How to Write a Retired Military Title
Writing a retired military title can be a bit confusing, especially for those who are new to the military community. With so many ranks, branches, and titles to keep track of, it’s no wonder that many people struggle to write a retired military title correctly. In this article, we’ll break down the process of writing a retired military title, providing you with the information you need to get it right.
What is a Retired Military Title?
A retired military title is the title or rank that a military member held at the time of their retirement. This title is used to identify the individual’s rank and branch of service, and is often used in formal and informal settings. For example, a retired Army Colonel might be referred to as "Colonel John Smith, US Army (Ret.)."
How to Write a Retired Military Title
To write a retired military title, you’ll need to follow a specific format. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Start with the Rank: Begin by writing the rank that the individual held at the time of their retirement. This can be done in either lowercase or uppercase letters, depending on your personal preference.
- Add the Branch: Next, add the branch of service that the individual was a part of. This can be done using the acronym for the branch, such as "US Army" or "US Navy."
- Add the "(Ret.)": Finally, add the "(Ret.)" abbreviation to indicate that the individual is retired.
Examples of Retired Military Titles
Here are a few examples of retired military titles:
- Colonel John Smith, US Army (Ret.)
- Lieutenant Commander Jane Doe, US Navy (Ret.)
- Major General James Johnson, US Air Force (Ret.)
Tips for Writing Retired Military Titles
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when writing retired military titles:
- Use the Correct Rank: Make sure to use the correct rank for the individual, including any necessary suffixes (such as "Jr." or "Sr.).
- Use the Correct Branch: Use the correct branch of service acronym, such as "US Army" or "US Navy."
- Don’t Forget the "(Ret.)": Don’t forget to add the "(Ret.)" abbreviation to indicate that the individual is retired.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when writing retired military titles:
- Omitting the "(Ret.)": Don’t forget to add the "(Ret.)" abbreviation, as this can make it unclear that the individual is retired.
- Using the Incorrect Rank: Make sure to use the correct rank for the individual, as using the wrong rank can be confusing and inaccurate.
- Using the Incorrect Branch: Use the correct branch of service acronym, as using the wrong branch can be confusing and inaccurate.
Table: Retired Military Ranks and Branches
Here is a table that lists some common retired military ranks and branches:
Rank | Branch |
---|---|
Colonel | US Army, US Marine Corps |
Lieutenant Commander | US Navy, US Coast Guard |
Major General | US Army, US Air Force |
Rear Admiral (Lower Half) | US Navy |
Brigadier General | US Army, US Air Force |
Captain | US Navy, US Coast Guard |
Conclusion
Writing a retired military title may seem intimidating at first, but with a little practice and patience, you can master the process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to write a retired military title that is accurate and respectful. Remember to use the correct rank, branch, and "(Ret.)" abbreviation, and don’t forget to avoid common mistakes. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to writing retired military titles like a pro.