2LT Horror Stories?

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 14:26:24 -0400

Does anyone have any examples/stories of what not to do for us newly commissioned officers? Which 2LTs have left you with a bad taste in your mouth?

Any information would be very helpful!

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2014 2:34 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 14:34:34 -0400

Talk to CPT Private RallyPoint Member Sir!

And I mean that in all seriousness. He is on here often, was enlisted prior to commissioning, and has experience in both the active and reserve side of the house.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2014 3:07 PM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 15:07:20 -0400

Ensigns are the Navy's 2LTs and most of them are realistic enough, smart enough, and self-aware enough to "know they don't know" about a lot of the things with which they don't have the experience to make the call on, but I've run into a couple who were too big for their britches. Those types are usually the ones who think they learned everything they needed to know about the Navy and leading Sailors at the Academy or during their college days in ROTC. Had to straighten out more than a few of them at the squadron (privately, of course). The squared-away officers appreciated the guidance, while the others.....well, let's just say they had to learn the hard way.

The best advice I can give you as a 2nd Lieutenant -- which I'm sure will be echoed by many others here -- is to listen to your senior enlisted leadership. One of our jobs is to train junior officers and we take that job seriously. In any given command you will literally have hundreds of years of military experience at your disposal if you're humble enough to admit you don't know everything and are smart enough to realize you need their help in order to become a successful officer.

Best of luck, sir.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2014 3:27 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 15:27:27 -0400

There was this 2LT that posted a question about saluting. It left a bad taste in a lot of peoples mouths. I think 1SG Private RallyPoint Member Knows about this guy. He even posted a thread to try to stop that thread.

Response by CPT Laurie H. made Aug 19 at 2014 3:29 PM

CPT Laurie H. — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 15:29:36 -0400

In the 2 years since commissioning, these are some of the reasons I've seen 2LT's failing, whether they're aware of it or not:
- Failing to listen to their senior NCOs - no brainer
- Not spending time with their Soldiers or taking the time to develop an understanding of their Soldiers' tasks - the most common complaint I hear from Soldiers is that they don't see their officers. There's being busy with real work, then there's sitting in the office when you could be out there getting to know your platoon.
- Seeing themselves as part of a separate team from their Soldiers - everyone needs to work together in order to accomplish the mission
- Being terrified of making a mistake - you won't always have enough guidance, and you will often find yourself in situations you're unprepared for. Don't fail to take action. Use your training and NCOs, get the mission accomplished, and correct a mistake next time if need be. Everyone expects you to make mistakes, so make them and learn from them while you can
- Not seeking out mentorship - good mentorship will not be handed to you. If you don't have great leaders in your unit to emulate, find some elsewhere. This can be difficult, but don't be afraid to seek out other officers you look up to for advice

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2014 3:54 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 15:54:56 -0400

I have been pretty fortunate as 1SG Private RallyPoint Member has eluded too. I was a 12 year infantry Squad Leader before I commissioned. I have seen a lot of mistakes from both sides.

-It is your platoon, many PSG push over the PL by stating that it is their platoon and that the PL is there for the ride. I call BS. I am on my second PSG now. I will leave it as you need to stand your ground and work as a team. Don't be absent from your platoon. You are responsible for what your platoon does and/or fails to do.
-Learn as much as you can. Profession development is a must. Whether it be reading from the Army Chief of Staff's reading list or reading discussions on RallyPoint, do something!
-Know your place. You might be an officer but you are no better than anyone else. You are merely bestowed the responsibility of a platoon. Take care of them, know them, and give them a reason to follow you. Just because your are an officer is not a good enough reason. I was prior service but went to Ranger to learn more so I could lead my men. I didn't just rely what I already know. I am still trying to learn more.
-Diversify, learn everything you can about everything you can. If they need guys for UMO, volunteer for it. If they need a officer to assist with a change of command inventory. Do it. The more you know the better you will be. When you become a Company Commander you will have seen how a CoC inventory works.
-Become a resource not a burden. When the BC needs a task completed be the one they first think of. This goes back to training, learning, and diversifying yourself. The more well rounded you are the more you bring to the table. I have been fortunate to have always been our company's decisive operation when conducting company level training.
-Salute 1LT's

Response by LTC Hillary Luton made Aug 19 at 2014 5:54 PM

LTC Hillary Luton — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 17:54:31 -0400

