Afraid to tell your honest opinion on RallyPoint?

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 17:50:18 -0400

Have you ever chosen a more PC response or maybe not responded at all because you knew the truth may open the proverbial gates of hell?

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2015 6:16 PM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 18:16:13 -0400

LTC Private RallyPoint Member, never Sir. I never hold back. I might tone down my active voice, but it's my job to find answers and provide facts and advice based off of those facts coupled with my experiences in the field. So when it comes to RP, I provide my opinions based off of experience, regulations and facts, I just do it respectfully.

Response by CSM Michael J. Uhlig made Aug 8 at 2015 6:17 PM

CSM Michael J. Uhlig — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 18:17:09 -0400

There is a thin line to what some call political correctness and what is described as discipline LTC Private RallyPoint Member.

We all have our personal opinions, sometimes we push the limits of being PC when things are really personal to our beliefs/values/norms. The fact that members of RP typically maintain discipline is one of the best benefits of this site coupled with the fact that people are here to share ideas and knowledge amongst the group.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2015 6:19 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 18:19:48 -0400

I will admit there have been times I just didn't want to hear all the garbage and deal with all the "thumbs-down" people.

Response by CPL Richard Flagg made Aug 8 at 2015 6:21 PM

CPL Richard Flagg — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 18:21:04 -0400

Sir, of course I haven't call it the Airborne Grunt in me; if you don't like what I say move on past my comments that I make. If I offend anyone please tell me and I will address the issue. If wrong I will admit my mistake and carry on with my mission.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2015 6:27 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 18:27:35 -0400

I don't think I have had this problem yet. But I would say some are afraid of what I have said. A good indicator of this is that they block you for having a different opinion. For those that have blocked me I would only say that maybe it is time to put on your big boy pants and rely on your wits instead of your ability to prevent others from commenting.

And the haters are going to hate in 3.....2.....1.......

Response by SrA Jonathan Carbonaro made Aug 8 at 2015 6:29 PM

SrA Jonathan Carbonaro — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 18:29:27 -0400

I do hold back. My opinions are my own until I share them. Once I click respond I no longer have control over my opinions while I am subject to the UCMJ I must temper my true opinion until I recieve my DD 214.

I've served 5 years and have 2.5 left on my contract I've made it to far to speak my True, Honest to God Opinion and risk the consequences.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2015 6:32 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 18:32:43 -0400

I have sometimes not commented, but, mostly because I am not sure of the situation nor the people involved. Also there are times when comments simply are not going to do anything except encourage the other.

Overall, I find the folks on RP to be honest and certainly not bashful about stating their views.

Response by SSG Ed Mikus made Aug 8 at 2015 6:41 PM

SSG Ed Mikus — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 18:41:20 -0400

Only because i have not yet retired Sir.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Aug 8 at 2015 6:50 PM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 18:50:34 -0400

The great part about this site is that it allows everyone to voice an opinion regardless of rank or status. Yes there have been a few discussions where I've had to bite my tongue or refrain, because some discussions do get heated. I think the majority on here want to keep things civil despite some hot topic issues like politics, religion and certain civil rights issues and to there best to not inflame others by standing on their soapbox.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2015 7:01 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 19:01:14 -0400

I don't like it when people down vote because they disagree. It seems to make disagreement punitive.

Response by Cpl Jeff N. made Aug 8 at 2015 7:25 PM

Cpl Jeff N. — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 19:25:26 -0400

I do go past some posts, shake my head and think, what in the hell is the armed forces coming to? I don't comment on them because I know the softies will whine if I say what is on my mind.

When I comment I say what I mean and I mean what I say. Some might say I am too direct or confrontational in my opinions and perspective on topics. As far as I know I have only been blocked by one other user and considering the person I am not surprised. Some simply cannot deal with an alternative opinion. Then there are some I disagree with and can have a good give and take.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Aug 8 at 2015 7:27 PM

CAPT Kevin B. — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 19:27:57 -0400

If I know it's a touchy subject I make sure to double down on being respectful. I've typically run into it when I say something some people don't want to hear, like there's no magic pill in looking for a job or setting up a business or trying to feel entitled. Sometimes the truth is cold and impersonal. I challenge the urban legends on getting federal jobs as people who want to believe that stuff will continue not to get jobs. They just don't want to hear it.

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Aug 8 at 2015 7:38 PM

Cpl Dennis F. — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 19:38:41 -0400

Yeah. I have strolled on by some conversations because the PC pussies "Can't handle the truth!" :)

Response by SSgt Terry P. made Aug 8 at 2015 7:41 PM

SSgt Terry P. — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 19:41:05 -0400

I try to be honest in my opinions but also civil and respectful of others.
Mother and Father taught me to be respectful and the Marines enhanced it.

