How to Respond When Witnessing Military Disrespect

The question of how to respond when witnessing military disrespect is complex and varies greatly depending on the situation. Personal values, the relationship to the service member, and the degree of disrespect all play crucial roles in determining the appropriate action.

Different Levels of Disrespect Require Different Responses

There are various levels of disrespect, and my response would depend on the severity of the situation.

If the person engaging in disrespectful behavior is a fellow veteran:

Engaging in supportive dialogue might be appropriate, as it could reflect a mutual understanding of each other’s experiences. However, in some cases, standing up for a fellow veteran and letting the disrespectful person know that their behavior is unacceptable might also be necessary.

For someone who is not a veteran:

Verbally supporting the service member may be enough in less severe cases. Calling the authorities and intervening might be required if the behavior is extremely offensive or threatening.

Assuming the Service Member's Capabilities

It's important to assume that the service member in question can handle the situation appropriately. Active-duty service members are trained to manage various challenges and may already be addressing the disrespectful behavior in a professional manner.

Nonetheless, as responsible civilians, we should feel a sense of responsibility towards service members who have made significant sacrifices for our freedoms. Supporting and standing up for service members is a way to honor their dedication and bravery.

A Personal Perspective

My stance is that it ultimately depends on the circumstances. There can be times when it is the right thing to intervene, and other times when it might not be necessary or even advisable.

Mick suggests that we should consider the following factors before deciding to intervene:

The specific circumstances surrounding the disrespectful behavior. The individuals involved and their relationship. The context within which the disrespectful behavior is occurring (not just limited to military environments).

Taking these factors into account, the decision to intervene or not should be made thoughtfully and empathetically.

A Dialogue Approach

In situations where the disrespectful behavior is relatively minor, such as a passerby making a dismissive comment, taking a more informative and educating approach might be more effective.

Start with a neutral question like, "Are you an American?" This can help establish a connection and foster understanding. Follow up with a query, "Do you enjoy your freedom?" to gauge their awareness of the sacrifices made by service members. Explain the sacrifices that soldiers and family members have made for the freedom they enjoy. Finally, if the person acknowledges the sacrifices, remind them that our freedom is not free and that soldiers put their lives on the line to protect them.

By guiding the conversation in this manner, we can encourage respect and understanding while also acknowledging the bravery of our service members.

In conclusion, the approach to dealing with military disrespect should be situational and deliberate. By considering the context, the individuals involved, and the level of disrespect, we can make informed decisions that honor and respect the sacrifices of our service members.