Team – great post and follow-up comments! I agree that it takes initiative to chart the next step. A former officer I worked with asked me the same question and I mentioned the following:

1. Define the “next step.” Depending on your career timeline, what assignment does the Army recommend?  Does this fit your priorities in regards to your pe…[Read more]

Dallas,

As a former special forces maintenance company commander I am very aware of managing expectations especially when it comes to readiness and training. Although a MTOE change would help tremendously, honestly, its not a realistic option. Instead focus on the things you can affect as a commander. Here are some good starting points.

1) What…[Read more]

Hi Dallas- congrats on your selection to command. I know some of your struggles of being asked to do more with less, or in your case, do more without proper equipment.

I agree with the previous post. There are two lines of effort (short and long) that you must pursue concurrently. I would add that you must also educate others about the unique c…[Read more]

Kenny,

This is a great question and I will say IT DEPENDS. The previous posts touch on the principles and basics. However, I would argue that timing and implementing the discussed principles depends on your situation. Like Brock said, “you’ll have to find out what works for you and your PLT.” I’ll expand by mentioning the following:

Ask…[Read more]

I agree with all the above posts that provide great insight. I’d like to expound on some from an HHC CDR perspective.

1. Engage in continuous learning. Whether day 1 or day 365, ensure you have a mechanism to constantly assess yourself and the S6 team. You’ll receive direct feedback from the XO and BN CDR but you can also seek feedback from the…[Read more]

Armel,

The above posts hit all the right points. Know you equipment, know your soldiers, and know how it fits into the overall mission. As a commander, I would love it when staff sections would ask me to get in on their training. For example, if you as an S-6 go to the training briefing and see Company X is out doing a range maybe you can ask the…[Read more]

Hello Eric,

You pose a great question. Transitions are tough, especially in your situation with the lack of battle handoff. I agree with Mark that you have to establish a knowledge baseline and learn effectively.

Expanding on Mark’s PIR comment, what exercises and/or deployments are on the short-range/long-range training calendar? What other…[Read more]