always my practice that I ate only after my men, or team, therefore commander always eat last. I make exceptions for First Sergeants because he should be eating with the soldiers, because it helps to for the senior NCO's to seat down with soldiers because it develops a cohesive team.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 6:56 PM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 18:56:31 -0400

The answer is you... If you are in the position to think about who should be eating last... It should probably be you

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 7:45 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 19:45:37 -0400

Leaders ensure their soldiers eat first! I was brought up in the ranks that way and continue to train my leadership that way.

Response by SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA made Mar 24 at 2015 8:40 PM

SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 20:40:04 -0400

Highest ranking, or perhaps -- dependent on circumstances -- whoever gets there last would be acceptable.

Everything is METT-TC dependent.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 8:40 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 20:40:35 -0400

If I got there on time? My NCO's would have probably starved out to make sure the soldiers were fed. Never ate with officers in this particular respect.
What do i think? I'm glad I got to eat first or something like it more often than not. Otherwise if I was late for chow, I was late for chow. E3 tip for other E3's, get to chow as fast as possible :-)

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 9:01 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 21:01:17 -0400

It depends on the setting. If it's a large DFAC with troops from multiple units cycling through I typically just get in line. If I waited until every Soldier junior to me went through I'd be there waiting for hours, which inhibits me accomplishing my mission. If it's a Company level mess it's typically myself and the 1SG who eat last.

Response by SSG Paul Lanciault made Mar 24 at 2015 9:05 PM

SSG Paul Lanciault — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 21:05:34 -0400

As a squad leader/patrol supervisor I made sure each of member of my squad who was on duty ate before I did. At which point the 1SG would often come to my table and join me.

Response by SSgt June Worden made Mar 24 at 2015 9:21 PM

SSgt June Worden — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 21:21:04 -0400

I was always taught that the troops eat first, meaning enlisted, NCOs, SNCOs, then Officers...

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 9:42 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 21:42:05 -0400

If everybody is around the same area, then in my experience it goes by rank. But not everybody gets to the mess tent at the same time so should leaders just not eat at all in the hopes that a team executing a mission gets there?

Response by SGT John Wesley made Mar 24 at 2015 10:16 PM

SGT John Wesley — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 22:16:24 -0400

Commander. Troops should always eat first.

Response by SSG John Bacon made Mar 24 at 2015 10:40 PM

SSG John Bacon — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 22:40:18 -0400

As a Leader my Soldiers ate before I did, took breaks before I did, Went home before I did.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2015 12:41 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 00:41:26 -0400

Chow should go from the lowest enlisted to the highest rank: ALWAYS those whom are making the mission possible, and allowing those "in charge" to obtain success. Therefore, the Commander should eat last. When we had Soldiers assigned to QRF or ECP during our CSTX myself and other individuals would ensure that they had chow by bringing extra trays from the chow hall to their place of duty. Even then we followed the acceptable standards.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2015 3:36 AM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 03:36:39 -0400

In other units I was stationed with,regular units, it didn't matter. It was sort of first come first served.. When i was with 2nd Recon Battalion it was achievement based. The chow line order went;
master dual cool (jump master/dive master) which I heard of but never actually saw myself; Master diver, jump master, there were a dozen or so; regular dual cool (dive & jump qualed) there were quite a few dual cool Marines; followed by dive qualed, jump qualed, and rank did not matter with any of these. Then the rest of the chow line went by rank, lowest to highest. Our BN XO came from supply and didn't seem to understand the system. When he was confronted he went off on the Marine. He was squared away by the Bn CO on the spot. It was a different culture from regular units. I didn't see that personally either, but I recall everyone talking about it (the XO had zero credibility or respect). It was the best unit I was a stationed with. Not because it was "cool" but like I said, it was just a different culture.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2015 3:49 AM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 03:49:24 -0400

As an NCO this is easy. Refer to the Creed of the NCO: "My two basic responsibilities will always be uppermost in my mind—accomplishment of my mission and the welfare of my Soldiers."

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2015 6:51 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 06:51:12 -0400

I feel that is should always be first come first serve!!!! I don't care if you are an officer or not cause in my experience a lot of officers don't do a whole lot compared to the enlisted but yet they are treated like entitled brats!!

Response by 1LT William Clardy made Mar 25 at 2015 6:58 AM

1LT William Clardy — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 06:58:21 -0400

In garrison, where there's adequate food (and presumably time), there is no rational reason for leadership to eat last. If anything, it makes more sense for the leadership to move through at the head of the line so that they get done quicker and can resume planning/coordinating/reporting while their troops are still eating.

In the field, the leadership group should eat last and eat together. That serves the dual purpose of symbolically putting their troops' care and feeding first while also providing time for face-to-face communications during the "Leaders' Mess" -- I always found it impressive how much daily business can be conducted by a bunch of crusty sergeants gathered around the first sergeant's trailer armed with canteen cups full of black coffee.

Response by LT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2015 7:21 AM

LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 07:21:19 -0400

Reverse rank order, lowest to highest. It always bothers me when I see SNCO's and officers in a chow line in front of junior enlisted. Situation dependent of course, don't go full stupid.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Mar 25 at 2015 8:25 AM

Capt Richard I P. — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 08:25:16 -0400

Officers eat last in the Marine Corps.

Response by COL Vincent Stoneking made Mar 25 at 2015 8:50 AM

COL Vincent Stoneking — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 08:50:25 -0400

In a tactical/field feeding, or when the unit eats as a whole, last should be the commander. Next to last should be the guy/gal who was in charge of the forecast....

Response by SSG Robert Burns made Mar 25 at 2015 8:57 AM

SSG Robert Burns — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 08:57:22 -0400

The last person in line.

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Mar 25 at 2015 10:33 AM

LCpl Mark Lefler — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 10:33:05 -0400

In the Corps at least where I was, the highest rank ate last.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2015 11:11 AM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 11:11:48 -0400

At the end of the day, we are all still human, and citizens.

Response by Cpl Peter Martuneac made Mar 25 at 2015 11:54 AM

Cpl Peter Martuneac — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 11:54:07 -0400

Keep it how it is. Boots to the front, then lcpls and cpls, sergeants, snco's, then officers.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Mar 25 at 2015 12:08 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 12:08:57 -0400

When I was a Drill Sergeant I was always the last one of my platoon to eat. I told my platoon seeing how I was the last one to eat they should all be outside by the time I was done. I'd take the same amount they all had and could suck it down before half the platoon was done. It part of leadership, making sure your troops are taken care of first.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2015 12:44 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 12:44:20 -0400

Great leaders will make sure their people are taken care of before they take care of themselves.

Response by COL Sharon Leary made Mar 25 at 2015 1:02 PM

COL Sharon Leary — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 13:02:17 -0400

a quick way to "check" on the quality and quantity of food. The Last Soldier should have the SAME choices as the FIRST Soldier, both quality and quantity. Especially considering the method for calculatiing meals, you ROUND up.

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2015 1:08 PM

LTJG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 13:08:03 -0400

I believe the order for eating should be junior enlisted, senior enlisted, junior officer, senior officers. The leaders need their people to be strong and fit. It is our duty as leaders to make sure that our people get fed first and are healthy

Response by PO3 John Jeter made Mar 25 at 2015 1:28 PM

PO3 John Jeter — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 13:28:49 -0400

I would think a good NCO or commander who was checking on things would make their appearance in line as a random thing. That makes your people go the extra step to make sure the last person in line gets the same quality and portion size as the first. But if you make it a practice to be the last, it's not hard to have a "rescue" meal standing by. Random appearance times also allows you to gauge the flow of troops, how clean the facility is being kept during the meals, and where any bottlenecks may be. Not to mention being visible to different troops as being concerned with their welfare. (I should note that I'm referring to a chow hall type setting here.)

Response by SFC Ray Foster made Mar 25 at 2015 1:32 PM

SFC Ray Foster — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 13:32:05 -0400

This is a no brainner in combat arms I know when I was a sgt ssg and sfc I always let my troops eat before me sonmetimes I had the gravy at the bottom of the pan with bread left I dont that was 7yrs ago dont know how much the army has changed with the leadership of todays army !!!

Response by SSgt Randy Saulsberry made Mar 25 at 2015 1:45 PM

SSgt Randy Saulsberry — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 13:45:02 -0400

The leaders should eat last but this in no way should pertain to the command element of your unit.

Response by MSgt Steven Goetsch made Mar 25 at 2015 1:50 PM

MSgt Steven Goetsch — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 13:50:23 -0400

You let the commander go, so he can turn around and let you go before him. Then he can check the "troop morale" box, and feel good about it.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2015 1:50 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 13:50:48 -0400

Every function I've been to, the head table (leadership, DV's) ate first and all others followed. Chow Hall, who cares, unless there is a function, then...see previous statement. IMO, it doesn't matter, everyone is going to eat sooner or later.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2015 2:11 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 14:11:31 -0400

1. The cooks, I am pretty sure that they ALWAYS eat last. that being said:

2. Anyone asking if my troops ate, they get to eat last: that being said,

3. I vote the coast guard should eat last. LOL HA HA HA

No Seriously Chow is always mission determined. Those going out to line, then those coming in from line, then those in support by rank. Bottom line, If who eats last is the military's largest concern, It has been a good day.

Response by SSG Thomas Hosfelt made Mar 25 at 2015 2:32 PM

SSG Thomas Hosfelt — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 14:32:27 -0400

A good 1SGT WILL ALWAYS insure all of his troops are taken care of and should consider the CDR one of His own troops

Response by Cpl Christopher Sturdevant made Mar 25 at 2015 2:55 PM

Cpl Christopher Sturdevant — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 14:55:29 -0400

Just as I would expect a leader to be the first on last off, making sure that your troops have their needs met before yours. Not selfish but selfless. If they're late? Haha well we can't have people not eating because someone else's personal time management. I will say though, that if they're late and can't eat, I say it's your responsibility to make sure they are.

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Mar 25 at 2015 3:19 PM

COL Jean (John) F. B. — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 15:19:06 -0400

The commander should be the last to eat, =right after the rest of the chain of command. In that way, if there was not enough food or not enough of certain items, it is the unit leadership that is left with what remains.

This is an age-old tradition of the military and leadership principle that, in my opinion, should never be changed.

I employ the same principle in civilian life and think it is just as pertinent. If I am in charge, I eat last. Plain and simple.

Response by LT John Ritenour made Mar 25 at 2015 3:40 PM

LT John Ritenour — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 15:40:34 -0400

In a field situation, it's the responsibility of Staff NCO's and Officers to see that junior personnel have adequate rations. If there aren't adequate rations available, junior personnel should be taken care of first. As Staff NCO's and officers, it is our duty to take care of the personnel assigned to our charge.

Response by MAJ Ronnie Reams made Mar 25 at 2015 5:13 PM

MAJ Ronnie Reams — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 17:13:57 -0400

Used to be cooks and KPs ate last. Must not be that way today?

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2015 5:19 PM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 17:19:15 -0400

Are we in the field or in garrison? Standard meal, unit function, or official ceremony?

Field: Reverse rank order of your unit. (1) The junior troops doing the heavy lifting need the calories to carry on the mission. (2) To ensure the cost of any planning failures (insufficient food) is paid primarily by the planners (leadership) instead of the troops. When logistics are short the PVT gets his MRE and the officers/SNCOs responsible for logistics can pull the MRE scraps from the rat f#@k box.

