Interesting thread, especially regarding the Officer 'class' comments. Certainly as one who started as a Craftsman and slowly up the junior ranks and left as a regular as a Corporal......., only to re-join as a reservist as a sergeant a couple of years late. Then Commissioned.
What I always used to say to Junior - and senior ranks is this. NEVER treat anyone above you as a 'superior' They are not..... They are simply SENIOR....., in rank only! That said, treat and address them as you would any senior, with respect without kow-towing or knee-bending.
If you disagree, mention to them privately that '...... I'm not quite sure that what you've just passed on - or said - or indicated - is quite correct, because.......' Then add why. For example. When an instruction came down to, say, ring punch an ovalised hole, it might 'cure' the ovalised hole for a day, but the ovalised part is still weak. Just say that it'd be better, albeit take an hour longer, to overbore and re-bush.
If he listens and come up with an answer that is pure rubbish, you can say, politely that you think that it is rubbish - and that's why the blokes think that he isn't as clever as he thinks he is. You have explained the correct answer and HE knows that YOU know. But all done respectfully.
Don't forget, Officers aren't superior. They are only senior. Not quite as fearful as the REALLY senior ranks............ The Warrant Officers!
Originally Posted by 
PM