Once you are out of the military, do you still carry on military customs?

2015-03-17T02:06:10-04:00

For example, not carrying things in your right hand. Unintentionally staying in step with someone your walking with. Greeting people of higher importance(boss,mom,judge, anyome who holds higher power in your eyes) as mam.

Response by SFC Collin McMillion made Mar 17 at 2015 2:16 AM

2015-03-17T02:16:24-04:00

I suppose a lot would depend on your length of service and rank. Old habits are definitely hard to break even if you want to. Personally I don't have any desire to break my habits because I consider them more tradition and respect than habits. These things are now just part of my makeup and who I am, losing these things would be losing part of me and I've lost enough as it is.

Response by SSgt June Worden made Mar 17 at 2015 12:02 PM

2015-03-17T12:02:39-04:00

Yes, absolutely! Using ma'am, sir... Holding doors, not chewing gum when engaged in conversation, pressing t shirts, cleaning footwear... It's just ingrained and I wouldn't change it for anything. There is no doubt after people meet me that I am prior military and proud of it.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Mar 17 at 2015 1:57 PM

2015-03-17T13:57:17-04:00

Yes... it is hard to teach old dogs new tricks... It took me years before I could call former CSMs and 1SGs by their first names... even former LTCs and COLs... and I am a Colonel. I don't think I could ever refer to a former GO I worked by their first name...

I always say Sir and Ma'am....

Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made Mar 17 at 2015 1:59 PM

2015-03-17T13:59:30-04:00

I find myself matching pace with people, keeping my right hand free, and using 24 hour time.

I also tend to sit with my back to walls and eyes on all entrances....