Why do SNCO, WO, and high-ranking Officers get their own parking spaces at stores on post? Aren't we supposed to be treated equally?

2016-10-10T22:31:46-04:00

Response by ENS Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2016 10:46 PM

2016-10-10T22:46:26-04:00

With rank comes privilege.

You are by no means equal to someone of a different rank or pay grade. This is why we have a rank structure. We are paid differently, treated different, and have different expectations. Someone who has earned that rank (and don't get that confused, they have absolutely earned their rank) has earned the right to certain privileges. Whether it is a parking spot or better living conditions, that's just military life. It's how it has always been and will continue to remain. The hierarchy ensures obedience and good military order and discipline.

Also, with rank comes a lot more responsibility. Your Commanding Officer does not have all day to wait in line for a haircut or to find parking. Usually they have so little liberty time to themselves, they are given a privilege to assist them in completing certain tasks. From my experience, O5s and above work longer hours than any enlisted rank I know..With what they are doing, their time is literally more valuable than yours.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2016 11:09 PM

2016-10-10T23:09:46-04:00

No. High school principals get their own parking spaces, CEOs get their own parking spaces, store managers get their own parking spaces. It's the same concept. Personally, I don't care, as I park as far back as possible to avoid some idiot putting a dent in my truck. I also enjoy the longer walk.

Also, with how I think I don't see a person with a higher rank as someone who is better than me. I see them as someone who has more experience and has put in more time than me. I figure they earned that parking spot.

Response by PO2 Sam Corean made Oct 10 at 2016 11:18 PM

2016-10-10T23:18:02-04:00

*sigh* man, am I glad to be out of the military. As an E5, I went from being a faceless worker bee in the Navy, scrubbing bilges, to getting a job as a Quality Engineer the day I got out (with Bradley Morris' help). Within 6 months, I was the Production Manager with 150 direct reports. 2 yrs later, was the Operation manager responsible for the production of a tier one automotive supply plant with 200 hundred hourly and 3 department heads directly reporting. 4 yrs after that I was a plant manager with almost 400 folks reporting to me. I had my own parking spot that I turned into the employee of the month parking (hourly folks only, staff need not apply). Here's some advice:
Serve your time honorably. Learn everything you can - most importantly, learn how to treat people well (all people) and how to not treat people (both are equally important lessons). Use the military to further your education. And be confident that when you get out, many of the shackles and politics that enlisted guys face while in fall away and you can achieve whatever you set your heart to achieve for you and your family.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2016 11:21 PM

2016-10-10T23:21:52-04:00

No, we should not be treated equally. Rank does have privileges, and also much responsibility. It is exactly the same way in the civilian world.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2016 11:36 PM

2016-10-10T23:36:02-04:00

Isn't there a latrine somewhere that needs cleaning, specialist? HOAH? :D

Response by SPC Erich Guenther made Oct 10 at 2016 11:43 PM

2016-10-10T23:43:13-04:00

Thats still going on? Does the CSM still get a reserved space at the PX? Same bottom line as Married lives off post vs Single Soldier lives in the barracks parking. It may not make sense when your in uniform but once you get out and see it on the Civilian side of the fence, you'll accept it. It's not just the Army that does that......in other words.

BTW, some day when you get older and ask a CSM or 1SG a good portion of them will tell you they could have been just as happy without but this is what the Army does. Same deal with the "gentlemans version" of Airborne and Air Assault school. Not sure if they still do that but they used to.

Response by SSG Jessica Bautista made Oct 11 at 2016 12:03 AM

2016-10-11T00:03:34-04:00

Um, what.. Maybe if they were born a LTC or CSM, but equality doesn't cover rank. That's why the lowest ranking soldier is the first to take their promask off to see if the environment is safe. Same goes for landmines, busy work, awful details in general..

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Oct 11 at 2016 12:43 AM

2016-10-11T00:43:49-04:00

Had to chuckle because of some of the results. First, I always told my wife to park in the O6 spot because she'd otherwise take up an E2 slot. I remember when Adak was winding down, there was a space that over a few year period kept getting knocked down to Over O4. I parked a Govt vehicle there and the MPs were more interested in who was out there. O6? We didn't know. Can you speak at our coffee clutch tomorrow? Sure. At Port Hueneme, the O Club took pride in putting "Any Ensign" on the last space out front. Lot of that is honor system nowadays due to the removal of base or rank stickers. So I park at the BX at Fairchild in a GEN/COL spot and the MPs see me getting out in my shorts and sandals. Thought I wasn't dressed well enough so they shook me down, politely of course. A great chance to say some kind words to the folk keeping us safe. BTW rank is designed to ensure people are not equal in most things. Same goes in the outside world. Equal in ability to vote, equal in the requirement to pay taxes, equal in the pride we take. Enjoy your nonequal journey.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2016 1:04 AM

2016-10-11T01:04:24-04:00

Using current pay chart, base pay only:
COL-20 years: $9,847.80/month
Using a 40 hour work week/160 hour work month: $61.55/hour
CSM-20 years: $5,804.70/month
Using a 40 hour work week/160 hour work month: $36.28/hour

Think of the time it takes to find a parking spot, driving around the lot, then walking two-three football fields to the office. Multiply that time by 5 days and we can approximate this takes 60 minutes per week. From a financial standpoint the COL/CSM could have give the US government that hour of productivity instead of driving around in their car.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2016 1:30 AM

2016-10-11T01:30:29-04:00

In a word.............NO

Not when it comes to the Military

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2016 2:46 AM

2016-10-11T02:46:05-04:00

No. Didn't you attend boot camp? We are not supposed to be treated equally. You salute officers. You stand at parade rest when speaking with a SNCO. An E4 is paid less than an E7 and O7. A SPC is not held responsible for the individual conduct of a hundred Soldiers, but its all part of the job for many SNCO / WO / and officers.

Response by COL William Oseles made Oct 11 at 2016 2:58 AM

2016-10-11T02:58:06-04:00

Years ago at the Fort Bliss O-Club there was a very special parking place right next to the Commanding General's: "Any Second Lieutenant". Fort Bliss had the Air Defense Artillery Officer Basic Course so their were LOTS of 2LTs. Was funny to watch the Field Grades have to walk in from the far side of the Parking Lot and see a 2LT drive up and park right next to the door, get out and salute them and follow them in.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2016 4:21 AM

2016-10-11T04:21:17-04:00

Seriously? This is a question? It's hard to believe we are even entertaining this. As soon as a SPC has done what any senior officer or nco has done throughout their career you will get your parking spot. Treat it as accidental exercise and extra pt for you when you make that long 100 meter extra walk into the px from your normal parking space. How about doing your job equally as well as your seniors or peers before asking about equality with parking. Just saying!!

Response by PO3 David Fries made Oct 11 at 2016 5:36 AM

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Nope. Sorry. Not everyone is a special snowflake.

Response by SCPO Jason McLaughlin made Oct 11 at 2016 5:40 AM

2016-10-11T05:40:27-04:00

Can someone please explain to me how this tech savvy generation of Sailors, Soldiers, Marines, and Airmen with all of the information in the world at their fingertips, numerous movies depicting military life, and endless access to millions of veterans through social media why they are surprised at how the military works?

Holy crap, the fact that with rank comes some privilege is somehow a surprise to you is disturbing.....

Response by LTC Peter Hartman made Oct 11 at 2016 6:04 AM

2016-10-11T06:04:04-04:00

I am against that idea. I park in the back away from the other cars. I need the walk.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Oct 11 at 2016 7:18 AM

2016-10-11T07:18:51-04:00

Who said the Army, or the military in general for that matter, is based on being equal? Sure, we all the same chances for success (and failure) but let's face it; with rank comes privilege. Have you stopped to think of all the hard work and stuff SNCO, WO and senior officers have had to put in for that type of stuff? If it makes you that mad, then I suggest putting your head down and get yourself promoted. After enough hard work, you will be the one in those spots.

Response by SFC Marcus Belt made Oct 11 at 2016 7:30 AM

2016-10-11T07:30:33-04:00

No, young Specialist, we are not. Nex question.

Response by SFC Christopher Perry made Oct 11 at 2016 8:04 AM

2016-10-11T08:04:07-04:00

No, you are not equal. The fact that you stand a parade rest in front of them, or render a salute when you pass them, should be a good indication of this fact.

They earned the rank and they earned the privileges that come with said rank. Hang around for a whole bunch of years, work your ass of and set the standard day in and day out... You will earn it as well.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2016 8:07 AM

2016-10-11T08:07:45-04:00

My grandpa, who is a retired O-6, always parks at the very edge of the parking lot, sometimes farther down the road. I do the same thing and my wife hates me for it, so I guess it is YOUR mindset. But onto the equality thing, quit feeling entitled. You haven't done a mere fraction as to what they have, to get where they are. The way i was always told is "it is all in due time". Don't worry, just get into your primary zone for SGT and you'll probably be promoted. 92G cut off is 230, which isn't a lot.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2016 9:06 AM

2016-10-11T09:06:00-04:00

"We're here to preserve democracy, not practice it." CAPT Frank Ramsey, Crimson Tide
Do you think you're on equal standing as a NCO, SNCO, or Officer?
I highly recommend talking to the first NCO in your NCO communication channel about this.

Response by SSG Drew Cook made Oct 11 at 2016 9:36 AM

2016-10-11T09:36:12-04:00

People here get their underwear in a knot because a SPC asked a SPC-type question. I'm ecstatic that it is something other than "Trump Killed ISIS and Saved 400 Little Christian Babies" or "Killiary Rodham Raped Bill's Desktop Computer".

Response by PO3 David Fries made Oct 11 at 2016 9:48 AM

2016-10-11T09:48:50-04:00

Even better, lets do away with rank all together. Then let some boot straight of OCS/Boot Camp run a Company/Battalion/Regiment. I bet that would work out great because everyone is equal.
/sarcasm

Response by SSG Mark Franzen made Oct 11 at 2016 11:29 AM

2016-10-11T11:29:09-04:00

There was a saying Rank Has Its Privileges So that the name of the game in military. I THINK IF YOU
STAY in AND become. a senior NCO or Officer you will understand.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Oct 11 at 2016 11:48 AM

2016-10-11T11:48:31-04:00

No, we aren't all treated equally. The military is one of the last surviving meritocracies. We reward achievement and loyalty. It's important that all service members in the same grade and circumstance be treated without discrimination. If your commander assigns extra duty to all E-3s and below in her transportation company, it's okay--maybe bad leadership, but not discrimination. People who achieve senior rank, officer, WO, or NCO, earn some perks to go along with their higher wages. My observation says they have made sacrifices to serve our country and the few additional privileges and courtesies they are provided are often meager compensation for their contribution. I'm blessed to be healthy. I consider it a way to honor achievement when I walk past parking spots reserved for O-6 commanders, general officers, and E-9s on my way to the Commissary.

Response by Sgt John Steinmeier made Oct 11 at 2016 11:59 AM

2016-10-11T11:59:12-04:00

Allow me to introduce you to yet another military acronym: RHIP
Rank Has It's Privileges

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2016 12:02 PM

2016-10-11T12:02:29-04:00

SPC Navarro, are you also one of those Soldiers that thinks it's not fair that we wear combat patches? How about working for something instead of expecting things to be handed to you. I'm quotes sure those SR Officers and NCO's have worked quite hard to get those "coveted" parking spots.

Response by PO1 Jack Howell made Oct 11 at 2016 12:20 PM

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Quit crying and suck it up. Rank has it's privileges.

Response by CSM David Heidke made Oct 11 at 2016 12:24 PM

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That's the thing... We aren't treated equally. I wasn't asked by my commander to mop the bathrooms, I was asked to make sure it happens. I generally didn't stay in the same gang barracks rooms with lower enlisted either. I had my own room, as the commander didn't stay with the rest of his officers either. The perks aren't endless... We also pay more at MWR resorts than lower enlisted. I wish lower enlisted would bellyache less about what they don't get and aspire to get what we have earned through hard work. Maybe it's a millennial thing.

Response by SGT Connor Haynes made Oct 11 at 2016 12:47 PM

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Holy dog poop batman!!! What in the world makes you think that you are equal to anyone outside of your pay grade in the military? If you were to be treated as an equal to those in command when you're just a boot then how are you expected to follow their orders? idk how long you have been in the military and I don't really care but you should know better. But I don't blame you I blame your Drill Sergeant. And to think that this kind of cancer is festering in the military makes me very sad and pissed off at the same time.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2016 1:00 PM

2016-10-11T13:00:22-04:00

I love it when someone outwits the system, at the old Fort Bellvoir PX there used to be a W2 parking spot.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2016 1:04 PM

2016-10-11T13:04:31-04:00

My CO just retired, 38 years he Served, The Master Chief 28, They have their own Parking spots because they EARNED THEM!!! We are not all Equal, that is liberal indoctrination. Did you go to OCS? Did you become Commissioned? Do you have the weight of others lives on your shoulders? Why would you think you are equal to them?

Not to be overly offensive but this question is so very typical of the millennial generation. "I want all the prestige and power of those above me with out putting in the time, energy, or having the qualifications they have" I see more and more of this on Active duty, Seaman" Why do I have to do that the PO1 isn't doing it" Seaman "Why isn't the JG helping to field day" (I kid you not on that one)
This attitude that you are owed something just for showing up is disgusting. Do 10 or 20 years get some rank, go on a few deployments, learn, put time under your belt then review this post and see how your mind has changed. See what you think of our question.

Just two cents from an Old Salt.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2016 1:48 PM

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No, this is why when you enter a vehicle or are walking next to an officer they have regulations on how to do it properly.

Response by CW3 Christian Johnson made Oct 11 at 2016 2:03 PM

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Back in the 70s the Army addressed this. They came down with directions. Parking can only be reserved for the Commanding Officer. What does that mean?? At the base level (the Exchange) it would be the base commander. At the company level it would be the Company Commander. It seems that the rules have changed a little because now I see there is a reserved space for the CSM, Gold Star parents and the list goes on. I have supported the Navy longer then I was in the Army. At the Commissary there are 12 reserved spaces in the parking lot. I can't name all of them, not worth it.
Thanks, Chris, LTC, USA Ret

Response by 1stSgt Nelson Kerr made Oct 11 at 2016 4:27 PM

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You must be joking, we do not even get treated equally when we are buried at Arlington.

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made Oct 11 at 2016 6:23 PM

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Seriously? Did someone tell you that you were equal to a General or a CSM? No one ever told me that.

Response by SFC John Durham made Oct 11 at 2016 6:27 PM

2016-10-11T18:27:14-04:00

RHIP!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2016 6:33 PM

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SPC(P) Gildardo Navarro Shouldn't you be becoming more proficient on your MOS, or trying to get promoted or something instead of worrying a parking space that is not yours or and there's absolutely nothing you can do about it?

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2016 6:43 PM

2016-10-11T18:43:25-04:00

No we're not. We have different benefit packages based on the rank. The rank is based off of time, experience, training, and a plethora of other factors.

Response by MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P made Oct 11 at 2016 8:34 PM

2016-10-11T20:34:39-04:00

The better question would be "How the blue blazes did you make it to the rank of SPC without demonstrating proficiency in understanding how the Armed Forces operates?" Your DI failed in their task miserably as has your immediate CoC. What gives you the idea a snot nosed E-4 so green they squeak when they walk rates the same recognition as a battle tested SFC, SGM, MAJ, or LTC?

Response by SSG Lyle O'Rorke made Oct 11 at 2016 9:01 PM

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My issue is not with the SMs of those tanks getting those spot but what does bow and has always upset me is their civilian spouses and kids using those spots. I grew up a military brat and did my 8 years service and always saw spouses using those spots it pissed me off always

Response by SPC(P) Gildardo Navarro made Oct 11 at 2016 9:18 PM

2016-10-11T21:18:54-04:00

Let me make some things clear, i wasn't trying to be an entitled crybaby. I was just asking a harmless question who some of you took it the wrong way and assumed i was just being a entitled crybaby. You could of just responded with'' they worked hard for it to earn it'' and not like how some of these find leaders did. (I'm not intending to disrespect no one by this statement)

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2016 9:27 PM

2016-10-11T21:27:40-04:00

Generally speaking, it is because their time is more valuable to the service and the units therein, and therefore they are afforded certain privileges that lower-ranking folks are not. Nothing really to read into there.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2016 9:28 PM

2016-10-11T21:28:52-04:00

Good question and I don't have an answer other than increased responsibility and difference in daily schedule. USMC leadership required that Officers eat last and only after all Enlisted have eaten, which is a no-brainer. The juniors do all the heavy lifting and it only makes sense, but to dispel a myth it is not a cake-walk for any Officer or Enlisted leader that is truly doing their job either. Maybe because the seniors are too broke down to walk as far...just kidding. I'm for disabled and pregnant ladies and perhaps CG and his/her Sergeant Major...because they've definitely earned it IMHO. I like the idea of special privilege for Command Marine or Serviceman of the (insert timeframe) because they've earned it also. POW's should rate also and MOH recipients but most Enlisted MOH citations end with "he gallantly gave his life for his country" so it's mostly moot there. It was fairly common for me to see seniors let juniors jump ahead at barber shop sometimes even though they didn't have to, because the juniors are on a more rigidly enforced schedule. Not likely anybody's going to jump the Master Sergeant for getting back to work on time, whereas the rest are standing tall if not back in time for formation.

Edit: Didn't mean to slight NCO's/SNCO's/LPO's by saying the zeros eat last. I should have read seniors eat last. After reading I realized it may have sounded a bit assholian. I'm sure it's the same in all services also, that we should take care of those in our charge every chance we get. As an aside Happy 241st Birthday USN! I've sailed on close to a dozen ships all over the World and anybody that doesn't believe they earn their pay should spend 6-12 months afloat and find out for themselves. Best wishes to all.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2016 9:40 PM

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SPC(P) Gildardo Navarro I don't know how it is now, but in my day reserved parking spaces were given to the leaders of the units, or in school, or the bosses. I never heard we had equality in the military. Shit has always rolled down hill.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2016 2:45 AM

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If we were equal we'd all be Tower of Power, 300 PT Studded, Ranger Tabbed bad asses but we're not.

There's a different set of rules for everything Junior Enlisted, NCO's. SNCO's, Chiefs, Officers, all different, then MOS's we all have different knowledge and different responsibilities based on rank or job. With higher rank and responsibility comes some privileges, also a clusterfuck of shit the higher you go as I understand.

Response by PO1 T.M. Ritchie made Oct 12 at 2016 10:56 AM

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There is a DOD instruction that states there is no preferred parking at non-appropriated facilities on military installations other than those mandated by federal law which is handicapped parking. That Is PX's and the Commissary and all MWR facilities. No service can implement a instruction that supersedes the DOD. It is there somewhere I don't remember the exact instruction number. You will have to look it up. Those spaces are voluntary I always park at them myself.

Response by PFC Brett Keough made Oct 12 at 2016 12:21 PM

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If we were all equal there would be no need for rank.

Response by SGT David T. made Oct 12 at 2016 12:59 PM

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Sure you are equal. If you want the space, earn it. See simple :)

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2016 2:07 PM

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Those types of privilege's are earned not given, remember the privilege of more rank is much more responsibility. That being said, I think those designated parking spaces should be solely for active duty, not retiree's or dependents because of association.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made Oct 12 at 2016 2:20 PM

2016-10-12T14:20:03-04:00

With rank comes privileges. Not sure where you got this equality issue. You will get treated according to the rank you wear.

Response by PO2 David Ball made Oct 12 at 2016 9:17 PM

2016-10-12T21:17:21-04:00

What really ? Are you smoking pot or something ? I'll spell it out for you! Rank Has It's Privileges ! If you want to park there be my guest but you will learn not to ! After your first time ! You millennials need a freaking wake up call !

Response by SFC(P) Richard Warren made Oct 12 at 2016 9:23 PM

2016-10-12T21:23:30-04:00

No. If we were all treated equally then there would be no incentive to move up. That being said, why do MoH, Silver Star, Bronze Star, PH, and POW medal recipients often get their own parking spots?

Why do veterans get their own parking spots?

It's essentially a way of thanking them for the years that they've put in. It's not wrong to be thanked; it's only wrong if you ask for the thanks.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2016 9:29 PM

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RHIP.

Response by MSgt Michael Smith made Oct 13 at 2016 9:04 AM

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Are you just trying to get beat down?

Response by CPO Jeromy King made Oct 13 at 2016 11:26 AM

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Honestly Rank does have its Privileges, but it is also a good way for lower Enlisted to monitor for a really special kind of leader.... If you see a high ranking individual not use the space and park in the back with the "common folks", that's a person you follow into hell if need be most of the time because one of the rarest qualities to find in leadership is often a indicator of the best of the best.... Humility.

Response by SGT Donald Croswhite made Oct 13 at 2016 2:30 PM

2016-10-13T14:30:05-04:00

Where do you get the idea that anyone in the Army is equal?

Response by TSgt Lars Eilenfeld made Oct 13 at 2016 2:57 PM

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RHIP or haven't you heard that acronym yet?

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2016 4:00 PM

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Because when you were in Elementary School, those same service members were off fighting for our country. So when you see those same parking spots and designated parking areas, just remember that it was earned and not given.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Oct 14 at 2016 11:06 AM

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As a former Senior Enlisted Leader I will say that E-9's and General Officers (maybe even Warrant 5) usually work 24 hours a day, I was never off unless on leave and even then I worked daily on email and Command related issues. These parking spots help provide quick access for these very busy people. Generally when more Junior leaders and Service Members go shopping, it is just that and they do so at their leisure. So I would ask that you assess your situation and the question you posed and think about it form other perspectives.

I hope this helps your perspective!

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2016 1:18 PM

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Seriously??????

Response by SGT Mathew Husen made Oct 25 at 2016 1:36 PM

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Hey Specialist, take a man pill and suck it up! With rank comes privilage and so does more responsibility. If your all butt hurt because your Platoon Sergeant gets more perks than you then shut up about it and do all the hard work to get in his place

Response by SGT Seann Burgmeier made Oct 25 at 2016 2:08 PM

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One could argue that since people with rank make decisions (like who gets special parking spaces) that giving said parking spaces to people of rank is abusing authority for personal gain...

Response by SPC Marcus DeMatos made Oct 25 at 2016 2:29 PM

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RHIP. The point of reserved spots isn't just to express privilege and power, it is often done so that the person can get in and out, because they have somewhere else important to be. Hence commander/NCOIC slots always made sense. To some degree the same applies to CQ/SDNCO. The only ones I objected to are those that nit-pick, like Command Sergeant Major, like one E-9 isn't as important as another. My personal thought is 1SG was always under-represented on signs, and those looking at the signs shouldn't feel discriminated against, they should feel challenged to reach that rank/billet themselves in their careers!

Response by SPC Marcus DeMatos made Oct 25 at 2016 2:34 PM

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Okay I've got a second "snarky" thought... how about we use the same system that we run formations by... First thing in the morning and after 5 pm it's officers out front, during the day it's officers at the back and NCOs out front. Troopers get the middle reserved for them. LOL

Response by David Pitt made Oct 25 at 2016 3:47 PM

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All men are created equally all men dIe equally it's the life in witch they live that makes another better then the next so to say all men should be treated equally is naïve Perhaps in a ideological fantasy world all men can be treated equally but people are treated by there mistakes such as felons and child molesters are they equal to us no there not they lose their rights Remember when you joined the military you yourself gave up some of your constitutional rights In order to protect the Constitution In itself to be honest if you want those parking spots get a degree better yourself become an officer and earn it

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2016 4:12 PM

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Why does anyone aside from the wounded and the family members of the fallen, get their own parking spaces at all.

Response by SFC Don Ward made Oct 25 at 2016 5:04 PM

2016-10-25T17:04:18-04:00

Just a military circle - every now and then this BS comes up, usually from a SPC or PFC. Whining can get you anywhere these days, now that soldiers have "feelings" issued at MEPPS>

Response by SFC Carlos Gamino made Oct 25 at 2016 6:16 PM

2016-10-25T18:16:49-04:00

It is the military, not a union. You want to complain about such things, like customs and courtesies join the Teamsters.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2016 6:19 PM

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When you work the same hours with the same responsibility you can have a parking spot. See, all equal.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2016 6:34 PM

2016-10-25T18:34:31-04:00

as I read thru all these threads not one response or reply from the poster, although many interesting comments, this post should've been a no brainer why did PR even allow it, it brought about a lot of negativity, some insight, not much, how about we focus on real issues California guardsman paying back bonuses

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Oct 25 at 2016 8:19 PM

2016-10-25T20:19:13-04:00

As a human you are my equal I absolutely agree with you for everything else get At parade rest and perhaps if I get time I'll get back to you and explain it

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2016 9:12 PM

2016-10-25T21:12:49-04:00

Your real question should be...why are higher ranking officials allowed to violated regulations with no penalties like walking around with hands in their pockets and not showing up to formation or doing PT in the morning.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 26 at 2016 1:02 AM

2016-10-26T01:02:15-04:00

Who ever told you we are supposed to be treated equally? That is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard. No, we are not supposed to be treated equally, hence the rank structure...on top of that, those who rate parking spots have done their time, you can walk. This is the first time I have heard anyone question this process. If it helps just think of it as a perk, maybe it will motivate you to go out and earn those promotions to get that parking spot.

Response by Sgt Sal Hirto made Oct 26 at 2016 7:42 AM

2016-10-26T07:42:25-04:00

how about you drop and do pushups until you figure it out?

Response by MSgt Jon P. (Pat) Hogan made Oct 26 at 2016 8:51 AM

2016-10-26T08:51:10-04:00

Wow. Really, Specialist?

I am nearly speechless...

You are treated equally to all other E4s. Devote your time to becoming a better soldier. Learn more about your job, bust your ass and do your PME. Spend less time whining and more time listening to your mentors - and become a better mentor to the soldiers under you.

Response by LCpl Paul Messer made Nov 3 at 2016 12:37 PM

2016-11-03T12:37:00-04:00

This seems like a silly discussion. If you've put your time in and rank that high. I say you've earned that spot plus a bunch more that you don't get.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 10:27 AM

2016-12-27T10:27:11-05:00

Because they lead from the front.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 10:27 AM

2016-12-27T10:27:45-05:00

Because they lead from the front. That also means the front of the parking lot

Response by SCPO Lonny Randolph made Dec 27 at 2016 10:40 AM

2016-12-27T10:40:43-05:00

With hard work and perseverance come greater rank and greater responsibility. With greater rank and responsibility come greater privilege. This isn't an elementary school soccer game, you don't get a participation trophy and a designated parking space just for showing up to the game.

Response by GySgt Laurence Park made Dec 27 at 2016 2:29 PM

2016-12-27T14:29:49-05:00

NO.

Response by MSG Nick C. made Dec 29 at 2016 7:17 AM

2016-12-29T07:17:40-05:00

I'm guessing that this statement was made by a millennial. Really? Does anyone here even think before they ask a question? You work as hard and you can have one too. RHIP. Final answer. So if you worked in the corporate world and you felt you had just as much clout, you should get to park in the CEO's spot because you're"equal" too? Go ahead, try that one and see how long you're employed. Cut it out.

Response by SGT Richard McArthur made Dec 29 at 2016 7:43 PM

2016-12-29T19:43:15-05:00

Rank hath its privileges. And I want these people to re-enlist.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2016 8:43 AM

2016-12-30T08:43:17-05:00

Everyone is equal? In Military world definitely not... they earned their rank so they get the privilege bottom line... why do junior enlisted get to go to BOSS events and enjoy the day tanning at a event but Seniors do not ? Higher ups have tons today and are not afforded the opportunity so trust me you get privileges as a lower enlisted too... tons of them lol

Response by PFC Francis Ramseyer made Dec 30 at 2016 9:52 AM

2016-12-30T09:52:10-05:00

No, we are not equal. I was PFC, no parking, then I became CEO of a company and I had parking, free meals and a lot of privileges but I work for it

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2016 12:47 PM

2016-12-30T12:47:37-05:00

Is this really an issue in Hawaii? I park where I can find space. As I'm up at 0400, at the gym at 0500, in for PT at 0630, I still beat the lower enlisted into work. If you want to park closer, get there earlier. ✊

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2016 1:37 AM

2016-12-31T01:37:07-05:00

Not every individual in the military is equally treated the same. I guess that means "US" doesn't it?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2016 4:20 AM

2016-12-31T04:20:17-05:00

the military of Animal Farm is a good thing. Some are more equal than others. The military is not communist. we don't call each other comrade Soldier or comrade sailor and we're all the same not going to happen!

Response by SFC Dante Alanis made Dec 31 at 2016 5:07 AM

2016-12-31T05:07:15-05:00

Get rid of any inferiority complex you may have. It is the military and certain people deserve certain privileges, as well as needing to get in and out of these places. In the same way uniformed personnel get to the front of the line when in uniform at the commissary or PX. Then it is upon us to not use the advantage if we're not on duty or in a hurry.

Response by MAJ David Vermillion made Dec 31 at 2016 5:42 PM

2016-12-31T17:42:51-05:00

It's the "Rank has it's Privileges).

Response by GySgt Melissa Gravila made Dec 31 at 2016 7:10 PM

2016-12-31T19:10:13-05:00

No absolutely not- with more rank comes more responsibility, more people to worry about, more lives in your hands, less time on your hands. I used to tell my Marines "we work FOR a democracy, therefore we cannot work IN a democracy." Life isn't fair- so you have to park a little further away and walk a little more. Nobody ever drowned in sweat. There are so many things in life to stress over- this is not one of them IMO -js

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2017 3:54 PM

2017-01-02T15:54:16-05:00

No, the military is a hierarchical system and Rank Has It's Privileges. Not to mention most companies have designated and reserved parking spots for upper management. You can be treated equally and give people perks for their positions.

