<li style=”margin: 0px; padding: 0px; background: none; list-style: decimal;”>What are your “first” things or priorities?

As a NG Infantry Commander, I always hopped on and knocked out those things first that I cannot do without network access (MEDPROS, for example).  I fly in late on Fridays, so I try to knock those things out first.  I take a last look at training schedule and plan things like retention interviews, new Soldier interviews, and the like.  On Saturday I prep my close-out reports, go over IDT attendance, and get start calling BN to check on the things they promised would be ready.  I also try to make my trip to supply first thing Saturday to ensure my inventories are started, supply room is organized, and issues identified ASAP.  I try to knock out all the mandatories before noon Saturday, because I KNOW BN will throw me 19 “Hey yous” by then.

<li style=”margin: 0px; padding: 0px; background: none; list-style: decimal;”>How did you keep yourself focused on these priorities through the commander chaos?

I have a 1SG who handles 1SG tasks, and a Readiness NCO (full-timer) who manages the day-to-day and the unit admin.  I rely very heavily on my RNCO to get me through admin tasks throughout the weekend.

<li style=”margin: 0px; padding: 0px; background: none; list-style: decimal;”>What things did you try to avoid or not commit to?

Training meetings, retention interviews, new Soldier intake interviews, etc. are scheduled.  My open door is open, but Soldiers come during the open door period at the end of the day.  I sleep in my office, so I don’t leave during IDT.  I schedule my meetings for after Joe goes home so that we’re not wasting their time.

There isn’t much I can avoid at IDT.  Knowing that I sleep in my office and work from the minute my flight lands until the minute I take back off allows me to forget about civilian work, my family, and focus only on drill.  I still don’t finish it all, and am curious how other RC commanders function.