How to Address Senior Military Ranks
The militaries of the world, especially the United States military, have a long and strong tradition of military structure that demands that those of lower ranks refer to their superiors in certain ways. If you do not know how to properly address superior officers, you can find yourself being reprimanded or, even worse, "smoked" (put through vigorous physical punishment). It can be a difficult habit to form, but once you get into the rhythm, it will come as second nature to you.
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Instructions
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Address noncommissioned officers (NCOs) by standing at parade rest (hands behind your back, legs parted) and referring to them by their rank. For NCOs ranked Staff Sergeant, Sergeant First Class and Master Sergeant, you may address them as simply "Sergeant."
Marines always refer to NCOs by their full rank (i.e., Gunnery Sergeant, Master Gunnery Sergeant, etc.).
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Salute commissioned officers (COs) before standing at full attention. All COs, such as lieutenants, captains, colonels and generals, are to be referred to as "sir" or "ma'am." Many female COs are referred to as "sir" simply to respect the rank.
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Stand at the position of parade rest when addressing warrant officers (infantry weapons officers for the Marine Corps). All warrant officers in the United States military may be referred to as either "Sir," "Warrant Officer" or "Mister/Missus," depending on unit policy.
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Tips & Warnings
Familiarize yourself with all ways of addressing superior officers before enlisting, if possible. It will save you serious grief in basic training.
