question for any marine

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - question for any marine

Posted: 4/9/2004 9:06:45 AM EDT

If you are introduced to a non Marine and they greet you with "Semper Fi", is it improper? Is that a term that should only be used between 2 Marines?

Posted: 4/9/2004 1:02:58 PM EDT

[#1]

Well I'm not a Marine yet but here's my .2 cents anyway. Semper Fi is Latin for "Always Faithful." If I was a Marine I'd probably be a little peeved at a wannabe saying it to me, but then again I'm not a Marine so I don't know much lol.

Posted: 4/9/2004 1:26:08 PM EDT

[#2]

Only if it occurs at a gunshow, while you are wearing uniform items in the camouflage pattern whose name shall not mentioned!

Seriously though, it isn't protected under copywrite law. If you deliver such a greeting to a Marine, it had better be done with a respectful tone (or he'll kick you ass!).

The same thing applies to saluting. Do it correctly and you can expect the same in return; or don't bother (exceptions are made for small children). Enlisted Marines [b]have[/b] to salute all commissioned officers and colors not cased, unlike officers who have to salute everyone. We can choose to salute those who have earned our respect.

Posted: 4/9/2004 5:13:52 PM EDT

[#3]

I've known and met a lot of Marines. I never use it as a greeting, or some kind of verbal "high five". I'll use it to show my respect and support, or more usually, on parting. To let them know I'll remember they are making a sacrifice for me. In that context, I've never received a strange look for saying it.

And please notice my sig line.

Posted: 4/9/2004 5:31:04 PM EDT

[#4]

I approve with GunnyG, never have had been thrown by someone saying that.

I have met some that could get bent if you did sound off with “Semper Fi” and looking like Joe shit the rag man.

Take care

Top

Posted: 4/9/2004 7:50:26 PM EDT

[#5]

I wouldnt say it unless I was a Marine, just my opinion though.

Posted: 4/10/2004 5:12:18 PM EDT

[#6]

It would probably be kinda awkward coming from a non-Marine, but I wouldn't be offended at all. It's not an insult, it's not a vulgarity, and it's not that the person saying it is trying to sound like a Marine. They're saying it to make me feel welcome, to perhaps feel more comfortable with them, to let me know they understand just the teeniest part of my culture. It sounds a bit hokey, yeah, but I'm not offended by it and neither are most of my Marines. I think Pthfndr put it best, honestly.

Posted: 4/23/2004 9:23:55 PM EDT

[#7]

wouldn't mind it at all. It does have deep meaning, but it is also a mutli-purpose phrase.

Posted: 4/24/2004 6:39:46 AM EDT

[#8]

Yes, you simply don't rate and it means nothing comming from you. "Always Faithfull" is a phrase of endearment between those who are serving or have served in the green machine.

Just stick to hi, hello, what up, nice to meet you..etc.

Semper-Fi Do or Die!! (Fmr Sgt. 0331 USMC)

Posted: 5/4/2004 4:18:40 PM EDT

[#9]

ooops...... hit button twice

Posted: 5/4/2004 4:19:37 PM EDT

[#10]

......0331

....."Semper fi".....0311

Posted: 5/4/2004 7:06:03 PM EDT

[#11]

You can say anything if you say it respectfully and without malice intended. I've heard:

Hoo-rah!
Urr!
Arrrah Arrrrah!
Hoo-yah shipmate!
Kill!
Semper!
AAaaaaaaaaaaaaah!

0331
0352
0302

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - question for any marine

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