Are 18 year old, E1's the true back bone of the Military? and deserving of more respect?

PO3 Aaron Hassay — Sun, 13 Dec 2015 19:43:23 -0500

18 year old E1s always compromise the largest age group demographic of any recruiting year.

When I say respect I possibly mean legally as in administrative, legal systems, laws, medical systems, command leadership that realizes how young 18 is, how much of a developmental stage it is mentally physically (from 18 to 26 approximate), and creating more protections that stress injury illness are protected cared for earlier quicker faster as not to cause life long injury illness due delayed care.

18 year olds will follow all orders even when harmful to them.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2015 7:45 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 13 Dec 2015 19:45:11 -0500

More Respect? Not really. All soldiers or military members should already be respected. #AllRanksMatter.

If a service member is not getting it then it may be the issue of that NCO that is not giving it.

Response by SrA David Steyer made Dec 13 at 2015 7:50 PM

SrA David Steyer — Sun, 13 Dec 2015 19:50:40 -0500

The number of people I experienced who joined right out of high school is very small, I can count them on my hands and toes and still have a digit or two left over. Your experience may vary.

I can't speak for the other branches but I don't recall seeing that many E1's outside of Basic Training or Tech School. Same with E2's. I know of more people who signed six year contracts or came in with enough college for E2 or E3 than not.

Not saying they don't exist but it seems very few.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Dec 13 at 2015 7:56 PM

CAPT Kevin B. — Sun, 13 Dec 2015 19:56:28 -0500

I'm in the NCOs are the backbone camp. E1s are new, need military learning and skills, but more importantly will show mechanical respect by salutes and Sir/Ma'am. Good NCOs bring them along in the people respect category by giving them respect every time it's earned. Starts out slow and picks up steam. A blinding flash of the obvious I had way back when was figuring out you will never be respected if you can't or won't respect back first.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2015 8:02 PM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 13 Dec 2015 20:02:32 -0500

Respect is earned, and shouldn't be given lightly. Work for your respect!

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2015 8:23 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 13 Dec 2015 20:23:50 -0500

E1 have typically been in the service for a short period of time. If they put in the required hard work, they will earn rank and eventually become NCO's. NCO's are the backbone of the military.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Dec 13 at 2015 8:28 PM

Capt Richard I P. — Sun, 13 Dec 2015 20:28:04 -0500

"Oh it's Tommy this and Tommy that and Tommy Go Away,
But it's "Thank you, Mr. Atkins, when the band begins to play...""

Response by SN Greg Wright made Dec 13 at 2015 9:23 PM

SN Greg Wright — Sun, 13 Dec 2015 21:23:47 -0500

PO3 Aaron Hassay I disagree. They deserve the respect you'd give anyone walking down the street, but 'extra' respect? No. Why? They know nothing about their jobs, yet. Respect is earned, and they haven't had any time to earn any. And thinking back to all the stupid shit I did when I was 18 (I actually joined at 17)....well. No. 18 isn't grown, isn't mature. That comes with experience.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2015 9:25 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 13 Dec 2015 21:25:25 -0500

Na.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2015 10:10 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 13 Dec 2015 22:10:36 -0500

I feel like the whole point behind being an E-1, or even an O-1 for that matter, is to understand that the army is a place where respect has to be earned.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Dec 13 at 2015 10:45 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 13 Dec 2015 22:45:25 -0500

The backbone of the military are NCOs.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 14 at 2015 1:26 AM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 01:26:51 -0500

Hardly the backbone. Worthy of respect? As much as any officer or NCO.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 14 at 2015 3:48 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 03:48:34 -0500

NCO's are the true backbone of the U.S. Military!!!

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Dec 14 at 2015 5:05 AM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 05:05:29 -0500

E1-E3s are definitely the Fuel of the Military Machine. I'm sure they are all chomping at the bit to be Petty Officers and getting some degree of Respect.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 14 at 2015 8:29 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 08:29:45 -0500

Deserving of more respect? No. Should they be treated with disrespect? No.

This is the sort of mentality that is weakening our army. People want to see E1 trainees or any initial entree trainee as people. (Obviously their people) if you take a look at what is happening to a person in BCT the old saying "break them down to build them up" is absolutely true. They must be broke. Physically and mentally. Broken from their ideals developed in the home, and remolded to the standards of service.