I'm echoing a few others here when I say, listen to your NCOs and learn from them.
But beyond that, probably one of the worst horror stories I have about a 2LT is when I was actually a 2LT myself. I was at Officer Basic Course and we were setting up tents so those of us who knew how, could teach those who did not in preparation of an upcoming field exercise.
The 2LT in question who was assigned as Platoon Leader that day started yelling at everyone to get busy and hurry up. Keep in mind, she was yelling at her peers and treating us like basic trainees. I quietly walked over to her and told her she needed to lower her voice and speak to us with more respect. She replied that she didn't care what we thought of her. At which I told her she better care, because if she treated her subordinates at her next assignment the way she was treating us, her career would quickly end.
She and I had another run in a week later during the field exercise, but I found keeping my voice down while she screamed at the top of her lungs only quickly made her lose the respect of all of the class. I don't know what ever happened to her, but I hope she learned to be more respectful to others.
Lesson learned, even when you're angry, don't raise your voice.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2014 6:53 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 06:53:18 -0400

If your Senior NCO's tell you it's not a good idea to pull out your fart sack and sleep on the ground in the field they probably know something you don't. If you insist on being GI badass don't come screaming when you are woken up by a bunch of wild boars, just saying.
On a serious note, listen to your NCO's, 15 years versus 15 months makes a difference.
Be a leader but know,your soldiers, rank makes you senior to them, not better than them.
Make training realistic, not check the block to meet guidance, be creative and think outside the box.
Just because the title Officer has the word Office in it doesn't mean you need to stay there, get out with your troops.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2014 10:22 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 10:22:28 -0400

Of course everyone will answer this post from the bias of their own perspective... so I will do the same. For me, the time I really got to see new 2LTs in an honest light was when I was a Battery XO (I held that position for 18 months, with two separate units). Here, I could observe their interaction will the whole unit, and as the senior LT they would also come to me with their issues/comments/concerns. Now, before I go further, it is worth saying that the vast majority of 2LT are excellent! They serve their purpose exactly how the Army intends them to, and both they and the Soldiers they were assigned to serve look back with fond memories of the platoon. But for the few who fizzled, these are the things they could have done better, in my opinion:

1.) A big mistake is being too proud to accept advice from other LTs. Senior Platoon Leaders have a different, and greater experience. If they take the time to talk to you, they are likely trying to help. Along this same line, if they are prior service guys (like myself) then they really have way more experience from both sides of the fence. Don't brush off advice from prior service officers just because they were OCS grads, or GTG.

2.) Listening to "your" NCOs just makes sense, since they are the ones you serve and are part of your team--but they trust and confidence of the 1SG should be one of your first short-term goals. The 1SG holds the power to influence the commander, and to calm the ire of his NCO team. Treat him/her with the same level of respect you treat your CO. I cannot say this enough, treat the 1SG with respect, professionalism and humility at all times--and they will take care of you.

3.) Don't be afraid to ask for an assessment of how you are doing. Don't play grade school games, and ask this guy to ask that guy--be direct. Walk up to your 1SG and ask for a critique. Ask your commander, and XO. Ask your Platoon Sergeant, and your Squad Leaders. But most importantly, ask your Soldiers. Never forget, as a 2LT you exist to serve them. (Important caveat though, don't go asking Soldiers/NCOs from other platoons/units. Keep it internal, it is your team that you need to focus on, and you don't want to give the impression that you would rather be "part of another team".)

4.) Now, all that being said, as a Platoon Leader, you are the boss. Don't be timid, and do not be afraid to lead! Listen to your NCOs, and make informed decision based on their guidance--but you make the decisions. There are a myriad of silly clichés you could insert here... but I think the real issue at hand is this: Soldiers/NCOs, even the PSG/1SG/CO all want you to lead, and be successful doing it. And if you let them, they take great pride in helping mold you into a young officer that can do just that. It may seem at times like NCOs and commanders like to bash junior officers, but one thing they enjoy even more is bragging about how they have helped mold "the best LT".

Damn, long post. Sorry for all the verbiage, but as you can probably tell my time as a LT was the most exciting, challenging and rewarding time of my career! Hopefully it will be for you as well. Bust of luck!!!

Response by SSgt Gregory Guina made Aug 20 at 2014 11:58 AM

SSgt Gregory Guina — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 11:58:14 -0400

It has already been stated but it is the most important thing so I am stating it again.

LISTEN AND LEARN FROM THE SNCOs they have the experience and know the intricacies of the platoon. Also get out there and see what the lower enlisted E1-3 are doing both on and off duty. Br friendly but not a friend.

