joshuabarksatlcs
Level 10
I'll go with Mr. Webster (that is, NOT just we or us Californians):
 
almond    al·​mond | \ ˈä-mənd  ˈa-  ˈäl-  ˈal- \
salmon    salm·​on | \ ˈsa-mən  \
 
Yes.  The colonel meant silent letters. 
 
The colonel's third grade teacher was Mrs. Kumar.  According to the internet: It may be worth noting that in Indian English, the word alphabet can take on a similar meaning to letter, which can cause confusion.
 
So, dear Bob, the colonel hereby stands corrected, TYVM.   
 
But, Ooh Emmm Geee, the colonel is sitting down....

I come here for kudos and IRonMaN's jokes.