Garrison: Determined by base/command custom. Otherwise first come/first served with the occasional niceties of pushing juniors in front of you in line, especially if it enables to junior to join their friends/group. Polite requests from warriors in a rush of any rank are also honored.

Response by SGT Richard H. made Mar 25 at 2015 5:32 PM

SGT Richard H. — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 17:32:33 -0400

Make the fattest guy eat last. Just sayin'

Response by MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P made Mar 25 at 2015 6:13 PM

MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 18:13:47 -0400

I can tell you who should d@mn well not eat FIRST.... The jackwagon general officer who swoops in with ass-kissers attached and DEMANDS to be moved to the front of the line because he's MUCH more important than some patrol unit that just came back in from outside the wire.

Response by SFC Seth King made Mar 25 at 2015 6:37 PM

SFC Seth King — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 18:37:05 -0400

The senior enlisted of the group (SGT, PSG, 1SG, CSM) should always eat last...and his/her counterpart officer should be right there with them. It's the little things that show you care about your Soldiers.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2015 6:59 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 18:59:12 -0400

Juniors always eat first. I will not eat until my Sailors have eaten.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Mar 25 at 2015 7:14 PM

LTC Stephen C. — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 19:14:04 -0400

LTC Private RallyPoint Member, it was always my practice that when with an organization to eat in inverse order of rank (for the most part), with officers and the commander eating last. In other words, enlisted, non-commissioned, commissioned and the commander, ate in that order.
In fact, there were many situations where we had hot chow brought out to the field. The officers (including me) served, and I always thought that was a nice touch.
Once upon a time I was HHC Commander (much to my dislike). I had a mess section capable of serving the entire battalion, but most of the time, they prepared and served chow just for the headquarters and headquarters company. The mess sergeant was a gourmet chef, and was a finalist for the Philip A. Connelly Award more than once. Not long after I assumed command, we headed down to chow for lunch. Who was the first person in line; the BATALLION COMMANDER! I've never been more embarrassed for the officer corps in my entire life than I was that day! Needless to say, I waited 'til the very last to eat, but I don't think he ever figured it out. I wasn't going to tell him!

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS, my thoughts on chow order, chow in the field and an actual story!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2015 7:55 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 19:55:34 -0400

Depends on the context:

Entire unit filing through MERMITE Chow line in the field? Leadership eats last. Whether the absolute last Soldier is the 1SG or CO who cares? As long as the troops are taken care of.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2015 8:03 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 20:03:44 -0400

The junior enlisted first, NCOs, then officers, last to eat is the commander. Long standing tradition that the welfare of the soldiers comes before the senior in rank. Also, if your an officer, don't complain about paying for your meal.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2015 8:20 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 20:20:19 -0400

If these are the only choices and if everyone showed up around the same time. But, I am a huge believer and I practice that the lower the rank goes first, unless of course you're just about to get your food and a group of lower ranking soldiers shows up, then you still get your food. Just my standard, not sure who will agree.

Response by CPO Greg Frazho made Mar 25 at 2015 8:36 PM

CPO Greg Frazho — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 20:36:13 -0400

There's an article in the UCMJ known as maltreatment, which you can get court-martialed for if you violate it. It's directed at commanders and senior enlisted personnel and something they hit on pretty hard in various training pipelines.

Social norm and protocol dictates that nobody BEGINS eating until the senior person is served and actually starts eating himself/herself or that person directs everybody else to begin eating.

That said, in basic training, chief's initiation and elsewhere, it's something of an unwritten rule that if you're in charge and your people haven't eaten, neither shall you. Period.

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Mar 25 at 2015 9:12 PM

SGT Bryon Sergent — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 21:12:18 -0400

I was taught that YOUR soldiers eat first. In my Infantry Unit when its was chow time NCO's where at the end of the line. However, being deployed and being in the chow hall, and knowing the schedules differ, its get in line. When I was on duty my guys ate before I did. When they came back to the position I had them bring me something, if it was close to closing, or I went after they got back! In every unit I have been in except one, this is the way it happened.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2015 9:38 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 21:38:20 -0400

The most senior leadership should eat last.

Actually, the best leaders throw on some gloves and dish out the grub to their troops.

Response by CPL Jesse Vasconcelos made Mar 25 at 2015 9:45 PM

CPL Jesse Vasconcelos — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 21:45:58 -0400

There is no other way to make it fair. If lowest rank has to be the first to remove their gas mask to see if there is no more threat then the highest ranking should eat last.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2015 10:27 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 22:27:49 -0400

Beans and Bullets. The commander has to complete his job, so I will always eat last. I hold formation at chow so that my unit can line up with the lowest enlisted SM on up the ranks. Then it is a right face, file from the left.

Response by SGT Rick Ash made Mar 25 at 2015 10:28 PM

SGT Rick Ash — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 22:28:34 -0400

Mess times are posted and every troop knows what the times are. If an E-1 is first, so be it. I am certain that military professionalism will kick in if there is a line and a Field Grade Officer show up. He/She will be offered the opportunity to move up but I don't see them doing that unless they have some sort of time limit.

Everyone that shows will be fed. If anybody knows the TOE of a unit the mess commander knows. I never went away hungry despite what time i showed.
Even if there is a visiting detachment the Post Commander will memo the mess.

Response by SPC David Shaffer made Mar 25 at 2015 10:59 PM

SPC David Shaffer — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 22:59:43 -0400

Leadership always should eat last. A good leader always makes sure those he/she leads are taken care of first.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Mar 25 at 2015 11:41 PM

COL Charles Williams — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 23:41:16 -0400

In the Army, the leaders always eat last. Why they question?

Response by SGT Russell Coble made Mar 26 at 2015 12:07 AM

SGT Russell Coble — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 00:07:09 -0400

if people are doing their job. it is not going to matter who eats first or last. get your job done then go eat.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 12:13 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 00:13:05 -0400

All the Solders eat first and the 1SG and CDR eat last. Its a Command "Team" and they go last but the CDR is always the last to eat and should be

Response by TSgt David Holman made Mar 26 at 2015 12:19 AM

TSgt David Holman — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 00:19:59 -0400

I really think it is dependent on the situation. If someone is in line, and is mission essential (i.e. medics on response status, FD, SF) then they should go toward the front of the line. A good leader is going to make sure his/her people get to eat regardless of when they do.

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made Mar 26 at 2015 12:59 AM

SPC(P) Jay Heenan — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 00:59:24 -0400

Most junior Soldiers ALWAYS eat first, followed progressively up the ranks.

Response by Cpl Tou Lee Yang made Mar 26 at 2015 1:50 AM

Cpl Tou Lee Yang — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 01:50:25 -0400

In the Navy, senior leadership eat first. Meaning E-7 and above because according to their philosophy leadership has its privileges. However, in the Marines, the junior enlisted member always eat first. Good thing I fall in the middle, because those pizzas sure does go by fast.

Response by SSgt Gregory Guina made Mar 26 at 2015 2:28 AM

SSgt Gregory Guina — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 02:28:59 -0400

Juniors eat first. Troop Welfare.

Response by SSG Everett Wilson made Mar 26 at 2015 5:53 AM

SSG Everett Wilson — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 05:53:25 -0400

In every unit I have been in, the first person in line was E-1 and it worked its way up. In my leadership roles, I made sure that my soldiers were fed before I stepped foot in line. When I was assisting in OCS, we made sure that candidates were feed first. Then the lower enlisted. I don't know how many times I've told the Reg't Commander that I was not on their feeding roster in the field, and I would be taken care of.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 8:03 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 08:03:10 -0400

I would say almost every time that it should be the First Sergeant, but if GEN Odierno shows up, I will concede my spot at the end of the line.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 8:57 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 08:57:00 -0400

We are all adults and capable of seeing after our basic needs, therefore there should be no policy. The only exception to this would be if we were rationing to the point that some may not get to eat at all. In that case, starting with the least physically active jobs everyone should rotate skipping meals until resupply can happen.

Response by 1SG Scott MacGregor made Mar 26 at 2015 9:12 AM

1SG Scott MacGregor — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 09:12:26 -0400

The 1SG has the duty to care for all Soldiers, including the officers. I always made sure my commanders ate with me and stressed that the PSG took care of their LTs in the same manner. The Soldiers are out there doing a mission, they need to be taken care of first. The commander and I always ate last because if the food is good at the last then the food was outstanding on the first. Soldiers deserve the best because they get the short end of the stick sometimes. The endless "hey you" details, "hurry up and wait" they need some perk, eating first before the command is their perk.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 10:09 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 10:09:59 -0400

Leaders...

Response by SSG Christopher Parrish made Mar 26 at 2015 10:12 AM

SSG Christopher Parrish — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 10:12:15 -0400

"...I will always place their needs above my own."

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Mar 26 at 2015 11:21 AM

SGM Erik Marquez — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 11:21:53 -0400

For the GO's, other commanders, my fellow Sergeant's Major and other senior NCO's
For the most part it just depended>
When deployed, for training or combat..There are many times, the senior leader has to be someplace else, and the timing of a few spare minutes and food being ready to eat is usually a strike or miss deal.

If there was EVER a question of food being limited, then we ate last and took what was left. I've ended up with some brown lettuce, no dressing and a spoonful of cold corn more times than I can count.
When in a garrison environment and food availability was not in question, we ate when we got there.

I've brought food to a 3 Star.. not because he deserved it, not because he wanted it that way...But because it was what you do for a fellow warrior that will ignore the rumbling in his stomach vs walk away from doing the best he can to devise the plan, find the support, coordinate the units, rehearse the plan, consider and plan rehearse for the medical evac of wounded, KIA, DOW that he knows is likely.

That commander.. he is not being a prima donna and that Soldier that brought him a plate not a kiss ass.... Both just want to see as many of the boys and girls get out alive as they can.. and that means the old man is going to stay and work.....so cut him some slack and take him a plate.. Or just shut the hell up about it... If you will not do either voluntarily .. I'll help...and you wont like it.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 11:35 AM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 11:35:02 -0400

As an officer who was prior enlisted, I have learned to appreciate the value of the enlisted force, and that leading from the front will yield many rewards to include commitment and dedicated "followership" from the ranks. Allowing junior enlisted to eat first is the only option in my mind. They are the workhorses that make the mission possible. Let them partake first, and boost the morale!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 12:03 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 12:03:04 -0400

The fat person!

Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made Mar 26 at 2015 12:27 PM

1LT Nick Kidwell — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 12:27:20 -0400

Sun Tzu said to take care of your men and horses first. Seems to be good advice.

While deployed, we were in a location where soldiers on duty could not leave for the DFAC. We ended up having food brought to us on a truck. My habit was always to let my lower enlisted and NCOs eat first, and I went last. Sure, I sometimes had little to nothing or it was cold, but our guys were taken care of.

In the same vein, my CO and I rotated out of guard towers occasionally, such as on Father's Day/Mother's Day so those on duty could make a call home.

Just seemed like the right thing to do.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 1:46 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 13:46:16 -0400

Its a new day everyone dosnt eat in the chow hall. But i picked who cares your a human and you should eat food you have to if you dont want to im not going to force you your not a child let alone mine. I leadership is grey area these days how do you take care of soldiers by giving them the appointment hotline numbers, wiping ther noses, being strict but fair day in and day out hmm but there not all the same i know no one is perfect and the strugle is on going. Just stay positive and inspire your troops to want to be leaders. Oh so about who should eat last the one who gets in line last i say how would you feel you put in your all day work grind and some higher rank cuts you because he is busy. Hmmm here go again leaders eat last leaders dont sleep get time off take vacations always early and leave late and blamed for everything. Thinking about it how do i convince the joe's to want to be leaders.