Response by SFC Everett Oliver made Aug 8 at 2015 8:26 PM

SFC Everett Oliver — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 20:26:09 -0400

Not going to happen, I speak my mind on whatever the subject is, I have already experienced one on RP who I suppose enjoys negatives. Sorry for him....I'll still speak my mind and my beliefs. And if all i have is opinion then I'll own it....

Response by Sgt David G Duchesneau made Aug 8 at 2015 9:46 PM

Sgt David G Duchesneau — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 21:46:35 -0400

I try to be completely honest and I don't talk or comment about shit I don't know.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Aug 8 at 2015 9:59 PM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 21:59:48 -0400

There are many times where I have just avoided a topic because I don't want to wade into the muck. No reason to intentionally wade into it.

However, "in for a penny, in for a pound." If I respond, I'll give my honest opinion/response on the subject. I have no problem with that opinion being unpopular. I've been on the unpopular side of issues many times. This place isn't supposed to be an "echo chamber." The best discussions we have on this forum are ones where we have (respectful) disagreements.

The largest issue I run into is that I often find myself defending positions which I personally do not like, but which are logically justifiable. As I said in one post "just because I defended it, doesn't mean I liked it."

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made Aug 8 at 2015 10:23 PM

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 22:23:25 -0400

LTC Private RallyPoint Member Usually the only time I don't answer at all is when there is a subject that doesn't involve me, or I have negative knowledge on, or I might not even understand. If I give an awesome or "thumbs up" that is exactly what that means - I really liked your response and there is no further ado!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2015 10:50 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 22:50:01 -0400

I am a firm believer that we need to be a little less PC in America. Everyone has gotten so sensitive these days that it makes us all a bit softer. We are the strongest nation/military in the world. We need to start acting as such.

Response by SPC George Rudenko made Aug 8 at 2015 10:50 PM

SPC George Rudenko — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 22:50:36 -0400

Nope, some hate it... But I share my opinion respectfully

Response by MSgt Erik Copp made Aug 8 at 2015 10:57 PM

MSgt Erik Copp — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 22:57:56 -0400

Like right now??? Just kidding. There are quite a few comments on here already that seem to fit in my case. Truth be told, yes there are times I tone down my comments, but, not due to offending or fear of opening the gates. Simply put, out of respect for my brothers and sisters on here. At some point we have all sacrificed something for our country. Why attempt to insult or stir the pot. I do poke people in good fun of course.
Semper Fi !!!!

Response by Sgt William Biggs made Aug 9 at 2015 12:35 AM

Sgt William Biggs — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 00:35:00 -0400

Yes and no. I like to maintain a professional, yet honest, approach to asking questions here. What I have noticed is that we tend to embrace abrasiveness. Most of the people on this site respond better to the clarity that comes with honesty, even if it uncouth, more so than anything else. I also remember that someone will always get their feathers ruffled. Hell, I have.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Aug 9 at 2015 1:08 AM

SSgt Alex Robinson — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 01:08:47 -0400

I've been warmly received and have had my opinions heard without criticism

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 9 at 2015 2:32 AM

SFC Mark Merino — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 02:32:08 -0400

Member admins are quiet, meek, well-mannered, calm, politically neutral, snappy dressers.

Response by SN Greg Wright made Aug 9 at 2015 2:38 AM

SN Greg Wright — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 02:38:28 -0400

Hell Yes! It's important to me what other SM think about me. Yet...sometimes I seem to be from a different time, a different...way of thinking.

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Aug 9 at 2015 3:03 AM

GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 03:03:20 -0400

My folks taught me to say what I mean and mean what I say. I've lived my life that way and certainly haven't wavered here on RallyPoint LTC Private RallyPoint Member. Semper fi ...

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 9 at 2015 3:14 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 03:14:40 -0400

I most-definitely do not make a habit of withholding my opinions based on how they may be received.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 9 at 2015 3:48 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 03:48:52 -0400

Yes, there are certain trends/subjects that I choose not to say anything.
For the most part, I find these discussions to be helpful especially to individuals seeking advice. I think everyone feels free to voice their opinions and experiences even if it does rub others the wrong way.

Response by PO1 Shahida Marmol made Aug 9 at 2015 4:41 AM

PO1 Shahida Marmol — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 04:41:26 -0400

Yes, sometimes I will write out a whole paragraph and erase it. Sometimes it's better not to respond.

