ST. PAUL, Minn. — Recently separated Army Sgt. Mike Watkins was shocked to learn this week that the word “fuck” is not considered an acceptable filler word during regular conversation, sources confirmed today.

The issue began when Watkins, in his new position as corporate liaison, gave a presentation about internal staffing to a visiting executive. After the meeting, he was approached by a human resources specialist and reprimanded for his language.

“Everyone really likes Mike. He’s a good looking, thoughtful guy who seems to know his job pretty well for such a short time. And don’t get me wrong, I’ve been known to swear now and again, but saying the f-word at least once a sentence isn’t normal," said Nancy Epstein, the HR coordinator who reprimanded Watkins. " I counted 267 times before Watkins finished. And I didn’t start until a few minutes in.”