On the 15 minute walk to the DFAC, most of the Brigade travels a single road for at least part of the way, especially right outside the walkway. On this road, there are Privates and Colonels alike walking to chow. Three times a day.
As a Captain, there is a salute exchanged between nearly every individual–except, of course other Captains. I either salute those higher ranking than I, or return the salute of the other Soldiers walking by. It is an age old Army tradition that is rooted in the Knights of Old lifting their visor as a greeting to a friend.
Saluting is a way to render respect for the rank of the individual and is proper. This respect causes confusion, however, when you can not clearly see the rank of the person you are approaching.Â
Most Command Sergeants Major are nearly the same age as Lieutenant Colonels, so they apear similar. In addition,  the Oak Leaf worn by the Leautentant Colonels looks like a big black blob, when you see it from a distance. CSMs have a similar black blob on their chest, at a distance.
So, there is a decision to make…do I salute a Searant Major–risking a crusty “I work for a living, Chaplain”…
or do I pause to salute the Lieutenant Colonel and recieve the “What are you Blind Chaplain!?!” and be completely demoralized.
I think I’ll salute the big blob–whatever it is.