Response by CPT George Stotz made Mar 26 at 2015 1:56 PM

CPT George Stotz — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 13:56:22 -0400

Throughout my career, I always went through the field "chow" line after my soldiers.

Response by Cpl Anthony Pearson made Mar 26 at 2015 2:24 PM

Cpl Anthony Pearson — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 14:24:45 -0400

Officers.

Chain of Command. Leaders make sure their troops (including First Sergeants) eat first. If officers aren't there, then the First Sergeant should eat last.

Response by PO2 Jeremy N made Mar 26 at 2015 3:35 PM

PO2 Jeremy N — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 15:35:32 -0400

Judging by the Units I have had the pleasure to serve with, I feel everyone should always eat together. I always hated the larger units separated who ate when and where they sat.. When you get in more tactical teams, our Chiefs and Commanders would sit with the team and eat with them. This provided a better family and better teamwork.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 4:08 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 16:08:23 -0400

1SG should ensure all troops are taken care of, and then tell the commander all the troops have eaten and time for him to eat. The commanders that get it will tell the 1SG to go ahead; those that don't will go eat and then 1SG will follow.

Response by LtCol Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 4:31 PM

LtCol Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 16:31:22 -0400

Officers ALWAYS eat after their Marines have been fed.

Response by PO1 Henry Sherrill made Mar 26 at 2015 5:17 PM

PO1 Henry Sherrill — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 17:17:38 -0400

When I was in the military I made sure that my subordinates ate first, then I would eat.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 5:40 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 17:40:38 -0400

I'm a civilian now and I still eat last. If I bring something out to my crew out if we have a company lunch/dinner I make sure they get their orders in first.

Response by MSG David Chappell made Mar 26 at 2015 6:22 PM

MSG David Chappell — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 18:22:10 -0400

Lowest ranking eats feed the Indians then the chief. I was 1sg and always ate after all the troops the commander ate after the other officers. The troops are first engagers officers and senior NCOs are the advisers. I have had to "order" the commander to a bed after 26 hours. His need to be present was outweighed by my need for his decisions.

Response by SGT Richard H. made Mar 26 at 2015 6:38 PM

SGT Richard H. — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 18:38:34 -0400

On a related (kind of) note, I was always the "leader eats last" guy. After getting out of the Military, I retained that mentality...wife first, then me. After having a kid it went Daughter, Wife, me.....after a number of years of the two of them lollygagging and fiddlefarting around and eating lukewarm or reheated food, I finally said "screw it". Now when I'm done cooking I announce that dinner is ready and I eat.

Response by PV2 Violet Case made Mar 26 at 2015 7:18 PM

PV2 Violet Case — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 19:18:28 -0400

The job of a leader is to be sure his people are fed and secure. If he puts them first then they will have more respect for their leader and be more apt to follow his commands without doubt of his concern for their well being.

Response by CPT Bruce Beattie made Mar 26 at 2015 7:21 PM

CPT Bruce Beattie — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 19:21:04 -0400

Stateside, I had a BCT company out on the ranges. Noon chow came out from the "Dining Facility" in mermite cans with some cooks and KPs to serve it. When the troops were being fed several of the Drill Sgts invited me to go through the line. I told them it was my policy to go last. After the last of the troops had been fed I started through the line. Nothing was left except a few slices of bread. All of my Drill Sgts had also been throiugh the line. No one had had seconds. I had plain bread and kool-aid for lunch. Upon my return to the Company area I had a short "counseling session" with the "Dining Facility Manager". My troops were never shorted again with field chow! Imagine how bad it would have been if I had a good meal and my troops went hungry? No brainer, "Old Man" eats last when possible.

Response by TSgt Luis-Thomas Raquipiso made Mar 26 at 2015 7:22 PM

TSgt Luis-Thomas Raquipiso — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 19:22:31 -0400

We are whatever we signed-up for. The sensible thing is, feed the people who needs to go back to work/duty ASAP. Generals understand,& I would expect leaders to understand as well .I was 12 year RED HORSE (construction eq. oper)--It was all about being professional, sensible--asking people in front if it's possible for your folks to jump in line because of your JOB/mission. People we dealt with are understanding & accomodating. It is how well you present yourself.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 7:40 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 19:40:04 -0400

Leaders always eat last, this is just looking out for your Soldiers.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Mar 26 at 2015 9:22 PM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 21:22:56 -0400

Higher the rank the further to the rear of the line, unless you're the one hosting the thing or retiring.

Response by SFC Bryan Clark made Mar 26 at 2015 9:58 PM

SFC Bryan Clark — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 21:58:52 -0400

troops always...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 11:01 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 23:01:33 -0400

The subordinate ranks eat first, private to 1SG followed by Officers, Commander and CSM always eat last. Exceptions: (disclaimer-in my opinion and having been both on the line and a TOC rat myself) Boys and girls on the line eat before TOC rats in reverse rank order. I have been in the chow line for Hot-A's and watched as the last scoop of green beans (only thing left) was served to the SGT in front of me...take care of your subordinates and they will take care of you!

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 11:12 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 23:12:15 -0400

Officers, they are full of themselves already.........
Just kidding:) The Commander, 1SG/CSM should be the last fed.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 1:32 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 01:32:28 -0400

This questions is an easy one sir. If you are eating with your soldiers they go first the most senior of the group eats last. As NCOs it is our duty to take care of our soldiers.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 5:53 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 05:53:27 -0400

This is common sense. Those charged with the care of troops must first care for the troops before caring for themselves.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 6:58 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 06:58:45 -0400

Definitely subordinates first, leadership last. Unless, the mozzarella sticks are running low.

Response by CH (CPT) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 9:30 AM

CH (CPT) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 09:30:11 -0400

As a Chaplain, I always wait to eat last to make sure that my troops are taken care of first.

Response by MSgt Sandra McKinney Dent made Mar 27 at 2015 9:55 AM

MSgt Sandra McKinney Dent — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 09:55:26 -0400

Commander OR the highest ranking person. Goes back to the YOU TAKE CARE OF YOUR PEOPLE FIRST. You eat after they eat, you sleep after they sleep. You see to their needs FIRST before your own.

Last in a vehicle? So you can see to it that your people are taken care of before departing. First out? So you can LEAD.

There may be a few perks, but the LEADER knows that the responsibilities and duties of leadership come BEFORE any personal comfort.

And truthfully, between a young officer and the older SNCO? Just coin toss, or take turns. The SNCO takes care of EVERYONE, we've been trained to do so Sir.

BTW I have seen "bird" Colonels and Chief Master Sergeants/Senior Enlisteds "coin" over this at deployed locations.

Response by MSG Jeff Walker made Mar 27 at 2015 10:02 AM

MSG Jeff Walker — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 10:02:31 -0400

I chose other because it should be the Senior Officer and Senior Enlisted of the unit.

Response by SSG Christopher K. made Mar 27 at 2015 10:09 AM

SSG Christopher K. — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 10:09:05 -0400

I take care of my soldiers I make sure they have what they need before I take care of myself. In my opinion I think this is the way it should work but everyone has there own take on this.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Mar 27 at 2015 11:34 AM

SFC William Swartz Jr — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 11:34:27 -0400

NCOs should always be the last to eat, as WE must always take care of our Soldiers, this includes our officers...as a PSG I was always the last to go through the line after my Soldiers and the PL had been fed, most of the time I and the other PSGs would be chatting with the 1SG monitoring our platoons so we could give him an up when all of our people had gone through the line and then we would all usually go through right before the CO and 1SG did.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 11:45 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 11:45:35 -0400

How about letting the Big’en eat last, so he doesn’t feel bad about loading up his plate!

Response by PO1 Donald Hammond made Mar 27 at 2015 2:39 PM

PO1 Donald Hammond — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 14:39:22 -0400

In the Navy it is different since the Officers and enlisted eat separately. On submarines the oncoming watch always ate first. Then whoever. Chiefs of course could butt into the head of the line.

On my last command the goat locker suddenly decided we were going to be like the skimmers (surface ships) and 1st class POs would go to the head of the line no matter what. Me, being the senior E-6 on board with more time in the Navy and at sea than all the Chiefs except the Senior and Master Chief, argued for the watch reliefs eating first. Then it came down that 1st Classes would use the head of the line privilege "or else". Sigh.

The Chiefs regretted the power play the next all hands stores load out. One bad ass PO1 (me) with the backing of the Executive Officer, cleared the goat locker to help load stores. "You eat the food too, so help load it!"

Never mess with the senior first class on board.

Oh, back to the question. I have always believed that those who NEED to eat first, should eat first. (Going out to do their job). After that, I always made sure my junior people got in to eat. You think that was nice of me? MWAHAHAHAHAAHAHA! Not so. I was the Leading Petty Officer after all. I went last so the nubs didn't lollygag around. There was work to be done and by jiggity they were going to go do it. Don't be trying to get off the messdecks after me. I know all the worst bilges that need cleaning. Arrrrrrrrrrrr.

Response by PO1 Donald Hammond made Mar 27 at 2015 2:51 PM

PO1 Donald Hammond — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 14:51:41 -0400

Okay, I'm going to tell it like it is. Junior people go first so they are first to get back to work while the Senior people sit around chewing the fat.

Making sure your troops are taken care of. I choked on that.

First people to eat are being yelled at to "EAT IT AND BEAT IT!" So they are done before the senior people even get in line. So what happens? "Hey. You got time to lean you got time to clean!"

Yeh yeh. Take care of your troops first. Uh huh. Just admit it. You knock off work first so you can go around and make sure your people get to the chow line. Then you get in last. Who ends up with the most time off work? Yeh. Uh huh. Just looking out for the "little" person. Riiiiiiiight. Having been a senior person I knew all those tricks too.

Now we will see how many have sticks up their behinds.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 3:24 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 15:24:55 -0400

I've been a leader in 3 "Formations" - A Marine NCO, Air Force SNCO and Army Officer - and had what I thought was a unique perspective on this - but from reading through the comments its not so unique. BLUF? I made sure my people were fed before I ate. Always. Period. My Company 1SG from Iraq is now an Air Force Chaplain and he and I used to get into heated "discussions" over him trying to push me through the line. ("discussions" because I was the Commander and always had the final say). I did the same thing as an AF MSG for my troops and my JOs. Somebody has to look out for the junior LT's. Before you say anything - I had 25 years in uniform as a 2LT - more time than my Bn Cdr and CSM - and was hardly a "junior" LT. When it comes down to it the best part of being a leader is taking care of those you lead - from gold bar to 4 star - nothing has changed about that. They see you care and this pays dividends.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 4:22 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 16:22:39 -0400

Officers of course. And if you receive per-diem (Officer or Enlisted), you should pay for it

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 4:41 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 16:41:02 -0400

One more thought. After "chow", the CDR and SGT should check the garbage cans. If they are obviously full, then the chow sucked. Time for a "one on one" with the Mess SGT.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 4:43 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 16:43:43 -0400

Any person that is a leader should eat last starting from senior to junior.

Response by SFC Collin McMillion made Mar 27 at 2015 5:01 PM

SFC Collin McMillion — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 17:01:42 -0400

I would like my men to eat first. They are the ones I depend on to do the job. I would not mind at all being last or not at all, just take care of my troops.