Sitting and watching how the DS now seem to need to walk on Eggshells is a disgrace and no wonder SMs don't jump at the opportunity. Even myself, just the other week, I got corrected... For correcting a basic trainee to harshly. (No profanity or vulgar words used. I simply told a trainee to put his PC on to sternly. I almost died laughing)

As far as the unit level goes, no. They don't deserve the respect either. Again I'm not advocating this SMs be treated unfairly, but how bout they go earn a bit of respect. As simple as a task of sweep the line. Do a good job at it. At shut about it while doing it. Earn that respect.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 14 at 2015 8:58 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 08:58:18 -0500

Deserving of more respect? I don't think so. Respect is earned, not just automatically granted. Do some time in the field, go one a deployment or two. That is where you'll gain your respect.

Response by SGT William Howell made Dec 14 at 2015 9:51 AM

SGT William Howell — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 09:51:23 -0500

Since I was not a NCO in the Navy I do not know their creed, but I was in the Army and this is how it starts off, "No one is more professional than I. I am a Noncommissioned Officer, a leader of Soldiers. As a Noncommissioned Officer, I realize that I am a member of a time honored corps, which is known as “The Backbone of the Army.”

As a 17 year old E-1 I was more trouble than I was useful. I took time away from people being productive to teach, train, and grow me. It was not until I had 2 years in that I was just able to give back for all the time invested and then it was very small amount. By the time I had 3 years in and I did not have to be babysitted all day, I was actually able to earn my keep.

That what NCOs do. They take the burden off others (who are making things happen) to make Soldier, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines useful and maybe not get themselves or the rest of us killed.

Whoopty Doo! They joined the military, they don't know shit and if you cuddle them they won't every know anything. Each branch molds a person to conform to a standard. Until they have met the minimum standards they are a liability not an asset. You earn respect, you don't get it given to you.

Sorry it was not PC, but at some point we are going to PC this country to the point somebody else is going to own it.

Response by SPC Lee Beach made Dec 14 at 2015 10:12 AM

SPC Lee Beach — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 10:12:00 -0500

Earned not demanded

Response by SFC Pete Kain made Dec 14 at 2015 10:27 AM

SFC Pete Kain — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 10:27:43 -0500

Define more respect, just what do you think you should get that is not already there?

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Dec 14 at 2015 1:16 PM

LTC Paul Labrador — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 13:16:40 -0500

No, they are the worker bees. The backbone is the NCO corps who gets those worker bees to actually be productive.

As for respect, everyone is deserving of it. PV1 do not deserve abuse simply because of their rank and stature. But they DO need to realize what their role in the organization is....

Response by SSG Todd Halverson made Dec 14 at 2015 1:45 PM

SSG Todd Halverson — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 13:45:31 -0500

No they are not the backbone...... The NCO Corps is the backbone of the Military... Hooah.
They are Privates and need to learn many things before they can support anything. They need to earn the respect and give the respect they want. That is the problem with the ME ME ME generation. I want this or that without having to work for it....... Pure BS.

Response by SSG Warren Swan made Dec 14 at 2015 4:21 PM

SSG Warren Swan — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 16:21:23 -0500

If they earn it, age shouldn't matter. If they don't but think just off the basis of wearing the uniform they should, then we'll continue the cycle we see now of troops who think they're special and owed everything, when they're just regular troops, MOS and skills immaterial. No different than those who served 200 years ago.If you don't want to be part of the TEAM, then you need to see the door and make your own "Army of One". Good luck with that.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 14 at 2015 4:24 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 16:24:09 -0500

What kind of whiny garbage is this. Time and dedication EARN respect. Not whining for it.

Response by Cpl Christopher Bishop made Dec 14 at 2015 4:36 PM

Cpl Christopher Bishop — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 16:36:58 -0500

I am kinda surprised so many "trained up E1s" exist, and what I mean by that is A) seems a lot of folks are not finding out how to earn their own "Contract E2", and B) that all of these "Contract E1s" arent being promoted to E2 with the usual ... what is it 6-9 months? And yet we STILL have a ton of E1s? When I served with Marine Corps Infantry, you just weren't an E1 unless you had been busted down for something....OR you were one of those very few who arrived to the Fleet as an E1, but were promoted to E2 within about 4-6 weeks.

