No. 4

The irony is that people know about the superiority of higher military ranks (e.g. Lieutenants, Captains, Major... etc) but they never bother to find out a military personnel's rank.

As much as their jaws dropped in awe when they learn that so-and-so is a Lieutenant/Captain/Major/Colonel, they still give almost (if not the same) the same amount of respect to a humble and low-ranking recruit just because this lowly soldier is wearing the No.4 (For those who don't know, the No. 4 refers to the uniform printed with green, black and brown camouflage patterns)

There was once when I returned home wearing the No. 4 and as I was walking along a narrow corridor, a lady carrying a few heavy bags and walking towards my direction immediately made way for me. No, I did not threaten her to give way with my rifle or with my puny bicep; it was a move that came sincerely from her and surprised me. Her face was full of respect for me and I felt uneasy and embarrassed since I was never hungry for special respect from others.

On another incident, as my friend (who is a recruit)was doing guard duty in camp, he walked into a toilet bustling with talkative recruits while wearing his No. 4 and all the chatterings ceased instantaneously.

One recruit even bowed to him.

Even though he is of the same rank with them and was not granted any temporary special prvileges that day (not that anything of such sort can be granted).

The power of the army uniform. For those who have low self-esteem and have a constant craving for respect from others.