Response by CMSgt David Halvorson made Mar 27 at 2015 5:26 PM

CMSgt David Halvorson — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 17:26:06 -0400

commander

Response by SSG Joe Combs made Mar 27 at 2015 5:34 PM

SSG Joe Combs — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 17:34:56 -0400

A leaders troops always eat first !!!! That is how I have always seen it done.

Response by SSG Michael Chenault made Mar 27 at 2015 5:39 PM

SSG Michael Chenault — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 17:39:53 -0400

Leadership should always eat last, this comes from a tradition of not having enough chow in the field so leaders would wait until their soldiers ate to make sure the enough for everyone, and as for the question just follow the rank backwards and that ur order of chow, sorry CPT you eat last!

Response by SSgt James Bowman made Mar 27 at 2015 5:42 PM

SSgt James Bowman — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 17:42:32 -0400

Any commander worth a damn makes sure soldiers eat first.

Response by SGT Eric Thornton made Mar 27 at 2015 5:49 PM

SGT Eric Thornton — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 17:49:43 -0400

It should work in the opposite direction that poop roles, the leadership should be ensuring that the ones they are in charge of are taken care of first , that's how I rolled back in the day!

Response by PO3 Kenny Pkh made Mar 27 at 2015 5:58 PM

PO3 Kenny Pkh — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 17:58:03 -0400

Someone should teach this to Naval Officers.

Response by TSgt Harry Stafford made Mar 27 at 2015 6:00 PM

TSgt Harry Stafford — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 18:00:22 -0400

In the Navy, the Old Man (Captain) ate last.

Response by Capt David Bischoff made Mar 27 at 2015 6:01 PM

Capt David Bischoff — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 18:01:50 -0400

An Officer always allows his troops to eat first! These are the men who do all the work, they need the food. I went without food many times so my Marines could eat! Just part of the job.

Response by SSG John Jensen made Mar 27 at 2015 6:03 PM

SSG John Jensen — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 18:03:37 -0400

there was a older cpl , who always rushed to the front of the chow line, probably since he was a pvt, i didn''t know him that many years (nat'l guard), the day he was promoted to sgt in formation right before lunch, at lunch call he was right there in the front of the line and i told him to get his ass in the back of the line, that he was to take care of his troops first, he went quietly and took care of his troops quite well - it was everybody else (and me) that he backstabbed. that unit a serious problem with back stabbing, probably the reason i retired as a ssg

Response by SFC David Lindeman made Mar 27 at 2015 6:04 PM

SFC David Lindeman — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 18:04:09 -0400

As a retired senior NCO and the son of a 1SG, I don't know how many times I have shared what's left or watched my old man share what was left with the BC. The troops eat first. I have never seen a senior NCO or commander not have time to stop by somewhere and grab what ever the local delish dish when they were that hungry, or scrounge around to find something to eat. Besides, being prepared means you anticipate there won't be any bacon left when you get to the line.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 6:04 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 18:04:57 -0400

Having been in the Navy prior to the Army, I've seen it happen both ways. The navy gives the leadership the best of everything. They get their own eating quarters where no one else is allowed, they get there own sleeping quarters. They get off the ship for free time, first.

Something about it seemed wrong to me at the time. I always wondered how a navy leader could expect me to follow an order that could get me killed when I wasn't even good enough to eat with them. It was a very divisive atmosphere.

The Army, and it seems like the Marines and Air Force operate with the "take care of your subordinates" type attitude.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 6:24 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 18:24:27 -0400

Take care of your troops first! thats the job....

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 6:34 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 18:34:35 -0400

1sg and Commander should always be the last to eat. We always do E4 and below first, then the E5s, E6s, E7s and Lts.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 6:47 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 18:47:37 -0400

Senior Commanders NCO or Officer whichever. You men are ALWAYS first.

Response by SSG Scott Burk made Mar 27 at 2015 7:09 PM

SSG Scott Burk — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 19:09:32 -0400

It depends on the situation. Each leader at each level should make sure his men are taken care of in any given situation. When I was mission commander in Iraq (convoy ops) I always made sure my troops were provided for before I would lay down to rest.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 7:20 PM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 19:20:50 -0400

take care of your troops first, they are the ones that pull the load

Response by SSG Stan Morrison Jr made Mar 27 at 2015 8:03 PM

SSG Stan Morrison Jr — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 20:03:50 -0400

A good NCO always makes sure his troops are fed, watered, rested and paid before him/herself. When I went to PLDC, I was squad leader for the day during the first day of our Field Exercise. We all motored out to the bivouac area, set up. As squad leader one of my jobs was to distribute the mre's. I received the cases. RHIP, I took the best one out, Chicken ala King. And I Started passing them out. Problem, we were one short. Without thinking about it I sacrificed my meal. The instructor saw me do this, took me into his tent. Asked me why I did what I did. I explained that its a leaders job to care for the troops. He told me well done, then gave me his MTE. So, the answer is, if you are a squad leader, your squad eats before you, and so forth up the chain of command. Yes rank does have its privilege, but not at the expense of the troops.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 8:20 PM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 20:20:18 -0400

Just get in the damn line. If you're at the end of the line, you eat last.

Of course, this may be shaped by my deployments, where the entire unit was rarely eating at the same time, because we were on 24-hour ops working 12 hour shifts, and flying irregular hours.

Response by CW5 Jim Steddum made Mar 27 at 2015 8:22 PM

CW5 Jim Steddum — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 20:22:55 -0400

As a leader, I always like to be last in line. However, if the leader is a guest, they should probably go towards the start of the line.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 8:24 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 20:24:42 -0400

The leadership eats last always take care of the people who are in your charge .

Response by Sgt Cody Dumont made Mar 27 at 2015 8:40 PM

Sgt Cody Dumont — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 20:40:28 -0400

In the Marines the tradition in the field lower ranks to higher. This the way it should be, the Private needs a meal more than a General.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 8:59 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 20:59:54 -0400

In the Navy, for the most part except in certain cases such as being forward deployed in an IA type position, Officers and Enlisted eat separately. There is a Wardroom for the Officers, a CPO Mess for the E7-E9 Chiefs and a general mess (Mess Decks) for E6 and junior. In the Wardroom, it is customary and tradition for all of the Officers to wait for the arrival of the Commanding Officer, and he will be the first to start eating. None of the other Officers will begin eating until the CO has unless the CO directs otherwise.

Response by SFC Benjamin Parsons made Mar 27 at 2015 9:14 PM

SFC Benjamin Parsons — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 21:14:28 -0400

Ask Chesty Puller. He won't even have to think about it.

Response by MAJ Ron Peery made Mar 27 at 2015 9:27 PM

MAJ Ron Peery — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 21:27:31 -0400

Why is there even a question?

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 9:47 PM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 21:47:28 -0400

At first I read the title as "Who should eat less?" I thought it was going to be an article about eating habits. :)

Response by SPC Trinity Downing made Mar 27 at 2015 9:55 PM

SPC Trinity Downing — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 21:55:49 -0400

You should always eat in order of rank. Lowest rank first and go up from there, Company, Battalion, Brigade, and Post commanders last.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 9:57 PM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 21:57:31 -0400

I think the more interesting item of discussion should now revolve around the fact that the comments support lower ranking individuals eating first but the voting supports commanders eating first.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 10:02 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 22:02:40 -0400

Well the original question was about a commander and his 1sg. I think it should be the 1sg. Just because he is considered the father of the company. Now it falls on the XO to do the chow thing but it is still the 1sg responsibility to make sure all of the men are fed before him.

Response by SPC Clifton Sommer made Mar 27 at 2015 11:57 PM

SPC Clifton Sommer — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 23:57:42 -0400

The leader at each level should eat after the troops in his/her charge, provided all are eating together, i.e. squad leader eats after the squad, platoon sergeant after the platoon, etc., when they are eating together. In situations where troops of certain ranks eat separately (ok as long as the food and service are the same), that wouldn't apply.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 28 at 2015 12:48 AM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 00:48:01 -0400

Seriously people... the food is NOT that good to fight for first dibs...

Response by SFC David Cook made Mar 28 at 2015 1:32 AM

SFC David Cook — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 01:32:27 -0400

The command team together should eat last and eat together, so really one spot in line does not matter that much.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 28 at 2015 8:33 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 08:33:45 -0400

leadership

Response by PO1 John Meyer, CPC made Mar 28 at 2015 8:33 AM

PO1 John Meyer, CPC — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 08:33:47 -0400

I've always hated the way the Navy does it.

E-1s through E-6s eat in the general mess, E-7s though E-9s eat in their own mess (the Chief's Mess), and officers eat in the officer's mess. What I had issue with is E-6s having head of the line privileges and too many of them going to eat prior to allowing their juniors to go.

They say that rank has it privileges, but really... it should be more about taking care of your juniors than yourself.

My job in the Navy always required me to stand watches ("choose your rate; choose your fate" as we say in the Navy). As such, when I became the senior person on watch, I always let my juniors go to eat first while I waited for them so they could relive me so I could eat. You treat your juniors right and they will almost always return the favor.

This is something that I've carried into my after-the-military career.

I work in a very busy orthopedic clinic in the front office and we don't close down for lunch. As such, we always have at least one person manning the front desk during our regular business hours, even during lunch time. Since I'm the senior person, I always offer to allow those junior to me to go to their lunch break before me. They don't always do that, but at least I offer.

You treat your juniors right and they will almost always return the favor.

Response by CAPT Stu Merrill made Mar 28 at 2015 9:33 AM

CAPT Stu Merrill — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 09:33:32 -0400

Commanders should definitely eat last as an important symbolic display of respect and appreciation for the Troops that work so hard to support the peace.

This should happen across all of the Armed Services not just those with ground troops.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Mar 28 at 2015 10:05 AM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 10:05:08 -0400

Me. I need to lose weight anyways :-)

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 28 at 2015 11:06 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 11:06:20 -0400

The Commander and 1SG should eat together but after all of the troops have eaten or received their food. This trickles down to the Platoon and Squad levels as well. I have two major reasons for this. First, it shows you care about your subordinates and shows a courtesy to the hardest working members of the team. Second, if the Commander eats last, he can ensure that all of his troops have had the same amount of time or greater than he or she has had to eat. This is particularly useful for follow-on activities and formations. If the Commander can eat in a certain amount of time, there is no reason the troops shouldn't be able to finish.

Response by Capt Jeff S. made Mar 28 at 2015 11:38 AM

Capt Jeff S. — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 11:38:46 -0400

A real leader leads by example and makes sure his men are taken care of before he tends to himself and/or sits down to eat. In so doing, he sets the example of self-less leadership for his subordinates to follow.

Would you think more highly of your Commander if he made everyone wait so he could go through the line first? Probably not. But you WOULD follow a man or woman who, by their actions, demonstrated your worth to them.

Response by LTC Theodore Sargent made Mar 28 at 2015 1:30 PM

LTC Theodore Sargent — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 13:30:08 -0400

In the field, CDR and Top eat last to ensure all have eaten, AND, you get to look at all of your soldiers, check them, see if they are limping, dirty, needs attention, and you look each of them in the eye. Let them see you too. Talk to them. Gage how its going. Follow the 1sg's lead in conversation. You are a team, but he is channel to you. Do this, and when you are on base, and the CDR and 1sg have meetings and crap to do, a soldier understands if you need to go first.

Response by SFC John Brooks made Mar 28 at 2015 2:05 PM

SFC John Brooks — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 14:05:23 -0400

I don't recall ever being "taught" it per se, but I always understood it as an implied task with taking care of my Soldiers. If they haven't eaten yet, neither have I.