Response by TSgt Lars Eilenfeld made Jan 5 at 2017 3:25 PM

2017-01-05T15:25:26-05:00

Because their old and can't walk as far

Response by CW5 Christopher Dodd made Jan 10 at 2017 9:54 AM

2017-01-10T09:54:51-05:00

No, everyone is not equal, as illustrated by the rank system. Don't you think it's interesting that in a chemical environment, when everyone has their protective mask on, and they want to know if the environment is safe to breath, they pick the lowest ranking and youngest enlisted person to remove their mask first and "test" the environment?
The rank system not only stratifies the Enlisted, Warrant and Basic Branch corps, but it provides notice of levels of experience and expertise (relatively speaking). In the past a WO1 could have been assigned to a unit to replace a CWO4, not a fair trade for the Commander, based on experience and knowledge, skills and attributes.
Turning this around, when you go to the dentist, you'd like to know that the dentist is experienced, and not their first time doing your root canal or your wisdom tooth extraction. Better, you go to the eye doctor for lasik surgery to correct your eye sight, for sure you'll want to make sure the surgeon is experienced and board certified and has done more than 1 of these surgeries in the past. When you board a Delta or American Airlines flight, you automatically seek a peek into the cockpit, and are immediately relieved to see grey hair, why? grey hair equals experience. They all have the privilege of getting more customers, money for their experience and so on.
So, in the end, rank has its privileges, and experience matters... We are not all equal in the military.

Response by MSgt Jason S. Lavoie made Jan 13 at 2017 6:18 PM

2017-01-13T18:18:50-05:00

This question came from an Army SPC? Really? Needs to go back to Basic and AIT. One acronym... RHIP.

Response by SGT Matthew Schenkenfelder made Jan 18 at 2017 6:58 AM

2017-01-18T06:58:09-05:00

Someone get him a binky and a blanket. Life's not being fair right now. He needs a safe space.
Get over it and grow up. The higher ranking you become the more things make sense and the more fair everything becomes.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 7:16 AM

2017-01-18T07:16:37-05:00

The question itself is so laughable as to defy belief that the poster actually is a member of the military. There is no entitlement to being treated equally in the UCMJ.

Response by Cpl John Mathews made Jan 18 at 2017 9:18 AM

2017-01-18T09:18:31-05:00

No. RHIP, rank has its privileges. Higher ranking individuals have greater responsibilities and their time is more valuable (in general). The Marine Corps emphasizes rank even more (or did when I was on active duty). We had different heads for staff NCOs and officers, different barber shops, and probably other distinctions (besides the obvious housing and clubs). Be thankful you are not at a HQ post, like at Quantico--lots of parking spots reserved for Generals too.

Response by SSG Gerald King made Jan 18 at 2017 9:47 AM

2017-01-18T09:47:57-05:00

Is this what the military has become? I might expect this question from a new recruit, but a SP4 has probably been in the military a couple years and should know better than ask such a question. Ever heard of RHIP? Rank Has It's Privileges. So my little snowflake if you cannot adjust to the military, maybe you need to finish you tour and get the hell out.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Jan 18 at 2017 10:20 AM

2017-01-18T10:20:39-05:00

Here is a young troop, that needs to have a long soul searching talk with his PSG or CSM on is career choice. A SPC and they still do not have a grasp on the military. By the way there were damn few designated parking area when I was in, the Cdr's, the CSM/1SG's and that was about it. I know I didn't have time to lounge around the PX food court or window shop as a SNCO, and I know my leaders didn't either. We burnt late night oil, many times after the troops were released for the day.

Response by SGT Tony Shope made Jan 18 at 2017 10:32 AM

2017-01-18T10:32:44-05:00

No your not to be treated equally with the exception of common human courtesy and respect. The SNCO & WO et al. Have earned the privilege to have those spots. Now note as there is always someone more senior I never knew any to use those spots except the post CSM. And usually he would walk as he knew that there was another NCO higher than he who could arrive without notice. It is one of those things to get you to seek more in your career.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 10:36 AM

2017-01-18T10:36:47-05:00

AR 190-5
4–8. Parking
a. The most efficient use of existing on– and off–street parking space should be stressed on a non reserved (first–come, first–served) basis.
b. Reserved parking facilities should be designated as parking by permit or numerically by category of eligible parkers. Designation of parking spaces by name, grade, rank, or title should be avoided.

So those parking spaces by regulation are UNAUTHORIZED....that being said do what your rank can afford.....SGMs have the best spots so I go there first. :)

But are we Equal.....NO NADA NOPE!

Response by MSgt Thelbert (Whitey) Roark made Jan 18 at 2017 10:45 AM

2017-01-18T10:45:02-05:00

RHIP! Get over it! The military is not a democracy.

Response by Sgt Frank Rinchich made Jan 18 at 2017 11:09 AM

2017-01-18T11:09:52-05:00

Have you ever heard of earning your equality. and from day one from 1775 to date rank has its privileges. it's not going to change in the next 200 years either.

Response by SGT James Colwell made Jan 18 at 2017 11:54 AM

2017-01-18T11:54:34-05:00

SPC(P) Gildardo Navarro RHIP. The military is not a venue for equality.

Response by SPC Randy Torgerson made Jan 18 at 2017 12:01 PM

2017-01-18T12:01:46-05:00

First off, the military is not a democracy like the rest of the civilian country. 2nd, even high ranking CEO's, VP, etc.... often get their own parking space.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 12:20 PM

2017-01-18T12:20:28-05:00

Some of the post I have been on have done away with privilege parking. But Rank does have its privileges on other post. What can you say.

Response by MAJ Norm Michaels made Jan 18 at 2017 12:30 PM

2017-01-18T12:30:50-05:00

I really like some of the newly Designated Parking Spots. Even my local civilian hardware store has these:

- Disabled Veteran spot
- Purple Heart Recipient spot

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 12:50 PM

2017-01-18T12:50:45-05:00

RHIP soldier!!!!! Ha! You'll be there someday!!! There are biggger things to worry about! -Top

Response by PO2 Jerome O'Neil made Jan 18 at 2017 1:23 PM

2017-01-18T13:23:44-05:00

No, you aren't supposed to be treated equally. That's why "rank has it's privileges" is not just true, but correct. I wouldn't expect a PFC to have the same stuff as a Major.

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Jan 18 at 2017 2:04 PM

2017-01-18T14:04:59-05:00

Cause by the time we reach those ranks we are old dang it!!! Seriously, a small part of it is that piece of Rank has it privilege...very small. However, the way it was put to me once when I asked a similar question was that the higher in rank you go, the more your calendar gets filled and thus you need the opportunity to pop in and pop out as quickly as possible to get to your next scheduled event...especially O6's/Chiefs and above.

To answer the last part of your question...NO...we are not all equal. The military is based on rank structure for a reason...for good order and discipline. The higher in rank a person gets the more experience and knowledge they have versus a new boot camp graduate...we are not all equal in that sense. You can't take an E-1 and put them in command of a Brigade...they wouldn't know where to begin. As humans, yes we are all equal in God's eyes but in the military, not so much.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 2:18 PM

2017-01-18T14:18:22-05:00

This generation of Soldier's whew. ..

Response by SSG Alfonso Pagan made Jan 18 at 2017 2:21 PM

2017-01-18T14:21:56-05:00

Yes, we also all get trophies for participation and nobody gets a 1st, 2nd or 3rd place. All E-4s in the U.S. Armed Forces get treats the same. There is usually only a spot for each category, so those high ranking officers ,WO, and SNCO need to fight for that one close spot just like you have to fight for the next close spot open for everyone. You can also go to off post they don't have reserve spots there. Or become a civilian and don't have to deal with the unfairness of the military.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 2:26 PM

2017-01-18T14:26:45-05:00

Whether right or wrong, it is my understanding that if the PMO did not put up the signs or markings, they are NOT "official." Besides, without the old DoD stickers, who can really tell? Although I have seen at some posts, CSMs and O-6s and above have special rank stickers for their windshield, or a metal placard for the bumper.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 3:02 PM

2017-01-18T15:02:30-05:00

I was only in the Army for 23 yrs as an Enlisted type & many of those yrs. stationed at Post that were part of an Air Base I never recall seeing parking slot for a Warrant there may be one someplace but I've never seen it. As for the reserved slots for Post & Base Commanders, who really cares; there has to be some bennies for having headaches from commanding troops that just want to draw BAQ, separate rats, live off Post & ask for 'com time' to go to AAFES to buy new games. Hell, there should be reserved slot way in the far back end of the lot for fat wives, so they can get some PT... I felt the Army was better, when every one lived in the Wks. had their on company mess hall & went to the field once a month for a week...! LOL

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 3:11 PM

2017-01-18T15:11:54-05:00

And treated equally, you are. When you achieve those ranks, you will have an equal chance to park there.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 3:42 PM

2017-01-18T15:42:52-05:00

It is because they hate you. Not all of us, just you SPC Navarro.

Response by SFC Thomas Holcomb made Jan 18 at 2017 4:29 PM

2017-01-18T16:29:46-05:00

Hahaha you are pulling our chain. That's a good on.

Response by MSgt Currie C. made Jan 18 at 2017 5:01 PM

2017-01-18T17:01:27-05:00

Many years ago, and I mean many. I was stationed at 29 Stumps AKA 29 Palms, CA. One day some duty business took me over by the "O" Club. As I drove through the parking lot I saw the reserved parking spot for the base Commanding General. Next to the best parking spot in the lot (O Club, CG) spot was the second best spot with a sign that said, "ANY SECOND LT".
I'll never forget that.
To answer the question, "it's because they earned it!".

Response by 1stSgt Troy Seals made Jan 18 at 2017 5:03 PM

2017-01-18T17:03:32-05:00

LOL, you are kidding right SPC?

Response by MSG Frederick Otero made Jan 18 at 2017 5:42 PM

2017-01-18T17:42:48-05:00

No. Have to agree with CPT F. One of my best days was to be able to move into a two man room after i made corporal. NCO status and no more barracks that was the life.

Response by SCPO Morris Ramsey made Jan 18 at 2017 6:54 PM

2017-01-18T18:54:34-05:00

High ranking officers Yes. Enlisted and Warrants No.

Response by Maj Ken Brown made Jan 18 at 2017 7:25 PM

2017-01-18T19:25:34-05:00

I used to be an honor for officers to stand at the end of the line at the chow hall, get last choice when the C's got passed out. I don't remember Marine officers accepting any special privileges in garrison or in the field. Maybe I was just lucky.

Response by LtCol J W made Jan 18 at 2017 7:57 PM

2017-01-18T19:57:48-05:00

RHIP Haven't you heard. Rank has its privileges. Get over the "we are all equal BS." The only equality is that bullets do not respect rank. NCOs and Officers get killed in combat too.

Response by PO3 Steven Guess made Jan 18 at 2017 8:27 PM

2017-01-18T20:27:58-05:00

Get over yourself . Unlike the touchy feely social justice warrior crap that has been going on for the last few years the military is NOT a democracy . Nobody is elected and it's not meant to be "fair" . If you don't like not having a parking spot , work your way up to one . But if social justice is your reason , do the military a favor and get out !

Response by MSG Tim Gray made Jan 18 at 2017 8:47 PM

2017-01-18T20:47:28-05:00

It is done in relation to the points system, you get more points for hitting a senior member, soooo they shouldn't suffer longer exposure times.

Response by SGT Philip Roncari made Jan 18 at 2017 8:57 PM

2017-01-18T20:57:45-05:00

No! That fact was true 50 years ago when I was in as it is today No!

Response by Cpl George Goodwin made Jan 18 at 2017 9:03 PM

2017-01-18T21:03:01-05:00

Ah, no

Response by CPT Chris Newport made Jan 18 at 2017 9:46 PM

2017-01-18T21:46:07-05:00

Should not happen.

Response by CPO Gene Browning made Jan 18 at 2017 10:47 PM

2017-01-18T22:47:44-05:00

You are a moron if you think you're gonna be treated the same as the CO.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Jan 18 at 2017 11:08 PM

2017-01-18T23:08:35-05:00

RHIP.... simply put... But, it is probably one of many fading traditions... SPC(P) Gildardo Navarro

Response by MAJ Eric G Troup made Jan 18 at 2017 11:39 PM

2017-01-18T23:39:48-05:00

No.

Response by SPC(P) Gildardo Navarro made Jan 19 at 2017 12:32 AM

2017-01-19T00:32:56-05:00

I don't know where some of you are reading where i said i deserve the same rank treatment as csm. Some of you are just assuming im a entitled snowflake who deserves everything. I really don't care about combat patches or awards. As long im serving the country i love and getting paid, that's what really matters the most. Anyways im talking about treatment as in if we go to NTC or whatever and you decide you E-6 and below stay a cold tent with cold water to shower. Dirty area that is high risk of infections. While you sleep in a '' 5 star hotel'' and say no one below E-6 is allowed here. If you follow the facebook pages that exposes stuff like this. You'll know what im talking about. Reason like this soldiers decide to get out and not re-enlist. This goes to those who call themselves leaders. I seen a lot of great leaders. Just a few giving the name a bad taste.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2017 12:32 AM

2017-01-19T00:32:59-05:00

One word...RHIP!

Response by CW4 Billy Dove made Jan 19 at 2017 1:27 AM

2017-01-19T01:27:01-05:00

Really? This is the military. When you earn it you can park up front. You may need a few extra steps after hitting the Burger King anyway.

Response by CW4 Angel C. made Jan 19 at 2017 4:22 AM

2017-01-19T04:22:18-05:00

Rank does have its privileges. That's just the way it is.

Response by SSgt Jw Guest made Jan 19 at 2017 2:44 PM

2017-01-19T14:44:14-05:00

I'll respect your safety pin there snowflake. Your designated "safe space" is any parking spot anywhere on base that says SgtMaj, or in your case CSM, etc. I'm sure the senior staff nco whose parking space you are residing in will help you "hug it out."

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2017 4:24 PM

2017-01-19T16:24:57-05:00

Are you kidding!!!!! Or are you a product of the "feel good", safe place, trophy, no hurt feelings, hug puppy generation? Just to be a member of the US military a significant amount of inequality was considered in your application! Education standards! Physical standards! Moral standards! Can you grow your hair as you like, have a beard, take vacation anytime, wear a conflicting uniform, disregard a lawful order, refuse to go in harms way???? If yes to any of the above.... please leave the US military and become a professional student where this garbage prevails.

Response by SSgt Ben Bennett made Jan 21 at 2017 6:49 AM

2017-01-21T06:49:54-05:00

Because they're OLD, and DECREPIT but don't dare put in for a handicapped sticker.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 21 at 2017 8:26 AM

2017-01-21T08:26:24-05:00

SPC(P) Gildardo Navarro nope. Plain and simple. They earned it by their service. Also for GO/FOs it is a matter of time as well. If they need to go to the store to buy something and then quickly get out to go to a meeting it is better that they get to park, shop, and leave then drive around looking for a parking space. One of two things happen if they do that. One they are late to the meeting and it pushes EVERYONE's schedules, including yours. Or two they send a runner, maybe you, to go get their meal or whatnot for them so they can attend the meeting. It is only a few parking spaces reserved for the highest ranks. Let it go. Next thing you know people will demand that pregnant women and the handicap should look for parking places as well and take the hike from the back of the parking lot like everyone else.

We are to be treated fair. Fair does not mean equal.

Response by SFC Robert Townsend made Jan 24 at 2017 7:35 AM

2017-01-24T07:35:59-05:00

They get them out of respect! The only equalizer is you can work your tail off to get to the same rank thereby earning that parking spot too! The respect for the rank is not always the same as the respect for the person wearing the rank... That's totally different.... Military courtesy goes along way... I hate to burst your bubble but your not equal when it comes to rank, your only equal when it come to putting your pants on one leg at a time.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 24 at 2017 11:34 AM

2017-01-24T11:34:28-05:00

RHIP, because it also has the burden of responsibility.

Response by PO1 Richard Nyberg made Jan 25 at 2017 2:09 PM

2017-01-25T14:09:33-05:00

As a former Army Seargent E5 and a retired Navy PO1/E6 I do feel that the senior rated enlisted and fleet commanders as we as General Officer do rate reserved parking as they earned by raising to that rank and out of respect they should receive it.

Response by MAJ Robert Grimes made Jan 27 at 2017 9:00 PM

2017-01-27T21:00:10-05:00

Response by MSG Don Burt made Jan 29 at 2017 2:40 PM

2017-01-29T14:40:21-05:00

Yes you are treated equally, that’s why you don’t have a parking space.
You have to earn it and don’t forget, the Military is not a Democracy!

Response by 1stSgt Jeff Blovat made Feb 1 at 2017 7:08 AM

2017-02-01T07:08:01-05:00

One word. "RHIP". You'll learn. I did. Best wishes o

Response by 1stSgt Jeff Blovat made Feb 1 at 2017 7:09 AM

2017-02-01T07:09:07-05:00

One word. RHIP. You'll live it, learn it and love it. All the best.

Response by CW2 Christopher Esparza made Feb 8 at 2017 6:17 AM

2017-02-08T06:17:32-05:00

Service and sacrifice is what gets you a parking place at the front of the store. While your bitching about it being unfair think about the spots your forgot to mention. Gold Star Families, Families of a deployed Soldier. think they should be treated equally too?

Response by SSG Vincent Wilson made Feb 8 at 2017 7:04 AM

2017-02-08T07:04:51-05:00

Let's be practical about this. Very high ranking leaders must give a lot of their time to their job. There are only 24 hours in a day so the only way to get more done is to be efficient. They are responsible for many, many lives. Would you rather them to be focused on their jobs or driving around in circles looking for a place to park? Besides, after years of service those knees are not getting any younger, they need to save every step they can.

Response by MSgt Rosemary Connolly made Feb 8 at 2017 7:52 AM

2017-02-08T07:52:15-05:00

This is a post for a tabloid magazine. Must be a slow day here on RP

Response by SGT Richard Anderson made Feb 8 at 2017 8:03 AM

2017-02-08T08:03:37-05:00

I believe senior leaders should encourage soldiers that they believe are going to be the future of our military to participate in boards. Of they are not the quality of soldiers we need as leaders, they should not be forced to participate. They should help those jr.enlisted to be all they can be.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2017 8:19 AM

2017-02-08T08:19:40-05:00

No you're not equal knucklehead
The Military is not a democracy... It's a caste system with a well defined hierarchy. Yeah in my opinion seniors shouldn't want their own parking spaces because it helps build trust when U wallow in the mud with subordinates..... But we aren't supposed to be treated "equal" in the military otherwise every order would be questioned and the structure would fall apart. Be thankful you're american because in some Armies Soldiers get beaten.

Response by SMSgt Will Bynum made Feb 8 at 2017 8:19 AM

2017-02-08T08:19:47-05:00

I've only been retired for 8 years, but I can't believe they don't teach RHIP anymore

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2017 8:22 AM

2017-02-08T08:22:24-05:00

I would probably pull him off the the side and chew his ass out in the front leaning rest but hahah today would have to do it different.
I would pull him aside and ask him if he understands how the military works. I would then ask him why he is here and if he wants to stay in because I'm certain the commander could assist with expediting his next career move.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Feb 8 at 2017 8:25 AM

2017-02-08T08:25:17-05:00

One thing that I haven't seen discussed is that we are still military and by the nature of our job, THINGS happen. Senior leadership needs to be able to respond ASAP when something goes down and even today there are life or death situations that require their presence. The steps saved running to their vehicles from a building justify the reserved parking space.

Response by GySgt Kenneth Pepper made Feb 8 at 2017 10:50 AM

2017-02-08T10:50:58-05:00

Listen Snowflake; Mommy lied to you. You are not the most special angel in the world. You better come to grips with the reality that you do not rate the same privileges afforded to someone who has proven year after year, deployment after deployment, injuries, missed birthdays and anniversaries, loss of friends and colleagues, that they do.
Stick around for another dozen or so years and you just might earn it for yourself. Until then drink from the suck it up fountain.

Response by MAJ Alvin B. made Feb 8 at 2017 11:03 AM

2017-02-08T11:03:45-05:00

To your second question, -- no, we are not all equal, not in the military, nor in most other organizations in our society. [We are considered equal before the law, and our Creator (if you believe), we have equal opportunity to try (not to equal outcome), we have equal rights...] Within the military we live and work within an established hierarchical leadership structure. Senior leaders in key positions (within and outside of the military), have "perks" such as designated parking spaces at least in part, to minimize distractions and delays, as much as in respect to their professional achievements, and the burdens of responsibility they have agreed to assume. The parking space phenomena is not limited to the military, it exists almost everywhere.

Response by Sgt Den OBrien made Feb 8 at 2017 11:27 AM

2017-02-08T11:27:08-05:00

Well, after a few years they turn into old, cranky, bastards and it's easier and cheaper than giving them all wheelchairs and crutches.

Response by SGT Linda Moss made Feb 8 at 2017 11:36 AM

2017-02-08T11:36:47-05:00

they earn it .. and some one lied when they said you as a SPC was equal to higher ranking personnel. If you think that then you need to rethink being in the military. Also if you think that then the first sgt. would be pulling KP not the private. Hm I have been out a while. Does anyone still pull KP?? or is that "below" their dignity and "demeaning" ?? To many younger people got to many "awards" for just being there..

Response by LCpl Stephen Arnold made Feb 8 at 2017 12:29 PM

2017-02-08T12:29:06-05:00

I had a Chief Warrant Officer in the Corps tell me the following, when I asked about my "Superiors".

"Arnold, you don't have superiors, you have SENIORS. Nobody is superior to you." That was quite a profound explanation for me, but i also knew the roll I played as a junior enlisted Marine. When I became an NCO in the National Guard, I carried that attitude with me, and it served well with my subordinates.

Response by SFC James Asbill made Feb 8 at 2017 1:11 PM

2017-02-08T13:11:55-05:00

Rank has its Priviledges

Response by PO2 Steven Hardy made Feb 8 at 2017 2:33 PM

2017-02-08T14:33:53-05:00

Equal? Were you ever actually in a branch of the military?

Response by SN Greg Wright made Feb 8 at 2017 2:36 PM

2017-02-08T14:36:51-05:00

The entitlement is strong in this one.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2017 3:05 PM

2017-02-08T15:05:34-05:00

.......Where is SSG Backbone when you need him ?

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2017 3:53 PM

2017-02-08T15:53:12-05:00

I'd agree to a certain extent, as a 1SG, most days I arrive early and leave late so, I'd easily have whatever parking space I want. As you move up in responsibility your time is more valuable and limited. It's not to say that there aren't many places that abuse this by grabbing a stencil and making their own BS spot. My own judgment was that if the person didn't out rank me in my brigade's footprint or it was something to the affect of (ADA NCO, Asst S-3, I'd park there and we can hash it out. Never had an issue, but I had the rank and clout to explain myself in terms that wouldn't result in visiting someone who has far better things to do that handle parking disputes. I may be mistaken, but MPs will only enforce parking in handicap spots, but you're free to roll the dice and try your luck. If it's a senior NCO or officer best case you'll be in front of someone tap dancing, worst case you'll be the victim of what my XO used to do and park behind someone who took his spot and he'll move his car when he's done for the day.

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Feb 8 at 2017 6:01 PM

2017-02-08T18:01:59-05:00

Administration is always accorded more privileges than worker. You wouldn't expect the CEO of a company to park at the back of the lot so you'd be closer to the door would you?

Response by SSgt William Mavis made Feb 8 at 2017 6:52 PM

2017-02-08T18:52:47-05:00

hell no.it has to be earned

Response by COL John Hudson made Feb 8 at 2017 10:22 PM

2017-02-08T22:22:31-05:00

From the IG Desk: Short answer = "NO." The U.S. military is NOT a democracy. There is some 'privilege' that accrues as one rises higher in rank. This system rewards those with initiative and motivation to move forward by providing incentives such as those noted in your complaint. Some others are increased basic pay, more responsibility, better housing...I believe you get the picture.

Response by MSgt J D McKee made Feb 8 at 2017 11:34 PM

2017-02-08T23:34:40-05:00

No. We are all born equal. After that, it sucks for idiots>

Response by SMSgt Timothy Cathers made Feb 9 at 2017 4:52 PM

2017-02-09T16:52:53-05:00

No. if we were all equal we would all be Generals.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2017 7:50 PM

2017-02-10T19:50:11-05:00

I will not use my grade or position to atain PLEASURE profit or personal safety.
But go tell your csm that he shouldn't have his own spot. Or your Sfc that it's not fair to kick you out of the chair he want. Good luck

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2017 1:32 PM

2017-02-11T13:32:38-05:00

You earn it as you move up the ladder. News flash, nothing is equal as far as getting things. YOU EARN IT. Got it?

Response by SSG Omar Ruiz-Canales made Feb 11 at 2017 7:30 PM

2017-02-11T19:30:24-05:00

Senior like what? Base CDR, or his CSM senior? Have u seen what you are arguing about anywhere in the regs to support what you are arguing about?

Response by SSG Omar Ruiz-Canales made Feb 11 at 2017 7:34 PM

2017-02-11T19:34:43-05:00

Senior how? Like Base CDR or his CSM Senior? Why would you think that you are equal? Have you even researched the information for which you are arguing to make sure you know what you are arguing about?

Response by PO2 Rev. Frederick C. Mullis, AFI, CFM made Feb 11 at 2017 8:47 PM

2017-02-11T20:47:16-05:00

R H I P

Response by SGT Aaron Atwood made Feb 14 at 2017 6:09 AM

2017-02-14T06:09:59-05:00

Not really a thing at the bases I've been to. The only spots I've seen reserved for ranking members are at work for certain leadership billets.

Response by MSG Reid Zohfeld made Feb 14 at 2017 6:38 AM

2017-02-14T06:38:33-05:00

Absolutely not I was a young soldier once and thought the same. If you stay in long enough this question will answer it self So for now park in your parking space

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Feb 14 at 2017 7:08 AM

2017-02-14T07:08:31-05:00

Although I never did subscribe to the practice of having designated parking slots based on rank, I think the reason for it was explained very well by ENS Private RallyPoint Member, in his post.

When I was assigned in Germany, a group of officers in my office decided to go to the PX Food Court for lunch. They piled into my car and we headed for the PX. As we got to the parking lot, I passed by the "O-6 Parking Only" sign/slot and started to pull into another unmarked slot. A Captain (O-3) in my car asked me why I did not park in the reserved slot. I told him that I did not agree with having reserved slots based on rank. He responded that the parking lot was always full and that he and his wife, and many others, always had a hard time finding a parking slot, and that they could not park in the 0-6 slot, like I could. He stated that, by my passing up that reserved slot, I had taken his parking place, while leaving another open that he could not park in. I told him that I had never thought of it that way, backed out of the slot and parked in the reserved one. From then on, I always parked in the O-6 slot, unless there were plenty of other open slots.

Response by CWO2 Roger Lamb made Feb 14 at 2017 9:41 AM

2017-02-14T09:41:59-05:00

SPC Navarro you should learn this phrase and the sooner the better: Rank has its privileges.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2017 9:52 AM

2017-02-14T09:52:48-05:00

Being treated equally has absolutely NOTHING to do with rank and everything to do with sex, race, religion, national origin, etc. The fact that you even asked this question proves that rank need not be treated equally. When you go to a yearly training brief, stand in front of a General and explain to him why your lower enlisted can't pass an APFT or height/weight, or when one of your Soldiers comes to you with legal issues, or marital problems, when your higher relies on you to make sure a company of 170 Soldiers is ready to mobilize, when you're responsible for all of the training for the unit, when you're responsible for the movement of a unit and ALL of its equipment to and from theater, when you've been in as long as they have and when you look at all of those Soldiers as your kids.....you'll understand why they get their own parking spot.

Response by SMSgt Richard Johnson made Feb 14 at 2017 9:59 AM

2017-02-14T09:59:20-05:00

The real question is why does it matter?? It saves you a whole 24 feet, if that, in your rush to the store. Want that parking space, make rank! Or just quit complaining, I'm sure there are bigger things to voice an opinion on. Just like the 60 seconds it took to read your post and respond, a waste of time.

Response by SGT Thomas Bentley made Feb 14 at 2017 12:43 PM

2017-02-14T12:43:10-05:00

By government regulation the only authorized assigned parking on any military installation are:
Installation Commander
Handicap
All others are wrong but are unspoken gratuitous.

Response by Sgt Paul McCarthy made Feb 14 at 2017 1:30 PM

2017-02-14T13:30:03-05:00

Where the hell did you get the idea that we are treated equally? Are you insane?

Response by SSG Everett Wilson made Feb 14 at 2017 4:53 PM

2017-02-14T16:53:17-05:00

ever hear of RHIP? Rank has it privileges. There are times when a Sr Officer/NCO can not ride around looking for a parking space. Plus its a sign of respect, to honor those who have worked their way to that leadership position. There could always be that call where a Sr. Officer/NCO has to leave and to get somewhere ASAP and they can't be held up running a mile down the road to get to their vehicle. Mostly its out of respect that they get their own parking spot, just like saluting, or standing at parade rest for a Sr. NCO. They earned it

Response by MCPO Tom Miller made Feb 14 at 2017 5:09 PM

2017-02-14T17:09:01-05:00

Yes, you are treated equally! When you enlisted, you were given the opportunity to compete for every higher level of competition in earning the next stripe or bar! Now with every step in an upward path, you gained a little more self pride and responsibility. Your time became more limited as you gained authority and with that came more responsibility that effected a much larger scope that set you aside as an accomplish leader and recognized as someone qualified above your peers! Of course you earned that level respect and a perk well earned by self improvement to have that position of leadership and your time can't or shouldn't be waisted therefore, parking privileges are important accordingly!

Response by PO2 Earl Aylward made Feb 14 at 2017 5:36 PM

2017-02-14T17:36:29-05:00

It is an extra that was earned. In the civilian world Executives get certain perks. The is basically the same thing.
Earn your stripes and reap some rewards.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Feb 14 at 2017 10:09 PM

2017-02-14T22:09:28-05:00

RHIP! SPC(P) Gildardo Navarro, stay in long enough, do good, you may someday earn your spot. Until then WALK!

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2017 3:22 PM

2017-02-15T15:22:38-05:00

My opinion is that the military is a dictatorship in which we live to secure the freedom of all other Americans in this Republic. And like the current top comment From CPT T F, "Not everyone is equal" in the military.

Response by MSgt Brian Williams made Feb 15 at 2017 6:35 PM

2017-02-15T18:35:30-05:00

The short answers in order are:
a. Because rank has its privileges
b. Yes.
When you put your time in and earn your way to be one of the higher ranking NCOs or officers you'll understand. Secondly you are all treated the same - honestly, fairly and with respect to your rank.