So what is up with all these E1s of today? Did the military cut back on even offering "Contract E2" options just to save a payroll buck?

Response by LCpl Nicholas Hines made Dec 14 at 2015 4:47 PM

LCpl Nicholas Hines — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 16:47:52 -0500

Yeah no... NCO's are the backbone of the military and some boot 18 fresh out of school dosnt rate respect until he/she has earned it, same can be said for some 22 year old butter bar, sorry sir but your school does not beat an NCO's years of experience as you are as boot as that 18 year old.

Response by Cpl Christopher Bishop made Dec 14 at 2015 4:48 PM

Cpl Christopher Bishop — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 16:48:18 -0500

Not to get too far off topic here, but some of you are focusing in on the "who are the backbone of the military" and its not often E1s making things happen. Its NCOs. Granted the ideas and plannings come from above, but its the Corporals going out and making it happen. And I might include, for the Army's sake, some of their SPC-4s. Because in more branches than not, you cannot become an NCO until E5 which you have to re-up for usually, and since most go home after 1 enlistment.

The Marine Corps only promotes E3s to Corporals which are E4 and NCOs. It fits there. We do not have any E4 Non-NCOs.

I don't think any rank requiring a re-up can be a backbone of anything, if such a high percentage of "could-be Sergeants" go home instead. Especially when those lovely Prior Service Recruiters come around and try to dangle "promotion to E5" in front of you as if that in and of itself is incentive to re-up, to a Corporal who already has the cutting score for E5....offering what has already essentially been earned isn't really an "offer" at all. Oh oh but I digressed...didn't mean to get too personal =)

I am dying to hear what Capt L S has to say about this one. =)

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 14 at 2015 4:49 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 16:49:44 -0500

no, will always be junior and senior NCOs. I would take a crusty old CSM over a E-1 anyday

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 14 at 2015 4:58 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 16:58:05 -0500

Part of the question is easy. Everyone who wears the uniform and performs one's job is worthy of more respect.

Response by SGT Javier Mendoza made Dec 14 at 2015 6:37 PM

SGT Javier Mendoza — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 18:37:22 -0500

Not more, but the same as all other soldiers. When I was in 3rd ID in Europe my Bn Commander and CS ask for volunteers for armed escort missions and the first ones to volunteer, against all advice, were E-4 and below. Most NCOs who always spoke like drills and acted like Rambo at garrison wanted nothing to do with the real deal. Let's say some NCO's bough their ticket out of the Army that day, so in my eyes E-1 and above deserve respect and everyone should be "a working bee" at their respective levels. Loads of lazy NCO's.

Response by MAJ Alvin B. made Dec 14 at 2015 7:55 PM

MAJ Alvin B. — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 19:55:09 -0500

Noncommissioned Officers are the backbone of the American military and one of its greatest strengths. Our E-1 to E-4 are the sinew, muscles, arms and legs which must be shaped and developed to become effective, efficient, trained and ready.

Response by Capt Jeff S. made Dec 14 at 2015 10:53 PM

Capt Jeff S. — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 22:53:14 -0500

Millenials have been taught from Day1 in their education that they are all winners, regardless of the effort (or lack thereof) they put into their tasks, competitions, etc. Unfortunately, the REAL WORLD does not operate that way. The harsh reality is that there are winners and losers. If the 18 year olds are coming into the service expecting to get respect that they have yet to earn, they SHOULD be in for a rude awakening. The military today is a different military than it was 35 years ago when I first enlisted. I gave respect. I didn't expect to be respected until I earned it.

One of the ways you earn respect is by giving it. Another is by being good at what you do, and knowledgeable. That takes time.