Response by CN Jay Thomas made Mar 28 at 2015 2:21 PM

CN Jay Thomas — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 14:21:35 -0400

It never mattered to me as long as I got something to eat.

Response by MGySgt Charles Gordon made Mar 28 at 2015 3:30 PM

MGySgt Charles Gordon — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 15:30:07 -0400

A true leader will always insure that the troops have been fed before feeding himself. Rest assured that the dining hall supervisor is not going to run out of a meal if he knows the Commander is eating last, however that will not be the case if he knows that the Commander will eat first. Leadership by setting the example.

Response by SSG Lance Sawyer made Mar 28 at 2015 4:43 PM

SSG Lance Sawyer — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 16:43:04 -0400

I think this is a bit of a loaded question. When our company eats at our home station then yes reverse order. When in a combat zone you stand in line like everybody else. That's my opinion.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 28 at 2015 7:01 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 19:01:43 -0400

In a company the CO and 1SG should eat last so they share the success or failure of their ability to feed their troops (this doesn't always have a bad outcome!)!

Response by SFC Michael Peterson made Mar 28 at 2015 7:19 PM

SFC Michael Peterson — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 19:19:47 -0400

The highest ranking person in the group should eat last. A Squad Leader taking his squad to chow should have his Soldiers go in front of him. It would be the same for a Platoon Sergeant and his Squad Leaders or a Company Commander and his Platoon Leaders.

Response by SPC Andrew Wilcox made Mar 28 at 2015 8:04 PM

SPC Andrew Wilcox — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 20:04:29 -0400

Depends on the situation. If it's in a dining facility its first come first serve. In the field, where there may be limited food or limited time to eat, leadership would eat last. At least that's how we did it in the 1st ID in Iraq.

Response by LTC Hillary Luton made Mar 28 at 2015 8:30 PM

LTC Hillary Luton — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 20:30:48 -0400

From my days as a cadet, until I retired, I was always taught that the commander eats last. As an officer, I always waited until all enlisted had a chance through the chow line before I got in line. I usually kept myself busy with work for an extra 20 minutes or so to give the line time to die down before I even went near it. Sometimes that meant, we ran out of food before I had a chance to eat, and I would have to run out and grab something in a drive through and bring it back.
If I was in a mess hall and an enlisted Soldier came in behind me, I allowed him/her to go ahead of me. It has nothing to do with chivalry and everything to do with leadership being responsible for their subordinates. As the saying goes, the buck stops here and its lonely at the top. Rank may have its privileges, but it also has its responsibilities and taking care of Soldiers is No. 1 on that list.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 28 at 2015 8:33 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 20:33:00 -0400

I will be the last to eat in my company if my Commander and 1SG are not around!

Response by SrA Kevin OConnor made Mar 28 at 2015 9:17 PM

SrA Kevin OConnor — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 21:17:56 -0400

Those who do the heavy lifting physically should be taken care of first, which in most cases is the junior enlisted.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2015 2:37 AM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Mar 2015 02:37:07 -0400

Leadership should eat last in order of their element going through the line. Squad leaders follow their squad. Platoon Sergeants and Leaders follow their platoon, etc..

Response by SGT Jim Z. made Mar 29 at 2015 10:33 AM

SGT Jim Z. — Sun, 29 Mar 2015 10:33:37 -0400

Really I could care less but as leader it is my responsibility to ensure my Soldiers are cared for and if that means I eat last then so be it.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2015 10:36 AM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Mar 2015 10:36:17 -0400

It depends. In garrison whoever is in line first eats first. In the field I was always taught (and practiced) that leaders ate after the troops.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2015 11:11 AM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Mar 2015 11:11:09 -0400

Couple of thoughts on this, first there is no shortage of food...so sort of an academic point. I will say that having been a Sq/CC, I would likely eat last and take the chance to mill around among the troops to see how they were doing and just be visible to them!

Response by SGT Richard Ellis made Mar 29 at 2015 12:10 PM

SGT Richard Ellis — Sun, 29 Mar 2015 12:10:18 -0400

Dependents, Junior enlisted, NCO's, Jr officres thru top officers.
But during breakfast, I asked my NCOIC to bring me coffee back, since I was never a breakfast person.

Although, when I was at Keesler AFB in 2005 when we were hit by Hurricane Katrina, once a DFAC was open, I noticed the officers and Sr enlisted would make sure that they were towards the front of the line, even before the trainees, (E-1 thru E-3's). This was a total disgrace.

Then when I got to my Air Guard unit, of course Officers and Sr NCO's made sure they were first in line at Chow EVERY time. This included up to the Wing level.

Response by SFC Michael Jackson, MBA made Mar 29 at 2015 12:27 PM

SFC Michael Jackson, MBA — Sun, 29 Mar 2015 12:27:57 -0400

I know its protocol to use rank progression from Soldier to Officer to determine this. However, i really don't care if a commander has a sandwich before me as long as there's enough sandwiches for everybody. A good leader should know if has enough food for his troops up front.
In case anybody is wondering, No i didn't eat before my Soldiers. I maintained protocol, but when it comes to basic necessities like food/water. I see Solders, not rank and we all need it. I need my commander to command and make decisions. It hurts the team just as much or more if he starves to death

Response by SGT Mark Sullivan made Mar 29 at 2015 3:26 PM

SGT Mark Sullivan — Sun, 29 Mar 2015 15:26:09 -0400

In the spirit of lead by example, and lead from the front, the commander should eat last and allow his troopers to have first pick.

Response by SFC Anthony Scionti made Mar 29 at 2015 4:39 PM

SFC Anthony Scionti — Sun, 29 Mar 2015 16:39:50 -0400

I agree with the others, leadership eats last but sometimes 1SG needs to take care of his CO.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2015 7:20 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Mar 2015 19:20:09 -0400

Subordinates first

Response by TSgt Kevin Buccola made Mar 29 at 2015 10:03 PM

TSgt Kevin Buccola — Sun, 29 Mar 2015 22:03:32 -0400

i look at this way...When I host dinners and trust me, we host a lot. The Host always eats last...my job is to make sure everyone else it taken care of first...So the Host eats last and that is all I have to say.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2015 11:09 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Mar 2015 23:09:58 -0400

With limited chow or in the Field the Soldiers eat first. At a chow hall, first come first serve

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2015 3:13 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Mar 2015 03:13:59 -0400

I know that my leadership always make sure their people eat first. I was working during a mission and I didn't want to leave my equipment to eat because i was having to do 10 things at once. My team leader made sure that the others on my team and I at least had food (even if I wasn't going to eat it right then) before he sat down to eat.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2015 8:53 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Mar 2015 08:53:54 -0400

All Leaders eat last

Response by CDR David Singer made Apr 1 at 2015 8:29 PM

CDR David Singer — Wed, 01 Apr 2015 20:29:07 -0400

The congressmen and women that send our troops into harms way due to poor leadership and judgement should eat last!!!

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2015 8:19 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 02 Apr 2015 20:19:43 -0400

In Garrison, senior NCOs and officers may well have more meetings to go to, so I have no problem with them eating first.

In the Field, the Commander and First Sergeant eat last in every good unit I've been in.

Response by SFC Stephen Hester made Apr 10 at 2015 1:16 PM

SFC Stephen Hester — Fri, 10 Apr 2015 13:16:11 -0400

Unfortunately we have to choose one otherwise I would have picked both the 1SG and the Commander. It's the commander's prerogative to eat last but a good First Sergeant will be the last one in line whenever possible.

Response by SFC Douglas Duckett made Apr 10 at 2015 1:18 PM

SFC Douglas Duckett — Fri, 10 Apr 2015 13:18:53 -0400

Senior Element Leader Present as mission dictates. The Senior Element Leader Present should always ensure that his/her troops are taken care of prior to their comfort whenever possible. This goes for Team Leaders up through the ranks. Just keep in mind mission, force disposition, and other factors can change this general rule.

The survey missed this important aspect, so I penciled it in under others.

Response by PO2 Corey Ferretti made Apr 10 at 2015 2:43 PM

PO2 Corey Ferretti — Fri, 10 Apr 2015 14:43:59 -0400

Lower enlisted; I watched a Master Chief Kick out of line the officers and some senior enlisted. Then yell at them "lower enlisted eat first". His thought process take care of your junior troops they are the ones hoofing it out. Also almost forgot about a Skipper i had who would let junior enlisted skip in front of him at the Galley.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 10 at 2015 3:02 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Apr 2015 15:02:40 -0400

My last unit when I was a SPC(P) and 7 months pregnant, I let the Privates and other Specialists go before me. At home, I eat last.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 10 at 2015 4:19 PM

2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Apr 2015 16:19:53 -0400

The Officer and First Sergeant should eat last to ensure that the Soldier's are feed first. When Soldiers see's this, it shows that the Leadership really cares about the Soldiers welfare.

Response by SSG Thomas Brousseau made Apr 11 at 2015 6:28 AM

SSG Thomas Brousseau — Sat, 11 Apr 2015 06:28:50 -0400

First come first serve. What you can't see the frickin line!

Response by CPT Alec L. made Apr 11 at 2015 9:28 AM

CPT Alec L. — Sat, 11 Apr 2015 09:28:37 -0400

Judgment, folks, Judgment.
In the field the men eat, the NCOs eat and then the officers, in rank order, eat. In garrison the officers usually go to the front of the line.
This makes sense. In the field there is the possibility of going hungry. Not so in garrison.
Plus, it sends the troops a small message that these leaders are going to take care of you.
Yes, RHIP, but in its place.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Apr 11 at 2015 10:23 AM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 11 Apr 2015 10:23:58 -0400

1SG and CO eats last.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 11 at 2015 11:09 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Apr 2015 11:09:55 -0400

Leaders

Response by TSgt Wesley R. Forsberg made Apr 11 at 2015 11:13 AM

TSgt Wesley R. Forsberg — Sat, 11 Apr 2015 11:13:11 -0400

The leadership of a unit should be the ones who eat last, to ensure their troops have the food they need, and then the leadership should be the last through the line, and the commander bringing up the end to ensure their personnel have the appropriate amount of food.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 11 at 2015 2:03 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Apr 2015 14:03:50 -0400

I have always been taught and, more importantly, observed my leaders and higher ranking eat after junior Soldiers. Low to high always.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2015 9:59 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 09:59:28 -0400

Senior NCO's and Officers should always eat last. That way we know the troops have enough food and it is hot (if facilities exist). It has been said before that the most important person in the military is the Private soldier. He is our charge, we are there to support him, the fulfilment of the units mission depends on him. If he knows the leadership cares about his welfare in word and more importantly, action, he will do what ever is asked of him.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 19 at 2015 6:39 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 19 Apr 2015 18:39:37 -0400

Leaders should eat last. Period. As a platoon sergeant the needs of my Soldiers come before mine.

Response by CH (COL) Geoff Bailey made Apr 19 at 2015 8:02 PM

CH (COL) Geoff Bailey — Sun, 19 Apr 2015 20:02:38 -0400

The senior person in the group should ensure all within his/her group eats first. In the field, this requires checking on all your personnel and ensuring they and their equipment are squared away. It's not about eating, but leadership as a customary act which occurs as frequently as eating.

