The Chief of Staff has stated a new paradigm for the National Guard is in order, beyond the one week-end a month and two weeks a year model. While we can argue that paradigm hasn’t existed since 9/11 for a large part of our force it does none the less signal a shift in policy.

Expanded time in uniform will have significant impact on the ARNG both great and not so great. I’ve seen a BCT in our state struggle to man itself as they prepared for a European theater “deployment”. The amount of training days required and time away from home were not insignificant. Retention has suffered with soldiers opting not to re-enlist as a result of the new demands.

So how do we as commanders and platoon leaders help our soldiers balance the needs of the Army against the need to provide for our families? What can we do to help ensure mission accomplishment while meeting their needs?