Everyone should be treated respectfully, of course, but the 18 year old PV1's are starting at the bottom and until they become proficient and skilled leaders, they need to understand that they should be in receive mode, absorbing knowledge and instruction from their NCO's and SNCO's.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 15 at 2015 2:37 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 02:37:52 -0500

Im still a recruit, but even when I earn the right to say Im a soldier, I don't believe I deserve any more respect than someone else whos been in longer. If anything, my short time in would grant me less respect as I havent worked as long for my stripes, but thats just my opinion. Plus a backbone implies it holds the body up, I would think NCOs would be the true backbone as they guide the junior enlisted to do whats needed

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 15 at 2015 3:11 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 03:11:48 -0500

NCOs are the backbone, E4s are the pancreas as I recall, I don't know what E1s are

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 15 at 2015 7:22 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 07:22:58 -0500

SSG James J. Palmer IV aka "JP4" hahhaha, but they are good at KP and empyting my trash. Actually they are awesome, just not the backbone. CPT L S agrees with me and so do I. :) Go Air Force. Beat Notre Dame. :)

Response by Capt Walter Miller made Dec 15 at 2015 8:25 AM

Capt Walter Miller — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 08:25:35 -0500

They need a lot more hazing. Napoleon said it took 3 years to make a soldier in ranks. That sounds about right.

Walt

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 15 at 2015 8:36 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 08:36:31 -0500

SSgt or E-5's are the backbone of the military it's written for AF troops.

Response by MSgt Wayne Morris made Dec 15 at 2015 9:03 AM

MSgt Wayne Morris — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 09:03:57 -0500

You are kidding right. Most 18 year olds and/or can't find the butts with a roadmap or GPS. They is why everyone doesn't start off as an E4/5.

Response by SSG Audwin Scott made Dec 15 at 2015 9:10 AM

SSG Audwin Scott — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 09:10:58 -0500

Respect for what? When I was 18 a buck private in basic training, what did I do to deserve respect? Now did I demand respect hell yes, but that was me bringing my own attitude and cockiness with me when I joined. Respect is earned and not just given to be given.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 15 at 2015 9:32 AM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 09:32:11 -0500

Only if 2nd Lieutenants are ordered to salute E-5's and above.

Group: Humor...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 15 at 2015 10:05 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 10:05:55 -0500

Ummmm..... NO....oh you want me to elaborate? Ok, well here goes...I once was a young 18 year old E-1 and I got all the crap of being a young 18 year old E-1. It is the way of life, its the way of life in the army. I know we live in a time when people( soldiers) want instant gratification. They want to be just like everybody else( peers and supervisors) but to put is bluntly they are not like every one else. They have to pay their "dues" just like everyone else who is/was coming up the ranks. I can remember being a young private and getting every crap detail there was. I can remember being called every name in the book by my supervisors( that doesn't happen any more). I can remember having to work hard to establish myself as a great soldier in order to gain the trust and confidence of my supervisors. Me and my peers at the time were not the "backbone" of the army and we weren't deserving of more respect. We worked hard and when respect was due we received it. I can tell you that working from the bottom to the top isn't easy but it builds character and a sense of accomplishment. As I prepare for retirement I am currently in a medical unit where a lot of the leaders pamper their soldiers. I have seen many soldiers who were pampered in this envoirnment go to other , more hard nosed units and they could not make the adjustment. To this day I appreciate the tough love I received from my NCO's it prepared me for the rest of my career in the army and life in general.

Response by CMSgt James Nolan made Dec 15 at 2015 10:41 AM

CMSgt James Nolan — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 10:41:59 -0500

PO3 Aaron Hassay The 18 year old Private/Airman/Seaman is an investment. Those young studs are the future of what we have worked our entire adult lives to build. Feed them, train them, mold them, give them some room to run, and some of them will grow to be great leaders.

Everyone deserves to be treated with respect (that does not mean that they will not be doing the sh*tty jobs, because they will, it is just the way it is-but that does not mean that I will not join in and help out-because I do believe that I should not be asking them to do things that I have not or would not have done). Some will earn less favorable treatment, and will not hang around very long.

This BS that has been going around that being called Private is disrespectful is just that BS. I still remember going from being called Recruit, to Private, to Private First Class, to Lance Corporal.....and being prouder with each title.
Nothing is free. If you want respect, EARN it with your deeds, actions, demeanor and character. There are very few NCOs who walk around with the attitude of "Let me go treat my troops disrespectfully".

