“Sir” denotes respect, respect is earned, not given freely. I do usually say “sir” to men who are obviously much older than I am.
At 69 years old there aren’t a whole lot of those guys around.
My respect is limited to title ...... no officer, yes officer. No trooper, yes trooper..... As you state respect is earned. I respect the fact that a LEO or FLEA can create havoc an anarchy in my life be they honest or dishonesty. Choice of action is mine in the encounter, final decision is his imo. My tag line... When I was a deputy sheriff, career military and contractor I lived that tag line. Still do today as its got me this far in life.
Stay Safe !!
Agree generally, but unless an officer has done something to immeditately lose that respect, there's nothing wrong with giving them the benefit of doubt. If "sir" is simply too submissive for you, you could always say "yes, officer" or "no, officer."