| PzGeneral | 16 Aug 2009 1:34 p.m. PST |
Long story short (story to follow later with pictures) I wish to write a letter of thanks to a Naval Chief Warrant Officer for allowing my wife and I to participate in a training exercise. But I don't know what Salutation to use so I don't look like an Idiot (and also give him the respect he deserves). His Letter of Instruction was signed <name> CWO4. So do I use: CWO <name>
Chief Warrant Officer <name>
Chief <name>
<Name> also, would I use "Dear"? I'm verse in Military Etiquette, but this one escapes me. Little help? thanks, Dave |
aecurtis  | 16 Aug 2009 1:49 p.m. PST |
Things may have changed, but the correct form of salutation for a warrant officer (of any seniority, in any service) used to be "Mister" (abbreviated "Mr."). And some of the crusty old ones didn't like it much! Here's one guide (at least it agrees with me!): link So the address would be spelled out: Chief Warrant Officer David G. Brown, USN But the salutation would be: Dear Mr. Brown: Clear? Like mud, I know… Allen |
| PzGeneral | 16 Aug 2009 2:09 p.m. PST |
Thanks AE, When I wrote the question, I somehow knew you'd have the answer…. Dave |
| aecurtis | 16 Aug 2009 2:15 p.m. PST |
In the Army, CWOs frequently prefer to be called "Chief", but that's an informal address. And then you get the occasional WO1 who thinks he's hot stuff, and gets sooooo frustrated because all of his superiors correctly address him as "Mister" for a couple of years. Yes, one of my rare problem children… And yes, MI corps… But to be sure, hold off until someone can confirm this who knows if things have changed in the last ten years. Allen |
pmwalt  | 16 Aug 2009 5:53 p.m. PST |
I'd probably write it to the commanding officer of the unit he's in. The letter will eventually make it to him and at the same time (not that a CWO4 needs it) give his support a little bit of visibility with the boss. BTW, add thanks to all the sailors who helped out too. |
| Jemima Fawr | 17 Aug 2009 7:41 a.m. PST |
On this side of the pond, Defence Writing dictates that you write 'Dear Chief Warrant Officer Bloggs', although 'Mr' is a traditional honorific if an officer is speaking or writing to a Warrant Officer of his acquaintance. |
| Jemima Fawr | 17 Aug 2009 7:44 a.m. PST |
I'd write to both (I write these sorts of letters all the time) – one personally to the Warrant Officer expressing your thanks and one to his boss, expressing your thanks to the boss for allowing WO Bloggs to spend time with you and to tell him what a jolly good egg WO Bloggs is and what a fine example of the service he is… It all goes on file and does wonders for the annual assessment… And makes them more likely to offer help in the future. |
| Jerzei Balowski | 17 Aug 2009 1:53 p.m. PST |
If I were you, I'd get his attention by using "Dear Smoochykins" …  |
| aecurtis | 19 Aug 2009 7:58 p.m. PST |
Of course, if the letter to the superior officer turns out to be the first time he's heard of this… Otherwise, quite right. |
