Reading over responses, the two themes that resonated with me and my time in a combined arms battalion were motivation and regulation. Soldiers do not want regulations to be hashed upon them to the point that they feel that they are liabilities. They should see regulations are present as benchmarks for success and opportunities to excel.

Junior officers instill discipline with rating and senior rating power. While the system may seem unfair from a distance, someone with less experience is evaluating the performance of seasoned NCOs, it is ultimately for the benefit of the overall Army. I hope junior officers read this thread and understand that their feedback to NCOs determines the course of both parties’ careers. Ask the simple questions, “Where is the property? Does it work? Where is SPC Johnson? What do you think of my plan?” Junior officers do not have to be the enforcers, they need to be the trend setters. Correct the course of the organization if accountability is not present or lacking.

The course of the organization is set by doctrine and managed by junior officers. The tempo and willingness to work of Soldiers is also maintained by junior officers. Motivation is a key ingredient to seeing improvement across a formation. Empower the right subordinates, recognize performance, and be willing to go the extra mile because you are the officer. You should be the most engaged person in the formation.