JO Newsletter — July 2017

With any luck, you’re receiving this in the midst of a holiday weekend, giving you a well-deserved breather. Wherever you are and whatever you are doing, it is a privilege to be serving this great country with you. Happy Independence Day!

As always, if you see something that you want to contribute to, just hit the link and go right to the item. If you want to submit a document or respond to a thread but can’t get to the forum, just reply to this email and we’ll get it posted.

Community News

• Tuesday Tools:  In lieu of a Jam Question this month, we are initiating something called “Tuesday Tools.” Starting July 11^th, every Tuesday we will ask members to contribute one of the most helpful tools you use in your current role, be it a spreadsheet, database, document, checklist, or whatever it is you use to help you stay on top of your game.  We here at the JO TOC will be uploading a tool every Tuesday as well! You can share your tools by visiting this link; please add the tag “Tuesday-Tools” so it’s more easily searchable. Join us for “Tuesday Tools” and contribute to the profession!

• Something about the JO forum not quite right? Let us know using the BugHunter thread!

Discussions

• Branch-dependent Leadership Styles: Our June Jam question focused on the question of leadership styles attuned to the unique needs of different MOSs. Jump in with your thoughts!
• Transition from PL to XO: We all have to make the transition at some point. Chime in with answers to a member’s question about how to make his leap more effective.
• Letter of Introduction: It may feel a little old school, but you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Listen in as members discuss how to make that introduction to your new unit, whether you’re a brand new 2LT or a seasoned CPT.
• OBJ-T: What does it mean to you?: The Army’s number one priority is readiness, and Objective-T is one of the ways we’re getting after it. What does the new system mean to you and how are you applying it?
• Lessons You Won’t Learn In BOLC: Every profession has its tacit knowledge, but this member’s question specifically deals with how to gather some skills not taught in the schoolhouse. What skills and system knowledge did you have to pick up OJT?

Got a question of your own to ask? Hit this link!

Content

• Tactics Reading Material: “Tactically and technically proficient”: we preach it, but do we walk the talk? Here’s some links and a discussion to sharpen your thinking.
• UMO Knowledge Cache: Nothing happens until something moves, be it around the block or around the world. One member pulled together his Unit Movement Officer continuity book and shared it for all to use.
• Fuel Burn Rate Table: Hope is not a method and wishful thinking doesn’t power engines. Check out one member’s tool for planning fuel usage by multiple types of vehicles!
• Timeless Wisdom: “The Squad Leader”: CSM Ligon’s short missive about the duties and responsibilities of the squad leader is as relevant as it was 30 years ago. Have a read and think about what YOUR squad leaders need.

Got a tool/SOP/document that can help others? Share it here!