Response by PO1 T.M. Ritchie made Feb 16 at 2017 12:08 PM

2017-02-16T12:08:14-05:00

FYI, there is a DOD instruction which supersedes all branches as the highest authority that there is to be NO special parking assigned at base exchanges and or Commissary's or any Non Appropriated Fund facility other than those designated by federal law such as handicap parking. Feel free to park in any "reserved" space in those places. regardless of your rank....They ARE unauthorized..

Response by PO1 Bill O made Feb 17 at 2017 5:43 PM

2017-02-17T17:43:17-05:00

Ok so you really need to have this explained to you? Did you go through boot or what. By the 15th day of boot you should have been in awe of what your predecessors did before you, you learned the ranking system, and how each wrung in the ladder goes up, and each wrung was symbolized by a rank, each rank received the respect they deserved, so what was your question?

Response by LT Louis McKellar made Feb 23 at 2017 9:28 AM

2017-02-23T09:28:15-05:00

Only time I had a parking spot was either as a department head at the piers or as commanding officer.

Response by COL Jason Woodford made Feb 23 at 2017 9:33 PM

2017-02-23T21:33:20-05:00

I have a dedicated parking spot but I don't park in it. I park out in the main parking lot. When I first got to the unit (~10 civilians per green suit in this organization) and saw what a big deal designated parking was to most people, I opted not to feed/perpetuate that culture. Its just not that important to me.

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Feb 24 at 2017 10:06 AM

2017-02-24T10:06:14-05:00

LOL!!!!
What? You never heard that it's good to be the king?

Response by CPL Jonathan Howard made Feb 28 at 2017 9:43 AM

2017-02-28T09:43:07-05:00

You've been in long enough to get E-4?
Two things....
I can't believe you asked this question
I can't believe you can't answer this question.
ETS as soon as possible please.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 2 at 2017 12:27 PM

2017-03-02T12:27:01-05:00

My wild guess is that it is a small perk to increase retention rates of senior leaders. Small quality of life improvements add up, especially if you have to deal with a lot of bullcrap all day, every day. A lot of these leaders rarely get a chance to go off post, so having small things like guaranteed parking goes a long way.

Response by SSgt Kevin Hopkins made Mar 7 at 2017 6:49 AM

2017-03-07T06:49:50-05:00

The military is not a cdemocracy so you dont get treated e3qually. Thats something you should have learned from day one

Response by SPC Greg K. made Mar 7 at 2017 8:11 AM

2017-03-07T08:11:29-05:00

Millennials....People are not equal....and nothing is owed you. If you want that parking spot....work harder to get it.

Response by PO1 Lionel Cox made Mar 7 at 2017 1:49 PM

2017-03-07T13:49:25-05:00

Because they earned it. If you want a special parking space, earn it.

Response by SPC Ray Deonier made Mar 7 at 2017 2:34 PM

2017-03-07T14:34:33-05:00

How about, their time is more valuable, they work longer hours, they have more responsibilities and don't need to spend 15 minutes looking for a place to park when they just finished writing up 3 hours of reports after last formation, or need to grab some grub for their troops because the DFAC in the field brokedown, and they are in a hurry to grab some basic shit to take care of their soldiers. Walk your fat SPC-4 ass a few more spaces to the PX/commissary door, and stop whining.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2017 4:31 PM

2017-04-07T16:31:28-04:00

Just read your Certificate of Promotions. If this doesn't make you understand, then ask either your Company Gunny or 1st Sergeant. If you still have no clue, then request a Humanitarian Discharge for reasons of insanity of the Law of Warfare.

Response by SSgt William Mavis made Apr 7 at 2017 9:12 PM

2017-04-07T21:12:07-04:00

No,who ever told you that lied,rhip,it has to be earned.keep talking like that some bodies gonna hand you a cup to pee in

Response by MCPO Tom Miller made Apr 23 at 2017 10:33 PM

2017-04-23T22:33:46-04:00

Sure! Your career in the Armed forces makes you eligible to move up the ladder to gain positions that make you entitled to special parking entitlement too! Just work hard, show competence and excell amount your peers! Isn't their time more important than yours? Being higher up in the chain of command where decisions come more rapidly, time delays are often costly! I would think in your position, this would be common sense and accepted?

Response by Sgt Michael Clifford made Apr 24 at 2017 7:21 AM

2017-04-24T07:21:20-04:00

Seriously, was that a real question or more specifically was the part about, "Aren't we supposed to be treated equally" a serious question? Who the hell told you that, your political science professor? Rank has its privilege". That is the way it is, that is the way it always has been and that is the way it should be. The US military is an equal OPPORTUNITY employer. That means that everyone who joins has an opportunity to rise to the highest ranks based on ability and experience. You earn your rank and perks.
The real question is why to members of congress get their special parking and other perks? Aren't They supposed to be public SERVANTS? I am the public. Why do the SERVANTS get the perks that I have to pay for. When do they start behaving liike they are SERVANTS and not some political aristocracy who pass laws that effect us but do not apply to themselves. Who pass laws to tell us what we must pay them without consulting us......the PUBLIC (their employer)?
Most of them have never worn a uniform (well maybe they were on their college tennis, golf or bowling team) and yet they get to dictate to the men and women who are putting their lives at risk what is politically correct and what isn't.

Response by MGySgt Erik Burks made Apr 25 at 2017 1:30 AM

2017-04-25T01:30:32-04:00

By the time we get to the rank where we rate a parking space we have been broken down and our bodies beaten up and we are disabled or almost disabled. It is a nice little perk and our benifit for 30 years of service.

Response by PO3 Daniel Whitten made Apr 27 at 2017 7:27 AM

2017-04-27T07:27:35-04:00

RHIP. drops mic

Response by SPC Johnney Abbott made Apr 27 at 2017 8:54 AM

2017-04-27T08:54:47-04:00

I learned this early on: RHIP

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 28 at 2017 3:26 PM

2017-04-28T15:26:40-04:00

No, we are not all equal, that's why we all pay dues and have to move along the ranks.

Response by Marlene Hessler made Apr 28 at 2017 6:23 PM

2017-04-28T18:23:27-04:00

Motivation is the word. It's a little perk for all the work that goes into earning rank.
This is what makes our military troops so much more qualified when it comes to rejoining the civilian workplace. In a world where the little snowflakes believe they are so entitled, we should be so proud of the training OUR troops are getting in real life management.

Response by SGM Thomas Adderley made May 2 at 2017 10:13 AM

2017-05-02T10:13:19-04:00

To put it in plain English - RANK HAS ITS PRIVILAGES. Personally as an E-9 I never did and never would park in a spot designated for SNCO for I do not think it is needed nor necessary.

Response by CPO Earl Jones made May 4 at 2017 5:16 PM

2017-05-04T17:16:47-04:00

Who told you that everyone in the military are equal. With rank come privileges. It's no different in the civilian side, when managers are given parking places. There are also parking for pregnant women, families who have lost a service member in combat and for military personnel who have won junior/senior personnel of the quarter/year.

Response by LT Richard Mondak made May 8 at 2017 7:59 AM

2017-05-08T07:59:31-04:00

Flag Officers, Command Level Officers, Command NCOs and select others have earned the privilege of a designated parking spot. When you get to the"real world", you will find designated parking for CEO, COO, CFO and select others as well. One of the ways we raised funds for charities / Navy-Marine Corps Relief when I was on Active Duty was to "raffle" our designated parking spots which were a bit closer to the entrance of the command or on the Pier. I was most happy when mine went to an enlisted member E-4 or below. One day I forgot that I had given away my spot and the person who "earned" a better parking place did the right thing - asked Security to notify me that I was in "their" place. Everyone was in on the joke and I obligingly moved to the end of the parking lot.

Response by TSgt Gerald Wilson made May 9 at 2017 12:26 AM

2017-05-09T00:26:54-04:00

Excellent. I think you should find the CSM of your present installation, walk into his/her office without an appointment and demand an answer to that question. Let us know how it went.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 9 at 2017 9:35 AM

2017-05-09T09:35:11-04:00

It could be worse, I was waiting to get a haircut and a USN Captain walked in and sat down. The barber didnt even look at me and asked the captain if he was ready.
Those guys have a lot to worry about so I didnt have a problem with them getting extras.

Response by SMSgt Patrick Sampson made May 9 at 2017 2:13 PM

2017-05-09T14:13:27-04:00

Couple thoughts...SNOCIS, CWOs, LTC and up. have a short time to get things done and need to be able to park close and get out quick.
R.H.I.P. it is the same in mil and civilian world.
It is also a good motivator for junior ranks to stay in longer and push harder to get one.

Response by SMSgt Patrick Sampson made May 9 at 2017 2:20 PM

2017-05-09T14:20:39-04:00

At battalion I was given the intelligence analyst position prior to ets. The name board on the desk was "Inter-Anul" . I didn't think is was funny. Sgt Sampson B Btry 6/8 Fa at the planet Ord. Everyone was giggling "inter anul..."
You can see why it sucked.

Response by PFC Steve Todd made May 12 at 2017 9:59 AM

2017-05-12T09:59:43-04:00

Well, rhip I guess; I was ranking pfc in the regiment when I got out (bfd, right?)! Told em I'd re-enlist if they gave me a ltcolonelcy, or at least a majorship! Didn't go well!
Decades later, however, I took my revenge! Being in the Army gave me motivation to go to college (realized I wasn't as dumb as I thought I was), so I became an engineer, and years later, I had occasion to inspect letterman army medical center (LAMC) in the presidio of San Francisco! I had a city car, and when I would go to LAMC, I ALWAYS parked in one of the two spots reserved for general officers!

Response by Spc 1 J W. made May 14 at 2017 11:20 AM

2017-05-14T11:20:06-04:00

Rank has it's privileges. Besides the extra walking does us good.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2017 11:28 PM

2017-05-14T23:28:28-04:00

Everyone is equal. You have the exact same opportunity to earn rank just like they did and get yourself a nice parking spot.

Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made May 15 at 2017 12:43 AM

2017-05-15T00:43:49-04:00

Do you have any kind of "REWARDS" card from a business establishment? Ever notice how you "get more back the more you spend"? Analogize that to the military...the more you spend, that is the longer you're in and the more rank you have, the more you get back in "REWARDS". They don't add to your paycheck, but it's an attempt to give those higher ranking personnel a chance to get in and out quicker so that they can get back on the job. In neither case, the "REWARDS" card usage or parking spot availability, will there be equality.

Response by SPC William Szkromiuk made May 15 at 2017 4:38 PM

2017-05-15T16:38:18-04:00

WOW! Equal? Seriously?
Sounds like something my grandson would say.
Hate to say it "snowflake" . Life is not EQUAL. Life is what you make of it.
That question is disturbing on so many levels.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2017 9:23 AM

2017-05-16T09:23:15-04:00

Because rank has its privileges and they are earned! Stop whining

Response by PO2 Steven Hardy made May 18 at 2017 12:34 PM

2017-05-18T12:34:08-04:00

I guess this is a sign of the age. Even when I was but a wee bairn of four watching cartoons, I knew equality had nothing at all to do with the military, between the ranks. The higher the rank, the greater the privileges. It boggles my mind that someone could actually believe otherwise.

Response by SSgt John Carter made May 18 at 2017 1:13 PM

2017-05-18T13:13:25-04:00

They earned it.

Response by CPT James Burkholder made May 18 at 2017 3:54 PM

2017-05-18T15:54:07-04:00

No. We are equal "under the law" but that doesn't make everyone have the same stuff and privilege.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2017 7:52 PM

2017-05-19T19:52:29-04:00

I don't know what military you think you joined but the US military is not rank equal. A private is a private and a General is well a General. The two are not equal and they do not mix. The higher the rank the more responsibility and there for more reward. RANK HAITH PRIVILEGES ever heard that. Sorry if you think I am a bit harsh but this sounds like a SNOWFLAKE question and I am about tired of their stupidity.

Response by SGT Chester Beedle made May 21 at 2017 1:43 AM

2017-05-21T01:43:59-04:00

Normally only the company commander and First Sergeant get them at the companies, the Batallion Commander and CSM, Brigade Commander and CSM and staff get them at their office locations. Kind of like how a store manager gets a parking spot. Or the CEO or President and VPs and sometimes executives of a company. Or doctor or surgeon parking only at some hospitals, or the tons of places that have reserved parking for specific employees all over the country at thousands of civilian companys.
At the exchange or commissary only the Division Commander and I think CSM are supposed to get them.. and Corps commanders if you have a corps HQ on post.

Response by MAJ Keira Brennan made May 21 at 2017 11:47 AM

2017-05-21T11:47:50-04:00

Treated equally? Jesus, millennials.

Response by SSG Jay Marchand made May 21 at 2017 7:13 PM

2017-05-21T19:13:57-04:00

Its earned, you want it, stay in. Then you car have your own space

Response by SGT Michael May made May 22 at 2017 1:18 AM

2017-05-22T01:18:40-04:00

When I was in the service if you weren't the post CDR/ CSM you parked wherever.

Response by Sgt Bob Leonard made May 22 at 2017 5:39 AM

2017-05-22T05:39:29-04:00

RHIP

Response by SGT Joseph Gunderson made May 22 at 2017 8:40 AM

2017-05-22T08:40:07-04:00

Fun fact, at least is the army, the only reserved spots on a post as per regs are actually the post commander and handicap spots. The rest is sort of just a slrespect thing and I believe that the should be observed in most cases. I mean, a PL probably shouldn't get a parking space, but your commanders, 1SGs, SGMs, of course. I believe that if they have earned anything by virtue of the office they hold or the rank they have achieve it is a stupid little parking space. And who really cares? So what if I have to walk an extra few feet to get to the door of the PX? Lol I really don't care.

Response by SFC Michelle Flores made May 25 at 2017 1:18 PM

2017-05-25T13:18:25-04:00

I can't believe this question is even being asked...how about RHIP?

Response by MAJ John Douglas made May 25 at 2017 1:36 PM

2017-05-25T13:36:01-04:00

No,we are not supposed to be treated equally. Certain privileges go with rank, part of the incentive to move up. At other times rank privileges are inverted, the higher your position, the further back you eat, you jump first , sleep last and least, etc.

Response by SSgt James Connolly made May 25 at 2017 7:33 PM

2017-05-25T19:33:12-04:00

RHIP you are treated equally, in the field the troops come first in garrison seniority comes first you can't have it both ways, grow up and quit being a pussy.Soldier up

Response by SSG Herbert Gofigan made May 25 at 2017 9:46 PM

2017-05-25T21:46:15-04:00

I can recall at one time here in Ft. Lewis back in 1999, LTG Hill removed all assigned parking (including his) on post! The only reserved ones were the Handicapped ones. He said "If i can't get in early enough to find parking, then I will walk like the rest of them!" It was actually a nice move to see all those signs come down with quite a few upset minds! Oh well, life went on!

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2017 10:30 AM

2017-05-26T10:30:49-04:00

Those privileges were earned and as so eloquently pointed out by others on this thread, the military is a hierarchy for very good reasons. Even private sector organization have a pecking order: get used to it.

Response by TSgt George Rodriguez made May 28 at 2017 9:25 PM

2017-05-28T21:25:09-04:00

With rank comes respect. With respect comes privilege.

Response by SPC(P) Gildardo Navarro made May 31 at 2017 3:19 PM

2017-05-31T15:19:19-04:00

oh my oh my, i triggered so many great leaders here, i just ask a simple question. Let me reword this. There are a lot of great leaders out there who don't abuse their rank nor feel entitled to everything. There are some who simply don't deserve there rank, they will throw anyone under the bus to simply get a good NCOER or promotion. Keep up the good work though, i appreciate them RP points. I should get a acrom for being #1 here.

Response by SCPO Don Baker made Jun 3 at 2017 7:18 AM

2017-06-03T07:18:16-04:00

A little thing called, RHIP (Rank Has It's Privilege) . You want so-called equality, go to a communist country.

Response by SGT Anne Murchison - Vanderlaan made Jun 3 at 2017 9:48 PM

2017-06-03T21:48:31-04:00

Military is a ranking system. With rank comes privilege. No you are not equal. There is always someone ahead of you. Even officers are not equal. Respect the rank.

Response by SPC Dawn Appelberg (Johnson) made Jun 4 at 2017 9:20 PM

2017-06-04T21:20:13-04:00

you're kidding, right? higher ranking officers have the time and grade to get the special priveledges.. lower ranks are NOT equal to higher.

Response by LCpl Donald Faucett made Jun 5 at 2017 11:44 AM

2017-06-05T11:44:48-04:00

Of course everyone is equal, however, some are more equal than other.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2017 1:33 AM

2017-06-06T01:33:10-04:00

I visited the Naval Academy on a Saturday when the Mids were playing at home. There were so many admirals there, the designated parking for O-6's might as well have been in Virginia

Response by LCDR Dave Spurlock made Jun 6 at 2017 3:15 PM

2017-06-06T15:15:52-04:00

You want your own parking space EARN IT! You are not equal nor are you entitled.

Response by SP5 Charles Willoughby made Jun 6 at 2017 3:36 PM

2017-06-06T15:36:54-04:00

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2017 4:13 PM

2017-06-07T16:13:26-04:00

Probably because if it is during the duty day, they need to get in get what they need and get out. Also consider this from a security standpoint, sure there may not be snipers on most posts, but the further someone of higher rank has to walk to get into a building DOES expose them to potential risks. Do you want a general officer having more opportunity to slip on some ice or be exposed to the heat, or God forbid, sniper fire?

They are also, often, older ladies and gentlemen and therefore it could also be, with the highest respect, and minimal tongue in cheek, way of giving them a militarily correct version of a handicapped parking spot... (Note this IS a tongue in cheek answer, and I do hope any high ranking officer can accept it would good humor. I DO hold those with a greater rank in much higher regard than myself.)

But I suspect it is a way of honoring someone with time and service in the United States military with an honorary parking spot close to the building in question, much like how Applebees honors veterans with their own personal parking spot nearer to the doors of their establishment.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2017 8:14 PM

2017-06-07T20:14:14-04:00

Respect and tradition come to mind. The military is my no mean a corporation like so many people have tried to say it is. Seniors have the burden on responsibility and many lives that are affected by their decisions which in itself, demands a level of respect. I submit that they are not equal, even though we all put on our pants the same way, they have earned rights and privileges that come with their rank and position. You would feel the same when you get to that level.

Response by 1SG Harold Piet made Jun 9 at 2017 12:27 PM

2017-06-09T12:27:00-04:00

Not sure about the regulations today. During my time, The Post CSM and commanding Generals were the only authorized reserved parking. The Handicap parking is nationwide laws. For local offices the regulation allowed for parking by permit but permits had to be issued. I once got in a bunch of trouble because a CSM put one of my soldiers on weekend duty for parking in the wrong spot, I went and parked there and ask for a permit. CSM went ballistic. Reported me to my CSM and he chewed me out but admitted I was right. realistically there was no reserved parking for any others. I told my soldiers where to park. which left mine and the commanders area clear. I didn't tell them it was reserved, I told them where they would park in my area. failure to follow instructions was and is different than parking in unauthorized reserved area.

Response by SGT Kevin Leake made Jun 10 at 2017 3:45 AM

2017-06-10T03:45:24-04:00

It's known as R H I P.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2017 11:17 PM

2017-06-11T23:17:52-04:00

With rank comes responsibility.

Response by CW4 Scott Hyde made Jun 12 at 2017 1:44 AM

2017-06-12T01:44:46-04:00

Stick around for 25 or 30 years, maybe you can have one too.

Response by CW4 Scott Hyde made Jun 12 at 2017 1:50 AM

2017-06-12T01:50:02-04:00

Wait now, you can have one too if you win Soldier of the Month, Soldier of the Quarter, or Soldier of the Year at some posts. Start cracking the books and let us know when you get that parking. When it happens, we will ask why you rate that parking slot, are we not equal?

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2017 7:55 PM

2017-06-15T19:55:36-04:00

Ramk has its privileges. You will appreciate this as you continue your career in military service.

Response by CAPT Hiram Patterson made Jun 16 at 2017 12:51 PM

2017-06-16T12:51:47-04:00

RHIP - Ranks Has It's Priviledges! It's ages old.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2017 10:11 AM

2017-06-18T10:11:03-04:00

This current generation of service members which don't understand the consequences of asking why or what when ordered to do so. The "not so greatest generation ".

Response by SFC Paul McCrary made Jun 18 at 2017 11:41 AM

2017-06-18T11:41:23-04:00

In moderation. Retired now, but I remember a time at Bliss, there was a BDE that everyone had a parking space. From the BDE CMDR down to company level staff. They were all in one building. When I have to walk a mile to park and this was happening, I am using someone's parking space. I believe the only official reserved spots on post are for handicap and emergency vehicles anyway, but I could be wrong.

Response by CPT Larry Hudson made Jun 18 at 2017 10:42 PM

2017-06-18T22:42:04-04:00

In military there cannot be equality among the ranks. There is a chain of command and exist for a reason. Parking spaces is the very lease of concern. Communist ideology strives for the dream of equality. It has proven a illusive dream and greatest failure humanity has endured. In military, we do not have a vote on basis of equality. We have orders. Parking spaces assigned on rank and ordered so.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2017 1:00 AM

2017-06-19T01:00:00-04:00

Well I can't speak for other branches outside the Army. As far as the army goes when it comes to Reserve Parking Spots, there are only 2 enforced parking spots on the installation. That is Handicap & General Officer......... Any other reserve spot is free game to include expecting mothers parking at the commissary..... This is not coming from me, this came from the mouth of a Military Police. You could park in a LTC spot if you want and there is nothing he can do, but most people don't out of respect.

Response by CPT Ian Stewart made Jun 19 at 2017 4:39 PM

2017-06-19T16:39:24-04:00

A funny story regarding RHIP
Prior to its move to Ft Benning, The Armor School was at Ft. Knox, and was where brand new 2nd Lieutenants (2LTs) came to attend the Armor Officers Basic Course (AOBC) before receiving their first assignments to tank battalions and armored cavalry squadrons throughout the world. On their first day they had to attend orientation briefings held in the auditorium of the school's HQ building. Now, it was in this building that the Assistant Commandant (a Brigadier General) had his office...and reserved parking spot. Parking was at a premium so it was inevitable that an incoming student would ignore the "reserved" sign and park in the general's slot. The Assistant Commandant, who "always" seemed to arrive after the orientations had started would park his car behind that of the unauthorized occupant and have his aide put a note on the windshield advising the LT to come to Office 106. As this was a fairly regular occurrence, we "staff weenies" would hold informal bets to see how long the General would take to introduce the young officer to the error of his ways. The LT would then be taken to the Deputy Assistant Commandant (a Colonel) who reinforced the General's remarks and assured the LT he was starting his career off on the wrong foot. After the Colonel was finished, the General's driver would accompany the LT to the General's parking slot and move the General's car so a very shaken LT could vacate it. It didn't take long for the word to spread throughout the AOBC class and the General wouldn't have to be concerned that his slot would be occupied by an unauthorized POV....until the next class came for it's orientation. :-)

Response by LCpl Marshall Tierney made Jun 21 at 2017 12:04 PM

2017-06-21T12:04:35-04:00

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 23 at 2017 1:18 PM

2017-06-23T13:18:35-04:00

Response by SMSgt Robert Anderson made Jun 25 at 2017 7:54 PM

2017-06-25T19:54:57-04:00

Prestigious

Response by SSgt Michael Cox made Jun 27 at 2017 11:17 AM

2017-06-27T11:17:34-04:00

The only reserved parking spots I have seen on base at the exchanges are for full birds which are usually used by the spouses who think they wear the rank. At the unit you might see Commander and first shirt. That is for the AF though not sure about the other branches.

Response by SCPO Bob Stevens made Jun 27 at 2017 11:29 AM

2017-06-27T11:29:35-04:00

RHIP

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 29 at 2017 6:38 PM

2017-06-29T18:38:28-04:00

Parking spaces at Joint Bases should be given by Branch of Service starting with ARMY, then Marines, Air force, lastly navy!
Notice the size of letters in comparison to priority...lol.

Response by Sgt Carlos Barrera made Jun 30 at 2017 4:51 PM

2017-06-30T16:51:51-04:00

You will earn those spots as you advance in rank, then you will see how it works. You reap what you sow

Response by PO1 Frank Reiffenstein made Jul 2 at 2017 4:05 PM

2017-07-02T16:05:57-04:00

I can't even believe this I a question. Next you will want to eat in the Ward Room. Benifites of the rank. Wake up and smell the salt water.

Response by SrA Merwin Hayes made Jul 3 at 2017 4:09 AM

2017-07-03T04:09:13-04:00

Were you REALLY in the military? The very first thing I learned in basic was the meaning of 'rank' and where E-1 was on the list.

Response by SPC Sean Martin made Jul 4 at 2017 11:50 AM

2017-07-04T11:50:24-04:00

Does this really bother you? It is what it is, and always will be. Park in the south forty, and walk; it's good for you!! lol

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made Jul 4 at 2017 1:36 PM

2017-07-04T13:36:24-04:00

SPC Navarro: You've gotten your share of military reality instruction from the other responses, however, your confusion is not unique. Shortly after I married, I was transferred from independent duty to Camp Pendleton. Naturally, one of my wife's initial concerns was the family's food supply. She took my car and went to the Commissary for the first time. I soon got a telephone call at work from the MP office, inquiring why my car was parked in the General Officer's spot at the Commissary. Fortunately, she came out of the store and moved it prior to any legal action. When I got home that evening, I asked her what she was thinking and she explained, since she knew of no special duties I had been assigned to, she assumed I was just a general officer. Military instruction followed.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 4 at 2017 3:24 PM

2017-07-04T15:24:32-04:00

who even implied that?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 6 at 2017 11:01 PM

2017-07-06T23:01:58-04:00

When was the last time you saw a General live in barracks?
Rank has its privileges. Stick around long enough and you will get to enjoy them.

Response by SSgt Rob Millard made Jul 7 at 2017 10:55 AM

2017-07-07T10:55:46-04:00

I can't remember a single day in my 20 years active, or even my 21 years retired, that I was ever treated equally to an officer! The Military has a hierarchy that is unmatched! RHIP is real!!!

Response by SSgt David Tedrow made Jul 9 at 2017 1:14 AM

2017-07-09T01:14:14-04:00

No, there is not equal treatment and there should not be. In garrison Officers and SNCO's get the privileges. In the field it flips to take care of your troops first. It's a simple concept that has been around for decades and works well. Rank does have it's privileges!

Response by LT Mordechai Schwab made Jul 9 at 2017 8:50 PM

2017-07-09T20:50:44-04:00

It's called RHIP (Rank Has Its Privileges).

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 10 at 2017 11:12 PM

2017-07-10T23:12:04-04:00

Well in a legal sense, you can park in any spot you want except handicapped. Those are the only parking spaces reserved by law. Just beware if you do park in a E9 reserved, they can't legally do anything about it, but they will chew your ass to high hell.

Response by SFC James Buckley Jr made Jul 12 at 2017 1:05 PM

2017-07-12T13:05:54-04:00

I do not remember in the 22 yrs. serving in the Army, that democracy and equality we the law of the service. The enemy will give you a parking space which has been zeroed to take you cry baby ass out. Suck it up jelly bean and drive on Hero.

Response by SFC James Buckley Jr made Jul 12 at 2017 1:15 PM

2017-07-12T13:15:40-04:00

Because your a SPC E-4 hiding behind a Sham Shield who needs more time in the Front Lean and Rest position. Your enemy will give you a parking space already zeroed in on waiting for you to park your sissy ass there. Suck it up hero. your in the Armed Forces of the United States of America.
Have a Nice Day Sunshine

Response by SPC(P) Gildardo Navarro made Jul 12 at 2017 9:53 PM

2017-07-12T21:53:13-04:00

keep them coming, ill make RP great again!!

Response by Sgt David Sowder made Jul 12 at 2017 10:20 PM

2017-07-12T22:20:26-04:00

I worked at Allison Transmission Div. of General Motors for 31 years after 3 1/2 years as a machine repairman I took on the job of Foreman one of the reasons was the benefit of the parking space. After several years the Union negotiated that away from salaried personel. That and the health benefits plus Life insurance all went away after retirement. So nothing was left except I did receive a buyout for my 31 years as a Salaried person. So whats the benefit in civilian life there is none. Whats to say the government wont take that away.

Response by CDR William Sheedy made Jul 13 at 2017 3:14 PM

2017-07-13T15:14:39-04:00

Everyone is equal. Everyone has equal opportunities to achieve great things. Those that have achieved great things are rewarded. And in the case of senior officers and senior NCOs, one thing they get are a few reserved spots that allow them to conduct their business more efficiently so they can get back to helping others.

Response by Sgt Charles Malcom made Jul 13 at 2017 8:41 PM

2017-07-13T20:41:25-04:00

When you leave the military, young man (and I can call you that because I am heading towards 85 years old now) go get a job with a large company, or a government agency, and unless you are hired as one of the top ranked employees, be sure to ask for your private parking space. Good luck. As CPT T F posted, not everyone is equal. That is just how you go through life. When you move up you get more privileges. If we were all equal in the military, we wouldn't have to salute officers. Stripes on the arm and bars on the shoulders means the men and women have already paid their dues, not you are paying yours. Stick around long enough and you will one day have reserved parking all over you base.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 13 at 2017 9:04 PM

2017-07-13T21:04:08-04:00

It's part RHIP and part logistics / efficiency. Due to the nature of their jobs, leaders' time is less expendable than that of the regular rank-and-file.

Response by MSG Mamerto Perez made Jul 14 at 2017 7:33 AM

2017-07-14T07:33:17-04:00

When I was station in HAAF, Ga., no one on post could have a space reserve by Position. However, it could be reserve by work title such as Post Commander, Post Sergeant Major, I was the NCO PBO and had a spot for work not in the PX, Commissary or Hospital.

Response by SPC(P) Gildardo Navarro made Jul 14 at 2017 3:12 PM

2017-07-14T15:12:11-04:00

mmm them rp points taste so good

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2017 5:21 PM

2017-07-14T17:21:43-04:00

You're in the Army. So no. Deal with it.

