I’d tell the Soldiers that they are getting paid for the NG, it isn’t pro bono.

I would make “Planning” my #1 priority and my Planners ground-zero for success. Recently I took in training management briefs from NG and was able to provide them with some ideas and feedback to help support their training objectives by planning a realistic, achievable timeline. MUTA6 is where you make your money vs. MUTA4.

I reflected on the challenges NG faces with its time constraints but also how a creative officer can have far-reaching impact on organization’s readiness level. For example they planned to drive by bus, and convoy some equipment from Nebraska to Ft. Riley Ks, set-up a field kitchen and serve 3 hot meals and return the same day, and release all Soldiers by 17:00 because some of them have 3 hour-long commutes. I explained that it is simply unachievable for the amount of time it takes cooks to set-up and break-down – that’s just a small example.

Planning in time and space is essential. If manning is drastically affected there are other creative solutions to consolidating brigades – of what use is an untrained, unmotivated unit? I realize and sympathize with the pressure and challenges of commanders however.