Posted on Nov 21, 2013
When a lieutenant colonel uses the phone, answering or calling, how should they address themselves, lieutenant colonel or colonel?
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In colloquial and informal use, lieutenant colonels are addressed
as colonel, however, when over the phone, when the two parties don’t know each
other, or can’t see each other, the use of colonel confuses the rank.
Posted 11 y ago
Responses: 40
<p>When on the phone, I agree that a Lt Col should say "Lt Col", but in person it is ok for someone to address a "Lt Col' as "Colonel". Just like it is ok for the following ranks to be addressed as:</p><p> </p><p>"Lieutenant" for 2Lt & 1Lt</p><p>"General" for Brig, Maj and Lt Generals</p><p> </p><p>Great question, thanks for posting.</p>
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Personally I introduce myself as MSG Stankovich whether it is telephonically, via email or in person. I do it to ensure that the person that I am engaging with knows that I am a MSG. After initial introductions are over, if you want to fall back into what the regulation states about addressing SGT-MSG (minus 1SG) as SGT, then so be it. I think it is important to establish who you are in the beginning of any engagement.
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COL Johnny Powers
It is very poor form and unprofessional to introduce yourself as a Colonel if you are a Lieutenant Colonel. The manner I use to correct officers is to congratulate them on their promotion and ask them when the ceremony occurred. At that point I talk to them about how to identify themselves over the phone. Having worked in the Pentagon for three years I know that mistake that can tarnish an Officer who simply may not have had an OPD on the subject.
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LTC (Join to see)
I agree introducing myself as "Colonel" seems poor form and asked this question when I got promoted last year. I was referred to AR 600-20. Does this refer to how people address me only?
AR 600-20
Field grade officers
Grade: Lieutenant Colonel
Pay grade: O–5
Title of address: Colonel
Abbreviation: LTC
AR 600-20
Field grade officers
Grade: Lieutenant Colonel
Pay grade: O–5
Title of address: Colonel
Abbreviation: LTC
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