Taboos

Avoiding taboos goes hand in hand with observing customs and courtesies. A taboo is a prohibition excluding something from use, approach, or mention. Taboos may be the result of long tradition or the requirements of good taste. We may feel inclined to scoff at taboos when they strike us as absurd. But taboos, like customs and courtesies, are part of our traditions.

The Senior's Desk

• It is disrespectful to lean or flop against the SASI's or ASI's desk. Always maintain the proper military bearing when in the presence of a senior.

Showing Disrespect to the Uniform

• Bad conduct in uniform is a longstanding taboo. Aside from the disrespect a person reaps as a result of bad conduct, it is a disgrace to the uniform and the branch of service represented. the good impression created by a large number of cadets who have dressed behaved properly in public can be destroyed by just one person who presents a poor appearance or acts poorly.
• You can be court-martialed for disgracing the uniform though bad conduct or by violating the regulations that govern wearing of the uniform again and again. A court martial is a military or naval court and, occasionally, enlisted personnel appointed by a commander to try offenders under military law. Part of the Air Force mission is to keep people of the united states interested in air-power. As a result, anything that detracts from a favorable impression also detracts from the success of the Air Force mission.

Courting Favor

• If you favor with a superior, you ill earn the dislike of your peers. Such practice is beneath the conduct expected of officers and enlisted personnel. "Bootlicking" marks individuals as incapable of making their own way on personal ability. It is regarded as a display of weakness.

The Old Man or Old Lady

• The commander is often referred to as the Old Man or Old Lady. The term is one of admiration; it refers to position, not age. However, never use the term in the commander's presence. Using the term in the commander's presence would show disrespect.

Gossip

• Gossip, because it often causes quarrels and disputes, is considered taboo. A unit's morale may be damaged by feuds that arise from gossip.

Vulgar Conduct and Language

• Vulgar conduct and language are definitely taboo. Neither cadets nor officers should lose their temper to the point of using profanity, particularly in addressing a junior. Officers and cadets who use abusive and profane language to make a point show lack of self-control, as well as a very limited vocabulary. Cadets and officers risk receiving an official reprimand if their conduct is poor. Worse, they undermine their effectiveness as leaders.