Response by SSG Warren Hall made Apr 19 at 2015 10:26 PM

SSG Warren Hall — Sun, 19 Apr 2015 22:26:35 -0400

I have always been a believer in command eats last in order to make sure his troops get fed. When I was a Squad Leader I made sure my Squad ate before I did, I did the same with my Team, in this way I made sure my troops got fed. I do believe that this should move up the chain, ie: Team, Squad, Platoon, Company, so on and so forth, to the top.

Response by SFC Donald Penrod Penrod made Apr 19 at 2015 10:55 PM

SFC Donald Penrod Penrod — Sun, 19 Apr 2015 22:55:00 -0400

I think that the platoon sergeant and the squad leaders should eat last do to making shire that all of there troops have eaten then they can eat.

Response by Maj Joseph Osborne made Apr 19 at 2015 11:45 PM

Maj Joseph Osborne — Sun, 19 Apr 2015 23:45:23 -0400

Always and without fail, the commander.

Response by SSG Michael Scott made Apr 22 at 2015 12:13 PM

SSG Michael Scott — Wed, 22 Apr 2015 12:13:42 -0400

NCOs.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2015 3:00 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 24 Apr 2015 15:00:30 -0400

I am at this time the platoon sgt but also the food ops but I have always let the lower enlisted get in line ahead of me to eat first to include the KPs so I am one of the last ones to go through the chow line to eat

Response by A1C Charles D Wilson made Apr 27 at 2015 10:33 PM

A1C Charles D Wilson — Mon, 27 Apr 2015 22:33:24 -0400

I voted other due to the way I was raised. Even as a second child I tried to eat last for family came first. So any brother in arms is hungry...chow down I can get some when I am hungry. lol

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2015 10:50 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 27 Apr 2015 22:50:05 -0400

The commander should eat last and get the Omelet MRE as a result!

Response by SSG Arnie Jones made Apr 27 at 2015 10:55 PM

SSG Arnie Jones — Mon, 27 Apr 2015 22:55:13 -0400

Tactical. Find the best MRE you can, top off water and eat when you can. Soldier's First!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 28 at 2015 2:29 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 28 Apr 2015 14:29:53 -0400

Family and civilian guests first - junior enlisted next - followed by senior enlisted, then all others. I've never paid attention to Officers eating - I figured you all just ate whenever. No offense intended - I worry about my guys/gals eating first.

Response by MSgt Rob Weston made May 8 at 2015 12:22 PM

MSgt Rob Weston — Fri, 08 May 2015 12:22:03 -0400

Like many others Leaders eat last, not only have I always ensured my troops eat before I; I practice the same at home, the wife and kids get their plate before I do.

Response by PFC Tuan Trang made May 10 at 2015 7:18 AM

PFC Tuan Trang — Sun, 10 May 2015 07:18:17 -0400

In the chow hall or any dining facility, If there a higher officer or nco, let them eat first. Or unless the officer or nco tell you to eat first.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2015 9:46 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 May 2015 21:46:02 -0400

The commander eats last, but if there are people who don't make it, leadership should always make and save a plate for when whoever gets back.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2015 9:54 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 May 2015 21:54:30 -0400

I voted Commander, however that comes with qualifications. Leadership shouldn't necessarily eat last, they should however make sure their subordinates actually get food. On the other hand we all know that leadership (Senior NCOs, officers) have a multitude of duties (meetings...) they have to ensure get completed. This sometimes means that there is no time to stand around waiting for all the Soldiers to get food. Yes good time management should alleviate this issue, but we all know murphy is a jerk and will screw up the best time management.

In this type of situation I have been known to skip the hot chow, grab an MRE and get my work done. On the other hand, hypocritically I know, I have often forbidden Soldiers from eating MREs instead of their hot meal just because they don't like the meal being served or they are too lazy to get over to the chow line.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2015 10:12 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 May 2015 22:12:45 -0400

Leader is last. Because your guys need to eat first and get back out there.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2015 10:32 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 May 2015 22:32:05 -0400

In my unit the leadership will always eat last, so the commander, 1SG, and I alway get what is left over. That is fine as long as all of my soldiers are fed.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made May 20 at 2015 10:40 PM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Wed, 20 May 2015 22:40:30 -0400

I bring my breakfast, lunch and depending on shift, I bring my dinner as well so I will eat when ever I want. I don't work regular duty hours of 0900 - 1700 so I tell my Soldiers to be smart and bring their meals in the event they can not get away to get something to eat. I will make sure my Soldier get a chance to eat but people come first and so eating might have to wait. It is just the way it is. If we are in the field training, they will eat first of course.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made May 20 at 2015 11:55 PM

SPC Charles Brown — Wed, 20 May 2015 23:55:36 -0400

The most senior ranking individual present. Always!

Response by SSG Roger Ayscue made May 21 at 2015 12:27 AM

SSG Roger Ayscue — Thu, 21 May 2015 00:27:42 -0400

Soldiers before leaders, NCOs before Officers.

Here is the logic on this bear with me and it will all be clear.

I was taught by a very wise Army leader COL Frank Walton, Prof of Military Science at West Point, that the things a leader never messed with was his troops: 1) Sleep, 2) Chow, and 3) Mail.

tired Soldiers do not perform to peek, so let tem rest when it is appropriate, Hungry Soldiers do not do anything well, and Mail is a tangible link to what they love back home.

In the Mess Hall, or the Chow Line, if a Soldier sees the new Platoon Leader pull a Nice Fried Chicken Breast and taters and gravy, but when the soldier gets up there, he gets a neckbone and the smell of gravy, that Soldier forms a bad impression of his leaders and their desire and ability to take care of Him.

As leaders we MUST be seen by our troops as caring about their welfare, NOTICE I DID NOT SAY make them LIKE us...NO NO NO, that Soldier needs to KNOW we care about his welfare and no matter what it is, we will look out for him as best we can. It may be a little thing, to give up the last cookie to a private, but Fellow Leaders, we can never take what little the young troopers have. Never gamble with them, never borrow or take from them, and Never use your position for gain or comfort...Bravo 1-3November...OUT

Response by MAJ Keira Brennan made May 21 at 2015 3:29 PM

MAJ Keira Brennan — Thu, 21 May 2015 15:29:19 -0400

I've always felt that the CoC should put its people first. And since the advent of subsistence allowances for officers a zillion years ago - we in the officer corps should be last even when paying..IMHO

Response by SrA Edward Vong made May 28 at 2015 4:00 PM

SrA Edward Vong — Thu, 28 May 2015 16:00:45 -0400

First come first serve.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2015 1:38 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 11 Dec 2015 13:38:41 -0500

Leaders - Officers and SNCOs alike.

Response by SGT Jose Perdelia-Torres made Dec 19 at 2015 7:59 PM

SGT Jose Perdelia-Torres — Sat, 19 Dec 2015 19:59:39 -0500

I only worried about my team or squad. They are ate before me. That is the way i was taught and the way i followed. This is only concerning the chow hall

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 19 at 2015 9:48 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 19 Dec 2015 21:48:54 -0500

Sir, easy question with an easy answer. Officers should eat after their men. Leadership on display.

Response by SFC Stephen King made Dec 20 at 2015 8:14 AM

SFC Stephen King — Sun, 20 Dec 2015 08:14:18 -0500

All ranks lower than you.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 25 at 2015 2:04 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 Dec 2015 14:04:51 -0500

I never really cared myself , first come first serve.If I get in line first I eat first. If I come last I eat last. It's a nice gesture though.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 14 at 2016 8:53 AM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 14 Mar 2016 08:53:13 -0400

Depends on the situation. In general...leadership eats last with the highest ranking person eating last. Now, that's a bumper sticker and doesn't fit with every situation. Just saying, "Leadership," or "officers," doesn't work. If you are in a tactical scenario where food is possibly going to run out, leaders take care of their soldiers by ensuring they have all eaten first. That's where this "tradition" comes from. It's about taking care of Soldiers, not about who has priority in line. That's the way it works. Now, if you have people coming in and out due to patrols or missions, that can't happen. If you are in a gigantic FOB where the DFAC is open all the time and people are hitting the mess hall after their gym time and MWR visit, that can't happen. This is about ensuring that the food available goes your Soldiers. It isn't about looks or perception and a simple answer, while satisfying, is less than correct.

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Mar 14 at 2016 2:25 PM

Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth — Mon, 14 Mar 2016 14:25:32 -0400

Leadership should always eat last...It is their duty to train, mentor, educate and ensure the morale of their men and women. That includes Good hot chow when you can get it or making sure there are enough MRE's before you take one. I had a general mentor one time tell me to never forget...it is always about the Airman...the individual airman...take care of him and he will take care of the mission and you.

Response by Capt Tom Brown made Mar 14 at 2016 3:24 PM

Capt Tom Brown — Mon, 14 Mar 2016 15:24:20 -0400

This is a popular question. In my own limited experience officers always eat/ate last in the field, whether on an field exercise state-side, overseas, downrange, or in country. Being stateside or at a formal post or base, officers usually used a separate mess facility, dining facility, or dining room, as did staff NCOs.(E6-E9- (SNCO Mess)). On Naval ships, officers, & contractor reps ate in separately in a ward room. On a big ship they might have two seatings, O4+ early, 01-03 second seating. Of course in the Navy there is always the venerable 'Chief Mess'. Even when going through a regular chow-line in garrison or on base, which wasn't too often, officers and staff went to the head of the line as a privilege of rank. This is from some time ago, so if there have been any radical changes in the MC pls let me know for my own info..

Response by 1stLt William Jones made Mar 20 at 2016 4:12 PM

1stLt William Jones — Sun, 20 Mar 2016 16:12:40 -0400

Officers in the field last. Officers in garrison get in line. Officer of the day can go to the from.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2016 4:54 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 Mar 2016 16:54:13 -0400

Leadership eats last, however, we have to consider the context and apply common sense. A DV coming through with a tight schedule might have time constraints limiting having to wait for everyone to go in front of him/her. It is however poor taste to forcibly demand to go first.

Response by SPC James Anderson made Mar 20 at 2016 5:38 PM

SPC James Anderson — Sun, 20 Mar 2016 17:38:03 -0400

Senior NCO's. They seem to be around the troops more. Officers usually have more places to be so they should just eat when convenient to them. Even as a Spc I would have PFC's and privates move ahead of me. If its more of a field setting then just eat as you show up. People have shit to do and sometimes we waste to much time on this ceremony crap.

Response by SGT Scott Janko made Mar 20 at 2016 6:21 PM

SGT Scott Janko — Sun, 20 Mar 2016 18:21:55 -0400

Anyone in a leadership position should eat after their soldiers .

Response by MSgt Stephanie McCalister made Mar 20 at 2016 7:15 PM

MSgt Stephanie McCalister — Sun, 20 Mar 2016 19:15:04 -0400

To quote from a M*A*S*H episode (General's Personal Physician): "Now you guys always say the men come first--well do they, or don't they?"

Leadership should ALWAYS make sure their troops are taken care of before them, be it chow, pay, billets .. the only ones who should ever prioritize treatment regardless of rank... is the DOC!

An example of exceptions I wouldn't take issue with... is when alert crews or patrols were prioritized ... for good reason!

Response by SPC James Dollins made Mar 20 at 2016 7:21 PM

SPC James Dollins — Sun, 20 Mar 2016 19:21:36 -0400

Leadership! ALWAYS last.. I've had leadership NOT eat because some of their Joes were still working & couldn't get to eat! There are times where I didn't get to eat, because I sent my youngsters first!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2016 8:16 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 Mar 2016 20:16:33 -0400

I agree the leadership eats last. Some exceptions might exist for people (of any rank) who have duty immediately after the meal. In the Navy, the officers, chiefs, and enlisted all east separately aboard a ship. The Navy seems be the most rank-conscious of all the services.