Response by SGT Richard H. made Aug 20 at 2014 2:01 PM

SGT Richard H. — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 14:01:12 -0400

This particular thread, possibly more than any other I've read, strikes me as what a valuable resource RPx can be. In this case, especially for a junior officer or enlisted person who wishes to learn from those who have "been there".

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2014 5:40 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 17:40:05 -0400

I get the feeling you knew exactly what the answers would be before posting this question.

Response by CAPT Gary Foster made Aug 20 at 2014 9:54 PM

CAPT Gary Foster — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 21:54:25 -0400

Listening to your NCO is the most important thing you can do. If you have his or her back, he or she will have yours in most cases. Most of the people you lead will have more military time than you. Put your academy rings away and hang up your school alliances...... they mean nothing. You can gain a great amount of respect with the Management By Walking Around strategy. Take the time to get to know your troops/Sailors/Airmen/Marines and their families. Simply remembering wives and kids names tells them you give a crap about them. If they open up to you about their problems listen to them. Be a good ear and listen to what they have to say. You may be in a great position to help them, depending on the situation. Eat with them, treat them with respect and DO NOT MICROMANAGE THEM. That is the worst possible thing you can do. If you show them respect, they will show it back to you. The more you do with them, the more respect you will gain. Leadership is power, and when you are a butter bar or a silver bar, you have very little to show, except a piece of paper that shows you have a degree. When you have an opportunity to take care of your people, that's where the money is at in leadership. Be a servant to your people. Read the book, "The Servant." Greatest leadership book on the planet, and very easy read. Finally, after you gain respect, be a leader, but be a good follower, also. Everyone has something to contribute. If it's an extremis situation, the worst thing you can do is not make a decision. BE DECISIVE in combat, but always look for input and recommendations from the troops. Best of luck to you all. Stay safe, and keep your head down!

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Aug 20 at 2014 10:18 PM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 22:18:56 -0400

First off LT, welcome aboard! In your case, be careful where you park it, it's not yours it belongs to your crew chief, and don't scratch the senior WO's tail rotor. Do we have to touch on flying and texting...

Stay away from the 2LTs that think they know it all. We may all think we did at that time in our career, but we really didn't.

Listen & learn from everybody.

Enjoy the mistakes you make and learn from them. Once that bar turns silver and eventually gets multiplied by 2, there is little wiggle room for rookie mistakes.

Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made Aug 20 at 2014 10:25 PM

1LT Nick Kidwell — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 22:25:03 -0400

I had two 2LTs relieve me in my Det Ops mission as my unit redeployed home. Our relieving unit was a sister unit, so there was good unit-level communication before, during, and after the right-seat/left-seat.

One was a newly-commissioned 30-something former SFC-gone OCS. This newly-minted LT listened to what I and my NCOs told him, listened to the SGM who had been with us, and seemed to grasp the concept of the Geneva Convention and what it would take to accomplish what turned out to be a deceptively challenging mission.

The other was a green-as-grass 23-year old ROTC grad. He walked in acting like he knew it all, ignored most of what we told him, and seemed to be relishing the idea of being in charge of an in-theater prison. He was the cockiest son-of-a-gun that I have seen outside of SpecOps circles. I told the whole C of C that he had absolutely NO business working in the TIF and he needed to not be assigned there.

After we got home, we heard some details of the relieving unit's exploits. The former NCO was successful in his mission. The ROTC-Nazi got relieved of his position rather quickly.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2014 10:55 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 22:55:59 -0400

CPT Private RallyPoint Member, haha. I love your honest request for feedback, Sir. Awesome.

Having said that: Always, always...listen to your NCOs!

Response by Maj Matt Hylton made Aug 20 at 2014 11:30 PM

Maj Matt Hylton — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 23:30:52 -0400

I was working as Flight Commander for the Base Honor Guard at Hanscom AFB. We got a fresh female, 2nd LT that was "voluntold" for Honor Guard as her additional duty for six months. At the very first practice, it was very apparent that she did not want to be there.

We had recently started a policy that if any member of the HG was absent from practice without an excuse or if any member arrived late, the formation performed 10 push-ups for each infraction. The day she showed up for her first practice, we had 4 late people (she was one of them) and 6 no-shows, so 100 push-ups. We weren't going to do them all at once as my NCOIC announced at the beginning of practice, so after announcements were made and the schedule for the morning was laid out at the start of practice, he called everyone to the position of front leaning rest for 20 push-ups. We'd then follow with 20 more each 30 minutes and be done only 2 hours into the four hour practice - no big deal right?

