I think its important to take 2-3 weeks (I took 30 days) to get to know him/her and learn the way the platoon operates before counseling. I like to be able to build a relationship and talk informally about family, career goals, etc. before getting to the actual counseling session. I think its important to develop that relationship early and…[Read more]

You will see a blend of styles but the key features of them all are the five paragraphs. Each unit has their own format so you shouldn’t worry too much about it. I attached the one my battalion currently uses for perspective. It is not necessarily my favorite, but it works.

I am beginning a battalion library/learning center specifically for junior soldiers and leaders. I am also developing a digital forum similar to this where we post articles, videos, and podcasts for self-development. The ultimate goal once this is established is to form a team to create a professional journal specific to our battalion. As a former…[Read more]

A few things come to mind, the short term of figuring out housing, and the long term of financial responsibility.

Housing: Depending on your post, this may vary.  My first duty station was in Germany (Wiesbaden aka Clay Kaserne) were single officers weren’t authorized to live on post due to space.  So upon getting to my duty station, I was i…[Read more]

@Cplenge, these are all excellent points that really are the next steps beyond just picking the post.  I agree with all of them, most especially the ones about financial planning and clothes.

Something I see a lot of people worrying about that I never really have  is housing.  I  have a theory that most people in the Army try to reserve their fut…[Read more]

Short and sweet answer: go where you want to be when you’re not at work.  You’ll enjoy time off, make new friends, and get out of the house.  The requirements for work takes care of itself.