Joe,

I know I am little behind in replying but I just noticed this post and thought I would help. The XO is essentially responsible for the equipment and resourcing. The XO ensures that the commander is always prepared and never blindsided. While the Commander gives guidance, the XO turns the commander’s guidance into action.

Very simply stated, the commander “commands” the company, the 1SG and XO run the company.

As an XO I did these things to the best of my ability:

– I ran the CSDP (Company Supply Discipline Program).

Property was my baby. My job was to ensure the commander never had to worry about his property book. I knew it inside and out. I could tell you exactly where every piece of equipment was and who was SIGNED for that piece of equipment. In my top desk drawer, I had a working copy of the property book and the newest property book from PBO. (quick side note: the PBO is your friend. This is a key relationship for you as an XO. It could make or break your time as an XO. Foster this relationship to its maximum potential.) Do whatever it takes to know the property book.

– I created the company’s weekly battle rhythm.

As I stated earlier, the commander “commands” the company but the XO and 1SG run the company. It is your job to ensure the train’s are running on time. Schedule the meetings that will allow your company to be prepared for BN meetings. Your commander should never walk into a meeting not knowing exactly what is on the slides. It is your job to ensure information flows up and down. By establishing and maintaining a good battle rhythm you will ensure that information is flowing between the command and the front line.

– I fostered relationships with everyone.

As the XO you never know how a relationship can affect the overall mission success. Treat everyone as if at some point you are going to need to ask for a favor. Because at some point, you will ask favors from everyone. People help out people who have been good to them and treat them with dignity and respect. I cannot tell you how often a friendly smile and hello ended up saving me in the future.

– Be flexible.

It sounds simple but the job can wear you down with non-stop last minute taskers. You are the person to make things happen when all seems lost.  You know all the right people, you know everything about your equipment, and you know when you need everything done. A good XO is invaluable.

In summary, the XO job, if done right, is nothing sort of exhausting. However, I learned more from my time as an XO than I did in any other job I have ever had (including Company Command). Learn as much as you can, because there is no job outside of XO that better prepares you for command.

Good luck and let me know if you ever need any help.

Joe