Shipmate, Devil Dog, and the like. Why has it become negative?

SCPO Albert Lee Smith — Sun, 02 Nov 2014 14:00:48 -0500

I have heard many conversations surrounding the use of the word "Shipmate" over the years. I'm interested in why you all think these terms are now viewed as negative.

I believe us, as leaders, have allowed the traditional positive "nick names" to be overused during counseling sessions, or as attention grabbers to correct for deficiency. I also believe we should stop this, and get back to what the word "Shipmate" actually means.

What say you?

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 2 at 2014 3:49 PM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Nov 2014 15:49:41 -0500

I say it carries a mostly negative connotation because of the overuse of them in the negative. I have had several leaders call me shipmate and I was honored to be called one of theirs, however, others have used it as "hey dirtbag" or some other more colorful and more demeaning adjective which has been heard far too often by our junior members and they therefore associate it with being negative.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 2 at 2014 3:58 PM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Nov 2014 15:58:46 -0500

SCPO Albert Lee Smith, not being a Navy guy, I wonder what the negative meaning of "shipmate" is. I understand it to mean colleague, battle buddy, etc. I'm completely unfamiliar with the negative meaning.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2015 4:08 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 18 Jul 2015 16:08:53 -0400

I hate the word shipmate lol it always sounds degrading

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2016 8:20 PM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Jan 2016 20:20:45 -0500

You know Al, when I heard shipmate from behind me I always knew it was bad. I have had more positive "shipmates" than negative. The perception comes from a large group who have preferred to use it in that manner. I do agree that wears collective leaders have the opportunity to shape the fleets association of this word as a "bad" one.