We started at the bottom, now we're here...

2014-09-02T16:37:37-04:00

The song reference seemed fitting. We all were at the bottom at one point in time, regardless if you are enlisted or an officer. We have all experienced the pains of the promotion system and earned our way to our current ranks. Yet, it seems that so many of our "leaders" forget their roots. Yes, additional rank comes with additional responsibility. And, yes, pinning on another rank means you leave some of the "rank appropriate" tasks behind. But is it really that hard to remember that you too were once a Corporal? I apologize if this seems like a rant more than a question. I guess what I am getting at is have you experienced this disconnect? If so, what do you think the cause was? And how did you handle it?

Response by TSgt Terry Hudson made Sep 3 at 2014 8:13 AM

2014-09-03T08:13:48-04:00

No, I haven't experienced it. A promotion not only means more money but more headache. Especially when joining the NCO corps of what ever branch. Lets use the promotion from Junior Enlisted to NCO. I'll use myself since I have a line number. When I sew on SSgt I'll be expected to step up to the plate and act as such. My job as far as the day to day task is to supervise, be a positive role model to the younger airman, and make sure rules and regs are adhered to. No one is perfect but we should strive to be that way and strive to mold that into our junior enlisted members. If we're to busy worrying about once being there somethings can go unnoticed or slide by. We most uphold the standards and our junior enlisted to go above them. Thats what my mentors taught me! Always go above the standard. Hence why we're taught in the Air Force you should act like you're wearing the next stripe. Of course you stay in you're lane with certain situations, i.e. disciplinary action/correction. But you get what I'm saying.

Response by SSgt Gregory Guina made Sep 3 at 2014 4:56 PM

2014-09-03T16:56:33-04:00

Cpl Bennington

I see what you are gettnig at. Sometimes seeing the same mistake made by everyone takes a toll on us old guys. I never forget that I was once a Sgt, Cpl or LCpl. I also try to make sure that I am acting in a honest and respectful manner with my junios as well as with my leaders.

Response by SGT William B. made Sep 3 at 2014 5:14 PM

2014-09-03T17:14:02-04:00

I think the song lyric I took most inspiration from was "Pattycake, pattycake, microwave." Truly the work of a lyrical genius.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 4 at 2014 2:17 AM

2014-09-04T02:17:52-04:00

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member I get you on that and as I get older, I realize that with rank and prestige comes humility and deference to others. So the idea is that with increased responsibility comes service to the ones below us and in some cases those of higher rank or station.

So you are right, a lot of people do forget that. I remember the ROAD. Retired on active duty but I think our legacy really matters and in 50-60 years few will remember what we did and those long-forgotten heroes that paved the path for our successes as modest as they might be. TSgt Terry Hudson