Hey everyone so I'm a newly promoted SGT. I am in charge of 3 soldiers and these 3 are very cliquey which I don't find a problem with as they get the job done and don't offend anyone. However, they constantly use the N word during conversation around me and not around anyone else so I assume they're comfortable with me.

I have hung out with them off duty in the past. Also I feel uncomfortable telling black soldiers that they can't use the N word when I am white myself.

I am thinking of counseling them about appropriate language in the workplace so that I have something on paper. I also plan on talking to them about the "right place and time" for things like this, which in this case is never when you're in the Army.

Am I going about this wrong? What do you all suggest I do?

I'll take the strawberry frosty.