Response by Sgt Matt Koeneman made Aug 9 at 2015 7:22 AM

Sgt Matt Koeneman — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 07:22:12 -0400

Yes, as a matte of fact SGM Steve Wettstein asked a question and I didn't answer it because my answer would generate to much flack. But as they say if you're receiving flack you're over the target.

Response by SPC Joseph Bagonis made Aug 9 at 2015 8:22 AM

SPC Joseph Bagonis — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 08:22:56 -0400

I'm sure it has happened on here but i'm a big believer of freedom of speech, so i just let it flow.......

Response by SSG Trevor S. made Aug 9 at 2015 8:45 AM

SSG Trevor S. — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 08:45:03 -0400

I don't hold back, but I do test run my wording.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 9 at 2015 9:27 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 09:27:00 -0400

No, but I do prescribe to the "think, type, post" rule of thumb presented by the Army. Also, make sure what you have to say is not clouded by emotion or distasteful. You can share opinions and thoughts on any topic, just be respectful and present a valid argument.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 9 at 2015 9:29 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 09:29:25 -0400

My take is quite simple. I do not mind differing opinions except those who militate against our country and traditions or they try to debate stuff like Climate using talking points and uncorroborated conclusions. I even had one SGT, Fry I believe, who friended me and then tried to f' with me. His contention over my education in my profile. As many of you realize, I have a major seizure disorder so some of my future has been shelved for now. My message to him is KMA! Anyhow, lately I have backed off, not of fear of anyone, but because I am too tired to deal with it.

The other thing are those who come on her for a couple days or so, talk about how Obama is being disrespected and then move on. The MO is always the same and those peckers are hacks and nothing else.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Aug 9 at 2015 9:34 AM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 09:34:17 -0400

I don't have to be politically correct to get my point across. Like wise I don't have to be an A$$hole to get my point across. As long as one maintains their military bearing - no problem.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Aug 9 at 2015 10:56 AM

Capt Richard I P. — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 10:56:54 -0400

I think I've heard this trait called 'tact' before.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 9 at 2015 11:33 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 11:33:43 -0400

I purposely avoid topics that I think my opinion would be inflammatory: religion and politics. Not sure if that makes me afraid or just wise,

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Aug 9 at 2015 3:58 PM

TSgt Joshua Copeland — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 15:58:25 -0400

I know that folks have been reprimanded by their chains of command for posts on Social Media and specifically RP. We aren't talking about the blatant out of line posts either, the simply voicing a view that is not in line with the "party line."

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 9 at 2015 4:44 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 16:44:49 -0400

I use a tactful ways when discussing minorities because there are always 3 sides to a story.

Response by SGT Suraj Dave made Aug 10 at 2015 12:54 AM

SGT Suraj Dave — Mon, 10 Aug 2015 00:54:11 -0400

That and, your name is posted. Someone can still look you up and tell on you. Not a threat to me, Im out.... but I understand why many wouldn't.

Response by SFC Joseph James made Aug 10 at 2015 7:26 AM

SFC Joseph James — Mon, 10 Aug 2015 07:26:58 -0400

Not really. What are you going to do, tell my mom i sometimes cuss. Shit she knows lol Uh...crap!

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Aug 10 at 2015 9:31 AM

SGT Ben Keen — Mon, 10 Aug 2015 09:31:06 -0400

While I'm not afraid to share my honest opinion on RallyPoint, I do choose my words carefully. I think it's important that while we may not agree on every topic every time, it is important that we maintain our professionalism and respect towards the other person. Now, if that other person wants to take what you are saying to a personal level, than it's best to disengage to preserve your professionalism. But it would not be as much fun if we sugar coated everything or was not 100% honest in our thoughts.

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Aug 10 at 2015 9:37 AM

LTC Bink Romanick — Mon, 10 Aug 2015 09:37:48 -0400

If I wasn't retired I would be. I've had bosses who didn't like the truth. Or at least the truth as I saw it.

Response by SSG Richard Reilly made Aug 10 at 2015 10:16 AM

SSG Richard Reilly — Mon, 10 Aug 2015 10:16:09 -0400

I have never avoiding speaking my mind on here. I have an opinion and most of the time it is the best opinion so you really just have to hear it and learn from my wise ways.

