Use of Military Titles

Using correct titles is another important act of military courtesy. It shows respect for the individual's grade. You might wonder why the Air Force places so much emphasis on titles, but consider for a moment what a title is. It is a formal name given to a person because of office, grade, hereditary privilege, or as a mark of respect. In the Air Force, individuals hold a title that matches a particular grade. As members move from one grade to the next, they also earn the title associated with each grade. In addition, you are demonstrating your professionalism and discipline as a military member.

Even though the Air Force encourages the use of official military titles, seniors may address those under them by their first names. However, juniors must not communicate with seniors in such an informal manner.

The correct use of military titles depends on whether communication is informal or formal. Use the title Lieutenant for a second or first lieutenant in informal communication. Use the full title in the address element and the salutation or official written correspondence. When you address officers orally, use their correct military titles, such as Captain or Major. You may also use Sir or Ma'am, depending upon the officer's grade. Address a Chief Master Sergeant by their full title or Sergeant. Address airmen by their full title or Airman. Address civilians as Mr., Mrs., Miss, or Ms. In addition, you may address medical and dental officers, as well as veterinarians, as Doctor. A chaplain in the Air Force is officially designated Chaplain, regardless of grade. A chaplain may also be addressed by more traditional titles such as Father. Reverend. or Rabbi. Address Air Force senior and junior ROTC cadets as Mister/Miss, Cadet, or by cadet rank followed by the last name.

Retirees are an integral part of the Air Force. Treat them with the same respect and courtesies you show active duty members. By public law, they have earned and are entitled to enjoy certain benefits, right, and privileges from the U.S. government. One of these rights is that retired military members re entitled to be addressed, both in written and verbal communication. by their retired rank. "Once an Air Force member, always an Air Force member."

Additional Courtesies

Calling a Room to Attention

When an officer enters a room, stand at attention. If more than one person is present, the first person to see the officer calls the group to attention. However, if an officer of equal or higher rank is already in the room, do not call the room to attention. Call the room to attention again as the officer departs. If you are by yourself, do not call the room to attention; however, you must stand at attention.

Showing Respect

Show respect to the person in authority at all times by recognizing the person's presence and by being courteous and respectful in bearing, behavior, and speech. An example of this is standing up and extending a verbal greeting when someone of senior rank enters the room or approaches, whether it's an office area, classroom, or elsewhere. Courtesy is contagious.

Don't Keep People Waiting

One of the most valuable habits you can develop is to always be on time. Nothing is more irritating than being asked to be somewhere at a specific time and then having to wait after you arrive. t times you may not be able to avoid being late. If this happens, call ahead to inform those who are waiting for you that you are going to be late or to reschedule the appointment.