I have. My wife used to work for Walmart (All hail, death to Walmart) corporate and they have a policy that states that if you call in sick the day before or after a holiday, you will not be paid for that day (regardless of if you're salary or not) unless you are sick for at least two days, at which point you will need a Dr.'s not to verify it.

These policies really a put everyone in a tough situation. I think they are put in place to "keep honest people honest." Similar to car alarms. If there is any sort of threat of consequences or deterrent, most people won't commit the "crime." But without anything to deter people, everyone would call in sick all the time.

This industry is so different from the rest of the world in so many ways, including this. Most non-aviation companies have sick leave and personal leave or just one bank for personal leave and you use it however you need. We don't get personal leave so most people use sick leave as both.

As for pay vs. professional, unfortunately, these are two independent issues. We should all act and look professional regardless of our pay - that is part of being an airline pilot and any professional pilot... plain and simple. But unfortunately, we will be paid regardless of our actions and appearance. Don't think that pay will automatically increase just because the entire pilot world looks and acts professionally. This, however, should not dictate your professionalism.