How does the Military deal with Honorifics?

CPL James S. — Wed, 19 Dec 2018 21:36:58 -0500

The question is a mite misleading and deals with multiple honorifics in a person's life.

Honorifics, especially those earned through hard work and dedication, tend to convey more than just esteem: they suggest a way of life that builds an image in both the person who has earned the honorific as well as those who hear the use of the honorific.

So what about the civilian honorifics in your military life, or in your retirement?

I am asking about your preferences only as this is typically subjective to the individual as well as dependent upon the time and place. In military circles, I am addressed as either Corporal or Sergeant. However, in civilian circles, I am addressed as Captain or "His majestey, sex-god and lord of all he surveys" [jk] (Truck Captain, KMCFD; Piney Fire)

My father is still known as "Sarge", even among his children, and god forbid any poor civilian should ever call him "Sir". He was a former Drill Sergeant and forgot that he retired.

Thanks for the feedback. I am wondering how people like to be addressed and what they think of the titles they earned in life.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 19 at 2018 10:41 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Dec 2018 22:41:26 -0500

CPL James S. Earning the title of United States Marine is the best title that I have ever had. Once a Marine, Always a Marine. When I was active duty, I was Sergeant or Sergeant Hallock. Salesman like to call me Mr. Hallock. Now, I am often called sir, because I am not as young as I once was. I prefer to be called Ted.

Response by SSgt GG-15 RET Jim Lint made Dec 20 at 2018 12:22 AM

SSgt GG-15 RET Jim Lint — Thu, 20 Dec 2018 00:22:26 -0500

Go call a 1st LT a 2LT. or call a MAJ 2LT. In the military we move to the last earned rank...but when retired or ETSd we seem to drop back to the military rank. It is all survivable.

Response by SGT David T. made Dec 20 at 2018 9:21 AM

SGT David T. — Thu, 20 Dec 2018 09:21:03 -0500

I prefer people to address me as "Your Highness" as I am the emperor lol. Just kidding. The only title i use is David or Mr. Thomas in formal applications. Any others I possess, I do not flaunt except on my resume.

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Dec 21 at 2018 4:14 AM

SFC Casey O'Mally — Fri, 21 Dec 2018 04:14:15 -0500

Titles are far more important to other people than me. Oftentimes I have found that the people who insist on them do so because they want you to know they are important. The folks who could not care less are the ones who will PROVE (through their actions) they are important.

Deeds not words.