Originally Posted by FliesWay2Much

It's ironic that, today, I bring up the subject of being a federal government employee. (I guess I'll be posting more because I now have a lot of time on my hands.)

I have always believed, as a government employee -- military or civil servant -- that you are on the clock 24/7. Perception is just as important as reality, which is why I have never had a glass of wine at lunchtime during the work week, even at scheduled social events. While a glass of wine or other alcoholic drink at lunch is acceptable in lots of situations here and overseas, the perception from the smell on one's breath lasts far beyond lunch. As a former commander and a current civilian boss, unless I was at the same lunch with someone and knew they had a drink, I was always left with the question of: "Was it just lunch or is there an issue?"

Having said this, I don't care what anyone else does at lunch and I am respectful of other customs and courtesies overseas. But, at least here in the U.S., perception is everything, and is worth considering before you order a beer for lunch.