Response by PO1 Glenn Boucher made Aug 10 at 2015 1:41 PM

PO1 Glenn Boucher — Mon, 10 Aug 2015 13:41:29 -0400

Of course not. That being said, and we are all military here, either active, reserve, retired or veteran, we all need to keep our respect for each others opinions. While I may not agree with someone's opinion I disagree respectfully. Even on Facebook I have disagreed with people and I will admit its harder to keep respectful because of how most people on Facebook are so immature with the name calling or looking you up and posting your address if they deem you are wrong regarding the opinion.
But giving our opinions honestly is better than towing the line.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 10 at 2015 2:39 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Mon, 10 Aug 2015 14:39:11 -0400

Sometimes I have to stop beating a dead horse, as nothing more will be gained.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 10 at 2015 2:41 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 10 Aug 2015 14:41:03 -0400

If I was still on active duty I'd be much more reserved with my speech. As a veteran I have a bit more latitude to express my opinion on subjects, but I still try and tailor my responses based on who I'm responding to and the subject matter I'm talking about.

Response by MSgt Jim Wolverton made Aug 10 at 2015 3:23 PM

MSgt Jim Wolverton — Mon, 10 Aug 2015 15:23:54 -0400

No, I'm retired ;)

Response by SPC David Hannaman made Aug 10 at 2015 4:20 PM

SPC David Hannaman — Mon, 10 Aug 2015 16:20:46 -0400

Faaaack no!

I'm a civilian... free speech, blah blah blah, I only answer to God.

Now I may at times attempt to phrase my opinions in such a way as to educate and lend perspective to MY line of thought, rather than to inflame... but that's just smart tactics.

Response by SGT Christopher Churilla made Aug 10 at 2015 5:01 PM

SGT Christopher Churilla — Mon, 10 Aug 2015 17:01:36 -0400

I always try to be tactful and respectful in my interaction, but not because I believe in PC; that was how I was raised.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 11 at 2015 8:14 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 11 Aug 2015 08:14:37 -0400

Yes and there have been times I responded stating within my response that I knew it was going to be an unpopular response or that I'm sure they're not going to want to hear the tough words ...

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 11 at 2015 9:23 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 11 Aug 2015 09:23:30 -0400

I do this a lot, Sir. Many times over, I have tampered my opinion down to accommodate for people's feelings, so as to avoid the digital ass-chewing that I would get for being so brash.

Response by SSG Warren Swan made Aug 11 at 2015 11:42 AM

SSG Warren Swan — Tue, 11 Aug 2015 11:42:18 -0400

No. I think that in order to get change hard conversations have to be made. In here due to all of us being military, we should respect the person we are talking to even if we don't see eye to eye. That discipline is what separates us from the civilians who speak with their mouth but don't understand what they said.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Aug 11 at 2015 1:32 PM

SrA Edward Vong — Tue, 11 Aug 2015 13:32:27 -0400

I generally let everyone know my opinion in a polite response. The trick is to get your point across while still being respectful and courteous. It's possible even without being PC, and I feel people should do it more often.

Response by Sgt Dave Knight made Aug 11 at 2015 1:53 PM

Sgt Dave Knight — Tue, 11 Aug 2015 13:53:20 -0400

Everyone is entitled to their opinion, even if it is unpopular are maybe even not well articulated. What really gripes me about the RP community is the number of people who flame up with an opinion based on the Title of a post and never read the content below it. I feel it takes away from the conversation at hand and devolves the whole experience into rubbish. If you are guilty and reading this, please don't be that guy. It is the 21st century equivalent to judging a book by its cover, and it makes you look like a rube.

Response by SFC Patrick R. Weston, MPH made Aug 11 at 2015 3:52 PM

SFC Patrick R. Weston, MPH — Tue, 11 Aug 2015 15:52:44 -0400

If you can articulate your thoughts using professional language, focus on positions and not individuals, I don't see why someone cannot express themselves in anyway here, with the caveat that we must all be mindful of the fact that our potential bosses are likely also on RP as well.

Response by MSgt Brian Welch made Aug 11 at 2015 7:13 PM

MSgt Brian Welch — Tue, 11 Aug 2015 19:13:02 -0400

I've pumped my breaks on occasion. Sometimes I've realize that I'm overly opinionated and overly willing to share it. I've always tried to be civil with my discussion even on hot-button topics but sometimes after a few volleys you just have to let it go.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 11 at 2015 7:36 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Tue, 11 Aug 2015 19:36:27 -0400

I learned don't ask a very sensitive question to a very public figure. I should used more empathy.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 11 at 2015 7:45 PM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 11 Aug 2015 19:45:53 -0400

Political correctness is part of the problem in this country these days. I don't and won't hold back what my opinion is on anything. Will I remove profanity and personal attacks from my statements, definately. That is only in the interest of professionalism, not political correctness.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2022 10:51 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Jun 2022 22:51:02 -0400

Some people can't handle the truth!