Response by SFC Benjamin Harrison made Mar 20 at 2016 8:44 PM

SFC Benjamin Harrison — Sun, 20 Mar 2016 20:44:42 -0400

Perhaps my line of thinking is skewed but I believe all junior enlisted should eat first, NCOs and Officers become quite debatable. I believe the Squad Leaders and Platoon Sergeant should eat after their Platoon Leader, 1SG after the Commander, Staff NCOs after their Staff Officers, etc.

This belief system has been handed down to me based on who is actually responsible for who. NCOs are responsible for every Soldier assigned to them. While Officers may get the final say when giving a direct order, NCOs have been charged with the responsibility of taking care of them. It's even written in our Creed "Officers in my unit will have ample time to accomplish their mission...", if they are waiting behind us to eat, we are not giving them ample time.

As I stated, debatable yet this is where I stand on this issue.

Response by SGM (R) Antonio Brown made Mar 20 at 2016 11:21 PM

SGM (R) Antonio Brown — Sun, 20 Mar 2016 23:21:03 -0400

I was taught, I do not remember when, that the order of chow was PVT and then you went up from there by rank with the 1SG eating last. The 1SG holds formations and is overall responsible for personnel accountability. The only way that the 1SG will know for sure that all Soldiers have gotten a plate is to stand at the entrance and count the Soldiers that come through.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2016 11:28 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 Mar 2016 23:28:46 -0400

Those who are the least hungry.

Response by SSG John Jensen made Mar 21 at 2016 1:29 AM

SSG John Jensen — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 01:29:43 -0400

promotion ceremony right before lunch, and that very new Sergeant who before was always at the front of the line was at the front of the line like before, and I took him by the sleeve and escorted him to back of the line just in front of me.

Response by PFC Anthony Bruce made Mar 21 at 2016 3:27 AM

PFC Anthony Bruce — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 03:27:54 -0400

While ideally it would be enlisted first officers last, I remember one Thanksgiving in Iraq where the base commander came in with Iraqi officers and went to the front of the line with them.

Response by MSgt Jhonathan Knuth made Mar 21 at 2016 4:36 AM

MSgt Jhonathan Knuth — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 04:36:03 -0400

I thought Commander, but then again some of them have chow runners. Like the Navy Captains. "Too busy to get their own food"

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 21 at 2016 8:02 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 08:02:53 -0400

If the basis of your question is whether the 1SG or the commander eats absolutely last when their unit is at the chow hall, then the reality is that the 1SGis going to badger you until you step in front of him and eat. The reality is that whether the commander or first sergeant eat absolutely last is somewhat irrelevant, As long as they are both the last two to go through line. As a company commander, my 1SG is always pestering me to get in line before him, and it's not worth the "fight." He eats absolutely last, and I allow him that "honor."

Response by 1LT Aaron Barr made Mar 21 at 2016 8:21 AM

1LT Aaron Barr — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 08:21:28 -0400

The highest ranking should eat last, at least that's what I was always taught. This led to occasional fun in the field when I had to order my section chiefs to go through the line and get a piece of bread or something so I could eat....

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Mar 21 at 2016 1:15 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 13:15:47 -0400

Highest Rank eats last. Even if a 1SG feels like taking care of all soldiers is his job(it is), the buck stops with the CDR - it is his ultimate responsibility. If he wishes to eat last, so be it.

Response by LTC Thomas Tennant made Mar 21 at 2016 2:06 PM

LTC Thomas Tennant — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 14:06:18 -0400

The only times I broke my rule of eating last is when my 1ST handed me and my driver a "to go" box and told me the BC had called a command meeting. Normally I just had a coup of coffee while I waited and talked to my LTs and PLT SGTs about company issues. Trust me, I never really went hungry... ;-)

Response by LTC Thomas Tennant made Mar 21 at 2016 2:07 PM

LTC Thomas Tennant — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 14:07:26 -0400

Response by SPC(P) Alexandra Hinds made Mar 21 at 2016 6:54 PM

SPC(P) Alexandra Hinds — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 18:54:11 -0400

I cannot simply state that it should matter what rank you are to how quickly you rise in the line awaiting chow. I have had it both ways. Where a higher rank allows me to go before him/her and also, where an NCO or higher (literally) cuts in line because they believe they have the "ultimate" power of the line. Yes, I do believe ranks matter, obviously and they do play an important role in our Military system. However, when you abuse that power as any, you should be put back in your place.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 22 at 2016 9:59 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Mar 2016 09:59:50 -0400

it depends on the environment. in a garrison environment eating at the chow hall/DFAC its first come ect.... in the Field lowers level eats first most senior eats last. (Modified of course it a patrol is moving out and just trying to grab something to take on the run.)
I understand the question though. In Camp Liberty, Iraq their was the Pegasus DFAC that all the GO and VIPs ate at.. the only place I found better that the US embassy DFAC. They to place all kinds of rules on it from you unit is not assigned to this hall to your too dirty to eat in here. Being the political wizard that I am we just ignored the "Fobbit" at the door and had a nice meal. Having Dining areas separated by rank is not conducive in today's military but that being saig the first person in and the last person in to a DFAC should have the ability to have the same meal.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2016 1:35 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 24 Mar 2016 13:35:51 -0400

When I was a 1SG, the Company Commander and always ate last. It made sure the quality and quantity of food was maintained throughout the meal. It sent a clear, "taking care of our soldiers" message. The unit' s food service section only screwed up once. Also by standing at the head count podium, I got to see all the soldiers in an informal setting. I could make minor uniform corrections, ch as t with NCOS in line, and other informal communication.

Response by CW4 Juan Cadiz made Aug 21 at 2017 2:11 PM

CW4 Juan Cadiz — Mon, 21 Aug 2017 14:11:37 -0400

The last person in line!

Response by SSgt Boyd Welch made Aug 21 at 2017 2:21 PM

SSgt Boyd Welch — Mon, 21 Aug 2017 14:21:33 -0400

When I was an NCO, we always ate after our troops. The officers then followed us. The Leadership premise was "we take care of our troops first".

Response by CSM Andrew Perrault made Aug 21 at 2017 2:45 PM

CSM Andrew Perrault — Mon, 21 Aug 2017 14:45:18 -0400

Leadership eats last

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made May 28 at 2018 8:07 AM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Mon, 28 May 2018 08:07:56 -0400

I've already commented but here's another. Use common sense. If you have an NCO who is going on a mission or task that will not have he returned in time for that NCO to eat then it's okay to front line him or her so they can eat. Clueless individuals might whimper and complain but tell them what's going on.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made May 28 at 2018 11:06 AM

SGM Bill Frazer — Mon, 28 May 2018 11:06:45 -0400

We always ate in reverse order, NCO's next to last, Officers/Commander the very last. What if food runs short- want the troops to riot cause we/O's ate the last of it before them?

Response by SPC Denton McLaughlim made Mar 12 at 2019 4:38 PM

SPC Denton McLaughlim — Tue, 12 Mar 2019 16:38:46 -0400

Make sure your subordinates are taken care of first. They eat before you eat. If one of your bone headed privates forgets a piece if gear, they get yours.
This was the Army leadership that was instilled in me (although it wasn't always followed.)
I didn't stay in, but this is my preferred leadership style. Soldiers first.

Response by COL Jerry C. made Mar 12 at 2019 10:11 PM

COL Jerry C. — Tue, 12 Mar 2019 22:11:33 -0400

As counterintuitive as it may seem, leaders, when in contonment always eat last - after their troops. When not in contonemen, when the tactical situation permits, but again welfare of troops is always a factor.

Response by CPL Eric Bedford made Mar 13 at 2019 3:33 PM

CPL Eric Bedford — Wed, 13 Mar 2019 15:33:05 -0400

When in garrison was always first come first serve unless you were a commander, I.e. HHC co or BN co. When in the field or in a combat or combat support mission always lower rank to higher. Our soldiers cannot fight if they are hungry.

Response by COL Dominic Pileri made Mar 13 at 2019 9:51 PM

COL Dominic Pileri — Wed, 13 Mar 2019 21:51:35 -0400

During my time Officer's always ate last. Take care of the Troops.

Response by SFC Jimmy Williams made Mar 13 at 2019 10:59 PM

SFC Jimmy Williams — Wed, 13 Mar 2019 22:59:39 -0400

It is situational. Seniors eat last as a rule. But shift work, mission needs, and time constraints can make the rule impractical. Seniors eat last but everyone has to eat, especially in the combat zone.

Response by SFC Michael Arabian made Mar 14 at 2019 7:38 AM

SFC Michael Arabian — Thu, 14 Mar 2019 07:38:41 -0400

As someone who was Food Service, I never put much thought into this. I would alway served whoever whenever but I never saw where the Commder or 1SG ate before the enlisted. Most of the Chain of Command would alway wait untilright before I got ready to close the facility to eat

Response by LCpl Jeff Moore made Mar 14 at 2019 9:34 AM

LCpl Jeff Moore — Thu, 14 Mar 2019 09:34:42 -0400

E1 first, E2 next and work it ways up. When I was in and we had hot chow, the officers always went last. With sometime the CO serving food at the end to make sure we got enough chow.

Response by CPT William Jones made Mar 14 at 2019 12:36 PM

CPT William Jones — Thu, 14 Mar 2019 12:36:42 -0400

In garrison where there is plenty food generally officers and senior nco eat when they get to mess area RHIP sort of thing. However in field and any time rations may not be enough thes same officers and senior nco’s eat last to insure all their troops get chow. RHIR( rank has its responsibilities)

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 14 at 2019 9:40 PM

2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Mar 2019 21:40:18 -0400

Whoever needs to eat first should eat first. If the PL needs to get food so he can run to a briefing, maybe it makes sense for him to eat first. But barring exceptional circumstances, the leadership should fall in last, because their priority is taking care of their men. That said, if the PL keeps eating last and doesn’t get enough food for a week, he’s not gonna be able to accomplish the mission. Ultimately, whoever needs to eat first, should. All METT-TC dependent, if you will.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Mar 15 at 2019 6:26 AM

LTC John Griscom — Fri, 15 Mar 2019 06:26:27 -0400

Commander takes care of troops before self.

Response by SCPO Jason McLaughlin made Mar 15 at 2019 6:36 AM

SCPO Jason McLaughlin — Fri, 15 Mar 2019 06:36:53 -0400

People who are above maximum allowable body-fat %

Response by Lt Col Bill Fletcher made Mar 15 at 2019 10:49 AM

Lt Col Bill Fletcher — Fri, 15 Mar 2019 10:49:29 -0400

As a West Pointer I was amazed when I came into an Air Guard Unit they didn’t know this. The first time I saw the Commanders going to the front, I grabbed them and suggested we all eat last. When I explained that was how it was done, everyone agreed and it never happened again. They just didn’t know.

Response by Cpl Matt Garcia made Mar 15 at 2019 5:11 PM

Cpl Matt Garcia — Fri, 15 Mar 2019 17:11:52 -0400

During my time in the Corps, the moment you became a NCO the further back in line you went. Just part of taking care of your Marines.

Response by SGT Donald Croswhite made Mar 16 at 2019 4:51 AM

SGT Donald Croswhite — Sat, 16 Mar 2019 04:51:13 -0400

Lowest ranks eat first. Why is this a question?