Response by SFC Bryson Amaral made Dec 15 at 2015 10:49 AM

SFC Bryson Amaral — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 10:49:05 -0500

I am gonna go with that DS. Who molds that "18 year old" into a #soldier and that #NCO who refines that new #soldier gives him or her soldiering skills not taught in BCT or AIT to succeed in the military and life as the true backbone of the Army or even the military in general, NCOs train and lead, that's our job. They'll earn the respect with a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 15 at 2015 12:09 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 12:09:37 -0500

how do you get 'extra' respect for being there? what about those that come in as e-4's? sorry, gotta go with 1lt rosa here, all ranks matter. and all ranks should be equally respected.

Response by SSgt Christopher Brose made Dec 15 at 2015 3:19 PM

SSgt Christopher Brose — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 15:19:52 -0500

I think 18 year old E-1 are deserving of more respect than 18 year old civilians, for no other reason than they were willing to take the oath and put their lives on the line for their country. (That's true, even if their motivation was educational benefits or whatever.)

Response by SGM Steve Wettstein made Dec 15 at 2015 3:24 PM

SGM Steve Wettstein — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 15:24:56 -0500

Respect is earned.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Dec 15 at 2015 3:41 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 15:41:46 -0500

Not sure I agree with your statement that 18 year old, E-1s make largest age group or that they are the backbone of the military. In fact, the majority of those entering the military are not E-1. I think the respect level for our new soldiers is about where it needs to be after centuries of determining where they need to be on the respect scale.

Response by LTC David Brown made Dec 15 at 2015 4:32 PM

LTC David Brown — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 16:32:39 -0500

Probably the best thing is not a lot of "respect" ( my heart is with them), but good training and mentoring. These folks, given time, will become the back bone of the Army but they need to get on point.

Response by PO1 T.M. Ritchie made Dec 15 at 2015 4:46 PM

PO1 T.M. Ritchie — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 16:46:59 -0500

Respect is earned not given out like candy to a group of children. For an 18 year old to prove they deserve the respect of their seniors they have to prove they are worthy of it by their actions and demeanor. I enlisted at age 17. On the day of my enlistment I was the youngest person in the military..At the age of 19 I was giving leadership advice to an E-7 who had come to me privately for it. The most odd moment of my military career. He took my advice and it turned his life and career around.

Response by SSG Delanda Hunt made Dec 15 at 2015 11:39 PM

SSG Delanda Hunt — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 23:39:16 -0500

No, You got to earn it!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 15 at 2015 11:52 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 23:52:37 -0500

I have a lot of respect for the newbies. They have to learn, though. We must spend time and teach them.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2015 9:13 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 09:13:51 -0500

Listen it is no ones falul ultthat my parents had me 10-15 years before my Soldiers parents did. Thats the only diffrence. We are all humans and Just becasue I have been in the Army 11 yeras and wear SSG rank does not mean I am better than anyone. I treat everyone with respect and as as an adult until you do something to break it

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2015 12:47 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 12:47:33 -0500

The backbone? No. If we are going for a body part, I'd probably say the feet. Maybe the hands. Important, at the end of the extremeties, constantly in use and you can do tons of things with them. But no...they aren't the backbone. Important, but not essential. I can find 22 year old E4's to do your job without loss of capability. You can't replace an E6 with a E1-E4 and expect success.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Dec 16 at 2015 4:32 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 16:32:55 -0500

I have yet to see an E-1 capable of planning and executing a mission for a section, squad, or platoon. Drive will get you to a point, but it requires experience to CM.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2015 4:45 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 16:45:27 -0500

There's an old saying, "The Great Wall was built out of humble bricks...but they didn't put themselves together"

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2015 5:43 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 17:43:25 -0500

I say no. It is the NCOs in ANY branch of service that are the backbone. The lower enlisteds are honestly, more like the skin. They are most seen, they test out the new ideas, they are the expendable and more common of all of the demographics. However, it is the NCO Corps that supports and ensures the mission's success and carries the biggest weight in the military. They are the true backbone of the military. The Officers are the brain, NCOs are the backbone, and the Joes are the body. Thats the best way I can think to word my opinion on this one.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2015 6:42 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 18:42:09 -0500

The case of Honorable Doris "Dorie" Miller (October 12, 1919 – November 24, 1943) is a prime example that the backbone of any military are the ones who can rise to the occasion in a state of emergency. They stay elusive until the right moment comes. They can be of any rank or of any shape.