Response by LTC Ronald Stephens made Jul 16 at 2017 2:31 PM

2017-07-16T14:31:43-04:00

On most posts or bases privileged parking places are designated for the post/base commander, a couple for captains/full colonels and often for the installation senior NCO and one for any second lieutenant. That was at Ft. Sill, OK. Don't recall the place for "any second lieutenant" being used very often. Usually walked to the PX from work when necessary as I frequently had a place in the shade at work.

Response by SFC Shawn Sawyer made Jul 19 at 2017 2:57 PM

2017-07-19T14:57:32-04:00

OK I'm going to say something that's truly going to break the hearts of all you sweet little innocent MILLENNIALS. You are NOT special, I say again, YOU ARE NOT SPECIAL. I know of mommy always told you you were but your not, sorry. That being said, NO we are not all equals, the fact that your a Specialist and have to ask that question makes me wonder what happened to my Army. I say shame on your leadership for failing you.

Response by SPC Patrick Chandler made Jul 19 at 2017 11:53 PM

2017-07-19T23:53:27-04:00

Being treated equally in terms of giving each other respect yes.

But I'd be damned if I busted my ass to get ahead and wasn't recognized for it.

Look at it this way...that WO, SNCO, Commander...whatever carries A LOT more responsibility and has a job that is A LOT more time sensitive than you or I. There might be times where parking closer to the building would be warranted. Second, you really can't walk the extra 30ish yards of your standard parking lot?

Response by SFC Ron Gitzendanner made Jul 21 at 2017 10:30 PM

2017-07-21T22:30:26-04:00

LOL....I was always told that "everyone in the Army is green, it's just that some are more green than others".....I never had a problem with rank having the better parking around military buildings, but in the "commercial areas", post exchange areas, I always kind of wondered. But then, as someone in this segment stated, "rank has it's privileges", you will get yours and you'll appreciate them.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2017 11:12 AM

2017-07-22T11:12:11-04:00

I'm a firm believer in RHIP. Put the parking places for COLs, GENs, CSMs as far from the PX or Commissary as you can get them.

Response by SGT Paul Crossgrove made Jul 23 at 2017 5:08 PM

2017-07-23T17:08:37-04:00

The US Army is a military caste system of privilege. Bluntly, I'll say: get over it or get out.

Response by SGT Paul Crossgrove made Jul 23 at 2017 5:13 PM

2017-07-23T17:13:39-04:00

Philosophically droning explanations, mini-thesis, will add entertaining answers to this simple (not stupid) or should I say stupid (not simple) question.

Response by TSgt James Carson made Jul 24 at 2017 2:00 PM

2017-07-24T14:00:06-04:00

NOW GET THIS. RHIP. Rank Has It's Privileges. Are you sure you are from this planet?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 24 at 2017 7:21 PM

2017-07-24T19:21:17-04:00

I have no issues with that but I sure have issues with certain individuals who will use their Rank or position to attain something. A while back certain individuals were caught and called out passing service members in DFAC.

Response by SSG Robert Perrotto made Jul 24 at 2017 7:27 PM

2017-07-24T19:27:24-04:00

I have been told, on numerous occasions, that the only authorized parking spots on a post are for Handicap/expectant mothers, and General officers - the rest are a courtesy. So , you can park wherever you want, you just have to be willing to pay the consequences.

Response by SPC John Chambers made Jul 24 at 2017 7:56 PM

2017-07-24T19:56:40-04:00

Good point. It seems the military wants to make the point of "Do as I Say, Not as I Do." We are all equal except when they don't want to be equals.

Response by Sgt Donald Chalfy made Jul 24 at 2017 8:57 PM

2017-07-24T20:57:04-04:00

SPC. Navarro, no, everyone is not treated equal in the Armed Forces. My direct answer to your direct question is because SNCOs and above earned it through their years of experience and where they are placed in the rank structure. What train of thought brought you to ask this kind of question? Is this a serious question? No disrespect intended to the OP; however, the subject of rank structure is taught in every basic training facility DoD wide. I am sure you have a section leader, squad leader, platoon sergeant, first sergeant, sergeant major, officer in charge, commanding officer, all the way up through a commanding general. Do you truly think any of the above regard you as an equal and thus, defer their parking spot to a boot specialist? Do you think you are their equal? I find this question to be amazingly disturbing, especially from an active duty soldier.

Spec. Navarro, I would like to hear from you with regard to why you chose to ask this question. Thank you.

Response by 1SG Dale Cantrell made Jul 24 at 2017 9:20 PM

2017-07-24T21:20:18-04:00

We all are born equal, everything is is earned

Response by SP5 Elden Morris made Jul 27 at 2017 6:38 AM

2017-07-27T06:38:09-04:00

I have been out of the military for many years. When I was in the Army, we were always preached to that RHIP (Rank Hath its Privileges) I remember that a young security guard disrespected the post commander by ignoring his staff car coming to the main gate. The General was furious. As punishment, that guard was assigned to guard the post commander's parking space at the Post Exchange from 11pm until 6am for 30 days.

Response by Capt Al Parker made Jul 27 at 2017 5:00 PM

2017-07-27T17:00:18-04:00

It's called RHIP!

Response by SSG Steven Mangus made Jul 28 at 2017 8:02 AM

2017-07-28T08:02:12-04:00

To clarify about parking spots on Army Installations. There are only two reserved parking spots allowed, handicapped and PAO. We had this argument back at Campbell with all of our pilots complaining about parking. Now I am all about giving the most senior officer and enlisted member a dedicated spot out of tradition..these other multitudes of reserved spots are unnecessary..

Response by MSgt Vernon Anderson made Jul 28 at 2017 12:32 PM

2017-07-28T12:32:21-04:00

RHIP - they earned it

Response by 1LT Peter Duston made Jul 29 at 2017 5:47 AM

2017-07-29T05:47:54-04:00

When I was a young soldier many many years ago and my wife and I were on post, my wife (a Colonel's daughter) always parked in a spot reserved for the CO or other high ranking officer because her mother always did. Her rationale (and the mother's) was that the CO's never used those parking spots all over the base anyway!!!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2017 10:52 PM

2017-07-29T22:52:26-04:00

I cant believe this question was even asked

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2017 11:25 PM

2017-07-29T23:25:52-04:00

Equal? No, this is not the civilian world, it's the U.S. military, and as such, not everyone is equal.

Response by SSG James Mielke made Jul 30 at 2017 2:15 AM

2017-07-30T02:15:51-04:00

Because R.H.I.P., that is why. Now quit your whining.

Response by MGySgt Jerry Suarez made Aug 3 at 2017 3:29 AM

2017-08-03T03:29:54-04:00

I can't believe you are even asking that question. Rank has its privelage just like in the civilian world do you think a CEO doesn't have his own parking should he/she be treated the same? Same in the military I'm a retired MGySgt that served over 30 years which I believe that earned me a parking spot and other perks that Jr Marines or officers don't get. If as you say we were all equal there would be no need for rank structure, no need for managers, CEOs, Generals, etc. So wake. up and smell the coffee and get your head out of your a_ _

Response by SGT Jody Beach made Aug 3 at 2017 2:00 PM

2017-08-03T14:00:58-04:00

I give one shit about where they park. I prefer to park away from everyone else. Two many inconsiderate people out there will ding up your ride.

Response by SFC Gerald Gatlin made Aug 3 at 2017 7:04 PM

2017-08-03T19:04:23-04:00

"Can't make you equal, but let's try parallel. Start knocking them out. You can stop when we are equally tired of your whining" Man I miss being an NCO sometimes.

Response by LCpl Marshall Tierney made Aug 4 at 2017 11:24 AM

2017-08-04T11:24:32-04:00

Senior NCO's and officers get paid more, if we are equal, how is that fair.

Response by SrA Gabe D. made Aug 4 at 2017 4:53 PM

2017-08-04T16:53:43-04:00

SNCO and WO should not be getting their own parking spaces. Usually post commanders or senior directors get assigned parking. Now, I don't remember all the details but regulations even state that assign parking spaces should be avoided. Forgot what regulation you can find it in.

Response by SSG Wayne Wood made Aug 5 at 2017 11:43 PM

2017-08-05T23:43:43-04:00

RHIP; pay your dues (however) and maybe one day YOU get your own parking spot. Just try to maintain your integrity on the way.

Response by MSgt Victor Moss made Aug 6 at 2017 2:14 AM

2017-08-06T02:14:25-04:00

Sure, we're all equal, however some of us are more equal than others. If you're not sure about who's more equal, count the number of stripes on your sleeves.

Response by SGT David Emme made Aug 6 at 2017 4:14 AM

2017-08-06T04:14:53-04:00

RHIP

Response by SFC Scott Parkhurst made Aug 6 at 2017 5:43 AM

2017-08-06T05:43:19-04:00

To be blunt and to be respectful, the answer is "no". With rank, there re privalages because you earned them. It gives one a reason also to work harder for these things as well. I also feel that parking spaces more closer to the Buidings for Officer's exspecially is good because their on call half the time as well as NCO's and WO's. But with rank, one should never treat other's with disrespect or talk down to anyone. You have to earn your Troops trust and respect by treating them right. I once gave up my spot for a bit to a Troop because he was in a leg cast so I felt he needed to be closer to the building....no brainer.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2017 5:48 PM

2017-08-06T17:48:49-04:00

I can't say anything about the Army's base regs, but on Marine bases, only the base commander rates their own spot, meaning you technically are allowed to park in that CWO3+ spot if you really must. Most of us respect the rank, however, and let them enjoy their special spots. If walking an extra few spaces is that bad, then you should probably check your fitness levels, or lack thereof, and train a bit harder.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2017 6:16 PM

2017-08-06T18:16:01-04:00

While there is nothing in the military rule book that says we are all supposed to be treated equally ... and in fact we aren't ... I agree with the notion that at least one military base has gone overboard with special designated parking. Ft Rucker has more "reserved parking" at the PX, commissary, and base clinic than I've seen anywhere else in my dependent and military career. IMV, if you aren't handicapped and aren't pregnant ... you can walk from whatever parking place you can find in the parking lot. Good for you ... from the CG on down.

Response by MSG Ralph Julian made Aug 8 at 2017 11:37 AM

2017-08-08T11:37:08-04:00

Rank has its privileges. Senior Officers and some Senior NCO's do have designated parking spots but not all. When you get some time under your belt and a few more stripes then you might have reason to question but still some things are what they are and you have to deal with it. There a couple more depending on what installation your on on too. Pregnant woman and Soldier or Ancona of the year get a privilege spot.

Response by SPC(P) Gildardo Navarro made Aug 11 at 2017 11:10 PM

2017-08-11T23:10:50-04:00

More RP points please.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 12 at 2017 11:25 AM

2017-08-12T11:25:50-04:00

RHIP. There is no such thing as "One Army". Never has been, never will be...

Response by CSM Ralph Hernandez made Aug 14 at 2017 12:21 AM

2017-08-14T00:21:38-04:00

Remember Soldier, "RHIP" Rank has its privileges! That's just a very small part of why we look forward to getting promoted.

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Aug 14 at 2017 8:59 AM

2017-08-14T08:59:21-04:00

Treated equally? This is an all-inclusive and respect for all military, NOT an equal military.

Response by SSG Richard Reilly made Aug 14 at 2017 10:10 AM

2017-08-14T10:10:22-04:00

Dude, why in the world do you think you are equal to anyone. The military is built on rank and structure. You are equal to a SPC congrats There are roughly 8 Enlisted people that you are not equal and are superior to you and 15 Officers. Good news is you are superior to 3 ranks so congrats.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2017 3:17 PM

2017-08-15T15:17:44-04:00

It is equal, when you make CSM or GO you can park there.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2017 9:24 AM

2017-08-19T09:24:23-04:00

You're kidding right? Treated equal? When's thelast time you saw a captain clean a latrine?

Response by CWO5 Jeffrey Backus made Aug 19 at 2017 8:51 PM

2017-08-19T20:51:04-04:00

First off. We don't get our "pown" parking spots. We have to share them with our peers. At my last base only CWO5 were afforded the privilege of a reserved spot, not all WO/CWO's. Just like you have an entire parking lot of spaces that you share with everyone else, and sometimes with those of us with the coveted reserved spots. RHIP.

Response by SGT Joseph Alanzo made Aug 21 at 2017 2:01 AM

2017-08-21T02:01:50-04:00

THIS IS the way it's go's in the u.s. military LIKE it or NOT.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Aug 21 at 2017 2:22 AM

2017-08-21T02:22:52-04:00

With rank comes privilege, but with the privilege also comes far more responsibility.... I can assure you those senior personnel have far less free time than you do to go shopping for essentials...

Response by SFC(P) Rolando Ortega made Aug 22 at 2017 1:29 AM

2017-08-22T01:29:37-04:00

I see this problem starting at Basic Training and AIT. The new soldiers are not challenge to earn, they are given things and allow to have what at one point we had to earn. Like cellphone for example, we had to earn that 5 minutes call now you see soldiers more focus on the cellphone than preparing for the next day. When you earn anything in life you value more, if a soldier earn that parking spot GREAT! That’s the Army way to reward those that accepted the challenge. It could be a parking spot or medals the point is you earn it!

Response by PFC Charles Sanders made Aug 24 at 2017 11:02 AM

2017-08-24T11:02:16-04:00

Simply put, because they've earned it (at least in theory)....

Response by Capt Al Parker made Aug 24 at 2017 4:24 PM

2017-08-24T16:24:56-04:00

You must have play hooky the day they covered RHIP in basic!

Response by SPC Jason Herrera made Aug 28 at 2017 5:55 PM

2017-08-28T17:55:17-04:00

To quote the Commander here recently about the shortage of parking spaces close to the building. "We don't have a parking problem, we have a walking problem."

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Aug 30 at 2017 5:03 PM

2017-08-30T17:03:42-04:00

It's called respect for their rank! If you need to ask you obviously don't think they deserve it. You probably park in handi-cap parking spots and take candy away from young children too!

Response by SPC Steven Depuy made Aug 31 at 2017 2:22 PM

2017-08-31T14:22:14-04:00

Uh, yeah, what they all said.

Response by SFC Joseph Lumpkins made Sep 2 at 2017 11:22 AM

2017-09-02T11:22:14-04:00

Because the old saying of RHIP is so true.

Response by MSgt Genie Greene made Sep 2 at 2017 11:24 AM

2017-09-02T11:24:38-04:00

Do we really need to respond to this absurd question?

Response by SGT Charles Ludwigsen made Sep 2 at 2017 11:29 AM

2017-09-02T11:29:46-04:00

Specialist, you clearly missed something in your training.

As an E-4, non-NCO, you are responsible for YOU, your contribution to your mission, and to contribute and work as a team. That E-7 or E-8, Warrant Officer, or "high ranking Officer" you speak of is responsible for much more than their singular self. Those in leadership carry a responsibility for every soldier and asset assigned to them. Where you might decide if you are going to eat in the chow hall or off base today, they have to be concerned with making sure you HAVE food, adequate housing, a clear mission and direction, every opportunity to succeed and survive. They carry burdens you may never have to carry. Give them the respect they are due. They excelled, sacrificed, and served others to get to their position and rank. So no, they are not equal to rank and file who would pose such a question. They earned the right to be viewed as better in their military context. Fun fact, when you exit the military, you will find it is no different.

Ironically, in achieving that rank and position, I can assure you that they also embrace the knowledge that they ARE equal to the lowest private in terms of human and societal value. They get it.

Best of luck in your career decisions. Choose wisely.

Response by Cpl Rc Layne made Sep 2 at 2017 11:33 AM

2017-09-02T11:33:28-04:00

While we may all be created equally, which in my mind is a stretch, there is nothing i am aware of that says we are all supposed to be treated equally.
Higher rank, along with its incentives, carries additional responsibilities. If you want additional privileges on base, get off your butt and work for them and move up the chain. Other than that, suck it up and shut it up.

Response by MSgt Terry Mahan made Sep 2 at 2017 11:42 AM

2017-09-02T11:42:12-04:00

Are you shitting me? Is this question for real?

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 2 at 2017 12:32 PM

2017-09-02T12:32:25-04:00

There not suposed to by regulation only the cg get his Owen parking space

Response by SPC Todd Rhoades made Sep 2 at 2017 5:00 PM

2017-09-02T17:00:17-04:00

Okay, I have read enough to put my two cents in now.

I will put this in perspective.
I am 50 years old and have worked in the excavating industry most of my life since ETS as both an operator and mechanic. A few years back I changed companies to get back in the shop. The position was maintaining there trucks, although I was far more qualified than the other two mechanics, I was the new guy. The other two had company trucks and phones, worked fairly regular hours. Not me, on call 24-7, took some arm twisting to get a phone, but it was justified, if you want me always available. Just worked the job, put in the time and didn't bitch. The truck came in time along with the other, pay and position, all the way to lead field mechanic on the equipment instead of the trucks. Just a month ago an opportunity to almost double my income came my way. It meant giving up the perks and going back to low man again. Of course I took it, no brainer, double income and better benefits. The point being, whether military or civilian, you have to earn the privileges, whether it be pay and benefits or perks. If you work hard, put in the extra effort and don't whine, you have an "equal" chance to get to the top.

Response by SP5 Hank Vandenburgh PhD made Sep 2 at 2017 11:18 PM

2017-09-02T23:18:05-04:00

I hooted with laughter in 1966 when sergeants major in Europe got license plates for their POVs that started with SGM. Who thinks this stuff up?

Response by Col Jincy Hayes made Sep 3 at 2017 12:47 PM

2017-09-03T12:47:38-04:00

CSM, 06, CWO-5, and general officers are the only ones I have seen. Not sure, but 2 possible reasons come to mind. First, the senior decision makers usually try to minimize time out of the workplace. You won't believe how busy these guys are. Second, they are usually old as dirt and the shortest path is a reserved parking place. Stay in long enough and you, too, can have a parking space close to the exchange or commissary.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 3 at 2017 8:27 PM

2017-09-03T20:27:18-04:00

This is a privilege that the unit leadership gives them. If someone that parks in their parking space can't receive UCMJ. The most the MPs will do is tell them that if the vehicle is not removed in 72 hours then they will get it towed

Response by SGT Joseph Gunderson made Sep 3 at 2017 8:34 PM

2017-09-03T20:34:26-04:00

Okay... This is moronic. There is nothing in the military that says equal treatment for the lowly private snuffy. Now, if you chose to actually do your homework you might have found that the only parking spaces that are actually reserved on post are handicap spaces and the commanding general space at the fort HQ. Outside of these spaces it is simply a respect thing. Why the hell should a SPC be treated with the same respect as a SGM or a CPT....? The answer is that they shouldn't. Yes, of course, there is a level of mutual respect between soldiers, gotcha, but it ends there. You are a Joe, they are NCOs and Officers that have been around and deserve to not have to park a half mile from THEIR respective CPs.... End of story.

Response by CW5 Jack Cardwell made Sep 3 at 2017 9:54 PM

2017-09-03T21:54:48-04:00

Why do E4s get paid more than E3s ?

Response by MSgt Msgtroy Foster made Sep 5 at 2017 8:36 AM

2017-09-05T08:36:32-04:00

It is a matter of honor and respect for leadership, time in service, the toll of sacrifice, etc. It is an HONOR TO HONOR SUCH MEN AND WOMEN. Just like MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENTS, PURPLE HEART RECIPIENTS, GOLD STAR MOTHERS AND WIVES, etc.

Response by MSG Alfred Aguilar made Sep 5 at 2017 8:08 PM

2017-09-05T20:08:42-04:00

Rank has its privileges because the command understands that to get rank, you have to put your nuts on the table for what other people do...

Response by TSgt Richard Ketterling made Sep 6 at 2017 1:47 PM

2017-09-06T13:47:26-04:00

Hahahaha millennials...

Response by MSgt Jeff Bailey made Sep 7 at 2017 7:37 PM

2017-09-07T19:37:35-04:00

Some are more "equal" than others

Response by SGT William Cooper made Sep 8 at 2017 8:20 PM

2017-09-08T20:20:20-04:00

Everyone IS equal, just some are more equal than others.

Response by SPC Daniel Locklear made Sep 11 at 2017 9:52 AM

2017-09-11T09:52:20-04:00

I personally think it's dumb they have their own parking spaces, what about..I will not use my grade or position to attain pleasure profit or personal safety

Response by SP5 Michael Cates made Sep 11 at 2017 5:33 PM

2017-09-11T17:33:36-04:00

The Armed Services is kind of an example of SOCIALISM!!!! Ummmm that is probably one of the reasons why I left! I heard other soldiers in my Unit talk about NOT going back to civilian life and being anything! They seem to think that DREAMING OF BEING THEIR OWN BOSS as very scary! So they just stayed in! Although I think they were few!

Response by PO1 Michael Bruner made Sep 19 at 2017 9:16 AM

2017-09-19T09:16:02-04:00

I can't stop laughing at the question. I'm amazed at how the Millenials Generation ENLISTS in a branch of the military and expects to get treated better than those who serve over them.

Response by SMSgt Thor Merich made Sep 19 at 2017 10:09 AM

2017-09-19T10:09:44-04:00

It's called "incentive." The hope is that the lower ranks will see those fantastic parking spaces and it will encourage you to promote and stay in the military.

Response by PO3 Terri Gray made Sep 21 at 2017 5:09 AM

2017-09-21T05:09:30-04:00

Rank has its privileges, boot. Pull your head out of your 3 point contact. And if you don't know what that means, go look for the outboard gear locker.

Response by SSG James Behnke made Sep 21 at 2017 5:17 AM

2017-09-21T05:17:51-04:00

I'm not so salty about this. These Seniors have worked very hard their whole career and they get a little recognition with a parking spot. Recognizing soldiers for hard work should not just be limited to lower enlisted. I've seen plenty of Soldier/NCO of the Year parking spots as well.

Go win a board!

Response by LCpl Anthony "Tony" Genniro made Sep 21 at 2017 9:26 AM

2017-09-21T09:26:23-04:00

Stay with me on this one, In the Marine Corps we learned that RHIP as in "Rank Has It's Privileges..."

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2017 10:48 AM

2017-09-22T10:48:01-04:00

Haha! Must have told him that in bootcamp, which is getting way too easy in today's day and age. You get more privileges and pay when you get higher in rank. And that goes with a lot more responsibility.

Response by Cpl Rock DeAugustine made Sep 23 at 2017 2:13 AM

2017-09-23T02:13:50-04:00

Ha this is a funny one. As a young NCO in Gitmo in the late eighties we only had an 80 member NSGA Detachment (Marines) and Two Rifle Security Companies, Windward and Leeward. Same time as "A Few Good Men." I remember the Jamaican-run barber shop on Marine Hill, and always at least a short wait. Well worth it, 'cause they still used a short razor and shaving cream for the neck and sides. If memory serves a visiting Army officer popped in and started taking the first available chair ahead of two or three USMC waiting enlisted. I'm not sure who was uninformed, the Zero or the Jarheads, but the latter weren't shy: "Sir, the line starts here." He waited his turn. I used to always tell others that Marine Leadership made sure their men were taken care of first; has that changed?

Response by CPT Pat Haley made Sep 26 at 2017 4:46 PM

2017-09-26T16:46:42-04:00

Response by MCPO Mike Gardiner made Sep 30 at 2017 12:18 PM

2017-09-30T12:18:16-04:00

RHIP The military cannot, by necessity, be a democratic outfit. However mr SPC, if you want one of those parking spots, move up the ladder!

Response by CPL Glynnda White made Sep 30 at 2017 12:32 PM

2017-09-30T12:32:59-04:00

Officers and NCO's have more responsibility, work harder and have done the work to earn those spaces. You are a Specialist, do the work, get your promos and earn the spot.....go for it!

Response by MSgt Rob Weston made Oct 1 at 2017 7:59 PM

2017-10-01T19:59:19-04:00

RHIP: Rank Has It's Privileges.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Oct 6 at 2017 2:54 PM

2017-10-06T14:54:12-04:00

Fort Benning, 64-65; the Officers Club and PX has a slot for “Any Second Lieutenant”.

Response by SSG Rob Edge made Oct 7 at 2017 2:49 AM

2017-10-07T02:49:43-04:00

I’m retired but truthfully I was told at one time there’s only 3 private parking slots CSM of post ,post commander and handicap but u never know so

Response by LTC Michael Staves made Oct 7 at 2017 4:19 AM

2017-10-07T04:19:33-04:00

Bases vary. In fact there was a period when they were removed for OPSEC. Personally I have not seen warrant officers or other than E-9 Enlisted. Remember the more the Senior the more their time is spread and closer proximity allows them to accomplish a bit more rather than hunting for a parking space.

Response by SSgt Thomas L. made Oct 9 at 2017 8:46 AM

2017-10-09T08:46:47-04:00

How did you make it to SPC and still think that all ranks are supposed to be treated equally? That's the whole point of rank! Parking spots or no, the only thing that gets me upset is when "rule of law" applies more to enlisted than it does to officers. Colonels and Generals get to retire for things that would put an E-6 in Leavenworth.

Response by SFC Jeff "Audie Murphy" Bishop made Oct 11 at 2017 1:16 PM

2017-10-11T13:16:36-04:00

I can't believe someone asked that question. Do you understand that with more responsibility comes more pay, benefits and privilege. You must have been raised with an entitlement mentality.

Response by LCpl Jeff Moore made Oct 11 at 2017 8:22 PM

2017-10-11T20:22:14-04:00

Rank has it privileges, but by the same token when in the field, the less ranks eat 1st.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Oct 11 at 2017 8:31 PM

2017-10-11T20:31:55-04:00

With respect? Yes. Equally? No. The military is a hierarchal organization and as never pretended to be otherwise. We literally wear symbols of our inequality on our chests/sleeves/shoulder boards/collars.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Oct 11 at 2017 8:46 PM

2017-10-11T20:46:32-04:00

I am disabled and have to drag my oxygen everywhere I go. The safety zone around buildings is as far as I can walk. So I go past three Generals spots a few Sergeants Major and miscellaneous other employee of the months. I have had to give up going to some facilities

Response by SGT Darryl Dykes made Oct 13 at 2017 2:06 AM

2017-10-13T02:06:31-04:00

Because they can

Response by PFC Dave Mahlow made Oct 17 at 2017 10:22 AM

2017-10-17T10:22:28-04:00

Oh I needed that laugh today!
Safe to assume you’re a liberal?

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2017 9:44 PM

2017-10-17T21:44:13-04:00

It takes a special kind of US Service member to climb up through the ranks. Some do it, some don't. But for those that do, sometimes the little things make the most difference. A parking spot at the exchange, hospital or where ever is a small token of appreciation for an honorable warrior. Been that way since before you were born and will go on long after you pass. Just remember that when someone parks there, and you see them, know that they have "Been there, Done that, and got a Coffee mug, T-Shirt, and a parking place with honor. I gave my country 22 years of my life and my first assignment (1970) after high school, Basic and AIT, was the sunny shores of Viet Nam, (only on non monsoon days). Be proud of your profession, be proud of your country, it's history, and those who went before you, some of whom gave ALL.
Crusty WO

Response by SP5 Rod Bernsen made Oct 18 at 2017 1:12 PM

2017-10-18T13:12:09-04:00

This is a perfect example of a generation(s) raised WITHOUT: Winners and losers, everyone got a trophy for participation; Dodge Ball, a game that psychically (and sometime physically) hurt smaller, less athletically inclined children; Pass-Fail grades to eliminate the impact on student's self-esteem who didn't get an A or B. To be sure all men and women are created equal, that is the biological act of fertilization, but after this the individual is responsible for their success, failure and existence. Consider the U.S. Army garrison commander who decreed that combat experienced soldiers SHALL NOT wear their unit patch on the right sleeves because -- it just isn't fair to soldier who haven't been deployed: SMH

Response by SFC Quinn Chastant made Oct 20 at 2017 11:53 AM

2017-10-20T11:53:06-04:00

Only CSM and SGM may get those spaces, as a SFC, I wasn't any better off parking than a dependent or private. If you need to get a closer space while being on profile ask the medical officer for a handicapped placard. BTW many in the WTUs don't get those either. Feel free to gripe. Cheers!

Response by PO1 Sean Reynolds made Oct 20 at 2017 1:41 PM

2017-10-20T13:41:42-04:00

I can't believe you actually asked this question, or you asked this to just to get a rise out of people

Response by SGT Kyle Bickley made Oct 21 at 2017 9:37 PM

2017-10-21T21:37:30-04:00

No! Your in the military, get over this bullshit you think your entitle to equality. Your not! You want equality then ETS out!

Response by SGT Leon Riege made Oct 21 at 2017 9:41 PM

2017-10-21T21:41:42-04:00

you aren't treated like other SPC's ???

Response by LCpl Donald Faucett made Oct 23 at 2017 5:47 AM

2017-10-23T05:47:36-04:00

We are equal. Some are just a little more equal than others

Response by SMSgt Sheila Berg made Oct 23 at 2017 8:08 PM

2017-10-23T20:08:03-04:00

Special parking places are OK. What's really annoying is spouses and family members abusing the previleges.

Response by SFC David Wilde made Oct 25 at 2017 9:17 AM

2017-10-25T09:17:09-04:00

Yes, there are privileges to attaining a higher rank. Just like the privilege that any good NCO or officer has to be last in line at the chow hall/field mess to make sure his/her troops have eaten before they do. The last ones to get that nice cold shower because all the hot water has been used. Making sure that the troops get down time while the NCO's and officers go to that last OP's meeting, plan the next days events. Discuss how that day went and how they could be better. How to ensure the rank and file are safe and make it home to kiss the loved ones left behind. Beans and bullets don't magically appear. It takes a coordinated effort, even from the lower ranks to make it all happen. So, step up buttercup. Do your job, learn and KNOW the job/position of the next higher rank to you. You'll find life is a lot easier if you have the learned abilities of those appointed over you. Scouts out...

Response by LtCol Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2017 10:12 PM

2017-10-25T22:12:59-04:00

I personally do not like the rank designations at PX facilities, especially in the numbers of spaces that they allocate. It is not mandated by the base, but AAFES does it on their own. I think rank designations at places like the hospital are appropriate, because they reflect official duties (like CO visitation of patients, etc). So, while you young folks should get used to the idea that with higher rank comes higher responsibility in the military (it's not equal), those of us with that rank must remain cognizant that our power must be used to serve, not to be served.