Response by LCpl Darrell J. Farley Jr. made Mar 16 at 2019 11:47 AM

LCpl Darrell J. Farley Jr. — Sat, 16 Mar 2019 11:47:11 -0400

In the Marines the officers eat last in the field. In the old days during the Banana Wars the Mules and Horses ate first, then the non rates then NCO’s, LT’s,Captains, etc...

Response by 1SG Maurice P F. made Mar 16 at 2019 2:32 PM

1SG Maurice P F. — Sat, 16 Mar 2019 14:32:46 -0400

As 1SG, I was always the last enlisted to eat and asked the officers to eat after me. It didn’t go over well sat first, but once I explained it to the officers, they got on board.

Response by SPC Rick LaBonte made Mar 16 at 2019 5:13 PM

SPC Rick LaBonte — Sat, 16 Mar 2019 17:13:25 -0400

Even though I was only a Spec4, I’d put private ranks before me and hope higher ranks would do that also, it’s called leadership! You look out for those below your rank

Response by SPC Shane Jacobson made Mar 16 at 2019 11:29 PM

SPC Shane Jacobson — Sat, 16 Mar 2019 23:29:28 -0400

Leadership at the end of their company / division / battalion after that it doesn't matter.

Response by SSG Brian Edwards made Mar 17 at 2019 6:31 PM

SSG Brian Edwards — Sun, 17 Mar 2019 18:31:02 -0400

I was a plattoon Sargent in a Apache line attack company and when we're in a field environment me, Lt, 1sg, and CO WOULD ALWAYS be the last to eat with all of our guys in front of us. Didn't matter if we had half the company full of pilots they were not leaders, the leaders insure the healt and welfare of all troops assign period.

Response by SrA Kevin Piatek made Mar 18 at 2019 1:06 AM

SrA Kevin Piatek — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 01:06:27 -0400

First come first serve except for on duty security forces they go to the front of line

Response by SFC Scott Higgins made Mar 18 at 2019 7:04 AM

SFC Scott Higgins — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 07:04:03 -0400

I always made sure that my troops ate before I did. Be it squad, platoon, company. You take care of those that get the job done.. that being said, if the C.O. has a meeting with the higher ups at a specific time, occasionally he/she might need to break that rule.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Mar 18 at 2019 7:39 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 07:39:08 -0400

In the dining hall it does not matter. The tradition of eating last comes from the field. It was meant to ensure there was enough chow for the troops. As a 1SG I often ate nothing but MRE’s. Just my input.

Response by SPC Brandon Hale made Mar 18 at 2019 11:50 AM

SPC Brandon Hale — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 11:50:59 -0400

Why is this even a question? Line up, get your food, and leave.

Response by CSM Arthur Langlo Sr. made Mar 18 at 2019 1:30 PM

CSM Arthur Langlo Sr. — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 13:30:25 -0400

Ranking man always eats last in a field or tactical situation! Always ensures all soldiers are feed first!

Response by SFC Jeffrey Degenhardt made Mar 18 at 2019 1:59 PM

SFC Jeffrey Degenhardt — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 13:59:53 -0400

“Leadership eats last” is BS. They need food just like everyone else. Everyone should get in line and wait their turn. If anybody gets bumped up, it’s someone who has to relieve someone on duty that needs to eat too.

Response by Lt Col George Roll made Mar 18 at 2019 2:02 PM

Lt Col George Roll — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 14:02:53 -0400

As a unit commander of 4th Combat Comm. Gp USAF. I EITHER ATE LAST OR TOOK MY PLACE IN LINE. I often steped up to the food line as a server instead of as a patron. My First Sgt and I ate several meals a week in the Chow hall to ensure the excellent food service our troops were recieving.
In the field I always was last in the chow line, to ensure there was enough to go around and it was still hot.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2019 2:30 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 14:30:12 -0400

This is kind of a loaded question. It isn’t a written statement on this. But usually the last to get chow are platoon leaders, platoon sgts, the CO and 1SG. This way you make sure the troops get to eat.

Response by MSG Lyall Kirton made Mar 18 at 2019 3:18 PM

MSG Lyall Kirton — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 15:18:15 -0400

While I was first Sargent, I never would eat until ALL of my troops had eaten, even if they were on guard duty or on any extra duty. I would carry them their meal to them so I could eat. Sometimes it would get cold before I could get to eat the meal.

Response by CPL David Rice made Mar 18 at 2019 4:29 PM

CPL David Rice — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 16:29:27 -0400

If you as a leader do not know the answer to this question you are a manager not a leader.

Response by SSG Max Goodman made Mar 18 at 2019 5:01 PM

SSG Max Goodman — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 17:01:20 -0400

As a former 92G we always eat last which means I was usually the last of the last to eat. Troops first leader's second. No Gerneral should eat before a troop if he does he needs to plan better or ask to be served early if needed be.

Response by LTJG James Tipton made Mar 18 at 2019 7:31 PM

LTJG James Tipton — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 19:31:06 -0400

The order shall be squad members then squad leader in the order assigned by the platoon leader then the platoon sgt then platoon leader the platoons are in the order assigned by the company commander after all platoons is the 1sg then company xo then company commander after all companys is the CSM then battalion staff then battalion xo then battalion commander then it goes by rank/position!

Response by CPO Jim Maxin made Mar 18 at 2019 7:58 PM

CPO Jim Maxin — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 19:58:39 -0400

The junior enlisted eat first. Officers have their own mess which they pay for.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2019 10:52 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 22:52:56 -0400

This is so fuckin dumb. It's a line for food, first come first serve

Response by SSG Marshall Paul made Mar 18 at 2019 11:50 PM

SSG Marshall Paul — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 23:50:46 -0400

I am surprised that there is a debate. In the 60s, it was common practice that your troops ate first. Has something changed?

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 19 at 2019 9:04 AM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Mar 2019 09:04:24 -0400

Senior leadership eats last. That way the lower enlisted are sure to get food. I would rather my soldiers eat a hot meal. It is a morale boost and I can always make do with an MRE.

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Mar 29 at 2019 11:56 PM

SSgt Daniel d'Errico — Fri, 29 Mar 2019 23:56:23 -0400

The first sgt always eats last. Because he must insure that everyone including the commander is fed, the personnel of the company, squadron, whatever, they do the work, labor and need their nourishment. The commander has to be able to lead/direct his subourdinates at all times. The First sgt has to ensure that everyone is able to work and be in shape inorder to be effective.

Response by Maj John Bell made Mar 30 at 2019 11:51 PM

Maj John Bell — Sat, 30 Mar 2019 23:51:24 -0400

No senior eats until every subordinate eats a full ration.

Response by PO2 Michael Henry made Mar 31 at 2019 1:29 PM

PO2 Michael Henry — Sun, 31 Mar 2019 13:29:02 -0400

If there is one meal left and if they can't agree, split it. However, it should be the CO who eats last.

Response by SSgt Terry P. made Mar 31 at 2019 9:39 PM

SSgt Terry P. — Sun, 31 Mar 2019 21:39:54 -0400

LTC Private RallyPoint Member I understand that this was a debate between you and your 1stSgt.
My opinion would be made according to the availability of the food.I would agree with the 1stSgt if some crisis was involved,in reality,if such a crisis existed,the food would probably be shared. At least,that is what happened with us when we did not receive supplies for 45 days on LZ Ryder in 1969.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Mar 31 at 2019 9:50 PM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Sun, 31 Mar 2019 21:50:39 -0400

I figure whoever gets in line first, everyone had difference schedules and not everyone can eat at exactly the same time. In situations where people have to be relieved by someone else to eat they may need to eat quickly and not have much time. Why get hung up on who eats first ? I'd also say no cutting in the line. If I arrived with My own people I'd go after My Troops and make sure they got fed and just take a place at the back of that portion of the line.

Response by 1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2019 2:54 PM

1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 14:54:47 -0400

The Commander eats last, but by god don't let Top hear you say that...

Response by SGT Richard H. made Apr 4 at 2019 3:18 PM

SGT Richard H. — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 15:18:51 -0400

NCOs. I've always operated under the idea that leadership eats last, however, I've also never really considered officers a part that equation. In a field environment, enlisted from SNCOs on down typically operate in a group setting, and officers just don't. Thinking at the Platoon level, the PSG & Squad leaders are rarely separate from the platoon, while the PL sometimes is, sometimes isn't....he's got commitments at the CO/BN level so he should just fit it in before, during, or after as his schedule dictates. Moving up the chain, I don't see much change in that notion.

Response by 1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2019 4:25 PM

1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 16:25:03 -0400

Fun story related to this...back when I was a cadet, my Commander was my mentor and he was a firm believer that leaders eat last. Thus, cadets would eat after enlisted but before commissioned Officers in my company. He was also a believer that every once in a while, our Officers should take a rotation in the field serving chow to Soldiers so that we could do an eyes-on wellness check and verbal "how ya doin'" with everyone who went through the line. It was my turn, and I saw a staff officer, O3 type, cut people ahead of everyone, including fresh out of basic privates. I served her chow, but I (admittedly, passive-agressively) remarked "leaders eat last!" She scolded me, insisted leaders should be front loaded because we have briefings and such to attend, and how dare I question that? She was a Captain; I was a cadet, so I apologized and gave her the name of my commander at her request so that he could counsel me (he just laughed at her when she reported me), but lessons learned: I never schedule briefings during chow unless necessary, and if i have to, I just make sure that the field feeding section holds plates for those stuck in briefings. There are alternatives to cutting joes in line. Leaders eat last!

Response by LTJG Kevin Matthews made May 13 at 2019 3:10 PM

LTJG Kevin Matthews — Mon, 13 May 2019 15:10:13 -0400

This is where I had problems transitioning from the Army to the Coast Guard. In the Army no officer would dream of eating prior to the people he is responsible for. In my experience with the Coast Guard it's the reverse. Everything was all about " Taking care of the Old Man", i.e. the Captain. When we weren't eating in the wardroom it was CO first, officers went next, followed by the chiefs, then 1st class, all the way down to non rates. Fortunately we never ran out of food, but in the back of my mind I always wondered what would happen if all the choice bits were gone and the non-rate you're counting on to not run you aground at the helm gets nothing but a few bits of lettuce. When I asked about this I was told it was tradition, that rank has its privileges, that it encouraged people to move up. That might be the case but I still felt very uncomfortable with it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2019 5:50 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 24 May 2019 17:50:44 -0400

Honestly as a 2nd line supervisor the people under me do the most work, meaning that private or reclass spc literally lifts or works harder than I do(deployed) therefore I can go without if they are taken care of as best as I can, within the constraints of time, however easily overcome by asking for to go plates

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 29 at 2019 9:19 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 29 Jun 2019 09:19:22 -0400

I say 1SG... I don’t know how many times I had to force my PL to come eat when I was PSG. Officers forget to eat lol... 1SGs know to eat and sleep at odd times (get it in when you can). Of course if you know both of you have been getting meals then they could alternate.

Response by 1stSgt Joseph Taylor made Nov 14 at 2019 2:47 PM

1stSgt Joseph Taylor — Thu, 14 Nov 2019 14:47:04 -0500

NCOs and Officers always eat AFTER all the junior enlisted have been fed. If there is not enough chow, that is a Leadership failure

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2020 1:30 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Apr 2020 13:30:48 -0400

This is an old question but it should go lowest to highest rank based on how you arrived.