Apparently, Little Miss US Air Force Academy 2nd LT Princess felt that push-ups were beneath her now that she had graduated (despite the 15 other CGOs in the room waiting in the push-up position) and refused to get down. When my NCOIC asked her to get down with everyone else, she responded with "I don't have to listen to you, you're a TSgt and I'm a LT and I stopped doing push ups as punishment since I left the Academy."

I didn't give him the chance to respond (so he wouldn't get himself in any potential trouble). Plus, at this point, I pretty much lost it and I found myself about a foot from her face screaming all sorts of things (most of which I can't remember or repeat in polite conversation) about how it didn't matter what her ****ing rank was; she was in formation and the TSgt was in charge and that she will do what he says accordingly and that if she didn't want to listen to him, she was damn well going to listen to me when I told her to get into the push up position.

All this was occurring right next to two other new members to our HG, a couple A1C's fresh on base out of tech school. I explained to her that her actions in that formation were the reason new airmen like those two had bad views of and make fun of new 2nd LTs all the time.

I gave her the ultimatum of getting down and doing push-ups or that she could leave and have the incident reported to her supervisor. She choose to leave. She immediately lost all respect in the eyes of everyone in the room and once word got around, most of the base. I got a new replacement LT the next week.

TL;DR - Don't disrespect an NCO that knows way more than you when you are a brand new 2nd LT, especially in the presence of other CGOs that will call you out on your idiocy.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2014 11:33 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 23:33:11 -0400

Back your senior NCO's
Never throw them under the bus in the officer meetings... It will get back to them and all bets are off after that. Venting to a fellow officer is different, but never in a meeting.
Protect your Soldiers and fight for your platoon. Too often a new LT doesn't want confrontation with an officer that outranks them. Most commanders will respect a PL that can stand up for there platoon.
Go to lunch and spend time with your PSG. Every now and then get out of the office and take him with you. (He / She should be doing the same with you and remember, you will most likely be doing his NCOER and you need to get to know about him/her the best you can. The NCO's have to find a way to motivate there Soldiers. We do that by getting to know our Soldiers. You should also find a way to get to know your PSG.
Finally, your NCO's have years of experience and knowledge, ask them for opinions and consider their feedback but never forget that every Soldier in that platoon is your responsibility and they have family members who are counting on you to make the best decisions to keep them safe.
Hope that helps,

Response by LTC John Czarnecki made Aug 21 at 2014 9:57 AM

LTC John Czarnecki — Thu, 21 Aug 2014 09:57:48 -0400

One of the BIGGEST horror stories for a newly-minted 2LT would be the blowback that results from lying / forgetting to mention something on your security clearance. Some of you will have the need for a TS. Be advised that they will actually go back and talk to people who know you. They'll talk to friends of friends. Forgetting something is the same as lying in the eyes of the govt. Don't do it.

Trust me... I saw a 2LT who was ready to be promoted to 1LT turn around sharply and exit the military, because he failed to mention an arrest on his background investigation. When the results came back and hit the BN CDRs desk, it was all over within a couple of days.

Further, with the RIF that's just getting started, you really don't want to give anybody reason to pop you off the mountain and onto the floor.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2014 1:24 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 21 Aug 2014 13:24:08 -0400

So there I was, at FOB Delta, Al Kut, Iraq....again... My Driver, my Team Leader and I were on our way to the chow hall. We were engaged in conversation about things that had happened over the course of the day and what laid ahead in the coming days. We passed a group of people and we hear a female voice yell out behind us "HEY!". We stopped and looked back and this little baby faced 2LT was charging toward us. She looked like she had just graduated the 4th grade. As she approached us she said "What's the matter? We don't salute officers anymore?" and proceeded to grill us about it. We apologized and explained that we didn't see her because we had been engaged in conversation. Her grilling continued and the 3 of us looked at each other. We snapped to attention and my team leader said "Sniper bait, Ma'am!" and we turned and walked away leaving her with her chin on the ground. The SFC and other 2LT that were with here almost fell over laughing.

