How to Write Retired Military Rank and Name?

When a military member retires, there is proper etiquette on ways to address them. An appropriate abbreviation of rank is a must when referencing a retired military rank.

Become familiar with the rank abbreviations used by each branch of the military if you are also a military member.

Using outdated or improper abbreviations can be considered rude, and it can be confusing. So, are you curious about how to write retired military rank and name?

Here’s an article to help you write your rank when retired, identify military ranks and names, and how to address them.

Ways to Write Retired Military Rank and Name

1. How to address/ the format

These are the same guidelines for addressing letters and emails in all military branches. Here are the formats you can use to address retired military in writing a letter, envelope, or an email block:

For instance: [Full rank] [Full name], USA/USMC/USAF, Retired, [Address]

Where:

You can also use the retired abbreviation military which is “Ret.” instead of the full word “Retired.”

2. Examples

Here’s an example of the proper way to addressing retired military member in writing for an email, envelope, or letter:

3. The abbreviations by rank

Using military rank after retirement is a practice in many countries around the world.  To honor their service and uphold their veteran identity, retired military people often retain their titles after retirement.

The military uses acronyms and abbreviations to address easier.

But, there is a proper use of military rank in each military branch. There are two styles of how you can write abbreviations: standard and civilian styles.

Below are tables that show the ranks and its abbreviation for retired military officers:

In standard style:

The Marine Corps ranks and abbreviations are the same with the Navy for commissioned officers.

However, there are no specialized classifications in the Marine Corps.

In civilian style:

Avoid casually “Former General” referring to a retired general if you introduced a retired military officer to someone or a crowd. Always follow the proper abbreviation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to address the retired lieutenant colonel abbreviation?

To address a lieutenant colonel, know which military branch he/she is in. It is to be accurate in your writing.

Use this format to address lieutenant colonel: [Full rank] [Full name], USA/USMC/USAF, Retired, [Address].

How to abbreviate a retired colonel?

The abbreviation for colonel retired is COL. in standard style and Col. in civilian style. For example, “COL. Danny Sanders.” or “Col. Amelia Evergreen.”

How to abbreviate Major General in the Marine Corps?

The major general abbreviation for Marine Corps for civilian style is Maj. Gen., and for the standard style it is MG.

For example, if you want to email a retired Major General, “MG/Maj.Gen. Joseph Moore, USMC, Retired, Portland.”

How to address a retired military officer and his/her spouse?

For a standard way, such as writing in an envelope, use this format:

[Full Rank] [Full Name], [Military Branch], [Retired]

And Mrs. [Surname]

[Address]

For social ways, such as inviting them to an event, use this format:

[Full Rank] [Full Name]

And Mrs. [Surname]

[Address]

Do I have to use retired rank on my business cards?

Yes, you must include your retired status on business cards if you are a retired officer. Include the word “Retired” or “Ret.”  on your cards.

How to write an army signature block?

The format for writing a signature block follows:

[Full Name]

[Full Rank] [Military Branch]

[Active Duty/Retired]

Note: Full names must be written in all capital letters for military communications and title cases for non-military.

Conclusion

Finally, you have learned how to write retired military rank and name.  Using the proper format for writing retired military rank and name is essential to show respect and professionalism.

To make sure you properly address army ranks and veterans where you are writing, always double-check the accuracy of the facts.

Capitalize words correctly, use the correct rank abbreviation, and place the retired rank after their name.

By following the guidelines in this article, you can write retired military rank and name with professionalism and respect.