Response by LCDR Rich Bishop made Oct 26 at 2017 8:25 AM

2017-10-26T08:25:54-04:00

The official reasons these folks have reserved parking is that they are senior leadership and we promoted and pay them to lead and manage. These parking spaces are usually close to the front door, so they can get in and out faster and get back to their job. My opinion, these folks have paid there dues and have worked their tail off to reach the top 1% of the military and deserve the reserve parking Additionally, most, after 20+ years in the military have many physical issues and when they retire usually have a high percentage of disability.

Response by Sgt Charles Malcom made Oct 27 at 2017 7:23 PM

2017-10-27T19:23:24-04:00

Look at it this way! As TSgt Jenkins has already said, Rank has its privileges. Now, let's ask this question: Why can't a PFC go to the Officer's Club, or the Staff NCO Club? Why do senior NCOs have private quarters in private barracks? When you go into the mess hall (only now I think they call it the Dining Hall) is there a special area reserved for Senior NCOs? All comes down to this: Officers and Staff NCOs have always enjoyed privacy that the lower ranks cannot breach. Who knows, they may be talking about you and some screw-up you just made on the rifle range. Or they may be discussing something that you really exceeded at, and they don't want this information to become common knowledge within the ranks until the proper time to announce your professional behavior, or your lack thereof. The way to get a private parking space on base is to work your butt off and one day you may be able to have private parking. If you stick it out and keep your nose clean, one day it will be your turn.

Response by SMSgt Allan Pochop made Oct 28 at 2017 8:43 AM

2017-10-28T08:43:44-04:00

Simply incentive, ones military career starts out by walking behind the horse picking up shit, by hard work and study advances to the position of leading the horse, years pass with further hard work and study and the reward........one gets to ride the horse.

Response by PO1 Cliff Heath made Oct 30 at 2017 3:41 PM

2017-10-30T15:41:01-04:00

YOU'RE KIDDING RIGHT

Response by CDR Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 31 at 2017 4:28 PM

2017-10-31T16:28:23-04:00

I've been very fortunate to retire from the Navy with no disabilities. I'm so thankful for that I intentionally park far away from entrances to ensure anyone who needs those spaces more than I do, gets those spaces.

Response by Henning Heinemann made Nov 2 at 2017 1:21 PM

2017-11-02T13:21:04-04:00

Hell no. We are created equally, but that’s where it ends.

Response by SFC Kenneth Lord made Nov 5 at 2017 7:07 PM

2017-11-05T19:07:57-05:00

RHIP - Rank Has It's Privelege. It's Just The Way it has always been. However, That does NOT apply to his family ! ! !

Response by SSG Trevor S. made Nov 5 at 2017 7:26 PM

2017-11-05T19:26:17-05:00

You are being treated equally. You have the same opportunity to advance to those ranks as anyone. If you want a parking spot go to the board. BTW that is a GREAT answer when the CSM asks you why you want to be an NCO. SMH

Response by SGT Steve Hines-Saich B.S. M.S. Cybersecurity made Nov 5 at 2017 10:28 PM

2017-11-05T22:28:45-05:00

I’m not so sure eveyone has earned their rank... when I was in some of us enlisted folks had a real problem getting after certain things education and military ed were big ones. Lots of folks would bend the system to get correspondence courses done. One other problem of note is some MOS might not have to do as much to earn their rank as a 92a my points were constantly high I was picked up just under 700 points as a 25b points were lower and easier to obtain because I had more opportunities for technical training and certification....my hard work and dedication are still paying off I’m an advocate for veterans, I inject leadership where I can and I strive to build myself and others professionally...as my former Soldiers will tell you. I’m still SGT Hines just balancing more and leveraging momentum where and when I can.

Response by SGT Joseph Alanzo made Nov 5 at 2017 10:40 PM

2017-11-05T22:40:49-05:00

THAT THE WAY IT IS FOR MANY OF 100 YRS or MORE OR THIS IS THE SYSTEM GO'S

Response by Sgt Roy Hale made Nov 6 at 2017 4:24 PM

2017-11-06T16:24:59-05:00

You enlisted in the Military, not the peace corps, their is no equality in rank, earn it, stop whining, worry about things that make sense.

Response by CAPT Pete DeCola made Nov 7 at 2017 12:37 PM

2017-11-07T12:37:40-05:00

This must be a troll because nobody can possibly be that stupid.

And if your really are that stupid, see all the other responses below.

Response by 1st Lt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 13 at 2017 8:45 AM

2017-11-13T08:45:06-05:00

Now you are in the real world. No safe space, no participation trophy. You have to earn what you get and be reprimanded when necessary. There are many great NCO’s that are willing to mentor you and teach you how the real world works and how to succeed.

Response by SSG Terry Clay made Nov 16 at 2017 11:41 AM

2017-11-16T11:41:50-05:00

This thread has been before me several times since it's submission, and I have to admit it seems more shocking and ridiculous every time I read it.
I could expound, but rather than waste that time I'dlike to simply answer the soldiers questions.
RANK has its privilege, AUTHORITY and uhhh...NO!

Response by Sgt Heriberto Salinas made Nov 16 at 2017 1:37 PM

2017-11-16T13:37:29-05:00

The concept of a better parking spot and living conditions are two different things.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 16 at 2017 2:38 PM

2017-11-16T14:38:29-05:00

Are you really that naïve? Have you ever seen the difference between housing? Have you ever looked at the pay chart and seen the difference between what officers and enlisted make?

Response by TSgt Philip Prigmore made Nov 16 at 2017 7:37 PM

2017-11-16T19:37:37-05:00

RHIP. Rank Has Its Privileges. Look at your rank and the person one rank below you. Do you not have more privileges than that individual. You are equal to those with the same rank as you, but you are subordinate to those who out rank you and you are also above those who are below you in rank. Work hard, get promoted and you too will one day have your own parking space at other places on your base or post. Don't make it to that 1% rank, and you will not have those privileges.

Response by SFC Dorien Ah Sam made Nov 17 at 2017 10:23 AM

2017-11-17T10:23:33-05:00

In all actuality, by regulation, there should be only 2 authorized parking spaces on every military installation: Post Commander and Handicap parking. Unfortunately, rank carries weight and nobody is going to challenge a senior ranking officer/NCO about it. Also, there's no such thing as equal treatment. Rank has its privileges and the more rank you earn, the more privileges you get. You cannot be a 2 year soldier and expect to get the same privilege as someone that's been in over 10 years. It's basic common sense. You have to earn your way....HOOAH!

Response by CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) made Nov 18 at 2017 12:55 AM

2017-11-18T00:55:52-05:00

You have mistaken the military for a democracy. Or maybe a communist state.

Response by SMSgt Kenneth Riffey made Nov 19 at 2017 4:14 PM

2017-11-19T16:14:57-05:00

Well, I've given this a lot of thought. I entered the AF at 17; no HS education. That was in 1954. Rank was hard to make; especially to E-5. Anyway, spanning a career of 27 years, I decided to retire from the AF. Except for basic training, I spent my entire career in Intelligence. The AF paid for me to attend ten military schools. I also had ten overseas tours. I was in Korea but unfortunately, I didn't get to go Viet Nam. During my career, I attained 130 hours of college (off duty). After retirement, I went to work for the FEDS, as the Superintendent of Finance in Operations with the VA. Additionally, I received (through the VA) training as a commercial/consumer loan officer for one of the largest banks in the U.S. A geographical move was in order and I ended up in the Southeast part of the U.S. After relocation, I went to work for Martin/Marietta. Allowing enough time for another retirement, I got out of the workforce at the age of 59. I'm now retired from the military,
Lockheed/Martin and on SS. So.....all you young assholes want something out of life..........work for it. No one deserves a damn thing until they have worked towards a goal. The goal should be to make the world respect you and to go through life with dignity. So, you young men who got used to getting a trophy even when you came in last, forget it. If you don't have self-respect and dignity, the only thing you'll ever amount to is a pile of shit.

Response by SFC Ken Heise made Nov 20 at 2017 1:21 AM

2017-11-20T01:21:31-05:00

All reserved parking spaces on any military installation are courtesy parking spaces and you cannot be punished for using them. You might catch a ton of heat but can’t be punished for using them. The ONLY spot you can get a ticket for using is the handicapped parking space.

Was stationed at Fort Carson with 4ID and everyone who thought they were special had a “reserved” spot at Division Headquarters until the CG told them to take them down.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2017 2:20 AM

2017-11-20T02:20:36-05:00

Responsibility and Accountability! :-)

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2017 2:54 AM

2017-11-20T02:54:06-05:00

Specialist—See your Chaplain and get your T.S. Card punched. :-)

Response by SGT Frank Pritchett made Nov 20 at 2017 6:27 AM

2017-11-20T06:27:55-05:00

Welcome to the United States Military where their is tradition and respect and a thing called the right of passage. If we were all equal, we would be shopping at Wal-Mart not the PX. I respect rank, privileges and War Veterans.

Response by SSG David Peters made Nov 22 at 2017 1:17 PM

2017-11-22T13:17:39-05:00

Yes we are all equal, some are just more equal than others. It's called RHIP (rank has its privileges). Its the military, deal with it, and focus on you job. And if you stay in long enough you too might be able to use that space one day.

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Nov 23 at 2017 1:08 PM

2017-11-23T13:08:48-05:00

Because the 1SG said so; now shut up and get back to work.

Response by SSG Dave Johnston made Nov 27 at 2017 1:11 AM

2017-11-27T01:11:33-05:00

Back in the day... It was only the Corp, Division, Garrison, Commanders and their SGM's that had "Reserved" parking. How or why it has expanded, only the newly "Entitled" know; maybe.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 28 at 2017 2:22 PM

2017-11-28T14:22:35-05:00

No, we're not supposed to be treated equally. The military is a hierarchy. With rank come privileges but it takes a lot of rank and many years to get there. In theory, an O-6 has 25 to 30 years of service as does an E-9 or W-5. However, if you spend over half your career enlisted and then get a commission you still don't get any "privileges" because you're only a major at 32 years service and older than most O-6 and O-7s...

Response by SPC David Willis made Nov 28 at 2017 2:27 PM

2017-11-28T14:27:25-05:00

In no way are we all treated equally, as a food service specialist you were probably treated much differently than I was and we were/are the same rank. Other than the obvious more rank=more privilege=more responsibility there can be logistical reasons they have closer parking sports as an E4 I got an hour or two for lunch depending on what we were doing. When I became a TL that seemed to be cut in half instantly. SNOCs/WOs/senior officers have very little free time and usually need to be able to grab what they need and get back to work.

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Nov 29 at 2017 4:24 PM

2017-11-29T16:24:41-05:00

Yes...we're all equal in the military. LOL. What recruiting poster did you drool over?"Starship Troopers? "Want to know more"?

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 30 at 2017 9:06 AM

2017-11-30T09:06:37-05:00

In the military RHIP (Rank Hath Its Privileges). That is how rank works. You devote your time to the military and stick with you, you get more privileges than the junior E1 just walking in from boot camp. These SNCO, WO, and High ranking Officers have devoted decades to the service and deserve these small tokens of appreciation.

Response by Sgt Tim Brooks made Nov 30 at 2017 12:28 PM

2017-11-30T12:28:12-05:00

This is what I hated most about the Marine Corps, which a bunch of bad information. Listen up, if you haven't read the base order then shut up and knock off the rank has its privileges. Only push overs say that. As a Sgt. I had no issue with parking in officer spaces. Per DoD policy no military insulation can designate a parking spot to any person or rank with the exception of handicap, pregnant, or wounded personal. Print the order out keep it in your POV and when the time comes hand the premadonna a copy of the order. Simple as that, or grow a backbone and tell them that it's a federal violation to claim a parking space which was built with tax dollars and is in a Commons area.

Response by SFC Roger Senatore made Nov 30 at 2017 7:17 PM

2017-11-30T19:17:47-05:00

Commanders are surly authorized reserved parking at their normal place of duty, GO's are authorized reserved parking because they are GO's. Maybe key positions are authorized at and by their respective commands. Here's the test; park in a reserved parking spot, then call the MP's on yourself. If they respond and give you a ticket, take it to court. If you are found guilty, then the reserved spot is authorized. Or you can you can park somewhere else and aspire to have your own reserved spot some day!

Response by PO3 J.W. Nelson made Dec 2 at 2017 10:12 AM

2017-12-02T10:12:15-05:00

RHIP !!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 4 at 2017 12:41 PM

2017-12-04T12:41:40-05:00

Glad that you can see that early in your career. I understood this early in my career since most of my family members is or were career Soldiers. But always ensure that you keep that in mind and take care of your soldiers. Give them the privilege of leaving earlier, getting first meal, and receiving less overall responsibility (not have to track as much as a officer or SNCO unless you have no option). Remember that E-1 to E-4 does not get the privilege that you describe and is usually getting paid at least half of what everyone in that privilege bracket is getting paid. This is a double edge sword and I feel as though there are resentment on both sides.

Response by SFC Laurie Schultz made Dec 5 at 2017 7:18 PM

2017-12-05T19:18:21-05:00

Response by SPC Steven Depuy made Dec 7 at 2017 9:16 AM

2017-12-07T09:16:23-05:00

Uh no, where did you get that myth from?

Response by SSgt Kevin Hopkins made Dec 7 at 2017 10:34 AM

2017-12-07T10:34:51-05:00

i cant believe this question comes from anyone in the military, it makes no sense. if everyone in the military were equal why do 7y6ou think theres a ranking system?

Response by MAJ Montgomery Granger made Dec 7 at 2017 11:40 AM

2017-12-07T11:40:03-05:00

Yeah, not really in all circumstances. Higher rank comes with higher responsibility and higher privileges. Higher risk, higher reward for accomplishing the mission. But remember, at least with commanders, their job is the care and training and readiness of the troops. This means commanders eat last. If there's not enough food or the quality of the food is sub-par, the commander will know it and can demand that it be fixed. All the soldier can do is complain. Officers also have to purchase their own uniforms. They may get an allowance, but it never covers everything that's needed. A parking space is under the purview of the base commander I would imagine, and is a small gratuity and acknowledgement that the higher ranking folks may have less free time and need to get in and out in order to get back to duty. The higher ranking person is required to pan and execute missions, so they perform a more critical role, so their time is more valuable.

Response by PO3 Steven Oge made Dec 8 at 2017 9:20 AM

2017-12-08T09:20:30-05:00

But that doesn't mean their wives can park in those reserved without their husbands accompanying them

Response by CW4 Aaron Hogan made Dec 20 at 2017 12:25 AM

2017-12-20T00:25:41-05:00

With time in service and time in grade comes perks. I was enlisted for 9 years as a senior nco but finally got smart and went to warrant school. Retiring after 21 years of service and 11 18 month deployments, when I go to the commissary, px or shopettes, yes I should have a dedicated parking spot allotted for me to limit the distance for me to wheel into the location as I refuse to park in a handicapped parking spot. So yes, as much as it may tick people off, we do deserve special parking spots whether handicapped or not. When I see a PV1 wearing his BCG’S, I remember that was me 21 years ago and 11 tours earlier. He’ll hopefully gave that dedicated parking spot one day as well.

Response by SPC(P) Gildardo Navarro made Dec 30 at 2017 2:54 AM

2017-12-30T02:54:32-05:00

huh, Everyone still commenting on this, it was posted as a joke but i guess i rustled some people jimmies. Have a happy new year. Keep them RP points coming.

Response by SGT Lee Oien made Dec 31 at 2017 5:44 PM

2017-12-31T17:44:09-05:00

No, we are not all equal. With rank comes a lot more responsibilities, pressure, and expectations. Personally, I don't have any issue with this type of (small) benefit and acknowledgement of the senior ranks.

Response by TSgt Johnny Geist` made Dec 31 at 2017 6:13 PM

2017-12-31T18:13:13-05:00

It seems pretty simple to me. Ever heard of RHIP Rank has its privileges.

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Jan 2 at 2018 11:02 AM

2018-01-02T11:02:05-05:00

Equal treatment doesn’t prevent or prohibit the existence of incentives or perks. Command Staff or other members getting a parking spot is a perk of a position. This same practice can be seen across the spectrum in the Military and civilian worlds. This is the Sailor of the quarter,Marine of the Quarter etc gets a spot. It is an incentive and reward for hard work.

It isn’t a new concept and it obviously isn’t in breech of equal opportunity. If the Commanding Officer gets a parking place it will be there for the current CO regardless of gender, age, size, religion or race. That is the same for a CEO.

They earned their place. I don’t expect a General to park in the back of a parking lot just like I assume Steve Jobs didn’t park in the back either.

This is a weak argument

Response by SGT Philip Klein made Jan 4 at 2018 7:56 AM

2018-01-04T07:56:16-05:00

No such thing as equality in the military. Want a better parking place due your time. I just shopped off post. We're all equal at target.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 4 at 2018 1:35 PM

2018-01-04T13:35:29-05:00

I'm befuddled by the premise. Why would anyone think that we are supposed to be treated equally?

Even in the civilian context, the only equality that anyone should want, and the only equality that is required, is equality before the law.

I have no desire to be equal to anyone in any other context. I wish to excel.

Response by Cpl Eric Dunn made Jan 7 at 2018 2:45 AM

2018-01-07T02:45:00-05:00

Please let me that's a joke? Equal? Time, rank, service boot

Response by PO1 Cliff Heath made Jan 7 at 2018 2:29 PM

2018-01-07T14:29:50-05:00

I gotta be honest I'm surprised that someone in the military would even ask that question, new Army I guess, just rethink it , there's a reason you don't see a Command Sergeant Major cleaning shitters

Response by PO1 Cliff Heath made Jan 7 at 2018 2:33 PM

2018-01-07T14:33:00-05:00

I gotta be honest I'm surprised that someone in the military would even ask that question, new military I guess. Think about it for a minute, there is reason you don't see a Command Sergeant Major cleaning shitters along side Private Numbnuts.

Response by CPT Stephen Smith made Jan 9 at 2018 2:27 AM

2018-01-09T02:27:00-05:00

I served as an Infantry Officer (Capt.) in the U.S. Army from '66 to '73. During that time I do not recall any priority being given to anyone as it related to parking privileges at post facilities (except for the post commander). I think such trivial privileges are unnecessary and can cause unneeded friction between officers/non-coms, charged with command responsibilities, and the junior enlisted ranks.

Response by MSG Dave Staley made Jan 9 at 2018 9:21 PM

2018-01-09T21:21:23-05:00

I retired in 1997 as a MSG E-8 and went into civilian sector in automotive manufacturing. My experience helped me day to day, but getting a 4 year degree opened doors more than anything. When you come out here most civilians have no idea the responsibility and dedication to accomplishing tasks we possess. Don't lowball yourself but be aware some are intimidated by us.

Response by SSG Dale London made Jan 11 at 2018 11:01 PM

2018-01-11T23:01:57-05:00

You asked, "Aren't we supposed to be treated equally?"
No. we're not.
Just see how mission effective your unit becomes when privates demand the same respect as the 1SG or CO! You won't have an army anymore. You'll have a dangerously armed mob that will be harder to lead than a herd of cats. You will have an wonderfully egalitarian charlie-foxtrot.
Soldiers who have special parking places have them because they've earned them. If you want a parking place, do what it takes to get the promotions and positions that will lead to one.

Response by SPC Gary Hunt made Jan 12 at 2018 12:01 AM

2018-01-12T00:01:40-05:00

I got in the Offficer's Mess once, and got to see that they weren't eating the same stuff we were.
However, that was the only KP duty I had the luxury, as I had to eat in the kitchen, but got to eat their meals.
Stuttgart, Germany 1965

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2018 7:57 PM

2018-01-26T19:57:43-05:00

I don’t know if anybody knows this but there is no such thing a reserved parking, the only reserved parking spots are handicapped. Those other spots at px or commissary parking lots or in front of the company, those spots are not reserved.

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Jan 28 at 2018 4:52 AM

2018-01-28T04:52:09-05:00

Simple rule to follow while in the military no matter the branch of service. TOTEM pole. You start at the bottom and work your way up. No starting at the middle or top.

Response by Sgt William Coffee made Feb 1 at 2018 10:21 AM

2018-02-01T10:21:29-05:00

A simple one word answer: NO

Response by SSgt W. Aaron Gregory made Feb 3 at 2018 9:29 PM

2018-02-03T21:29:35-05:00

Is this a serious question?

1. I have never seen a parking spot for WO's. And other than SgtMaj/MGySgt, no SNCOs. At least not on commissary or exchange parking lots.

2. Seriously - what in the Sam Houston hell makes you think everyone in the military is going to be treated equally? Do you find yourself as valuable militarily and strategically as a general or admiral-level officer? If you are captured - guess what. No big deal. If an enemy captures a general... that is a huge score for them. Why do you think that is?

If there is a new cadre of enlisted folks out there that take issue with this, they should consider getting out, immediately. This is not going to be for you. If we all spent more time figuring out how to be on top, instead of watering down the institution that puts the accomplished folks there on top, dear God what a nation this could be.

Response by SMSgt Bill Gates made Feb 4 at 2018 7:25 PM

2018-02-04T19:25:26-05:00

Parts of that answer I agree with wholeheartedly. The other part “(and don’t get that confused, they have absolutely earned their rank)” in more than a few cases, is a joke. How many individuals “of rank” have you actually seen outside in 40 degree weather with rain blowing sideways prepping a jet for an emergency launch or has ever done it before they “earned” their rank? Then there are the ones that have “earned” their rank the old fashioned way: keeping their noses in the appropriate place on an O-5 or above because said officer “likes them.” I’ll take the person with grease under their nails and/or a weapon anytime and I’ll hook’em up with the best I can give them, regardless of their rank. I’ve earned my rank by taking care of my people. And that CO that needs a preferred parking place for a hair cut, give me a break!!!!!

Response by MSgt Bruce Hutchinson made Feb 5 at 2018 11:43 PM

2018-02-05T23:43:55-05:00

I might add this is true in most civilian companies also. The CEO of a company often has privileges above those that work for him or her. But as is stated by others, the civilian CEO has in most cases earned the position and works longer hours than most of the workers

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2018 7:06 PM

2018-02-06T19:06:33-05:00

This is a dumbass question. Of course it’s from a SPC.

Response by SFC Christopher Taggart made Feb 6 at 2018 7:10 PM

2018-02-06T19:10:51-05:00

Rank has it's privileges, even though I never took it...I showed a little more humility.

Response by SSG Douglas Hopper made Feb 8 at 2018 12:27 PM

2018-02-08T12:27:36-05:00

I park in them anyways. I just throw my disabled tag in the window.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2018 1:34 PM

2018-02-12T13:34:33-05:00

Because we are old and broken.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2018 3:24 PM

2018-02-12T15:24:04-05:00

SPC(P) Gildardo Navarro nope. We are never supposed to be treated equally when it comes to parking. The elderly need to park closer to the building.

All kidding aside, the main reason, in my mind, is that they are so high up that the have so much going on and to do that they need to run in and run out of the PX unlike most of us who can afford to drive around looking for a parking space. I mean who else is responsible for at least 15,000 individuals?

Response by SFC Mike Thompson made Feb 12 at 2018 3:53 PM

2018-02-12T15:53:04-05:00

Rank has it's privileges!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2018 6:36 PM

2018-02-12T18:36:06-05:00

Out of Respect of their years of service and high rank.

Response by SSG Broderick Sample made Mar 6 at 2018 5:43 AM

2018-03-06T05:43:40-05:00

To quote Spider-Man "With great power comes great responsibility". If you have to get as much done as they have to in a day closer parking is kind of a cheap perquisite.

Response by 1SG Clifford Hendricks made Mar 21 at 2018 7:53 PM

2018-03-21T19:53:43-04:00

I was in the Army for 26 years. You will have to do a lot more talking to get me to believe that officers earn their rank. It's all done by sucking up to the rank above them.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 21 at 2018 9:41 PM

2018-03-21T21:41:48-04:00

Hey SPC. Some Soldiers are more equal than others. We are too busy doing important stuff to walk through the parking lot. In the DC area SGMs get parking spots but COLs don’t. What’s up with that. Them CSM and CWO5 already have plenty of parking up front. It’s those blue signs with the CSM on the chair!

Response by SGT Kurt Skinner made Mar 25 at 2018 8:09 PM

2018-03-25T20:09:56-04:00

If you joined to gain the priveledge of saying you served, then you have served yourself well, but betrayed the oath in your heart.
If you joined to honor the flag, and not yourself then you don't question self worth. You simply serve.
As you serve your duties you will then gain honor, and dignity.
Those whom have dignified this nation have been afforded the honor of rank, which brings priveledge.
Those who abuse rank, show they have no dignity, or ability to where honor, then get weeded out.

Response by SPC Byron Skinner made Mar 25 at 2018 8:35 PM

2018-03-25T20:35:29-04:00

Sp4 Byron Skinner A lot of the same answers. Personally I don't see the big deal, I must clearfy one point made in the discussions. In the civilian world if your place of employment offers reserved parking or you name is on a parking space, you owe taxes on that as income. It will be taxed as earned income at the average monthly rates at the nearest paid parking facility. On base you get tax free parking, enjoy and quite bitching you could be taxed for the privilege.

Response by SFC David Clark made Mar 26 at 2018 8:20 PM

2018-03-26T20:20:04-04:00

Their time is valuable. Also with rank comes responsibility which means limited time to do those things required for self care.

Response by SGT Nathan G. made Mar 29 at 2018 10:03 AM

2018-03-29T10:03:31-04:00

Like others have said, they have more experience I would feel that they earned the reserved parking spot.

Response by SMSgt John Clifford made Mar 29 at 2018 8:45 PM

2018-03-29T20:45:34-04:00

If you think everyone in the military should be treated equally, you need to go back through basic training. Rank has its privileges. Those privileges have been earned.

Response by CMSgt Dale Griffith made Apr 3 at 2018 2:45 PM

2018-04-03T14:45:02-04:00

Sometimes, it's not just by rank, but by position or for recognition. I've had and currently have the opportunity to park in parking spots due to my (retired) rank, but while on AD, I was a First Sergeant as well and had the authority to choose specific parking spaces at the Hospital, or other locations where I was only staying for a short period of time for official business. There were other special parking spaces set up for quarterly award winners as well as part of the recognition of their accomplishments.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2018 10:11 AM

2018-04-04T10:11:27-04:00

We joined the military to preserve democracy, not to practice it :)

Response by CPT Don Kemp made Apr 8 at 2018 11:20 PM

2018-04-08T23:20:59-04:00

You seem to think life is fair and the military is different than civilian life. Performance (Employee of the Month, Teacher of the Year) and Title (CEO, President, Vice President, Second Assistant Deputy to the Secretary) carry privilege and benefits, too.
What you should really be asking yourself is, “What do I have to do to earn the privileges I want?” Then go do those things and enjoy the privilege you’ve earned.

Response by SSG Tony Eychaner made Apr 9 at 2018 4:52 AM

2018-04-09T04:52:34-04:00

What? Is this a private? Wanna a stress card? You wanna be treated as equals to those who have earned their rank, and parking space huh? I bet this is a millenial who got a trophy. Stupid. Go get a AR 220-5. Maybe you will find a safe space....to park your hot wheels, since walking is not in your MOS, you POS. Out

Response by PO3 J.W. Nelson made Apr 13 at 2018 8:22 AM

2018-04-13T08:22:25-04:00

Have you never heard the ole saying "RHIP" ??? That means.......Rank Has it's privileges !!!

Response by 2LT Sal Mortillaro made Apr 13 at 2018 9:29 PM

2018-04-13T21:29:31-04:00

You tell that CWO5 he’s equal to an E5 and see how far that gets you. He might have came from there... a long time ago.

Response by 1SG Cj Grisham made Apr 16 at 2018 1:14 AM

2018-04-16T01:14:00-04:00

No. A just born private is not equal to a sergeant or a Colonel.

Response by CDR Michael Goldschmidt made Apr 16 at 2018 10:29 AM

2018-04-16T10:29:07-04:00

Treated equally? Who told you THAT???

Response by SFC Robert Maldonado made Apr 16 at 2018 12:51 PM

2018-04-16T12:51:31-04:00

I was a senior nco do not agree about the parking space just handicap only. Do not agree that officer's are the ones that work late only, as a motor set. In the motor pool no officer ever stay late with us. Agree rank should have privileges but use it wisely.

Response by LCpl Sam Epaloose jr made Apr 17 at 2018 6:43 PM

2018-04-17T18:43:30-04:00

That's Millennial thinking! Rank has privilege.

Response by CPT Arthur Jacobs made Apr 19 at 2018 12:17 PM

2018-04-19T12:17:47-04:00

It's not that senior NCO's or officers are better than anyone, or better than the enlisted personnel as individuals. It is just assumed that by virtue of their greater responsibility, the tasks they must perform, and the objectives they must accomplish, that their time is rather precious and limited. So, if they have spots closer to the door, or there is a special (shorter) line, then that is a good thing. It allows them to more quickly get back to their jobs - a great part of which is taking care of and looking after the welfare of the enlisted personnel below them in the command structure.

Response by Sgt Jon Mcvay made Apr 20 at 2018 5:53 AM

2018-04-20T05:53:49-04:00

When I was single I didn't have a car (from e-1 to e-3) so parking was not an issue to me. My issue was having to salute an officers kid driving daddy's car. To say we are all equal is on the border of fraternization. E-4 and on up have to keep a certain separation in order to maintain military readiness. Think of it this way... if you are close to someone how hard would it be for you to order him/her into harms way? So to keep higher rank's or help them the military keeps them at an indifferent feeling. So no you /we are not equal in rank or in time in.

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Apr 21 at 2018 12:49 PM

2018-04-21T12:49:18-04:00

Because they say so. No we are not.
Just sucks don't it?

Response by COL Bob Moore made Apr 21 at 2018 11:34 PM

2018-04-21T23:34:11-04:00

Well while assigned remotely at Ft Irwin CA I lost my twice as large housing allowance for a unit that a pv1 received same size based on family size.

