Ever wondered what to call a soldier who’s hung up their boots after years of dedicated military service? It’s a title earned with honor, reflecting their commitment and sacrifice, veteran.
Whether you’re at a Veterans Day parade or just meeting a new neighbor, using “veteran” is a sign of respect.
You might hear several terms tossed around, but there’s one that stands out and is universally recognized, veteran. It’s a badge of distinction that doesn’t fade with the uniform.
Understanding Army & Military Titles
Embarking on the journey to understand military titles, you’ll find that respect and precision are key.
As you navigate this hierarchy, it’s crucial to recognize that each branch of the military has its own set of titles and ranks; what’s applicable in the Army ranks may not hold true for the Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force, or Marine Corps.
When a soldier retires, their connection to the military and the title they’ve earned remains. A retired soldier is often addressed by their last earned rank; however, it’s not merely a form of addressing them—it’s a lifelong honor that acknowledges their service.
Throughout their civilian retirement, this title serves as a constant of their commitment and military service.
Navigating this respect starts with knowing the Army ranks. Here are the typical Army enlisted ranks that may pertain to a retired soldier:
- Private
- Corporal
- Sergeant
- Staff Sergeant
- Sergeant First Class
- Master Sergeant
- First Sergeant
- Sergeant Major
- Command Sergeant Major
- Sergeant Major of the Army
Officers have a separate ranking structure, starting from Second Lieutenant all the way up to General.
For Navy ranks and Air Force ranks, the titles differ, reflecting their unique structures and traditions. Regardless of the military branch, the honor and dedication attached to these titles endures beyond active duty.
Remember, addressing a retired soldier correctly not only shows your respect but also your understanding and appreciation for the structured world of military service. While the uniforms may be hung up and the active duty ceased, the service remains for a lifetime.
Using Proper Terms for Retired Soldiers
When you’re engaging with retired military or Army personnel, it’s important to understand to realize there are proper ways to address them in written communication.
All retired service members from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard may be referred to as veterans. As we already went over. “Veteran” is broad and encompasses anyone who has served in the military, including those who may not have retired but completed their terms of service.
Retired Army personnel can be addressed using their last earned rank with a ‘Retired‘ or ‘Ret.’ designation.
For example, a retired Army major should be addressed as Major John Smith, Ret. This maintains the formality and rank the Army veteran received but clearly states they are retired.
What about other branches? You would do the same with Retired or Ret.
- Retired Army: Colonel Jane Doe, Retired
- Retired Navy: Admiral John Roe, Ret.
In more casual or informal settings, it’s generally acceptable to simply refer to retired soldiers by their name without the military rank. Some may not want to bring up military service at all.
However, if the context becomes formal, reverting to the appropriate title with ‘Retired’ or ‘Ret.’ is a sign of respect and courtesy and important if discussing miliary matters.
Veteran – The Recognized Title
When you encounter a retired soldier, as we already went over, the universally recognized term is veteran.
If a solider served a short 2-year contract followed by Army Reserve or Army National Guard time, they are a veteran. If a soldier did 20+years of service, they are also a veteran.
Again, the term “veteran” applies to all former military personnel who have served in any capacity and have been discharged or retired. Not just in the Army.
Veterans have specific eligibility for a variety of benefits, which include but are not limited to, healthcare, education, and VA home loans through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
What is a Retired Soldier Called? (Veteran)
Whether you’re interacting with a veteran in a casual setting or addressing a retired officer formally, being respectful and letting people know they are a “veteran” is a sign of respect.
It’s a simple gesture that can make a significant impact. So next time you meet a retired soldier, take a moment to acknowledge their service the right way—it’s a small act that demonstrates a warm Thank-You.