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The information contained herein is quoted from Social Usage and Protocol Handbook: A Guide for Personnel of the U.S. Navy (OPNAVINST 1710.7 dated 17 JUL 1979)
The following diagrams listed alphabetically indicate the title and forms of address for certain distinguished Americans and foreigners and are offered as a ready reference for those whose offkial duties may involve them in written or oral exchange with these persons.
In addition, the following general rules apply: "His/Her Excellency" is used in addressing a foreign ambassador. It is written out on the line above the name, and a little to the left. Occasionally, it is abbreviated as "H.E." just before the name, but this format is less acceptable. "The Honorable" is used in addressing American ambassadors and other high officials of the government as indicated in the following list. Once an individual receives this title, he/she retains it despite retirement from the position. "The Honorable" is written out in full, on the line above the individual's name and a little to the left. Although occasionally it is abbreviated as "The Hon." or "Hon. " in business letters, it is not preferred American social usage. When inviting a married woman because of her position, it is appropriate to mention her name and/or title first, followed by her husband. That is, the American Ambassador and Mr. Doe. Conversely, if the invitation is extended because of his official position, use his title and/or name first, followed by hers: The Honorable . . .. The Secretary of Defense and Mrs. Smith. There may be occasions in which it is desirable to use both individuals' titles but in general, this is cumbersome. Married Military Woman. When a married servicewoman is invited in her official capacity to an event, invitation should indicate her rank: If her husband is a civilian:
Commander Maureen Therese Green and Mr. GreenIf her husband is also in the military:
Commander Elizabeth Eileen Smith
Captain Timothy Daniel SmithIf, however, the invitation is being sent because of the husband's official position, the invitation should read: Captain Thomas Francis Jones
and Captain Shawn Claire Jonesor Captain and Mrs. Thomas Jones Other Forms of Address
A Navy chaplain is always addressed verbally as "Chaplain":
Chaplain Ray Burt or Chaplain BurtIn writing or in formal announcement, he/she is addressed as:
Chaplain Ray Burt Captain,
U.S. Navy
(Title, if any)Dear Chaplain Burt, A Navy dentist or doctor is addressed verbally as Doctor up to and including the rank of Lieutenant Commander. He/she is addressed by rank from Commander and above. In all cases, the rank is used in writing.
Midshipman is a rank and therefore used for both males and females:
Midshipman Brian Richard Smith.
Midshipman Shawn Clair Taylor.Introductions
There are three basic rules to remember when introducing two individuals:
- A man is introduced to a woman.
- A younger adult is introduced to an older adult of the same sex.
- An officer of lower rank is introduced to one of higher.
In general most introductions go wrong when an individual is too wordy. The following formats are best:
"Mrs. Smith - Mr. Jones" (directed to Mrs. Smith)
"General Smith - Captain White" (directed to General Smith)
"This is Admiral Jones" spoken to Mrs. Smith, then to the Admiral, "Mrs. Smith"When formal introductions are necessary (high church, military, or government officials, royalty, or guest speaker) the following is appropriate:
"Mrs. White, I have the honor to present Mr. Smith"
"Admiral Jones, may I present Ensign Doe"AMERICAN DIGNITARIES
(For simplicity, the male gender is used throughout. When the official is a woman, change those parts which are italicized (first names, Madam for Mister when preceding a title, and Mister for Mrs. when referred to a spouse).
Position Envelope Invitation
Names should be positioned on the invitation precisely as shown in this columnAmbassador of the United States (on leave or The Honorable retired) OFFICIAL
John Ryan
SOCIAL
The Honorable John Ryan and Mrs. RyanMr. and Mrs. Ryan It should be noted that while the invitation, salutation, and conversation forms indicated for retired ambassadors are correct, it is common practice when dealing with a notable, retired, career ambassador of many years service to use "Ambassador and Mrs. Ryan" on the imitation, "Dear Mr. Ambassador" in salutation, and "Mr. Ambassador" jn conversation. Ambassador of the United States (on post) OFFICIAL
The Honorable Ryan Goodwin
Anerican Ambassador
SOCIAL
The American Ambassador and Mrs. RyanThe American Ambassador
and Mrs. RyanAmbassador of the United States (woman) OFFICIAL
The Honorable Marie Ryan
SOCIAL
The American Ambassador and Mr. RyanThe American Ambassador
and Mr. RyanAmbassador of the United States (with military rank) OFFICIAL
Admiral John Jays Ryan
SOCIAL
The American Ambassador and Mrs. RyanThe American Ambassador
and Mrs. Ryan"The Honorable" is not used if an American military officer retains his military title when serving as ambassador or minister. Assistant to the President OFFICIAL
The Honorable Thad Ryan
Assistant to the President
SOCIAL
The Honorable Thad Ryan and Mrs. RyanMr. and Mrs. Ryan