Response by CSM Patrick Durr made Apr 22 at 2018 2:12 AM

2018-04-22T02:12:22-04:00

Clearly, your indoctrination into the military hasn't given you an understanding of too much. Perhaps you're spending too much time in the dining facility working shift work and not getting the true experience that many others get. I've been a HHC 1SG, I know the world of my Dining facility personnel, little formation time, Physical training often lacking... Often had to work while line unit personnel were engaged in organizational days or even training exercises. Whatever the issue, if you're not feeling it, take your culinary experience and go be successful somewhere else, because we 32 year in service Senior NCO's who had a parking spot, don't want to hear it.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2018 3:29 PM

2018-04-24T15:29:24-04:00

As a Company Commander in Iraq, I was responsible for life and death decisions on a daily basis, responsible for answering all the phone calls from wives and significant others, for writing letters home to deceased service members, Responsible for Millions of dollars worth of equipment, and list goes goes on. With increased privilege also comes much more responsibility and vice versa. You want it? Earn it!

Response by MSgt Robert Kagel made Apr 26 at 2018 8:19 PM

2018-04-26T20:19:20-04:00

RHIP= Rank Has Its Privileges, Study hard, be a great troop, and help others and you too may get a parking spot. Until then you'll just have to get over it. I only had a dedicated parking space a few times in my career and it was mostly due to having a staff position. Beyond that, I parked with the masses.

Response by Cpl Jason Brown made Apr 29 at 2018 7:38 AM

2018-04-29T07:38:49-04:00

To lead from the front, you need to be able to park in the front.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2018 8:49 AM

2018-04-29T08:49:03-04:00

NO! You earn that right and one of the biggest issue in the military is that everyone think they deserves what higher ranking soldiers have earned. This is not an equal benefit program where you walk in and get a parking spot or the privilege to have things that officers are allowed to have.

Response by MSgt James Slawson made May 1 at 2018 10:52 AM

2018-05-01T10:52:40-04:00

Unless you are ine of the soldiers who sits around and complains thinking you deserve everything without working, ask yourself that same question in 10 or 15 years. If you have never heard "Rank has its Privileges" obviously you have not been in long enough. Earn your rank and respect and you will enjoy your career.

Response by PO1 Barbara Matthews made May 6 at 2018 6:20 PM

2018-05-06T18:20:35-04:00

RHIP

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2018 8:30 AM

2018-05-12T08:30:23-04:00

I think what most people forget.... security purposes you are not suppose to have assigned parking spaces. This can be easily found in AR 190-11 and other supporting regulation and DA PAMs.

Response by SSG Dale London made May 12 at 2018 8:46 AM

2018-05-12T08:46:13-04:00

Dude, the mere fact that you are asking this question tells me that your are either A: cracking a really stupid joke; or, B: in the wrong profession.
In the interests of esprit de corps, I will give you the benefit of the doubt. Ha, ha. Very funny. Drop and give me 20.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made May 12 at 2018 9:01 AM

2018-05-12T09:01:19-04:00

I answered this in the past and will not drag this out. I argue that those senior leaders work far more hours and have far less opportunities to get haircuts, shop and get to their next challenge which inevitableyvis somehow related to taking care of you, your fellow Soldiers and Families. RESPECT! Thank you for your service.

Response by CH (LTC) Robert Leroe made May 12 at 2018 10:11 AM

2018-05-12T10:11:12-04:00

RHIP I don't think things will change.

Response by SSG Jeffrey Leake made May 13 at 2018 1:27 PM

2018-05-13T13:27:58-04:00

Rank has it's privileges. They earned it. It's just a parking space. If this is an issue for you, then your military priorities are in the wrong place.

Response by MAJ Keith FitzPatrick, CPIM, CSCP made May 14 at 2018 4:41 AM

2018-05-14T04:41:28-04:00

Do they still do that? Anyway, the Army isn’t s democracy and we all aren’t equal so if the CG wants parking spot, he or she gets one. Why do people get all riled up about stuff like the one or two parking spots reserved for the CG or Division CSM? Those senior officers and NCOs represent the top 1% of service members in terms of career success so they have earned the perks they get. If a soldier wants his or her own parking spot, then earn it. Oh, and if soldiers think inequity is bad in the military, just wait until they get to the private sector. I don’t think my CEO would take kindly to me asking him to give up his parking spot.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2018 7:46 PM

2018-05-14T19:46:30-04:00

No we are not all equal. This is not civilian world. You earn your rank and the special privileges that come with it

Response by SSG Dennis O'Connor made May 14 at 2018 9:49 PM

2018-05-14T21:49:19-04:00

When you have the level of responsibility that a MG, BG, DCSM, or other similar soldiers has you might begin to understand why they have the "perks" they have.

Response by SP5 Geoffrey Vannerson made May 17 at 2018 5:16 PM

2018-05-17T17:16:16-04:00

Your in the Military and your asking about a "parking spot?" Spend 4 years in college, get a degree and then go through "military hell basic training," You will have a better understanding on why they park where they do. During my time in the military I wish the only issue I had was a parking spot! Do you feel equal? Can you make decisions or do the things the SNCO or officers do? Do you have a degree? Have you been through OCS? If the answer to any one of the questions is no then the answer is self explanatory. YOUR NOT EQUAL!

Response by PO1 Paul Rose made May 25 at 2018 7:18 AM

2018-05-25T07:18:20-04:00

You who are new to the military. Have a lot if growing up to do. I've been out for over 25 years after 22 years active. From day 1 I know who was in charge. And who got what. As they say Rank has its privilege. With that said. If you don't like waiting for things you mite need during your Military Enlistment. Make an effort to advance in Rank. And with that Advancement comes more Responsibility and Privilege.

Response by CPO David Ransom made May 27 at 2018 11:48 PM

2018-05-27T23:48:54-04:00

We're not treated equally. They did not Courts-Martial the entire Watch Section aboard the USS Fitzgerald. If we were treated equally even the crew members that were asleep would be held accountable. With rank comes not just increased privilege, but also increased responsibility. Parking spaces are one way that recognized. The best way to look at it is for the junior people to work hard and aspire to one day be able to use those parking spaces.

Response by LCpl Steve Smith made Jun 4 at 2018 5:16 AM

2018-06-04T05:16:32-04:00

LOL Really? I Mean...REALLY?! I'm a Terminal Lance an E-3 and I've never heard something So BOOT lol. I'm Sorry but What about the Military ever made you think you are to be treated Equally with Higher Ranking Military Personnel? The Military has never and will never work that way, it is NOT a business, Not a Civilian organization where you get to exercise your rights. Your Job is to Protect the Constitution of the Untied States of America not practice what the Constitution says. The Military is not meant to work that way. Now go Be all that you can Be in the ARMY

Response by SGT Joseph Alanzo made Jun 4 at 2018 7:57 PM

2018-06-04T19:57:33-04:00

THIS IS NAME OF THE GAME LIKE IT OR NOT

Response by SGM Ronald Naujelis made Jun 6 at 2018 11:01 AM

2018-06-06T11:01:29-04:00

You seem to forget we came up through the ranks, and didn’t have that privilege as we do now. I came up through the ranks twice pulled K.P, many times and guard duty, further we used to work until noon on Saturday, and didn’t have the many training Holidays as we do now.

Response by Jerry Rivas made Jun 10 at 2018 8:08 PM

2018-06-10T20:08:09-04:00

Um.....perhaps RHIP? Besides....that E9, or CWO5 might just be old and tired.

Response by CPO Chris Kellar made Jun 11 at 2018 11:35 AM

2018-06-11T11:35:11-04:00

Grow up young man, do "your" job and stop whinning

Response by PO1 Dinah Goodman made Jun 11 at 2018 7:45 PM

2018-06-11T19:45:42-04:00

RHIP...Rank Has its Privileges, snd it should have. Each rank is earned and deserving of special privileges and benefits, rewarding hard work and sacrifice. Without this system, what would be the purpose of promotion?

Response by Sgt Mike Thompson made Jun 15 at 2018 11:04 PM

2018-06-15T23:04:12-04:00

My last year in the Corps was one that left me wondering about what people thought they were a part of. As a Sgt. I had Marines tell me it was after 4 so they were on their own time and didn’t have to listen to me. I had to laugh and ask if they had signed a contract which of course they all had I informed them that their ass belonged to the Corps 24/7/365 until their contract expired or they were discharged under less then honorable conditions. In other words you screw with the man a wall is going to fall on you.

Response by SSgt Robert Prest made Jun 17 at 2018 8:54 PM

2018-06-17T20:54:06-04:00

When it comes to Brothers and Sisters in the Military there is only one true equalizer and you should pray you never have to experience it any time soon.

Response by Sgt Roy Hale made Jun 18 at 2018 1:03 AM

2018-06-18T01:03:29-04:00

I could not have said it better myself. What did their recruiters tell them? What Military do they think they are enlisting into?

Response by Sgt Roy Hale made Jun 18 at 2018 1:19 AM

2018-06-18T01:19:58-04:00

Specialist you are truly audacious. Are you kidding? I will say to you Specialist with all the respect I can garner, feed the troops of all ranks well, when your enlistment expires get out, go back to wherever everyone is treated equally. Obviously you enlisted in the wrong Military

Response by Sgt Arthur Grant made Jun 20 at 2018 4:04 PM

2018-06-20T16:04:43-04:00

Huh? Are you serious? There is no equality. There is a system of RANK. There is no equality in the civilian world, either. those with money think they run the place, just because everyone else follows them like a bunch of prostitutes. The Declaration of Independence states "we are all BORN equal" to dispel the notion of royal birth. It does NOT say we are equal, it says we wer eborn equal, and after we are born then some rise to make greater contributions than others.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Jun 22 at 2018 2:50 PM

2018-06-22T14:50:32-04:00

Maybe some CW5 gets one, but the rank file WO's normally don't. As for being treated equally, a pink tree worshipping soldier, and a chartreuse pagan soldier should be treated equally. An O-7 Purple Soldier and a E-1 vermillion soldier will most definitely be treated differently, but with respect to Civil Rights, we would treat amount race, creed, color, marital status you are treated equally. With regards to rank, suck it up, the more you got the more responsibility you have, but more benefits come with it. (for the record, the colors and religion references do not refer to anyone living or dead. Just a simple reference point).

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 5 at 2018 8:09 PM

2018-07-05T20:09:35-04:00

No. And robbing people of their earned privileges and pay to redistribute it to those that do not attempt to earn anything is not equal treatment either.

Response by SP5 Dennis Loberger made Jul 8 at 2018 8:50 PM

2018-07-08T20:50:27-04:00

Off post, expect equal treatment. On post, these individuals have earned their privilege

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 8 at 2018 9:05 PM

2018-07-08T21:05:38-04:00

It is called RHIP, always has been that way, always will be.

Response by SFC Ken Heise made Jul 14 at 2018 10:15 PM

2018-07-14T22:15:01-04:00

The ONLY AUTHORIZED designated reserved parking spot on ANY military installation is the HANDICAPPED spot. The others are nothing but a courtesy spot.

Response by Cpl Clifford Hager made Jul 18 at 2018 7:20 AM

2018-07-18T07:20:55-04:00

With no disrespect, but if you have to ask this question, perhaps you should muster out at the next opportunity. There is no equality in the military. The military is in the business of insuring the peace, or of waging war. If you choose the military, it is you who must change into a soldier, sailor, airman or Marine. The military will not and should not ever change to suit your ideas of gentile society.

Response by SSgt Brett Ontiveros made Jul 20 at 2018 6:40 PM

2018-07-20T18:40:01-04:00

If you really think you are equal as say a SNCO, WO, Officer, you need a serious ass wake up call!!!! Today’s military is such a joke with all this equality, PC crap!!!!

Response by MSgt Shawn Wood made Jul 25 at 2018 10:33 AM

2018-07-25T10:33:16-04:00

Response by Sgt Arthur Caesar made Aug 4 at 2018 8:28 PM

2018-08-04T20:28:53-04:00

RHIP

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2018 8:10 AM

2018-08-08T08:10:34-04:00

No, we are not all suppose to be treated equally. If you don't like being segregated according to rank than you need to get out or change your attitude and use it to strive to better yourself which includes getting promoted and you will find more privileges coming your way. If you don't like that than you should get out and become a liberal.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Aug 12 at 2018 8:56 PM

2018-08-12T20:56:21-04:00

I had a unique sit-rep one time.. I was at a mall in Hampton by where Langley AFB is..
Some long haired rich kids are sitting there making fun of the Military going in and out... I go on and I’m in thee about an hour and come out and go to my car.. I see one of those rich pretty boys standing by his Mercedes... he’s got a flat.. should I be overjoyed? Yea I could be.. I’m going to teach pretty boy a lesson that us Military aren’t a bunch of losers.. that joined ‘cause we had no skills.. at least I’m in jeans and a comfortable ‘T’shirt..
I go over and said pop your trunk.. let’s change that tire before it rains.. I don’t like getting wet neither .. “what happened did your phone die also?”... I asked trying not to act sarcastic... I put the jack stand in the side port where it said to.. it had a little. Crank that one turns... I did for a bit and said it’s “your turn!”... so he cranked rest of the way.. we had the lug nuts off andpulled the tire and put the spare on. I toldgo by the Mercedes place and get some more in the tire or fix that other one and spray them tire bolts.. I did spray a little 10w 40 I had .. So we got his car finished and I said there you go, all done !
He asked why I helped him.. I told him actually I didn’t see him.. it didn’t matter
He said it did.. Are you one of those “Christians”? I try I said.. and I’m in the AF.. no, not in the motor pool.. I’m a SSGT and a Chef.. one of a few that has a degree as a cook in the AF. You have a good rest of your day...? Danny’s the name he said .. I went back and got in my car and went back to base.. I seen Danny a few months later and he was graduating in the spring(it was February)... he looked concerned.. “What’s the prob Dan ?” I asked.. my student loan.. that’s my problem.. what kind of degree? I asked..
Fiduciary Mgt. I’m a math major..? I don’t know what the Air Force needs for officers right now.. you could come to base and talk to somebody at Career services and maybe they can put you on the track you need to be on.. He came. And went there and they directed him toOfficer Recruiting and gave him a load of material to read from their stash.. He did get a OTS appointment and a mentor to get him
Set up to enter.. I surmised they found a use for someone with his type of degree..
That was in ‘84.. he graduated in April and went to OTS in June.. hmm 90 days.. subtract a couple holidays.. by 2d or 3d week September? Never seen him again.. I hope all worked out.. and it started with changing a tire..

Response by SFC Roger Senatore made Aug 13 at 2018 3:11 PM

2018-08-13T15:11:29-04:00

Everyone's got to have goals to aspire to. When they give award you that primo parking spot you know you've made it!

Response by SPC Mike Davis made Aug 16 at 2018 1:23 PM

2018-08-16T13:23:02-04:00

If one is required to spend their personal funds to shop/eat/ groceries
Then they should be treated equally with all others. Such endeavors are
personal time not duty time. If a general and a Pvt are off base both desiring to dine at the same restaurant then first come first served. Parking or whatever. The same should apply on base. Personal time is personal time. Not to be confused with official duties. As a tax paying American I want to know what the heck those high paid officer/nco are doing shopping on my dime. And expecting special privileges at that!!!!!!

Response by MSgt Michael Smith made Aug 17 at 2018 12:19 PM

2018-08-17T12:19:06-04:00

Ha --that's a funny one! You're either trolling or just about the stupidest Specialist I've ever heard of.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2018 8:02 AM

2018-08-27T08:02:36-04:00

Honestly the only parking spots I agree with are the ones at work. Due to the fact with More comes more work longer hours and responsibility. Most times those one senior and wrinkled be the first ones in our last ones out. But other than that I don’t agree with it give those parking spots to the handicap. You’re added rank hasn’t hurt drink your legs to walk extra few hundred feet to the PX or commissary. Led by example and give the spots to people that need them more.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2018 6:43 PM

2018-08-27T18:43:30-04:00

Wow. I remember when RallyPoint was a great resource to air out important discussion and gain insight and knowledge about all things military. This sounds like a real whine fest now. Parking spaces...really?! I remember when privates made peanuts and an E7 made way more money than E1-E4. Now everyone gets the same raise. I remember when I was a Specialist walking to the PX with my battle buddies. When we saw a Staff Sergeant coming our way, we crossed the street! We didn't want anything to do with that guy! We knew he would smell a deficiency immediately. Now everyone talks to each other like they are hanging out at the club. When I was a 1SG, I had a formation and I remembered an issue that had been on my mind. I told my troops that in 20 years I had never asked for special consideration for anything. I told them that I needed the parking space outside my office door, because I always had training materials and other goodies for them that I was always loading and unloading from my truck. In hindsight, I can't believe that I thought that I needed to explain justification for this small request. I didn't want to put a sign up, I just wanted compliance on principal. Equality has nothing to do with it. We lost the edge that made our organization special and prestigious and this topic is just the sort of example why. I hope that someday soon the social engineering project ends and we get back to the basics that made us different from the general population. I long for the days when a couple of young Sergeants walk down the main drag on post with scowls on their faces and an axe to grind instead of playing grab ass with their subordinates and laughing and skipping along like hyenas. Best of luck with your equality endeavor.

Response by SPC Gary Welch made Sep 1 at 2018 8:18 PM

2018-09-01T20:18:16-04:00

Actually that is against the law federal law states that the only parking spots that can be reserved is handicapped spaces

Response by MSG Lonnie Averkamp made Sep 15 at 2018 1:09 AM

2018-09-15T01:09:26-04:00

This is a question that has gone back 200 years in our Nation's History. During the Revolutionary War, there were soldiers who read (or had read to them) the Declaration of Independence, which states, "...All Men Are Created Equal". Those soldiers asked why they should follow the orders of their Officers and Sergeants, and felt that they should conduct themselves as they felt (or voted as a group). They had to be convinced that the "wagon" had to have someone at the reins, for the welfare of the entire group. Rank and Privilege is (or should be) well-earned, and it is true that you, generally, do not see Sergeants and Captains standing around waiting for the next formation. For the price that many officers pay in time away from their families, competition to avoid being victim of a R.I.F., or lost marriages, a closer parking spot at the Exchange is a small compensation.

Response by MSG Lonnie Averkamp made Sep 15 at 2018 2:25 PM

2018-09-15T14:25:12-04:00

Try driving up to Google Headquarters at 1600 Amphitheatre Parkway, Mountain View, California 94043. Walk right through security, and try taking the elevator to the Executive Floor. See how equal you are in Civilian Life......

Response by SSgt Max Gonzales made Sep 16 at 2018 9:41 PM

2018-09-16T21:41:50-04:00

I never had a problem, maybe because I had family in service before I went in.

Response by SPC Steven Depuy made Sep 18 at 2018 10:29 AM

2018-09-18T10:29:48-04:00

No, we are not supposed to be treated equally. With rank comes privilege, and if you stay in long enough, you will get it.

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Sep 29 at 2018 10:25 AM

2018-09-29T10:25:53-04:00

No. You are not supposed to be treated equally. Specialist. You are supposed to be treated FAIRLY. That is completely different. You want that parking spot, you go EARN it.
Do you also want to get rid of handicapped parking spaces up front? I mean, that is unequal, too, isn't it?

Response by SPC Stephen Walsh made Oct 1 at 2018 8:18 AM

2018-10-01T08:18:51-04:00

Because they are old men and women who can't walk far ?

Response by CPL Brian Birchell made Oct 2 at 2018 1:07 PM

2018-10-02T13:07:31-04:00

What fucking universe do you live in? Do you want to get piss tested? Because that's how you get piss tested.

You are not equal to anyone but other E4s.

Rank has privileges.

Response by CPL Any Jim made Oct 6 at 2018 5:51 PM

2018-10-06T17:51:47-04:00

Thats how it works ! The army is a poor man fight ! Its almost like slavery ! Like it says do what you rank can handle ! Wait i signed up , volunteered , part of the 3% of the popoulation thats stands up , defends ' & fights for our freedom ? Omg !!!!! But thats how it is if you wanna get to top cant be small minded and fight little battel after little battle ! If it it offends you sum 1 is givin a privilage ' that fight to win the war not every lil battle ! Make it a three generation but get that parking spot yu so want ! First generation join , raise nx generation to be an officer ' and go for general with grand kids and beyond ! Too much complaing going on in this peasants army buy the bottom feeders and winers & not an enuff planning an stratgic moves ! Complaing is not strategic : in short term might win a battel or too bit will never win or end the war ? .....

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2018 1:55 PM

2018-10-15T13:55:18-04:00

First and foremost. WE ARE NOT EQUALS. We are human yes but equals not. Yes it is ok to have parking for those you speak of. It allows us to get in and get out. With those perks come the responsibility of being other places and planning or facilitating your needs. Look at the rank structure and tell me how you can even fathom E1 is = to E9. Or O1

Response by SFC Ernest Thurston made Oct 19 at 2018 2:58 PM

2018-10-19T14:58:23-04:00

Which part of being in the military and having rank don't you understand. This is not the civilian world. Rank DOES have it's privileges.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 22 at 2018 10:14 AM

2018-10-22T10:14:51-04:00

It’s more of a courtesy spot only real spots that are reserved are handicap parking. But is it really a big deal to walk maybe another 200 feet

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Oct 24 at 2018 10:14 PM

2018-10-24T22:14:32-04:00

Wasn't this subject discussed before? RHIP, Rank Has Its Privilages. I know it sounds lifer speak, but you make the rank, one way or another and receive certain privilages. Study, test, pass with flying colours and earn your parking spot.

Response by MSgt Mark Reynolds made Oct 27 at 2018 9:50 PM

2018-10-27T21:50:05-04:00

Is this what the liberal recruits are coming to these days? Complaining about not being treated equal? What the hell is the world coming too! I am getting sick and tired of all this BS! They probably think there should be no rank structure and all decisions should be made as a group. I am so glad I am retired.

MSGT USAF Retired

Response by MSgt Mark Reynolds made Oct 27 at 2018 9:51 PM

2018-10-27T21:51:23-04:00

If you don't like it why in the Hell did you join the military!

Response by Cpl Robert Vitolo made Oct 30 at 2018 10:51 AM

2018-10-30T10:51:22-04:00

In my opinion asking questions like this is what opened the doors for liberalism. Rank Has Its Privileges. No questions and Not up for discussion. Stop caving to these Snowflakes.

Response by SGT Hector Rojas, AIGA, SHA made Nov 6 at 2018 5:55 PM

2018-11-06T17:55:34-05:00

It sucks, and it shouldn't happen. No one abides by the NCO creed anymore "I will not use my grade or position to attain pleasure, profit, or personal safety". Yet here they are with assigned parking spots.
But that's not really my main beef.

My main issue is that these Commanders choose to waste several parking spots for these people, yet fail to assign handicapped parking spots. There are handicapped civilians working on base, there are handicapped spouses conducting business on base. The ADA overrules Army regulations yet no one bats an eye at the disdain for handicapped drivers in army installations.

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Nov 7 at 2018 4:22 PM

2018-11-07T16:22:27-05:00

I'm sorry...I missed the first part of the joke. Start again.

Response by SSgt Jeffrey Fatheree made Nov 9 at 2018 3:00 PM

2018-11-09T15:00:51-05:00

Grow up son, you are not a civilian. When you earn your rank you get privileges. You are created equal and given the same opportunity everyone else has to earn your way.

Response by CPO Dan Wiberg made Nov 11 at 2018 7:44 PM

2018-11-11T19:44:50-05:00

I understand and respect the question and to a point some answers. As a catastrophically disabled Veteran living in Charleston SC it does bother me with the tens of thousands of retirees and the thousands of disabled vets here, there are so few parking spots for the disabled vets at our bases.

However also having spent time (22 years) in the service as an enlisted, and often having more college experience than many of the Officers I worked for, who also never spent a second checking the records and educations of the enlisted working with them it bothered me how many "college boys" lorded their degrees over many of us with better educations.

There is respect for rank but respect for the person also has to be earned. Having worked with a few anal orifices, if it were not for highly competent enlisted covering the posteriors of the leadership the Military command would look a heck of a lot worse than it does.

Parking? RHIP even if it is not earned. Not enough enlisted are properly and realistically honored for our sacrifices. I served 9 years Active Duty with a un-diagnosed broken neck 2 years with a broken back and then forced out in my 22nd year and labeled a malingerer with straight 4.0 evaluations and over 60 letters of appreciation and commendation. 10 years as an E6, aced the rating exams, 11 NEC codes MTS, SOQ, CTT and wrote 2 courses, re-wrote (updated) 3 and wrote 3000 questions the rating exams were derived from. Why did it take so long to be advanced? Apparently my mixed heritage was not dark enough. I was investigated for cheating on the rating exam for CPO and took the exam again in front of a ratings board and while taking the test and answering spoken questions I got a better score. I was asked. "How can you do that?". I have a photographic memory and wrote the bloody test.

I was the most qualified ICMan in the US Navy bar none and I could not get advanced until they converted my rating to EM and I was an Inertial Navigation tech and instructor of 7 C School courses as well as a Broadcast Engineer and with Chief Engineers experience. I never gave less than 100% and it did not make a difference.

I was told on my retirement day that I had been put in for the Congressional Medal Of Honor and it was turned down by Bill Clinton because, "Not enough people of color have it."

Have a nice day. Oh and the VA fused the broken neck 17 years later and fused the broken back 19 years later after a diagnoses of ALS in 2002 and End of Life Counseling in 2005. 17 years in a wheel chair waiting. Now I have 7 fused vertebrae that apparently I malingered? Oh and I am out of that wheel chair. My life stoleen by incompetent VA medical care and I will have my 33rd operation in December for a diagnoses made in 1997.

Response by CPL Billy McCandless made Nov 15 at 2018 12:39 PM

2018-11-15T12:39:54-05:00

I was in the army national guard for 9 years. Know I have a friends daughter asking me to help with her navy jrotc uniform. I showed her how to spit shin her dress shoes but I don't know anything about the navy. What do I do to help this future sailor?

Response by CW3 Lysle Seelig made Nov 19 at 2018 12:53 PM

2018-11-19T12:53:04-05:00

No Specialist, your are "treated" according to your rank. That being said I guess things have changed since I was in, 74-86. I don't remember seeing reserved parking for anybody but the Post CMDR and CSM at the commissary/exchange. Different story at the individual units or at the airfield, but don't remember it at the Class-6 or the PX.

Response by PO3 J.W. Nelson made Nov 26 at 2018 9:30 AM

2018-11-26T09:30:49-05:00

First of all.....if you wanted to be treated equally......the U.S. military is the last place in the world you want to be.....and second of all......have you ever heard the ole saying....."Rank has it's privileges" ???? I leave this right here ???

Response by PO3 J.W. Nelson made Nov 26 at 2018 9:32 AM

2018-11-26T09:32:17-05:00

First of all....if you wanted to be treated equally.....the U.S. military is the last place you should have went......and secondly......have you ever heard the ole saying....."Rank has it's privileges" ????? I'll just leave this right here !!!!

Response by SGT James Colbert made Dec 9 at 2018 9:30 AM

2018-12-09T09:30:18-05:00

RHIP

Response by CWO3 Warren Gaudreau made Dec 17 at 2018 8:07 AM

2018-12-17T08:07:11-05:00

What part of "Military" did you not understand when you raised your right hand and said "I do"?

Response by SSG Mike Angelo made Dec 21 at 2018 1:16 PM

2018-12-21T13:16:49-05:00

Before the era of thousands of Soldiers, Airmen, $ Marines post, camps, n installations may have had their unique parking policy hidden in housing. This made Military Police to put the automobile in context with company personnel. As the US military modernized and grew in size, these policies surfaced to accommodate "the company-owned man" ... the Servicemember and their familes, such as housing. Then the Military Police with facility managers, better control their areas. Today, one may observe this policy at the highest level of organization. The parking lots and spaces for the automoble contain handicap and visitor designated parking as well as the general population. Docking parking such as for shipping and receiving is also in the design. Parking the automobile at Commissaries, Shoppettes and other MWR Morale Welfare n Recreation are also are modernized and designed for maximum efficiency in a military culture. So when one looks and observes parking lot organization of the automobile, there is order and discipline on the military reservation. Facility managers take ownership in their unique designated areas and design, write and control their parking policy in a military culture.

Response by Col Jonathan Brazee made Dec 25 at 2018 7:25 PM

2018-12-25T19:25:20-05:00

The first time I reported to Camp Smith as a major, there were reserved spots for O4's. Not right at the building, but at one of the secondary lots. Within a year or so of my arrival, those were gone, but they had O5 spots. I came back as an O5, but now, you had to be O6/E9. About a month before I put on my eagles, all of those were taken away. You had to be in flag, either the MARFORPAC or CINCPAC Sergeant Major, or in a few designated billets. I always thought that was funny. I came in as a major when there was O4 parking, then I kept chasing a parking spot through each higher rank, never getting one. :)

Response by SSG John Lasseigne made Jan 8 at 2019 11:55 PM

2019-01-08T23:55:30-05:00

As told to me by a truly dedicated NCO...the real priviledgecof rank is being allowed to become a leader of men. A true leader will always put the needs of subordinates above their own. The trivial stuff like a parking spot is just thanks for their sacrifices and years of serving that it took to get there. Just because those Senior leaders may not be where the rubber meets the road they generally do so much more. Things like preparing briefings...training outlines...duty rosters etc etc before and after the duty day. Then having to accomplish those things goals with whiny immature pedantic complainers who think everything ismt fair is like trying to herd cats (if this doesnt apply then disregard, the bad can color a persons view even if they actually are the minority).

Response by SGT Donald Croswhite made Jan 9 at 2019 2:30 AM

2019-01-09T02:30:59-05:00

Bwaaahahaha! Who told you that you were equal? Your Mom lied, your not special.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 8:32 AM

2019-01-09T08:32:24-05:00

SPC,

To clarify or shed some light for you. Senior NCO’s, Officers, and Warrant Officers get those spots for several different reasons. First, they’re all senior to you and this case me as well. You cannot assume ever that you’re equal to them, you’re most certainly not. They have acquired their ranks through experience, training, and education whether civilian, military or both.

A suggestion to you, Specialist, is that you read the Customes and Courtesy ADP as well as the NCO handbook which is an easy download from dapubs. Instead of wondering why you don’t a Specialist parking spot you should be proving your ability to perform at the next level and practicing those leadership skills with those below you.