And, respect is something that you earn with your doings regardless of age or rank. You cannot achieve true respect by the use of power, money or persuasion. If you are starting to feel invincible, perhaps it is a sign you are losing it!

Response by SMSgt Thor Merich made Dec 16 at 2015 6:53 PM

SMSgt Thor Merich — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 18:53:08 -0500

They deserve the same amount of respect that any entry level employee gets in any job.

The true backbone of the military is the NCO's. Pretty much the same in any organization. NCO's are responsible for the training, leadership, mentoring, and welfare of the majority of the troops in the military. If they fail, the whole system falls down.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2015 7:26 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 19:26:30 -0500

If the analogy is using anatomy of the Army, I think the lower enlisted are definitely the "muscle" of the military (I am sure we will argue about who the "backbone" is, and make jokes about where officers are). As far as more respect, I am operating off the assumption that we already respect them as (volunteer) members of our team. If the question relates to respecting their opinion on professional/MOS matters, I think we should listen to them, but leaders (at all levels) need to add their wisdom and help develop them.

Response by SSG Keith Cashion made Dec 17 at 2015 3:05 PM

SSG Keith Cashion — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 15:05:46 -0500

Wow...this can so many different ways. Reading a report in an earlier post by COL Mikel Burroughs, 60% of the millennial (18-29) think the BOG is a great idea. But the flip side to that is that 62% don't think it needs to happen with them. I could tell you all the fun things that I heard when I was 19 and joined and completed basic in Ft. Benning, but those are such fond memories. Here are the things that we see every day, and we say it every day. The 18 year old Military members (All Branches Covered) that are coming in today, are our future leaders. Whether they stay enlisted, become officers or Warrants, it doesn't matter. We want these young MINDS to be able to learn what it means to fight for our Constitution, Way of Life and the Freedoms that come with it. Respect is just common sense. I can respect someone's rank or position all day every day, doesn't mean I have to respect them as a person. Life advise from someone that doesn't even follow their own is pointless. In one ear out the other. You can give advise all day long, does it mean the person or group you are giving it to, is actually listening? It doesn't matter to me who I speak with whether it is a brand new PVT or the MG at Division, they all get respect, but I expect to be respected the same.

I am not a door mat, and I do not let anyone walk on me.

Half Nickel of the Day.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 17 at 2015 3:17 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 15:17:13 -0500

NCO's are the backbone, speaking from experience.

E-1's, as asked, need to earn it.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 17 at 2015 3:38 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 15:38:36 -0500

I don't think they are the backbone per say. Yeah they have the strongest population based on age groups but there is a lot of other persons who have provided more support that aren't within that age group. i've ran into a few young ones who just got out of Basic and are so scared and timid of what to do next; like a little child lost. We can't have that aspect if we run into a situation that causes them to be on the front line. They are still wet behind the ears, even with the extensive training they expereinced. It takes time to make a warrior; it can't happen overnight.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Dec 18 at 2015 10:53 PM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Fri, 18 Dec 2015 22:53:58 -0500

Everyone deserves respect commensurate with their age and rank...yes, age and rank. I was in a position where I was definitely older and certainly outranked some others I worked with in the USAF. That said, I followed the instruction and direction of these subordinates because they knew the job and I was not yet as qualified as them. Away from the actual job, the subordinates answered to me. There was great respect shown to these subordinates and I still respect them 40+ years later.

The armed forces is an organization of men and women all tasked with different duties. The 18 year old E-1 is still in the learning curve and as such will get a greater level of "crap" duty. Like the old adage, It's a dirty job but someone has to do it. As his level of knowledge and capability increases, so should his level of respect. There is no "I" in "TEAM" and we all pulled together to accomplish the tasks at hand. The "boots" are always going to be at the bottom of the chain but they are to be respected for doing the job they may not want to do but do so because it has to be done.

I leader inspires his subordinates and helps them achieve the goal while a boss merely looks out for himself. A leader will be inspiring his 18 year old E-1s to excel and exceed expected limitations. A boss merely expects results.