Response by PV2 Charles Lagois made Aug 21 at 2014 10:12 PM

PV2 Charles Lagois — Thu, 21 Aug 2014 22:12:06 -0400

he was the second 2LT that I served under. he gave the weekend speech. Don't drink and drive blah blah blah. That night he got arrested for DUI. the one that replaced him was a NO GO. and couldn't make a decision on his own.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2014 10:12 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 21 Aug 2014 22:12:08 -0400

Don't be a "butter bar" on a power trip. You'll lose respect instantly.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2014 3:26 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 15:26:24 -0400

As a 2LT Platoon Leader with 3 months experience in your unit, never tell the Company XO (in front of your Platoon Sergeant and all your Platoon NCOs) that if your platoon fails to accomplish a particular mission, you will just make the Platoon Sergeant push. Never seen so many jaws drop so fast in my life! The XO almost had an aneurism and that was also the first time I have ever seen a 1LT lock-up a 2LT and chew them out. I think you can understand the lesson learned here without me needing to spell it out. That platoon was not a happy place to be for many reasons. While I was a PL, I primarily learned what to do from my PSG, CO, and XO (in that order). I also learned what not to do from that fellow PL. Take the good, leave the bad, learn from all of it, and NEVER tell someone that if the mission doesn't go as planned you will "just make my Platoon Sergeant push."

Response by SSgt Jenna Welch made Aug 22 at 2014 3:49 PM

SSgt Jenna Welch — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 15:49:59 -0400

Don't stop at the front gate and berate an enlisted member bc they didn't salute you as they are trying to get 40 million others through the damned gate and to work on time. Seen it happen and it infuriated O's and E's alike. Not to mention clogged up the gate traffic even more.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2014 7:14 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 19:14:44 -0400

This isn't just a 2LT comment but it's applicable here. When your men are out in the field doing their job in the dirt and weather you need to be in the same conditions. Nothing worst than a company commander and all his platoon leaders in one tent with the stove burning on cots, drinking coffee when the all the rest of the men are doing their job, freezing their ass off. Be the first one up and the last one to sleep and leave the tents and cots at home. Do what they do. In other words lead by example, not from the rear in a tent.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2014 4:01 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 24 Aug 2014 04:01:57 -0400

My advice is if you have a strong NCO, take his advice and let him mentor you. Early in my career every Field Grade Officer always thanks his NCO's that trained him as a young Officer. In most cases NCO's will set you up for success and make you a great Officer. Be careful though, you will need to make a good judgement call as NCO's are not what they used to be.

Response by PV2 Charles Lagois made Aug 25 at 2014 5:33 PM

PV2 Charles Lagois — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 17:33:50 -0400

My very first Lt. out of basic training was good. We were out in Cali. for field exercises and one night he told us to break out the squad tent and put it only part way up. We all slept in it that night with only haveing to pull gaurd sitting up for an hour. we got out the next morning and every thing was covered in ice. We were the only Platoon to have dry gear with the exception of the tent.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 1:25 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 26 Aug 2014 13:25:50 -0400

CPT Private RallyPoint Member, you have already passed my toughest test by knowing to ask questions BEFORE you go out and potentially screw it up. Good on you, you will likely do an excellent job.

Second test preview: one of your junior Soldiers is disrespectful. Several Soldiers witness the act. What do you do?
1. Handle it directly on the spot; the troops respect a leader who stands up for himself and enforces the standard.
2. Handle it privately by having the Soldier see you later for a counseling; the troops need to see a thoughtful leader address the problem.
3. Refer him for charges under UCMJ; Soldiers can't disrespect officers or it will spread and undermine your authority.
4. Dismiss the activity as a "test" and fix it casually with a little PT or a counter-attack. Soldiers respect a leader who can give back what he takes.
5. Have an NCO handle it; this is NCO business and the leaders on your team need to be on the same page.
6. Ask your PSG for advice on how to handle the situation; he knows the Soldiers better than you.

What say you, Sir?
*HINT* - more than one answer is correct.

Response by SGT James Vidito made Oct 10 at 2014 3:26 PM

SGT James Vidito — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 15:26:58 -0400

I remember our Bn Cdr had his driver (a PFC friend of mine) bringing in equipment and supplies from his vehicle. While in the midst of this, a new 2LT to our unit walked by (the LTC was not out there at this time) and was perturbed when the PFC didn’t salute him. The Lieutenant took his cap off and placed it on the vehicle and ordered my friend to salute it 100 times as remedial training on how to salute. During the ‘salutes’ the LTC wandered out to his vehicle and asked what was happening. The 2LT describe what happened and how he’s providing training for the young PFC. The Bn Cdr nodded and said, “Good idea.” Once my friend had finished his salutes, the 2LT was about to be on his way, after retrieving his cap. The LTC said, “Wait a second there, Lieutenant.” He took my friend’s cap and placed it on the vehicle and said, “Now you have to return every one of those salutes.” I cried, I was laughing so hard.