I am an NCO, I’ve worked my rear end off for what I have and guess what? When a SSG or above speak to me I stand at parade rest until told to relax. When an officer speaks to me I stand at attention until told to relax. I do that out of respect and because it is my job to do so. Just like I would expect the same from my soldiers or any other soldier for that matter.

Earn your place, earn your rank, do your job, stop worrying about why a CSM gets a parking spot or an XO or BN Commander. You’re in the military not BK, can’t have it your way.

Response by PO1 Andrew White made Jan 9 at 2019 10:36 AM

2019-01-09T10:36:28-05:00

Equally? What'd you skip Bootcamp Day..at Bootcamp?
Park at the far end of the lot, the exercise will pay off later.

Response by PO1 Don Mac Intyre made Jan 10 at 2019 12:34 PM

2019-01-10T12:34:19-05:00

Seriously, treated equally?

Response by PO1 Dallas Shewmaker made Jan 11 at 2019 8:52 AM

2019-01-11T08:52:27-05:00

R.H.I.P. - This is part of the military order and structure. If you're unable to accept this, you're going to have a bad time in the military.

Response by SSG Dennis Butler made Jan 11 at 2019 10:03 AM

2019-01-11T10:03:03-05:00

A lot of that is up to their descretion. My CO in VN made sure all his people ate the hot meals that came out with resupply In the field. I know this since i was one of his rto's.
The platoons went first then CP and he was last.

Response by LTC George Morgan made Jan 11 at 2019 11:08 AM

2019-01-11T11:08:44-05:00

Do the time, do the work and make rank and the world will be open to you!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 11 at 2019 12:22 PM

2019-01-11T12:22:33-05:00

Because that crusty old SNCO has earned it. You, as a SCP are not equal to a SNCO. The military needs to stop with this coddling bs. You’re a SPC. You haven’t been in long enough to know what the hell you’re doing.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 12 at 2019 5:28 PM

2019-01-12T17:28:34-05:00

I think the saying is that "all men are created equal". We were all born equal. What we do with our lives is what makes us different.

Response by PO2 Ricky L. Isreal made Jan 12 at 2019 9:50 PM

2019-01-12T21:50:42-05:00

A Secialist that sounding more like a private, rank has its privileges.

Response by PO3 Jeff Popp made Jan 13 at 2019 4:24 AM

2019-01-13T04:24:12-05:00

It is obvious that today's military is showing the strains of the times and the "me" generation.... I entered public service upon serving my time and it is the same respect out here as it refers to rank (Police, Fire, and EMS). Actually it is so in corporate America as well with CEO, COO, CFO... and then there are Doctors vs. nurses etc...

As a Human we are to be "non-discreminate" and all are created "equal" in the eyes of God. No rank changes that, however as in each of the examples above Rank and position yields certain respect and with that respect comes certain awarded privileges like preferred parking and perhaps a step up in quarters. Those positions are typically earned through personal applied efforts and time served. Granted we may not always respect the individual human, but it is the position and/or rank that gets the award / reward.

Response by SFC Richard Baerlocher made Jan 13 at 2019 5:11 AM

2019-01-13T05:11:29-05:00

This was a problem when I was on active duty in Germany in the early 1970's. The European command made it know that the only authorized parking places are for General officers. I do agree though that the post Command Sargent Major should have a reserved parking place at the NCO Club, and the Exchange.

Response by SFC Nelson Lovejoy made Jan 13 at 2019 1:02 PM

2019-01-13T13:02:57-05:00

If the store, commissary, PX, BX or anything on a military installation that is owned by the government special parking spaces for Rank is not supposed to be. Due to the land being paid for by the taxpayers of the US then just because a person has a higher rank is not authorized to be provided a special parking space. We had that problem on a military installation here in CONUS and the incoming CG directed all special parking spaces just for rank or position are not authorized. Every in the US are taxpayers and they own just as much as the next citizen. There are spaces for military vehicles when on duty that are authorized but just because of rank does not authorize them a parking space. they do not own that land their POV is sitting on. Disabled spaces are by law.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 13 at 2019 2:30 PM

2019-01-13T14:30:59-05:00

Their time is more valuable, and their function more critical than yours as far as the military is concerned (and is evidenced by their pay). Their schedules are much more constrained and therefore they need to be able to get in and out of mundane tasks efficiently so they can perform their more critical functions. Civilian corporations generally do the same thing.

Response by CAPT H.G “Woodie” Sprouse made Jan 13 at 2019 4:10 PM

2019-01-13T16:10:17-05:00

No.

Response by SFC Bob Arnold made Jan 13 at 2019 8:35 PM

2019-01-13T20:35:49-05:00

I will not use my grade or position to attain pleasure, profit, or personal safety.

Response by CSM Patrick Durr made Jan 14 at 2019 12:11 AM

2019-01-14T00:11:18-05:00

For the same reason this question doesn't deserve an answer.

Response by CSM Patrick Durr made Jan 14 at 2019 12:12 AM

2019-01-14T00:12:11-05:00

For the same reason this question doesn't deserve an answer...

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 14 at 2019 12:43 AM

2019-01-14T00:43:53-05:00

I’m sure some General’s spouse would be happy to share some insight as to how rank has its privileges. I say that “tongue-in-cheek”. Yes, we’re all to be treated equally - in the application of the UCMJ and adherence to regulations and policies. I’m not sure where you were when the class on rank structure and pay scales was taught - if it was. What you fail to grasp is that there is a hierarchy in the military- just like the civilian world. There’s a part of me that is hoping your post is just trolling but if it isn’t, you need to find an NCO mentor to explain what the differences in RESPONSIBILITY that comes with rank. Promotions aren’t about the “privileges” or the pay that comes with them. Promotions, especially to senior NCO and officer ranks generally indicate that the promotee has the requisite knowledge, experience and trust from those who approve the promotion(s). Have a mentor explain what “control grades” are. The military, just like the civilian world has a mission and I’m afraid that you seem to think that it’s all about catering to one’s feelings. I hope I’m wrong.

By the way, I never got issues my grass.

Response by LTC Nathan Bond made Jan 14 at 2019 8:31 AM

2019-01-14T08:31:38-05:00

Rank has its privileges, but it also has its responsibilities. Uncle Sam doesn’t pay Generals to drive around parking lots looking for a space. Get to the PX, get your sh...stuff, get out, and get back to work.

Response by PO1 Michael Bruner made Jan 14 at 2019 2:34 PM

2019-01-14T14:34:30-05:00

I've always believed this was because servicemembers in these positions were in a drug-related hurry & didn't have time roving the lot for a close spot. I do not believe, however, their spouses should be entitled to park in those spots.

Response by LtCol Paul Bowen made Jan 14 at 2019 9:38 PM

2019-01-14T21:38:55-05:00

Only if you have equal responsibility.

Response by Lt Col Bill Fletcher made Jan 15 at 2019 8:19 AM

2019-01-15T08:19:37-05:00

Frankly, everyone’s time isn’t of equal value. There are also Soldier of the Month Quarter or Year spaces to recognize a job well done by various troops.

Response by MGySgt Jerry Suarez made Jan 15 at 2019 2:03 PM

2019-01-15T14:03:01-05:00

First SPC would you be ok with a PFC or a Pvt having more privileges than you? You're a knuckle head for even asking the question. If you dont think Rank has its privileges (RHIP) your in the wrong business. Even in the corporate world do you see the workers have more privileges than management or the executives? Wake up and smell the coffee

Response by Col Robert Ginn made Jan 15 at 2019 6:26 PM

2019-01-15T18:26:32-05:00

Questions like this, if legitimate, illustrate why I retired from the USAF after 21 years. Colonel, USAF (ret)

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2019 8:20 AM

2019-01-16T08:20:41-05:00

Really? You have to ask that question?
Let's make it simple. They deserve it.
I suppose if you had to ask that question, I would have to believe your Platoon Sergeant and Squad Leader have never told you, Rank has its privileges. My Platoon is more focused on the mission, not how far they have to walk from the back of a parking lot. My Dad, an Officer in the Army (ret) didn't get those parking spots either. He was CMDR of a signal battalion... My advise to you, as a platoon sergeant, worry about your SSDs and not a parking spot.

Response by CPO Chris Kellar made Jan 16 at 2019 8:25 AM

2019-01-16T08:25:45-05:00

Quit winning and grow up, Rank has it's privileges. EARN IT!

Response by Maj Fred Wertz made Jan 16 at 2019 4:49 PM

2019-01-16T16:49:15-05:00

Yes, rank carries superior/subordinate privilges... but should not include parking spots at the BX/PX.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2019 5:52 PM

2019-01-17T17:52:56-05:00

absolutely incorrect.
Leadership is all about equality when it comes to treatment, actually true leaders will park as far as they can, to allow space for lower enlisted and soldiers they lead to park. hundreds of years BC one General understood the meaning of leadership, he ate what his soldiers ate, wore what his solders wore, and slept in the same place and condition his soldiers slept. that is true leadership. and if I am not mistaken the uniform idea that nowadays no one think about, was inspired from this Carthaginian general "Hannibal Barca" who made all his soldiers wear the same uniform, and of course he did not say:"oh I am superior, I'm going to wear a better and more expensive uniform".
many years ago I read about IBM, who used to have designated parking spaces for their directors and VIP personnel, but they found out that this practice is somewhat discriminatory and disrespectful to the rest of the workers, so they decided to remove all the designated parking spaces and let everyone park anywhere they whished. that is true leadership.
unfortunately, today's new officers are all after what benefit they can get and allow themselves to get when they go up in rank, but don't think a dime about their Soldiers.
think about this for a moment: if you are an officer in a company/BN/BG and you start the habit of parking as far as it could be in your unit, I bet your Soldiers will have lots of respect for you.
it's just like the captain of an airplane or a ship, when the plane is about to crash, the right thing to do is to let all the passengers jump to safety first and then they are the last one to jump.
I guess in the Army Leaders Jump first and let their soldiers crash.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2019 8:30 AM

2019-01-18T08:30:17-05:00

Because......and I say this with as much respect as I can......you need to know your place. Rank does not trump experience. That CSM, LT Col., or CW5 has paid their dues to the military and the people under their command. Probably sacrificed a lot in their time to get there (one would think). So they deserve a closer spot to the door. Along with a salute, the greeting of the day, etc.

Response by SFC Jose Rodriguez made Jan 18 at 2019 4:26 PM

2019-01-18T16:26:17-05:00

But don't forget we fight for the freedom to express your discontent!

Response by TSgt Kerry Hardy made Jan 19 at 2019 1:35 AM

2019-01-19T01:35:20-05:00

RHIP....If you didn't learn that in basic, you need to retake....

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2019 8:18 AM

2019-01-19T08:18:18-05:00

It is appalling to me that the guy asked a normal questions out of curiosity and people jump to insult, not to educate. What’s even worst is that we have a CSM in this forum displaying his arrogance and entitlement instead of mentoring, you know, the thing he’s supposed to be doing. Now, to all those who educated the SPC, thank you, it’s speaks volumes of y’all character. To those who just insulted and defaulted to the ignorant default response, you are the problem. You are the reason people don’t want to join the armed forces. You are an embarrassment to the organization you represent. We are in 2019, most people are educated and have a basic understanding of societal structures/ norms. Perhaps those who have the default answer are the ones who need a bit more education and comprehension about the state of affairs outside a military installation. It’s disgusting.

Response by SFC Byron Perry made Jan 19 at 2019 4:04 PM

2019-01-19T16:04:10-05:00

Where did you get the idea that everyone was supposed to be treated equally, especially in the military?

Response by CW4 Don Kite made Jan 20 at 2019 8:31 PM

2019-01-20T20:31:34-05:00

To answer your question... We earned it!!! Do your time and get promoted and you to can earn a parking spot at the local PX or BX.

Response by SSG David Forler made Jan 21 at 2019 8:01 PM

2019-01-21T20:01:33-05:00

chaplins, medal of honor recipients, should be the only ones. Maybe the CG But the Army, every year, especially under leftist presidents becomes more and more segregated. Once obama sec of the army got ride of the Number One Marketing Gingle in the World, BE ALL YOU CAN BE, and went with the AMRY OF ONE (AS A INDIVIDUAL, NOT AS TEAM MEMBERS), WHICH obama did no purpose to bring the issue we are taking about now, to the front.... The General Officers, the obama era Ring Knockers, the liberal, socialist officers support the undermining of the Army, but the last of the true leaders WILL Not allow this to happen. Then Army DOES NOT hold Soldiers to the STANDARDS, unless it advances their Military career. As we see will Navy Seals, Green Berets being sent to Ft. Leavenworth. This is to advance the Military field grade REMPS judges, officers, and the prosecutors to advance THEIR careers. The majority of Jr NCO, OFFICERS have seen the Army not hold the Standards, the FAT soldiers, THE PT failures, Racist, etc not being punished, or kicked out of the Military...The officers have to promote so many, maintain so many, all so their OER?NCOER have bullets to advance them. Soldiers ARE NOT PROMOTED for their professionalism, but for their ROTE memorization of verbal questions at a board, NONE that are of the Soldiers MOS. I could go on and on... Integrity, Honor are things of the past, going to Soldier of the month boards, quarter, Division,of the quarter, year. Audie Murphy board get you promoted..Not exceeding in your mos, going above and beyond, leading troops do not matter..

Response by 1SG Chad Mcdaniel made Feb 1 at 2019 5:17 PM

2019-02-01T17:17:29-05:00

There is actually an Army regulation on this...if this regulation still holds true the only authorized parkings spots on a military post are handicap spots...the rest are not authorized by regulation. With that said an order not to park in such in such spot is an order and can be enforced under UCMJ.

Response by SFC Fm P made Feb 3 at 2019 8:35 AM

2019-02-03T08:35:30-05:00

Shut the f up you trophy getting pussy what kind of question is that equality that's what's wrong with FN America

Response by CWO4 David Smith made Feb 7 at 2019 2:33 PM

2019-02-07T14:33:33-05:00

Remember: RHIP - Rank Has Its privilege.
Its an incentive for individuals to excel, in order to be promoted, in order to get more pay and responsibility, and to grab those privileges that are set aside for (usually) E-7 and above.
its die to the fact that you are now a leader of troops, able to work long hours....

Response by CW3 Dan Mackey made Feb 7 at 2019 7:56 PM

2019-02-07T19:56:12-05:00

The army of One has spoken! Whoever led you to believe there is equality in the military saw you coming!!! How the heck could anyone make it thru Boot camp and still think everyone in the service are equal??? You joined the military with centuries of tradition that set the rank from top to bottom in three distinct categories, enlisted, warrant and officers. The people that you are complaining receive Unfair Privileges have proven themselves in the service we have chosen.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2019 2:28 AM

2019-02-08T02:28:01-05:00

Everyone should be treated equally as in the Golden Rule but in this case no. These individuals deserve a little more respect than those beneath them. They’ve earned it.

Response by Maj Charles Porter made Feb 10 at 2019 2:27 PM

2019-02-10T14:27:48-05:00

NO!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2019 11:16 AM

2019-02-11T11:16:08-05:00

YDFC

Response by SFC Scott Higgins made Feb 15 at 2019 1:47 PM

2019-02-15T13:47:45-05:00

Well SPC, it is possible, someday, if you can give the Army something more than a "9 to 5" mentality that you might get promoted to an NCO rank. And if you can ditch your entitled feelings of equality that you seem to currently hold you too might reach a SNCO ranking. Then, perhaps then, you will look back upon this question and realize just how blatantly disrespectful your question is. People who have EARNED that rank are afforded certain privileges. Why? because they EARNED IT!

Now, if that doesn't get you to realize the error in your thinking lets look at another point. Senior NCOs and Officers get paid more right - again something they earned through their dedication to work ethic and time in service. So as a taxpayer, I would rather the lower paid ranks spend their time looping around for a parking spot at the PX or commissary than the two star general who is running in on his lunch break to grab something there. If a more prudent expenditure of funds doesn't grab you, perhaps this will.

People who earn the Senior NCO and Officer ranks are generally older. They have a little more wear and tear on their bodies as a result. You should respect that and not begrudge them their "unfair" treatment they place on you for what they earned.

Response by Cpl John David Fenner made Feb 15 at 2019 3:59 PM

2019-02-15T15:59:18-05:00

RHIP. Rank has it's privileges boot. They earned the right to some pluses. The military isn't a democracy, it is the military and you don't get a vote!

Response by PO3 Terry Miller made Feb 15 at 2019 5:20 PM

2019-02-15T17:20:44-05:00

Simple. They earned it through their service.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2019 3:17 PM

2019-02-16T15:17:04-05:00

The statement which has already been stated several times in this forum is the truth. Rank has its privileges.

1. Company Commanders and First Sergeants need those parking spots. They are always out doing briefings with higher commands and the last thing they need to do is waste their time trying to find a parking spot. Also, it doesn't hurt anyone to walk 100 more feet.

2. Have you seen how any other corporation works? Do you see the CEOs for a company park in the back? Of course not. They have put in the time and effort to be entitled to those rights. Don't like it? Then you have two options; get promoted or get out.

I understand from the bottom looking up the system seems skewed and unfair. The longer you stay in the more clear the reasoning for these items will become to you.

Response by Sgt Steve Williams made Feb 17 at 2019 8:46 PM

2019-02-17T20:46:50-05:00

It is inconceivable that someone that might actually be in the military would ask this question. He might as well have asked why don't Majors burn the shitters?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 18 at 2019 8:14 PM

2019-02-18T20:14:18-05:00

Because they have dedicated their lives to the cause for a long time. They have been tried and proven over and over again. The question is, will you dig deep and earn a spot in the stars. We can't afford giving everyone a trophy. Stick around long enough and you too will understand. I call it respect. You know the Army Values.

Response by SSgt Michael Simmons made Feb 19 at 2019 6:26 AM

2019-02-19T06:26:52-05:00

Rank has its privileges, son.

Response by CW3 Stephen Mantie made Feb 19 at 2019 11:23 AM

2019-02-19T11:23:37-05:00

I am a warrant officer with 20 years of service and I have never had my own parking spot. If any warrant officer is worried about having their own spot, they probably converted to warrant officer for the wrong reasons.

Response by PO1 Donald Hammond made Feb 19 at 2019 2:37 PM

2019-02-19T14:37:36-05:00

RHIP = Rank Has Its Privileges. Nuff said

Response by SN Richard Simonetti made Feb 20 at 2019 1:00 PM

2019-02-20T13:00:45-05:00

I can't believe this question. Oh yes it must be from a snow flake liberal who didn't get his/hers participation trophy. Get over it! In the Navy like any other branch of the service you made your rank the old fashion way, you earned it! I was a Seamen (E-3) which meant I was not allowed to eat my chow in the Ward Room or the chiefs Mess. I ate with the rest of the crew in the general mess. Also on base if you did own a car you were told where you were allowed to park. Remember the old saying, ''Rank Has It's Privileges''

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2019 5:26 PM

2019-02-20T17:26:31-05:00

The NCO creed says, "I will not use my rank or position to obtain profit, pleasure, or personal safety." Enough said

Response by Cpl George Willard made Feb 21 at 2019 1:23 PM

2019-02-21T13:23:11-05:00

what branch of the military did this "person" and I use that term loosely, EVER serve in to even think to ask that question?

Response by SMSgt Clayton Cortinas made Feb 22 at 2019 2:02 AM

2019-02-22T02:02:51-05:00

Why does the Chief of Staff at a hospital get an assigned parking space? Why do the bank president and vice president get personal parking spaces? Why do people who are with a business longer get more vacation time than the new people? Why do people who work more years get paid higher Social Security payments ? Why do people with larger bank accounts get more interest paid to them? Why do pro ball players get huge salaries and college players just get scholarships? It's not just the military, it's the way of the world! Grow and learn grasshopper!!

Response by PO2 Jennifra Jones made Feb 23 at 2019 1:11 AM

2019-02-23T01:11:20-05:00

No you don't. It's called rank has its privilege. Unless things have changed since i was in rank always wins out. That is until retirement then its first come first serve unless someone is more ill than you. Just wondering but in boot didn't they discuss this and wasn't it in your manuals? I've been out for 20 years but I cant see that changing.

Response by CW3 Harvey K. made Feb 23 at 2019 1:37 AM

2019-02-23T01:37:31-05:00

RHIP.

Response by SPC Vonnie Jones made Feb 23 at 2019 8:19 AM

2019-02-23T08:19:51-05:00

I accidentally hit post before finishing. When you carry the burden of others lives on your shoulder you will realize getting a good parking spot doesn't help with anguish that you sometimes feel about the decision that you sometimes have to make. If higher-ups were treated the same as you it would take away the goal of achieving a higher rank. Just remember when you get out there is a parking space waiting for you (veteran).

Response by LTC Ken Connolly made Feb 23 at 2019 4:08 PM

2019-02-23T16:08:55-05:00

The parking privileges do get abused though.

Response by LCpl Steve Camp made Feb 23 at 2019 4:15 PM

2019-02-23T16:15:45-05:00

No,RHIP get over it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 23 at 2019 7:06 PM

2019-02-23T19:06:26-05:00

That is a really good question. I have 2 answers for you. 1) With rank it has privileges. 2) this is going to be a bit more complex. THis comes from a time when I was an AD MP. According to the Army and post policies the ONLY authorized reserve parking is handicapped. So in reality Commander, 1SG reserved spots are really not authorized however it is a curtesy to them. That doesn't mean go and park in their spots. As for the exchange, commissary …. that is left up to the management of those establishments and refer to answer #1.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Feb 23 at 2019 7:24 PM

2019-02-23T19:24:32-05:00

In what military is everyone equal?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 23 at 2019 8:57 PM

2019-02-23T20:57:01-05:00

You are not equal. Look at your contract

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Feb 25 at 2019 3:33 AM

2019-02-25T03:33:44-05:00

SPCNavarro must be new to this site. There have been many others, including myself who have answered this query before, last year.

Response by SCPO William Akin made Feb 25 at 2019 10:09 AM

2019-02-25T10:09:05-05:00

I was often told ''there is no such thing as a stupid question"..
So much for that urban myth..

Response by SFC Thomas Howes made Feb 26 at 2019 11:50 AM

2019-02-26T11:50:37-05:00

AS a SFC I did not have a parking area now E8 and 06 and above well they earned it.

Response by COL Stephen Murphy made Mar 1 at 2019 6:13 PM

2019-03-01T18:13:00-05:00

Let me lead this off by stating that I have the utmost respect and appreciation for military spouses and all that they sacrifice (moving from friends, family, and job continuity) and go through (multiple deployments, long hours, etc.), AND for retirees for all their service, but I think these spots should be for active duty military only. On top of that, for ON DUTY and ACTIVE MILITARY only. I do not use these spots when I am off duty, out-of-uniform, or on leave. It irritates me when I see someone in civilian clothes, or someone who is the spouse, or worse, the spouse of a retiree, use these spots when a service member, short on time, may need just to run in and get lunch or a prescription in the few moments they have between meeting and events.

I am also in favor of more Jr Enlisted and NCO of the quarter and year parking spots in frequented locations. Seeing the work that goes into one of those achievements I can say that the spot is deserving.

Response by SGT Andrew Ornelas made Mar 2 at 2019 10:12 AM

2019-03-02T10:12:55-05:00

Please do not confuse the equal respect of all humanity with the validity of differentiations made between employment positions. Special considerations such as reserved parking, or priority of service to service members in uniform ( PX, Commissary ) are not "perks" or "benefits" given to specific individuals, these are considerations made for anyone in a specific position, or under specific working conditions.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 22 at 2019 9:37 AM

2019-03-22T09:37:25-04:00

I've been retired a while but I've never seen WO parking spaces anywhere. CG and Colonel but not just any officer. I know millennials think they are equal to everybody, regardless of experience. I hope that isn't working its way into the Army. The very nature of rank means inequality. I was not equal to an O5 and a PFC is not equal to a SSG.

Response by SSG Wayne Wood made Mar 23 at 2019 10:34 PM

2019-03-23T22:34:15-04:00

I can't even believe I'm reading this question on this of all sites. As has been said by others RHIP!

Do your time, PAY YOUR DUES (seems a foreign concept these days), work your behind off, and one day YOU TOO might get to park in a designated parking spot.

Response by MSG David Surprenant made Apr 4 at 2019 12:44 PM

2019-04-04T12:44:41-04:00

You're welcomed to entertain that question with the Post SGM. Please let me know when you do; I'll bring the pop corn.

Response by MSgt Bedell Toro made Apr 5 at 2019 11:38 AM

2019-04-05T11:38:16-04:00

Ok let's start with, before any of us joined the military. In our homes we had already a pecking order. I'm sure anyone with older siblings questioned why the got special treatment, while we where next on line. How many junior siblings got the hand me down clothing. That's how life is.

Response by Cpl Joseph Heaphy made Apr 11 at 2019 11:59 AM

2019-04-11T11:59:07-04:00

I want to know why that dude isn't wearing his vest, chin strap, and all other PPE while driving my vehicle? Looks super comfortable in there. A lot of room for activities! :)

Response by SSG David Rathjens made Apr 24 at 2019 3:46 PM

2019-04-24T15:46:21-04:00

This is a top ten dumbest questions ever asked on here.

Response by SGT Juan Robledo made Apr 25 at 2019 11:16 PM

2019-04-25T23:16:44-04:00

The high ranking brass earned the privilege to obtain a special parking spot, that's the way of military life, look it up

Response by Cpl Douglas Loven made Apr 28 at 2019 7:37 PM

2019-04-28T19:37:32-04:00

I like the fact that higher ranks get a parking spot, gives me a heads up who I might run into.

Response by SFC Ernest Thurston made Apr 29 at 2019 6:18 PM

2019-04-29T18:18:00-04:00

It's also called tradition. Something that seems to be lost on this ME generation.

Response by SFC Ernest Thurston made Apr 29 at 2019 6:20 PM

2019-04-29T18:20:54-04:00

I guess private Smuckatelli thinks he should have an armoured limo a plane a nd a chopper at his disposal like the President. After all we are all equal. Right?

Response by SGT Jeff Everhart made May 5 at 2019 12:40 AM

2019-05-05T00:40:45-04:00

Hey idiot, it's called earning the privilege!

Response by CW3 Dan Mackey made May 13 at 2019 1:12 PM

2019-05-13T13:12:40-04:00

LOL what service are you in??? Equal LMAO

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made May 18 at 2019 5:50 PM

2019-05-18T17:50:17-04:00

Rank does have some privileges.

Response by SGT Frank Leonardo made May 18 at 2019 7:30 PM

2019-05-18T19:30:29-04:00

There is no being treated equal anywhere it there was don't ya think a lot of people would be there or do that. We lost everything when we joined the military. You got it back of you are out. Well look at this I may not like you and you are a let's say E7. And I am a E5. I don't have to like you but you have to respect the Rank. Rank is not given just for doing your time you earn it and yes has it rewards on both sides officer and enlisted. Here is a parking spot I can park in Purple ❤️ at place I earned it so that means I can park there. Sorry if that so called privilege for stuff t like parking spots and other things might piss you off bjut respect is earned not given out free and the world is not equal for anyone and I think it should be devided for somethings. It is fair people that come to this country get free money but we have to work for it ? Food for thought man.

Response by PO1 John Johnson made May 19 at 2019 8:58 AM

2019-05-19T08:58:19-04:00

RHIP, Specialist. Work hard and you'll get your own shared space. If a "reserved parking space" is all you have to wonder about, you're doing fine. End of story.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2019 12:38 PM

2019-05-22T12:38:09-04:00

When my buddy made SGM he took his parking spot and would give it to any Soldier who distinguished themselves by going above and beyond each month. His philosophy on RHIP was a bigger pay check.

Response by CW4 William Kessinger made May 22 at 2019 12:57 PM

2019-05-22T12:57:18-04:00

I assume this was stated to generate a conversation? It really has no place on this forum.
It appears the intent was to generate mistrust between the ranks??? I went through Viet Nam and saw way too much of the non-respect for all ranks in the Army of that time. As stated before "rank has its privileges" but so does respecting each other being PVT to BG.

Response by Cpl Bernard Bates made May 26 at 2019 10:58 AM

2019-05-26T10:58:04-04:00

The military is not a democracy. You join of your own free will. The NCO,s and officers are the leaders and I would assume their time is more important to them because they do the planning and execution of orders to be carried out. If you want parking places privileges work hard get promoted then you can have them also. Semper Fi.

Response by SGT Thomas Seward made May 28 at 2019 3:35 PM

2019-05-28T15:35:02-04:00

No, you’re not supposed to be treated equally in the military. A colonel would be pissed if he had to clean the latrine with the private’s, and I promise you that CW5 Cardwell’s head would explode if some butter bar put him on KP!
You earned your rank, and all of the privileges that go with it (as a Spec-4 it’s simply a sham shield) the same as everyone else in the military did. You’ve also earned the responsibility that goes with your rank.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2019 7:55 PM

2019-05-31T19:55:38-04:00

Just park in the space. Nobody can do anything about it. It’s not an enforceable space.

Response by LCDR Ernest Heassler made Jun 3 at 2019 6:39 PM

2019-06-03T18:39:05-04:00

Treated equally? How on earth did you ever come to think that? It may seem that the more senior personnel get all of the perks, but along with those perks comes more responsibility and way more headaches. Should you stay in long enough to gain rank, you will find that the seemingly big deal parking space is little compensation for increased working hours, less family/personal time, more responsibility and greater consequences for failure. Besides, you will find life easier to get through if you appreciate what you have and not worry about others have. Also, don't sweat the small stuff.

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Jun 6 at 2019 1:22 PM

2019-06-06T13:22:07-04:00

No.

Response by CW4 Craig Urban made Jun 9 at 2019 7:37 AM

2019-06-09T07:37:25-04:00

I never had my own. I had a 3 star at ramstein salute me and have his to me

Response by LCpl Cody Collins made Jun 9 at 2019 11:46 AM

2019-06-09T11:46:55-04:00

I never notice when I went to the PX, Neither did I care.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 10 at 2019 9:10 AM

2019-06-10T09:10:51-04:00

This is not a case of "All Men Are Created Equal" NO, we are not equal in the military, so shut up, stop your crying, get off your butt and do your job. Work hard, make rank and get the privileges or go home!

