Soldiergriz
Husband, Dad, Soldier
- Joined
- Oct 31, 2017
- Messages
- 514
I want to add some perspective for parents and future cadets reading this thread.
I am an active duty Infantry Army officer approaching 30 years of service. I have commanded at the battalion and brigade level. I am not a WP graduate, but have a son there now.
I have led hundreds of young officers during my career, and provided the following advice to every one of them:
The decision to serve stands alone as noteworthy. Service as a Lieutenant platoon leader and battalion staff officer is worthy of a hearty thank you from a grateful nation. It is important work.
But, giving yourself an opportunity to command a company and develop Lieutenants is the epitome of leadership. Being responsible for up to 150 of America's sons and daughters is enormous. It gives you the opportunity to deeply understand logistics, manage an arms room, develop a maintenance program, develop and execute a training strategy, administer discipline through the Uniform Code of Military Justice, contribute to the fulfillment of the Battalion commander's mission and intent...among others.
These are meaningful things you should experience before deciding to leave the Army. There is a HUGE difference between leading a platoon and commanding a company.
I always encouraged officers to command a company before they depart.
I don't know anything about the change in service obligation...but 6 years means a couple of duty stations....and an opportunity to command.
An additional year...and an exponentially increased leadership experience.
Click the accept button.
I am an active duty Infantry Army officer approaching 30 years of service. I have commanded at the battalion and brigade level. I am not a WP graduate, but have a son there now.
I have led hundreds of young officers during my career, and provided the following advice to every one of them:
The decision to serve stands alone as noteworthy. Service as a Lieutenant platoon leader and battalion staff officer is worthy of a hearty thank you from a grateful nation. It is important work.
But, giving yourself an opportunity to command a company and develop Lieutenants is the epitome of leadership. Being responsible for up to 150 of America's sons and daughters is enormous. It gives you the opportunity to deeply understand logistics, manage an arms room, develop a maintenance program, develop and execute a training strategy, administer discipline through the Uniform Code of Military Justice, contribute to the fulfillment of the Battalion commander's mission and intent...among others.
These are meaningful things you should experience before deciding to leave the Army. There is a HUGE difference between leading a platoon and commanding a company.
I always encouraged officers to command a company before they depart.
I don't know anything about the change in service obligation...but 6 years means a couple of duty stations....and an opportunity to command.
An additional year...and an exponentially increased leadership experience.
Click the accept button.