The 18 year old E-1 is not the true backbone of the military, just a necessary part of the overall structure. Are they due more respect? Respect is earned it is not just given.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 19 at 2015 12:00 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 19 Dec 2015 00:00:29 -0500

Makes you ponder about WWI and WWII.. how many PVT's and PFC's..WOW.. But thats when the officers lead from the front and SGT's where the guys that had survived thus far. We all had to start somewhere

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Dec 19 at 2015 12:02 AM

CSM Charles Hayden — Sat, 19 Dec 2015 00:02:40 -0500

E-1s have less than 4 months service. Not having achieved anything in the military, they have not earned our respect!

Response by SGT Kevin Meehan made Dec 24 at 2015 11:10 AM

SGT Kevin Meehan — Thu, 24 Dec 2015 11:10:31 -0500

Respect, of course. But more respect than who?? The SGT that's been there for 5 years? Th 1SG who's been kicking butt for 13 or more. The guys who've seen combat when they haven't? Largest demographic? That may be, but they are still training, learning what it means to be an American soldier. Learning what it means to not be attached to mommy's apron strings any more. I remember being there. I was invincible. Ready to take on whatever was in front of me and win. As one of my SFC's told me one time: "I don't get paid to fight. I get paid to win." That's a tough attitude to try and learn at 18. All service members, regardless of rank, will always get my respect. But, those who've been there longer, been through certain things, will garner more of that respect, and should because they've earned it.

Response by PO1 Glenn Boucher made Jan 6 at 2016 2:35 PM

PO1 Glenn Boucher — Wed, 06 Jan 2016 14:35:29 -0500

We all deserve respect as a basic human being, that being said respect is going to be earned or lost based on how a person conducts themselves.

Response by SR Gregory Galvan made Jan 8 at 2016 6:10 PM

SR Gregory Galvan — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 18:10:06 -0500

Give when it is given

Response by PVT Jevon James made Mar 13 at 2016 7:43 PM

PVT Jevon James — Sun, 13 Mar 2016 19:43:23 -0400

A lot of young guys are influenced by the career opportunity. I was.

Response by PVT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 8:59 PM

PVT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 20:59:59 -0500

There is a lot of us 18 year olds just coming into the Military, but that doesn't make us the back bone we are just learning how to do our job. I mean it would be very nice to have more respect because we get treated like shit, but thats because we are new. Im understanding about it why aren't the other Privates? Its the fact that a lot of us just got out of high school and we are very immature for being 18. We need discipline, and other people to mold us into a US Soldier. We just need to man up!

Response by SGT Christopher Hayden made Jan 19 at 2017 2:57 AM

SGT Christopher Hayden — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 02:57:08 -0500

I was a 17 year old E3 (spent my 18th B-Day on the AT-4 range), clearly deserving of no respect from anyone until I earned it by being in longer than a day.

Response by CW4 Angel C. made Jan 19 at 2017 4:12 AM

CW4 Angel C. — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 04:12:18 -0500

Everyone deserves respect. An E1 just needs to know his orders and execute them. This is why the Army has Team and Squad leaders, which are more of the backbone of all operations. They make it happen!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2017 11:13 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 23:13:08 -0500

everyone has to earn respect it isn't handed out freely.

Response by Pvt Kenneth Kelly made Feb 2 at 2017 5:32 PM

Pvt Kenneth Kelly — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 17:32:09 -0500

I dare ANYONE to try and take my weapons and tell me I CAN'T have them!

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2017 12:49 AM

PVT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 27 Aug 2017 00:49:23 -0400

I was 17 when I went to BCT and AIT; I was still 17 when I arrived at my first duty station. During that time, I worked hard and was respected by my peers and even my leaders, such as my drill sergeants. I definitely know for a fact respect must be earned through hard work, military or not.

Response by AB Jerry Crouse made Nov 13 at 2018 12:37 AM

AB Jerry Crouse — Tue, 13 Nov 2018 00:37:35 -0500

Any one who signs up to serve in the military is to respected

Response by PVT Lindy Pelletier made Jun 9 at 2019 5:24 PM

PVT Lindy Pelletier — Sun, 09 Jun 2019 17:24:29 -0400

I'm not sure you can single out 18 year olds. I was 20 when enlisted. I was raised to respect your elders and those in charge. Just use your head and your judgement to remain healthy.