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]

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]

Wade,

If you have the counseling’s to support this OER then I would by all means say that you are duty bound to write this negative OER. When the new NCOER came out while in command I had to give a SSG a qualified NCOER. In the out brief I was honest with him and said, “you are 5 out of 6” SSGs in my company. He started to get emotional and I l…[Read more]

Kenny,

This is one of the best questions I have seen on this forum by a cadet. Brock hit it right on the head. Lead them, do not try to befriend them. You will develop personal relationships in time but even still, there always needs to be a layer of professionalism with personal relationships with your troops. If you trust your subordinates and…[Read more]

I found that I understood the things I needed to do, I just couldn’t figure out an optimal battle rhythm in which to get them all accomplished.  My lack of knowledge on how to manage my time was a huge distractor for me.

What type of award and what the circumstances regarding that award? For example, an ARCOM for an E-7 for PCS would be an example. There are many different awards and requirements for each.

The more information I have the more I can help you with what you need.

~ Joe

Sully,

I had to command an HHC as a 1LT for three months when I was an XO (my commander got fired), so I completely understand your worry about people out-ranking you. Do not worry about your rank, you are the commander. If you find staff officers and NCOs that are not being cooperative, let your BN XO know. She/he is your best friend in making…[Read more]

Working in combat arms units in the 82nd ABN DIV and SOF, the best leaders are the most emotionally intelligent. A person who yells or screams at their subordinates is not leading, they are just talking way louder than they need. The best Green Berets or Infantry leaders I have worked with never raised their voice. I do believe there is no such t…[Read more]

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 s…[Read more]

Michael,

Not sure if there’s one in the 173d Commander’s Smartbook but you might find some other useful things in there:  173rd IBCT Smartbook

Tom

Josh,

Typically, you are authorized travel time, mileage, and per-diem from your home of record.  However, because of your TDY, you may not receive the travel time, but, you should still receive at least the mileage and per diem.  It’s best to check with the transportation office where you are to confirm.  In the meantime, here is a link that mi…[Read more]

Micah,

Some good stuff on your document, a few of them I did not think about when I made my 3 DITY moves.

One other thing I would add is to make sure you have a load plan.  For example, I did not plan to unload EVERYTHING the first day we arrived so I made sure that I loaded some things last, like the kid’s bed stuff, pet supplies, some pots…[Read more]

For those who are not sure how the new “Blended” retirement system differs from the current system, I’ve attached a 1-page PDF to help explain it.  Additionally, here is a link to a story that explains it more deeply.

For those who are not sure how the new “Blended” retirement system differs from the current system, I’ve attached a 1-page PDF to help explain it.  Additionally, here is a link to a story that explains it more deeply.