Path to Brigade Commander

[Computerman21]

I’m currently an applicant for the class of ‘25 and have been wondering how an individual becomes Commander of the Brigade at USNA or First Captain at West Point. I’ve done searches for this with nearly no relevant results coming up.

 

[Capt MJ]

- Being a stand out leader among leaders. - Being more than sat in every graded aspect - academic, military aptitude, conduct, honor, etc. Not doing anything really, really stupid.
- Respected by cadets/midshipmen, officer and enlisted.
- Doing jobs in the company that develop peer leadership and earn the respect of those in company senior to them. Rising to certain positions as a 2/c.
- Ability to speak well and conduct themselves appropriately around senior leadership and VIP visitors.
- Articulate a vision for the Corps or Brigade that aligns with the Superintendent and Commandant, but also an advocate for reasonable change. Someone leadership feels they can work well with.
- Can handle the challenges of the role on the parade field, as well as survive the massive demands on their time and potential impact on personal time and desires.
- Wants to lead at that level vice more hands-on at company or interim level.

 

[NavyHoops]

Get really great grades, have excellent PT scores and leadership grades. Also no honor or conduct trouble. Work hard to be well rounded and build good relationships with your shipmates. Seek leadership opportunities.

 

[usna1985]

In our day, having great grades was not a requirement. Our CC one semester was just this side of unsat. Being a PT stud and, often, a varsity athlete, seemed to be more important and, of course, not doing anything stupid.