SAF people skills 101

[This really happened today, more or less. Crabs can really bite man.]

PTE P is trying to get some data for his boss. Unfortunately, the guy who picked up the phone isn't very helpful: he refuses to give the data over the phone. And since he's an LTA (let's call him LTA L), there's not much PTE P can do. This is the classic SAF 'suck-thumb' situation - but with a twist.

PTE P (to LTA L): ok sir, so I'll send you an email to ask for the data. Thank you. (ed: when someone ranks much higher than you, you have to say this, even when you are really thinking 'F- you!')

(PTE P is pissed, but he has a secret weapon: his BOSS, MAJ M.)

PTE P (to MAJ M): sir sorry but I didn't get the data, the LTA on the phone said I had to send him an email.

MAJ M (pissed off): you call him for me!

(PTE P gets LTA L on the line again)

MAJ M: LTA L, how come you can't give me the data I want? Who am I? It's MAJ M here! How come you need us to send you an email to request data? What do you mean, it's sensitive?! So what if you can't verify where we called you from?! Can't you call us back to check?! I want that data! You better send me that email NOW!!

(and that's how PTE P gets his revenge on the LTA)