While stationed at Offutt, AFB, Strategic Air Command HQ, there was so much rank on that base it was oppressive for everyone. It was the belly of the SAC beast and military bearing was off the charts 24/7. At one time I think we had 22 flag rank officers and 200+ full birds. Everything, everyone was squared away every minute.
One day I was walking down the steps in front of the SAC HQ building, "The Hill", where the command center was housed deep underground. I wasn't paying particular attention to anyone when in a loud voice someone said, "Airman, are you in the habit of not saluting officers?"
I was on duty, boots bloused, white parachute cord laces, white ascot, Security Police badge, Smith and Wesson Model 15 Combat Masterpiece and spit shined like a sumbitch. I looked up and saw a brand spanking new 2nd LT and decided it would be a safe gamble to **** with him.
"Sir, if you are new to the base you are probably not familiar with the base reg that states that because of all the rank going in and out of the Hill salutes are not required in the immediate area of the building." Which was total and complete bull****. LOL!
The 2LT apologized and thanked me for informing him. I saluted and said, "Not a problem, sir. I'm glad to have been of assistance. It happens a lot with people newly assigned to the base." :mrgreen:
Knowing the new 2LT didn't want to look like an FNG, I figured he would refrain from saluting in the area. I'm just sorry I wasn't around when he got his butt reamed for not saluting some full bird who was having a bad day.