How to Communicate with a U.S. General: Proper Methods and Protocols
Trying to get a hold of a U.S. General can be an interesting endeavor, but it's important to understand the proper methods and protocols for communication. In the digital age, people often resort to informal channels such as text messages or email, but these methods may not always be the most appropriate or effective.
Why Email is Not Suitable
Email is a highly informal medium of communication that is typically reserved for personal or business correspondence. If you are attempting to communicate with a U.S. General and he or she is not a personal acquaintance, it is advisable to use more formal methods. Saying, “I have been texting with the general” suggests that you are trying to contact someone who may not be who or what you think they are.
It is also stated, “Don’t!” This reminder is particularly relevant because email is not an appropriate way to reach out to a U.S. General. Generals are very busy individuals, often serving in leadership positions with high responsibilities. They do not have time to engage with non-essential or informal communications.
Proper Methods for Communication
If you have a legitimate reason to communicate with a U.S. General, the best approach is to send a formal letter. This can be written on letterhead or other formal stationery, depending on the formality of the situation. When addressing a U.S. General, it is also important to direct your communication through the proper channels.
Furthermore, it is likely that you will not find the General's email address, and attempts to reach out directly through email may be screened or ignored. Instead, it is recommended to send a formal letter to the Department of the Army in Washington, D.C., with a return address and a cover letter addressing the appropriate recipient. Another option is to send the letter to the Pentagon, directing it to:
ATTN: General James C. McConville
U.S. Army, Office of the Chief of Staff
This ensures that the letter finds its way to the appropriate recipient and increases the likelihood of receiving a response.
Consider the Circumstances
Giving the example of General McConville, his email is probably screened to prioritize essential communications. A general's time is indeed precious and should not be wasted on non-essential matters. Therefore, it's crucial to consider whether your message is truly important enough to warrant the attention of a high-ranking military official.
When a letter is submitted, it will be reviewed by the general's staff to determine whether it should be forwarded or, as the saying goes, 'filed in the circular file'—a term used in the military to indicate a discarded or dismissed item. Only write to a U.S. General if your message has a genuine reason and could require their attention.
Summary
In conclusion, when trying to communicate with a U.S. General, it is important to follow proper procedures. Utilize formal methods such as sending a letter on appropriate stationery and direct your communication through the proper channels. Remember that Generals are busy individuals who do not have time to handle informal or non-essential communications. Always ensure that your message is of significant importance before initiating communication.