Response by SSG Lawrence Crow made Oct 10 at 2014 3:48 PM

SSG Lawrence Crow — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 15:48:59 -0400

I was a PV2 Radio Repairer stationed at Ft Ord. We had deployed to Ft Hunter Liggett for an FTX. This fresh 2LT came by and chewed me and my section out for not field testing his radio before deploying. We had checked ALL of them about 1-2 weeks out before. So, my Squad Leader and I roll out, take his driver and his jeep and radio and do another "field test". When we changed to the Frequency of the Day, I did not hear the matching unit click and correspondingly change to the correct frequency. I looked up, and all of the cables, the antenna cable, the matching unit cable, etc, were just hanging off the antenna whip, unconnected. I asked the driver who had installed the unit. He said "The L-T!" We told the 2LT that we aligned the AC input to his antenna and now it worked fine.... We told his boss, the BC, the truth.... Lots of fun on that FTX!

Response by SGT Richard H. made Oct 31 at 2014 8:27 PM

SGT Richard H. — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 20:27:55 -0400

CPT Private RallyPoint Member , this thread is a couple of months old. I'm just wondering how your experience as a new officer is treating you. Inquiring minds want to know.

Response by MAJ Dallas D. made Nov 3 at 2014 10:07 AM

MAJ Dallas D. — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 10:07:26 -0500

I will never forget the brand new 2LT who decide she would scream at the 1SG in front of the entire Company because he disrespected her by not standing at Attention when he spoke to her.
The 1SG snapped to attention and did exactly as she asked. He then proceed to the Company Commander's office and then that 2LT got a lesson I am sure she has never forgotten.

Bottom line you may "outrank" The 1SG/CSM/PSG but they deserve your respect for what they have accomplished and the rank they wear on their collar. Treat them with respect and you will be amazed at how far they will go to ensure your success.

Response by Sgt Robert Kelly made Nov 3 at 2014 12:38 PM

Sgt Robert Kelly — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 12:38:02 -0500

I was a SGT acting as comm chief. Was told to make sure so equipment made on our trucks.
Instead of checking myself i was told they were loaded. When we got to the field the equipment
did not make the trip. I will take the ass chewing for this. The LT come at me in front of all
the marines and SNCO's and chewed me out in front of every one. Yes my mistake a will
answer for it. Took him to the side and told him how wrong he was. This made me lose what
ever respect the marines under me had. It took me a while to get it back. I Informed the LT
in a very military manner that he needed to take me to the side a then let me have it.

Response by SPC James Mcneil made Nov 3 at 2014 2:16 PM

SPC James Mcneil — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 14:16:11 -0500

I was a trainee assigned to 1/222 at Fort Eustis. My first day, I was warned about the company XO, a 2LT. I was told that he liked to show up in civvies on weekends and make trainees push that didn't salute him. Unfortunately for us, none of the drill sergeants were ever around to see him do this.

Until one day I was at the door and saw him walking toward the company. Several newbies were running outside to formation, which thankfully I was able to avoid being on pass. He caught a handful of them for not saluting and started to make them push. I suddenly felt a very large person walking past me, and realized it was the senior drill sergeant. What happened next was epic.

The senior drill sergeant asked why these trainees were doing pushups. The XO told him why, and the DS said, "I'm not saluting you either. Want to try to make me push?"

As for information, I would just say to remain humble. People will remember you in a much more positive light.

Response by SFC Ricardo Ruiz made Dec 17 at 2014 3:05 PM

SFC Ricardo Ruiz — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 15:05:16 -0500

No story in the army will portrait a 2LT better luck in Craigslist.

Response by Sgt Adam Jennings made Dec 17 at 2014 3:32 PM

Sgt Adam Jennings — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 15:32:50 -0500

Please don't do like the 2nd Lt I saw ask a Master Guns where his salute was, lol. I'll never forget that one. Master Guns told him to climb up his F'ing rockers and look for it. The Major walking with Master Guns said, "Well Lt?" Lol.

Response by CPO Bernie Penkin made Dec 17 at 2014 3:42 PM

CPO Bernie Penkin — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 15:42:06 -0500

When your Chief makes a recommendation to NOT do a particular plan or project listen to them. Remember that they are looking out for their men and you. Senior folks don't like to create more work fixing bad ideas and they have been around long enough to have seen something similar happen in the past. By listening to them you will help build trust and respect.

Response by SPC Lukas Jones made Jan 5 at 2015 4:15 PM

SPC Lukas Jones — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 16:15:11 -0500

From the perspective of the Joe, I have seen many 2LTs come in as a PL thinking they are gonna prove something and make all these changes and get noticed. Don't be a wrench in the works. Talk to your PSG and see what the standards are, what is working, what needs fixing. Be prepared to offer support and take direction. Remember, the PSG he been in the Army for years not days. Use the time to learn, be humble, but be yourself. Your Joes will tell you when you're doing a good job. I've had a few PLs that came in trying to remake the army and they didn't last long. Others came in and worked with us and became part of our team and went forth for the better because of it.

