The following story was related to me by one of my friends while I was in the Air Force. For ease of storytelling, I'll relate it in first person, with minimum license.
When I was a new airman at DLI, when we were called to an MTM's (Military Training Manager, the NCOs in charge of training for the squadrons), First Sergeant's or the flight or squadron commander's office, we were to stand next to the door at parade rest until called in. One day, while I was waiting to talk to an MTM, the Flight Commander, a second lieutenant (note: probably about 23 years old) passed by one of the MTMs, a Chief Master Sergeant - Chief. The Chief, holding his coffee, was stopped by the Lieutenant - LT. LT's purpose for stopping Chief was to criticize the chief for his collar. Apparently, Chief's collar was wrinkled, and LT wanted to notify Chief of this deficiency and remind Chief of his duty to set the example for all us young impressionable airmen.
As LT finished his dressdown, Chief looked at him, cocked his head to one side, and stated very loudly, emphatically, and clearly, and in front of all the airmen waiting for appointments and those airmen on detail (cleaning the squadron) - "F--- you, Lieutenant!" He then took a drink of his coffee and walked into his office.
LT was somewhat upset at being shown up by this NCO and stormed into Chief's office to dress him down some more. Some shouting ensued, and quickly, the commander showed up to find out what happened. LT explained how Chief showed no respect for rank and authority and was insubordinate and rude in front of all the airmen. The commander then looked at Chief. Chief, at least a 25 year military veteran, said "He told me to fix my uniform."
The Commander let the lieutenant know that it mightn't be the best idea to criticize such an experienced man, who earned his stripes and put in more than his time. He then requested to Chief that he hold his tongue in front of the airmen.
Moral of the story: Superior rank does not mean superior experience or even authority. The same holds true everywhere.
1 comment:
I thought the moral of the story went without saying, but I'm shocked that the incident happened. Without the hierarchy enforced, why would anyone ever listen to a 2nd Lt.?
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