Response by SPC Chris Ison made Jun 17 at 2019 11:40 AM

2019-06-17T11:40:51-04:00

RANK HATH ITS PRIVILEGES, DO you REALLY think enlisted, officers, etc ARE FUCKING EQUAL? No, A general officer can wear whatever in the fuck uniform he wants, but the private must wear the uniform of the day.

There is a certain practicality to this parking issue. Of which you seem to be unable to see, and that is why you are not equal to the senior officers.

Imagine you are the BN CO, imagine how much shit you have to do each day. Now, imagine that you need to stop by the PX to pick something, and you need to get in and get out, do you really think this guy needs to spend his time in the parking lot looking for a parking space?

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jun 28 at 2019 6:55 PM

2019-06-28T18:55:00-04:00

The military is not always an egalitarian society.

Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Jul 13 at 2019 1:27 PM

2019-07-13T13:27:55-04:00

Yrs ago, back when dinos strode the Earth, and pterodactyls winged their way overhead, I'd had occasion to be at a conference I'd gone to on a permissive TDY, I'd passed the O Club where it was, I'd actually seen, I kid thee not, a parking spot explicitly for a major WW2 hero who was also a really famous figure from the space program, quite literally by name...needless to say, my jaw dropped and had to be re-hinged when I'd seen that, however, it did actually have his personal name on it...another oldie but goodie was one I'd also seen elsewhere once, on an installation, maybe at an O Club or office bldg I'd been at, that actually had the classic phrase" "Don't even THINK of parking here"...I just figured you'd get a kick outta those, and yeah, they're both quite true, I assure you, honest.....

Response by MSgt J D McKee made Jul 13 at 2019 2:04 PM

2019-07-13T14:04:51-04:00

No.

Response by SGT David Petree made Jul 13 at 2019 3:50 PM

2019-07-13T15:50:09-04:00

SNCO see to your welfare . That covers a lot of ground. W4`s & w5`s see to it that you have the best equipment for the mission you have, every day !!!! You have more time to spend in the PX, BX then they do. Suck it up , & take the walk.

Response by CW3 Art Farash made Jul 18 at 2019 9:02 PM

2019-07-18T21:02:04-04:00

Live with it and work your way up the ladder!

Response by CPT Lawrence Cichelli made Jul 19 at 2019 8:03 AM

2019-07-19T08:03:39-04:00

Nope and it's called paying your dues. These people have put in 20 years minimum and as always, "Rank has it's privileges". Stay in long enough and you too will be able to park in those spots.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2019 8:57 AM

2019-07-19T08:57:55-04:00

why do officers and WOs have to buy their own uniforms and enlisted get them issued?

Response by SFC Robert Walton made Jul 19 at 2019 10:04 AM

2019-07-19T10:04:00-04:00

Okay we all know the answer to this. What I want to know is why e-4 and below are the last to get post housing? Maybe it is not that way any more but was when I was in.

Response by GySgt Thomas Vick made Jul 19 at 2019 11:22 AM

2019-07-19T11:22:49-04:00

Rank has it's privileges, get use to it.

Response by SCPO Rev. Dr. Thomas Peavy made Aug 11 at 2019 9:12 AM

2019-08-11T09:12:08-04:00

Rank has its "Privilege" is an expression I have heard for years. Employee of the month, Teacher of year, CEO, Fire Chief, Police Chief, Mayor, Veteran, Pastor and others have designated parking. I suppose the military is not tooooo different. The concept of all equal is a notion born of envy and one knows what envy is. If you don't rate a parking space work to get one or just park in one and see how that goes over.

Response by MSgt Frank Askins made Aug 15 at 2019 12:13 AM

2019-08-15T00:13:17-04:00

Privilege, like respect, has to be earned. As for "equality", the Constitution says everyone is created equal and I agree. What you fail to understand is that after you are created equal, it's up to you to keep up with others if you want to remain equal. If you remain in the military and apply yourself, some day you too will enjoy the additional privileges that come with advancement. Until then, stop whining about something as trivial as a parking space at the Exchange.

Response by CPL Ignazzio Flores made Aug 17 at 2019 12:11 PM

2019-08-17T12:11:40-04:00

Because their jobs it's so busy and they need to get in n out asap to continue what ever they are doing. So it is a good thing.

Response by LT Ed Skiba made Aug 17 at 2019 12:36 PM

2019-08-17T12:36:38-04:00

No.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2019 5:56 PM

2019-08-17T17:56:09-04:00

1SG Private RallyPoint Member provided a great reaponse.
Even were it based solely on rank, a parking space wouldn't mean Soldiers weren't being treated equally.
In Kuwait and Iraq, Soldiers below the position of SL who left the immediate unit area (PX visiting other units, etc.) during their "off duty" time were required to be accompanied by a SL. SSG and above were only required to have a battle buddy. That wasn't unequal treatment. It was prudent. Similarly, when we arrived back in Kuwait from Iraq, all junior enlisted, then SL, then PSG, then officers used the phone in that order. It wasn't unequal treatment to the SL and PSG, it was taking care of Soldiers.
Equal doesn't mean the same.

Response by MSG John Shearer made Aug 25 at 2019 9:31 AM

2019-08-25T09:31:12-04:00

R H I P!!!

Response by SCPO Ralph Clemons made Sep 1 at 2019 2:11 PM

2019-09-01T14:11:12-04:00

Without question, rank has its privileges. The comments about the Commanding Officer and other notables not having the time to wait in line or walk from a regular parking space..maybe. But I think it really comes under the "Privilege" category. Personally, however, I would draw the line and say the privilege is personal. Why should it include the wife/husband, child, housekeeper, etc.? Just as I chafe when I see an apparently healthy teenager slide that SUV with the wheelchair license plate into the last Handicap space and saunter into the store. As someone wrote elsewhere herein, with privileges go responsibilities. Those individuals holding the privilege should take care that it is not abused.

Response by LCDR Mike Morrissey made Oct 7 at 2019 1:25 AM

2019-10-07T01:25:34-04:00

At sea on a Navy ship there is usually a ship’s store...or at least during my time. It sells gedunk and other items. As an officer, I was entitled to head of the line privileges. I always considered the privilege as something to be used with care. There were times when rather than wait for a break, I’d get in line and shuffle along with the crew...on one ship we also carried 300 Marine. My dad, a bomber gunner and former WWII pow, drilled into my head to never denigrate my privileges but to also use them judiciously. There were times when I took my line privileges but I learned a lot from the crew about certain struggles and joys when I shuffled along with them. One can also get wind of problems that are being improperly covered over.

Response by SSG Tom Montgomery made Oct 7 at 2019 2:31 AM

2019-10-07T02:31:21-04:00

Where did you ever get the idea that there is equality in the military. As you rise through the ranks you receive some privileges because you take on more responsibilities. Rank does have it's privileges. Not just in the military but throughout society. In business the higher your are on the company ladder, the more perks you get. Work hard and prosper.

Response by LTC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 7:12 AM

2019-10-10T07:12:14-04:00

If we are talking about being of equal authority or importance, then no we are not all equal. I entered the military as an E-1 and will exit as an O-5. When I was an E-1 in the infantry, I was not “equal” to my squad leader, my platoon sergeant, my platoon leader, or my company commander. Similarly, I am not equal to my commander now, who is an O-6. Enlisted are not equal in authority with officers or warrant officers (though in certain MOSs will surpass them in technical expertise). The military is a hierarchical system with a top down authority structure. Our military customs and courtesies reflect this reality. It is not and has never been egalitarian. There are days when as a medical specialist i wish I could have my own parking spot and office at the hospital, but that’s military life. I retire in a couple years and things will be different. There are good reasons for why militaries are structures the way they are. An egalitarian system where everyone’s opinion and voice is equal cannot function effectively in combat. Good leaders will listen to subordinates, but in the end the burden of decision making lies on their shoulders and they will be held responsible for the outcome of their decision (at least ideally if not in practice).

Response by 1SG Harold Piet made Oct 13 at 2019 6:16 AM

2019-10-13T06:16:32-04:00

I retired in 1995. While I was in, the only parking places that were reserved were Generals and post CSM, and handicapped. There were many other signs put up but they were illegal. The only way other parking spots were authorized according to the regulations was parking by permit. This is abused in almost every BN and Bde area. I saw very few parking permits in 20 years. If you parked in "their" spot they made life difficult for you. It is much easier to conform than fight it. I tried as an E-6. It made my life difficult for a while. and the CSM ended up using parking permits for his little parking area. When I was a 1SG we had two parking spots near the orderly room and all else across the street. I just told my soldiers they could only park across the street, not that these were reserved for me and the commander. Occasionally someone from outside the BN. would park there to go to the mess hall. but it was rare. My soldiers would send them across the street if they saw it.

Response by SN Jay Perry made Oct 14 at 2019 7:36 AM

2019-10-14T07:36:37-04:00

How many majors are in the Pentagon? About 2500 on any day... If I am one of less than 500 O6's I wouldn't have to park half mile away..... RHIP.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 19 at 2019 2:44 AM

2019-10-19T02:44:16-04:00

*sigh*
From AR 190-5:
4–8. Parking
a. The most efficient use of existing on– and off–street parking space should be stressed on a nonreserved (first–come, first–served) basis.
b. Reserved parking facilities should be designated as parking by permit or numerically by category of eligible parkers. Designation of parking spaces by name, grade, rank, or title should be avoided.

Now, that being said, most installations have a local SOP that covers reserved parking. Typically, the CO and 1SG were authorized reserved parking in the Company area. At Ft. Eustis, they have numbered parking in the BN area for all the people that work in certain buildings, and you get assigned a number if you work there. They also have "reserved" parking for SES, CW4/5, GO, Expectant Mothers, Medal of Honor recipients, etc, at the PX, which may or may not be authorized by local SOP...I really did not look into it much as there was typically an empty space for me to park in. When I was at Campbell, the motor pool had "reserved" parking for the Motor Pool NCO (which was a SSG), Motor Pool CWO, HHC CO, XO, and 1SG, so on and so forth. IIRC, the local SOP only had the CO and 1SG spots as "authorized", so people could (and sometimes did) park in the other "reserved" spots. Sometimes it did not matter, sometimes the "owner" of the spot would get all butthurt and attempt an ass-chewing, threaten to call the MPs and have them towed, etc, etc.

You have to ask yourself: "is this the hill that you want to die on?"

Response by SFC Shawn Mahoney made Oct 20 at 2019 7:07 AM

2019-10-20T07:07:59-04:00

Each and every one of you has massive amounts of knowledge at your fingertips. If you actually used that device and information for good rather then looking up who’s eating where, you would know that there are NO reserved parking spaces on post for higher ranking individuals.

There are indeed parking spaces that are labeled 1sgt, CSM, Battalion Commander...... and so on. However if you choose to park in that parking space the only thing you can receive is an ass chewing.

Look it up and figure it out

Response by Sgt Dan Catlin made Oct 20 at 2019 11:49 AM

2019-10-20T11:49:39-04:00

Really? This is what we meant when Marines used to say "You joined us, we didn't join you!"

(Alluding to the Army recruitment ad that said "Todays Army wants to join you." Nice slogan to suck 'em in, but really?)

Response by SCPO William Akin made Nov 2 at 2019 2:02 PM

2019-11-02T14:02:56-04:00

Let me direct your attention to a semi old Allen Jackson song 'Here In the Real World'

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Nov 2 at 2019 6:39 PM

2019-11-02T18:39:21-04:00

Do you think it is overkill for a 4 star general to have planes and helicopters at his disposal?

Response by PO2 Lewis Brockman made Nov 3 at 2019 12:19 AM

2019-11-03T00:19:03-04:00

LOL who told you that lie.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2019 11:59 AM

2019-11-03T11:59:46-05:00

While at ft bliss, the cg took down all reserved parking signs, aside from handicap and I think expected mother’s. Guess what, no one died as a result from not having an assigned parking spot

Response by SSG Jason Penn made Nov 5 at 2019 9:50 PM

2019-11-05T21:50:34-05:00

By Federal law, the only parking spaces that are a requirement to be in place are the Handicapped spots! Other designated spots are determined by the property owner, e.g., a school can have spots in their parking lot that are reserved for faculty. This means that the Army dictates parking policy on Army bases, Navy dictates parking policy on Naval Installations, etc.

IAW Army Regulation 190–5 "Motor Vehicle Traffic Supervision"
Section 4–8. Parking
Subsection b. Reserved parking facilities should be designated as parking by permit or numerically by category of eligible parkers. Designation of parking spaces by name, grade, rank, or title should be avoided.

This means that those spots you mention are not recommended, but they are also not forbidden; it's all in the grammar, the chosen word is "should", not "must". Being that the regulation does not rule them out and does not detail their implementation, then the matter is left up to the Installation Commander. BLUF - While not a good idea per the Department of the Army, a Base Commander can even create a parking spot that is reserved for the Unit Mascot, if he/she wishes!

Response by SGT Andrew Sherman made Nov 6 at 2019 11:01 AM

2019-11-06T11:01:23-05:00

Life ain't fair and the world is mean, that's why. The only thing I saw treat people equally in my time was IDF.

Response by CPO William Plaster made Nov 7 at 2019 8:19 AM

2019-11-07T08:19:52-05:00

If you don't accept military protocol, you should have remained a civilian.

Response by SFC Howard Holmes made Nov 8 at 2019 1:39 AM

2019-11-08T01:39:57-05:00

Equality in the military is in regards to gender, race, religious beliefs, etc., but not rank. In what world would you think that a PVT, or a Spec., are treated the same as a SGM, MSG, Lt. Col. or General? That really seems silly. Being a Spec 4 have you never heard of RHIP - Rank Has It's Privilege? If you stay in and take the proper career path, you will understand.

Response by Cpl Henry Busby made Nov 14 at 2019 11:31 AM

2019-11-14T11:31:43-05:00

I am not trying to be confrontational, but after pondering whether to respond to this at all, I keep wondering why this would matter? They seem not to be keeping our warriors mentally occupied because with all that is happening in the world, both domestically and abroad, why does this matter? Don't walk, run if its raining! My suggestion would be for you to DROP AND GIVE ME 25! LOL

Response by CPL Roger Copeland made Nov 18 at 2019 4:21 AM

2019-11-18T04:21:06-05:00

Keep in mind, rank and position has it's privileges.
It's the same way in the civilian world.

Response by 1SG Tom Carter made Nov 20 at 2019 6:58 PM

2019-11-20T18:58:29-05:00

RHIP

Who told you we were treated equally in the Army?

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 21 at 2019 12:08 PM

2019-11-21T12:08:25-05:00

I think the very idea of rank is to lay out that we are not equal. Who told you anything about being equal?

Response by PO2 Jerry Van Ness made Nov 26 at 2019 10:33 AM

2019-11-26T10:33:07-05:00

Treated equally? What planet are you on? Of course rank has privileges, and that is incentive to progress up the ladder. This is true in the military and in civilian life as it should be. You work hard, and you get rewarded. Should everyone have a company car, expense account, etc.?

PUT IN THE WORK AND GET THE PERK.

Response by SGT Ron Egan made Dec 5 at 2019 4:14 PM

2019-12-05T16:14:46-05:00

Silence peasant, remember RHIP.

Response by SSgt Ray Bey made Dec 5 at 2019 6:38 PM

2019-12-05T18:38:01-05:00

If you can't tell the difference by the rank each has then there is no way to explain that rank has its privileges and responsibilities. So if you don't like it then you may find the dood that will treat you equal and open and let you out. There are too many equality seekers and a bunch of everyone gets a participation medal babies serving now.

Response by PO3 Scot Fahey made Dec 5 at 2019 11:51 PM

2019-12-05T23:51:51-05:00

my first"Joint Command" I noticed how there was a rush to put up parking signs. I was in a small detachment where parking was plenty. so no reserved parking

Response by PO2 Christina "Jian" Phillips made Dec 6 at 2019 7:06 AM

2019-12-06T07:06:18-05:00

In my honest opinion it is another chance to give rank its privileges......and to me it is crap unless you are the CO or XO or are handicapped.....IE walk just like the rest of us....Now for some monthly reward program it's fair game.

Response by PO3 D L made Dec 6 at 2019 10:34 AM

2019-12-06T10:34:36-05:00

YOU, dear sir, are in the wrong career if you are looking for things to be fair... RHIP is part of the military. Those above you have worked hard to get to the position they are in receiving a special parking spot. The military is NOT a job in the real world, it is the military and it is needs to have this "way of life". Without having it, the military would fall apart. I suggest you depart and get a job somewhere that offers you a safer more equal place

Response by SrA John Monette made Dec 6 at 2019 12:46 PM

2019-12-06T12:46:16-05:00

in a word, no

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Dec 6 at 2019 1:38 PM

2019-12-06T13:38:13-05:00

Many young people feel a sense of equality and entitlement without earning it. I had a 17 year old foster son who did not play sports or get his GED, but his little hamster in his head told him he was my equal. I am glad he is out of my house now.

Response by SFC Dennis Rodriguez made Dec 8 at 2019 2:45 AM

2019-12-08T02:45:20-05:00

Did you ever notice that your dad always got the big piece of chicken? It's basically the same reason why higher ranking people got more privileges.

Response by SPC Donn Sinclair made Dec 8 at 2019 3:21 PM

2019-12-08T15:21:44-05:00

Seriously? I've been out a long time and I hear it's a different Army these days. Well, it ain't that much different. I'd like to think the OP's just trolling. It's the way things are. It's the Army, not an encounter group.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 18 at 2019 4:17 PM

2019-12-18T16:17:48-05:00

RHIP bit with exception of GOs and CSM I believe the privilege associated with rank is higher pay not parking spaces.

Response by 1stSgt Tom Johnston made Dec 19 at 2019 11:39 AM

2019-12-19T11:39:10-05:00

Get promoter, and you will understand.

Response by SSgt Mark Dale made Dec 19 at 2019 10:58 PM

2019-12-19T22:58:37-05:00

Wtf are they teaching these guys and gals these days? Is this person even serious with this BS? Treated equally GTFOH with that ignorance.

Response by SSG Ken Gilder made Dec 22 at 2019 11:04 PM

2019-12-22T23:04:15-05:00

I have seen parking spaces at the O club for "Any 2nd Lieutenant."

Response by SSG Ken Gilder made Dec 22 at 2019 11:06 PM

2019-12-22T23:06:07-05:00

I have seen parking spots at the O club reserved for "Any 2nd Lieutenant."

Response by LT Ed Skiba made Jan 2 at 2020 5:39 PM

2020-01-02T17:39:58-05:00

Treated equally? Who ever said the military was a democracy? Treated respectfully...yes.

Response by Capt Al Parker made Jan 14 at 2020 2:12 PM

2020-01-14T14:12:39-05:00

RHIP.

Response by MSG Allan Davis made Jan 17 at 2020 12:50 PM

2020-01-17T12:50:23-05:00

This is the exact reason “they everyone deserves a prize” generation will continue to fail.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cichelli made Jan 27 at 2020 8:29 AM

2020-01-27T08:29:49-05:00

SPC, you apparently don't understand or have never heard RHIP which is Rand has It's Privileges. These people have paid their dues and earned the privilege. If and when you get to these ranks, you will appreciate this. But also bear in mind with rank and privilege comes responsibility too.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2020 1:34 AM

2020-01-29T01:34:27-05:00

Hey if you're in the military, it's all about rank and file. It's a tradition through out the ages.

Response by SFC Mark Klaers made Feb 12 at 2020 10:52 AM

2020-02-12T10:52:56-05:00

I've never cared where I park. Seems a petty thing, really. Those "Primo" spaces should be set aside for disabled vets, elderly(80+)vets and pregnant dependents.

Response by Sgt Keith Reed made Feb 16 at 2020 3:33 PM

2020-02-16T15:33:44-05:00

It is amazing that this person does not recognize privilege of rank. Quick story - apocryphal, probably not true, but cute, which I heard in the 1980's. A 2nd Lieutenant landed his T-38 and was "Follow Me"'d to the farthest spot from base ops. Weather was crap, and the truck left him to walk the quarter mile in the rain. Arrived at the door to Ops just as a Colonel landed his '38 and was directed to the first spot outside the door. The Lieutenant (good heartedly, I am sure) commented on how some people get all the advantages. The Colonel laid his hands on the Lt's shoulders, looked him in the eye and said, "Did you ever walk on the moon, son?"

Response by SN Walt Boyer made Feb 25 at 2020 7:55 AM

2020-02-25T07:55:33-05:00

Why does this sound like status envy? As others have explained, O5 and above have earned the privilege of reserved spots. Never in my career nor since have I questioned a supervisor's parking spot. How petty does a person have to be to make reserved parking an issue.

Response by SN Walt Boyer made Feb 25 at 2020 7:57 AM

2020-02-25T07:57:46-05:00

"Treated Equally" ..... You expect that an Officer should salute you or call you sir?

Response by SSgt Carroll Straus made Mar 8 at 2020 1:48 AM

2020-03-08T01:48:09-05:00

RHIP

Response by MAJ Lee Goehl made Mar 13 at 2020 5:35 PM

2020-03-13T17:35:45-04:00

After 20 years of Service and 22 years in the VA system, where rank had it's privileges. I took a job as a manager in a civilian Hospital. We have our own parking area and the CEO and EVPs have their own spaces. This is life everywhere. WOW, I bet the new fries cook at McD don't tell the Mgr/owner more than once you parked in my space.

Response by PO1 John Wypyszinski made Mar 22 at 2020 3:41 PM

2020-03-22T15:41:57-04:00

If you want those perks, here's a suggestion EARN THEM, those who have them do. You have an equal opportunity to reach that level, what you make of it is entirely up to you. Sniveling about what others who have served longer than you have earned is not going to get you there. Look at it this way, you have to pass a PT test every little bit helps, so suck it up buttercup.

Response by Brad Miller made Mar 24 at 2020 10:08 PM

2020-03-24T22:08:03-04:00

Looking in from the outside (but with experience with command hierarchies in various civilian jobs) -- with rank comes responsibility, stress, and a greater burden of command. Part of the pay-off for that extra work load is perks like a reserved parking slot.

Response by MAJ Louis Giamo made Mar 25 at 2020 5:03 PM

2020-03-25T17:03:19-04:00

Excuse me, but where the hell did you ever get the idea that we were "supposed to be treated equally?" Why do you think we wear rank? You are treated equally among you own rank, but that's about it. Just try dropping in on the CG's quarters and asking if he'd like to share a beer with his treated equally PFC.

Response by CPL Diana Rosgallio made Mar 27 at 2020 1:22 PM

2020-03-27T13:22:31-04:00

Sounds like the millennial philosophy is working its way into the military. Who the hell would I ask this question?

Response by SPC James Wright made Mar 28 at 2020 6:38 PM

2020-03-28T18:38:35-04:00

R H I P

Response by SSgt Kevin Hopkins made Mar 29 at 2020 10:48 AM

2020-03-29T10:48:02-04:00

you gave up certain rights when you enlisted you should have learned that in basic training

Response by SPC Gordon Lehnert made Apr 9 at 2020 9:14 PM

2020-04-09T21:14:49-04:00

It's called RESPECT! Look it up.

Response by SSG Derrick Iozzio made Apr 12 at 2020 9:31 PM

2020-04-12T21:31:47-04:00

SPC Navarro- short answer is that they earned that privilege. This "equal" treatment applies to be a decent human being, but you will find that in the military and in civilian life there is a rank structure. Those ranking officers and NCO's have paid their dues and earned the perks they are given. If you stay in and earn promotions, would you want some lower ranking person to take away what you have earned?

Response by CPO Albert Kennison made May 1 at 2020 11:12 PM

2020-05-01T23:12:07-04:00

Give the wingnut a rookie cookie for his dumbass question!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2020 4:21 PM

2020-05-06T16:21:54-04:00

im not even going to read these comments....this by far is one of the fucking most dumb questions i have seen on here. i really hope this was one of those setup questions

Response by SGT Andrew Mace made May 19 at 2020 12:36 PM

2020-05-19T12:36:28-04:00

Mr. Navarro, what you've just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul.

Response by SPC Brian Pritchard/Hall made May 19 at 2020 3:28 PM

2020-05-19T15:28:44-04:00

Can’t believe this is even being asked. RHIP and the occasional parking spot is one of them.

Response by CW4 Robert Mixon made May 22 at 2020 2:03 PM

2020-05-22T14:03:29-04:00

The provost marshal and senior officer on post get reserved parking. Did a lot of regs studied in old days 30 years ago had my ass in a crack. found a solder of the quarter could be awarded as a pirk

Response by SN Terry Poynter made May 23 at 2020 2:56 PM

2020-05-23T14:56:38-04:00

Sorry. I had to clean the beer off the monitor. apparently the specialist isn't aware they are in The U.S. Army and there is no such thing as equality unless that person is of the same rank as you AND has the same seniority as you...and even then, they could be above you in the TO&E.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made May 31 at 2020 6:24 AM

2020-05-31T06:24:01-04:00

RHIP. Rank has its Privileges. The best way to answer that question is to ask a base Commander.

Response by TSgt Robert Hanika made May 31 at 2020 6:36 PM

2020-05-31T18:36:32-04:00

What I don't like to see in these designated parking spots is the wives using the spots isn't a member of the military just because she is married to one.

Response by Sgt Steve Williams made Jun 3 at 2020 5:29 PM

2020-06-03T17:29:00-04:00

I don't see how anyone that has spent more than one day in the service would wonder about us all being treated equally.

Response by SPC Ron Salsbury made Jun 3 at 2020 9:28 PM

2020-06-03T21:28:02-04:00

They earned that with sacrifice, and selfless service. As a crew chief on an old Huey, I had the distinct privilege to fly with many Vietnam Veterans before leaving for Desert Storm, they had experience, knowledge, and the skills to keep us alive; they earned our respect. Out of this respect we also refrained from calling ourselves a crew chief, until they called us a crew chief; this was because of their combat experience, personal loss of co-pilots, and crew chiefs during their Tour of Duty. To me, the men, and women who served our country to obtain such a prestigious rank, have earned my respect, and that parking space, especially the Combat Veteran!!!!!!!!!!!!

Response by MCPO Hans Brakob made Jun 10 at 2020 12:27 AM

2020-06-10T00:27:43-04:00

"Treated equally"?
Not a chance.
The higher your rank, the higher your compensation, your perks, and your responsibilities.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 12 at 2020 8:13 PM

2020-06-12T20:13:14-04:00

Also gold star mothers. They deserve it.

Response by Sgt Bill Schrum made Jun 13 at 2020 2:26 PM

2020-06-13T14:26:00-04:00

Interesting. As someone who used to get "privileged parking", it did come up a few times. My personal feeling (besides the "earned rank" thing) was I get it because if the shit hits the fan, I'm the one called in first. I'm the one who gets called if one of my troops screws up and I'm the one called to figure out WTF is going on. Now, as far as the PX or similar animals go - that should be free range parking, FCFS. But hold off on the comments about most lifers needing the exercise a little walk would bring -- that's not nice. And, BTW, learn the difference between "equal" and "equitable".

Response by Pvt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2020 12:11 PM

2020-06-17T12:11:38-04:00

RHIP-R Sf.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 27 at 2020 4:50 PM

2020-06-27T16:50:59-04:00

Everyone being equal is a pie in the sky concept. Everyone has different value to the organization. And while rank comes some privileges, like a designated parking spot, chow being held open until you arrive, and getting bumped to the front of the line. With rank also comes an increase in obligations and expectations. And in the military they LOVE to have meetings, paperwork, pomp & circumstance. As rank increases so does stress, and the length of the work day. And the consiquences of failure become much more significant ( though in some cases not severe enough). When you're in a position of command you become responsible for all of your subordinates' actions. As lower enlisted you can get away with alot more screwball stuff with only a slap on the wrist.
That said, remember that officers and SNCOs, are the last group to eat chow. When I was deployed, we departed on a civilian plane, Command gave the much roomier 1st class seats to lower enlisted. When leave was given it was lowest rank/ least time ungrade first.
There is a balance to rank and privilege. Is it abused sometimes? Yes, but that is more about basic human nature then about military doctrine and policy.

Response by Sgt Heriberto Salinas made Jun 29 at 2020 8:13 AM

2020-06-29T08:13:56-04:00

The only comment I have on this subject is based on a true story. I had a Chief who's wife would give him a ride to work, even though this Chief had his own parking spot. Every now and then I would come down from my office to do business with the main office where he was located. If there was no parking available, I would use his. The second time I used it he got pissed off, and asked if I was a Chief. I said no, but I couldn't find any parking. He said he didn't care and that his wife needed a place to park. Weeks later I saw his wife and it turned out she was a big - old- heffer. No wonder she needed a parking spot that so close! The thing I found weird was that she made her way to a close by field and started grazing. Then I finally understood...

Response by SFC Kandi Temple made Jul 16 at 2020 11:27 PM

2020-07-16T23:27:06-04:00

How do these people make it through basic training without understanding how rank works?

Response by SSG Sidney Galloway made Jul 20 at 2020 2:34 PM

2020-07-20T14:34:39-04:00

See? Questions of this nature make me ever so glad that I retired when I did. Who pushes the broom? You do. Who scrubs the toilet? You do. Who cuts the grass, picks up trash and rakes leaves? YOU (and your juniors) do. That's what non-leaders DO. Reserved parking spaces? Having everyone around you stand at parade rest or attention? Waiting for some idiot to slop the gravy on his plate (or cutting line and skipping the wait)? That's what SENIOR LEADERSHIP is for. Oh, making policy, planning for (and accepting responsibility) the future defense of your unit come in there somewhere. Shut your head and walk a few extra paces into the PX. I suspect you could use those steps.

Response by SFC Melvin Brandenburg made Mar 31 at 2021 3:33 PM

2021-03-31T15:33:49-04:00

We are often working well beyond final formation, well before first formation, and often taking care of business when soldiers are at the club. I appreciate being able to get in and out of the PX quicker because often I was in a rush. Additionally, by the time you get to the upper echelons of either enlisted or officer you've paid your dues and a few privileges are welcomed. The answer to your inquiry is to not whine, but work your ass off for one of those parking spaces. Rank comes with a few perks.