Response by SFC Dan Sorrow, M.S. made Jan 6 at 2015 2:34 PM

SFC Dan Sorrow, M.S. — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 14:34:39 -0500

I've only had a few problems with 2LT's and most of them are West Point officers who are convinced they "know" EVERYTHING and don't want NCO input. Then, when the stuff host the fan, the develop this false sense of brotherhood and a "right hand" man scenario in their minds. I would let them get to a certain point until they crossed into NCO business. Then we'd have a "come to Sergeant" meeting and get things worked out.

But like I said, most weren't a problem at all, were very rofessonal, and were willing to learn.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2015 2:56 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 14:56:15 -0500

Don't throw your NCOs under the bus when the platoon fails to get something done. When you tell the CO or the XO "Well, I told the PSG to get it done..." bad things will happen to you. The buck stops with the platoon leader because they are "responsible for everything the platoon does or fails to do." Own up to mistakes. Everyone makes them and LTs are expected to make plenty. What will seperate good LTs from the average or poor LTs is owning up to mistakes and effectively utilizing their NCOs and fellow LTs to fix them quickly.

Response by SSG Kevin McCulley made Jan 6 at 2015 3:07 PM

SSG Kevin McCulley — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 15:07:51 -0500

I just have advice: Always remember the eyes of those Privates are upon you and it is difficult to enforce compliance with standards they see you break. We know you are young but you must act your rank and not your age. You will slip, and we know that. Be the wo/man that commission requires and call yourself out when you do those things so your NCOs don't have to pull you aside. Set the example for the Joes and even your NCOs.

Response by SPC Stewart Smith made Jan 6 at 2015 9:18 PM

SPC Stewart Smith — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 21:18:41 -0500

I have a couple -

First duty station - the LTs listened to what the senior NCOs had to say. Excellent leadership from the top to the bottom. Never saw any arguments between them. It just seemed as though the NCOs were teaching and leading the LTs

Second duty station - the LTs and senior NCOs were always bickering like school children. "I out rank you" bla bla bla. I had little respect for the butter bars and zero respect for the NCOs who showed they weren't effective leaders.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2015 9:31 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 21:31:34 -0500

Be willing to learn. Some are so eager to lead, they forget to learn how to lead first. Secondly, don't hug your joes. Most are you age. Do not make them you bar hopping buds. Separate yourself from that. Third, don't ever take anything from your soldiers. Time, money, food, soda, nothing! Always offer them your stuff, but never accept theirs. Finally, remember you have to be loyal to the command and still show them you care. But don't ever lose your honor doing either. Good luck.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2015 6:49 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Jan 2015 06:49:50 -0500

1-Make sure you understand your CDR's mission/intent and you provide ample guidance to your soldiers. Take care of your soldiers.
2-Leverage your soldiers experience and knowledge to make decisions.
3-Don't forget to have FUN. These are the good days, some of the best you'll have in the military. If you're not enjoying yourself chances are your soldiers aren't either. Train like a Viking, get your unit ready for whatever mission you have, and savor your time in the field-it doesn't last forever.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2015 11:35 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Jan 2015 23:35:29 -0500

I've always thought that this article was a good no BS how-to guide. At worst, it is amusing.
http://rhinoden.rangerup.com/nicks-rules-on-leadership/

Nick’s Rules on Leadership

This is a tough one for us to write, because in some ways it starts with the position that we are qualified to teach leadership. I mean you can go to the store and literally buy hundreds of books on the topic of leadership from real war heroes that should be dead a hundred times over, general officers or sergeants major who have a lifetime of service to the nation, or even business leaders, coaches, or politicians who have made a real...

Response by LTC David S. Chang, ChFC®, CLU® made Jan 9 at 2015 2:40 PM

LTC David S. Chang, ChFC®, CLU® — Fri, 09 Jan 2015 14:40:42 -0500

The big thing is to be humble and not arrogant. Many people equate humbleness to weakness or lack of confidence. It is the exact opposite. People are humble are confident enough to ask questions, ask for help, and share credit when they realize it is a team effort.

I learned that this means taking on any job, no matter how menial shows that no job is beneath them which in turn proves that no job is above them. Success isn't how high you stretch up, but how low you are willing to bend down!

