Image via WikipediaThere is no doubt that the men and women of our military are top notch. I am sure there are some bad apples out there, but every member of the military that I have had the pleasure to know has been worthy of respect in some fashion, especially those career military personnel.I recall the example of Admiral Robert Willard when testifying before Congress last year. During questioning, Congressman Hank Johnson expressed concern that Guam could become so overpopulated that it could capsize. To Admiral Willard's credit he expressed no shock at the statement, but respectfully replied that he did not anticipate that happening.
A friend of mine posted a link on Facebook of another example of the class of our military. This article was on CNN and written by author Bob Greene. Greene recounts the story of an incident that occurred at a recent dinner. White House advisor Valerie Jarrett mistook 4-star General Peter Chiarelli for a waiter because the General's dress slacks were similar to the pants worn by the waiters.
Jarrett asked the General to get her a glass of wine, which he did. The point is, the General's response is an example for us all. He could have easily replied that he was not a waiter or done something to belittle Ms. Jarrett. He did not. It is a far cry from the response of Senator Barbara Boxer and her asking General Michael Walsh to call her "Senator" instead of "ma'am." I am sure General Chiarelli worked just as hard, if not harder, to become a 4-star General as Senator Boxer worked to become Senator.
What the General dis is a example of a Class act.
ReplyDeleteThere is nothing more powerful than humility in positions of power. May we be blessed with more like Admiral Willard and General Chiarelli.
ReplyDeleteOn a related note, it is appalling to me that so many react so poorly to being called, "Sir," or "Ma'am." Yeah, it used to be funny to hear someone say, "Don't call me, sir. I work for a living!" Yet, if it is meant as a sign of respect, shouldn't it be taken as such?
I am a retired naval officer, and I totally understand why Senator Boxer wanted to be called "Senator" instead of "Ma'am." Most of the women I know do not like the term "Ma'am" and would rather be called just about anything else. Since being called "Barbara" would seem a bit too familiar from a man she really didn't know, I think being addressed as "Senator" is most appropriate.
ReplyDelete"I am sure General Chiarelli worked just as hard, if not harder, to become a 4-star General as Senator Boxer worked to become Senator."
ReplyDeleteYou got that right. They both worked very hard to get to their positions in life, and they both deserve respect for doing so. What would you have thought had Senator Boxer addressed General Chiarelli as "Mr."? Bet you'd be belittling her just as you are now.
yes it is Mike
ReplyDeleteI think so Fish
Doug, I don't blame her for wanting to be addressed as Senator, it is just the way she handled it.
As usual Len you miss the point. The Senator could have handled it with as much class as the General
I believe she handled with as much class as the situation called for. You obviously do not. In the words of John Boehner... "So be it."
ReplyDeleteAnd what do you mean as usual? Do I make a habit of missing your point? Sorry.
;)