Ok sorry I was on my soapbox. But being someone that makes people better around them is huge. I had a boss that was all about himself and very self-serving. In contrast I had a great boss that provided the tools, training, and culture to help employees do their jobs better, and to achieve their own goals.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2015 11:08 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Jan 2015 23:08:40 -0500

Throughout my career in the army I had the pleasure to meet and mentor 2 LT's. as NCO's it is our duty to make sure we square away our 2 LT's regardless of their attitude and guide them to where they will be succesful and excel in their career. They will make mistakes and sometimes will make you say WTH, Why is he or she is doing it or ignore them. It takes a different kind of NCO to help that 2 LT. Most often every mid-level Officer would say "I owe it to my Sergeant such and such"

Response by 1SG Cameron M. Wesson made Jan 10 at 2015 12:14 AM

1SG Cameron M. Wesson — Sat, 10 Jan 2015 00:14:49 -0500

In 1990 I was a sqd ldr in A/5-20 IN 2ID in the ROK. We had a 2LT that tried very hard to be the apple of the COs eye; however, the cost to the platoon was we were volunteered for everything CO wanted to do... First in the field.... Last ones out... You get the idea.

He continually volunteered us for any and all "special missions and details" and honestly the soldiers and NCOs got very tired of his "top block" hunting. It also became the running joke of the company that "our Lt would volunteer the Plt for anything. It got very old but the truth is the truth. We all told him this and he basically said that he was in the Army for the long run and had to make a name for himself... And as he was our PL and we his plt... We'd do it together. In one ear and out the other. He would even walk the COs dog at the COs request and the dog would run PT with us. Our PSG was not much help.

The BC, LTC Lewis, was a very hands on BC and use to take plts out and run battle drills with he as the PL and the CSM as the PSG... It was really neat believe it or not... Unknown to us though, after the AAR he asked, "what do you think of your PL" ...When this happened we three SL looked at each other and said absolutely nothing; however, the soldiers were not that kind. Afterwards, the soldiers were dismissed but we SL were told to stand fast. The question was asked again.

Loyalty is what we have to the team. Period. However, honesty is also. We proceeded to try to put the best face on it we could; however, the underlying message was pretty clear about what we thought of thevcthings we chad been doing sob he could get an ACOM... Or whatever they called them back then.

About next day our COs dog was gone from the CO area and that evening the PL gathered us together for an apolige for his conduct. The CO also assembled the company and advised us that things were going to change...and they did. Our PSG was replaced by the end of the week.

Bottom line at the bottom... Never use your soldiers in a manner to garner favor for you. Use them in the capacity intended for the unit missions you are given! Volunteering once in awhile is commendable... But not on the backs of you soldiers when the "wealth" can be, and should be, shared. You are only inviting trouble.

The LT learned and grew into a good officer. I had the good fortune to serve with him again at the 101st 10 years later when he was a new MAJ and I the HHC 1SG.

Sorry for the long windedness... But stories usually are!

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Jan 10 at 2015 12:45 AM

Sgt Packy Flickinger — Sat, 10 Jan 2015 00:45:31 -0500

I knew an AF Lt once on deployment. She's quite memorable because... Well let's say she frequently got lonely... And wound up in the Marine enlisted area.

Very unofficer like behavior.

Response by MAJ Raúl Rovira made Jan 10 at 2015 2:31 AM

MAJ Raúl Rovira — Sat, 10 Jan 2015 02:31:38 -0500

When I was a 2LT at Fort Knox, two 2LTs were having an argument. One was type A+ personality, the other one... I don't even know how to describe him.

During the argument one 2LT yelled to the other, "Your bar is no bigger than mine!!!"

Meanwhile there were about 12 other 2LTs just watching this live reality show on how to be an idiot 2LT. Lets say they both won. And the show was quite entertaining since we were in the field.

The sad thing is that they both lost cool points in our eyes and we are just peers. So, if there is an issue, take it somewhere else.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 11 at 2015 11:40 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Jan 2015 23:40:46 -0500

Sit down, shut up, take notes, and listen!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 11 at 2015 11:53 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Jan 2015 23:53:33 -0500

The funniest thing I've heard from two 2LT's was over hearing their discussion in the food court about which arm did their unit patch went. They were apparently corrected by a Senior NCO prior to me hearing them speak about it. I got a bit of a giggle from it and carried on about my business.

Response by SPC David Brown made Jan 12 at 2015 12:48 AM

SPC David Brown — Mon, 12 Jan 2015 00:48:16 -0500

Do Not let Your Rank go to your head when put into your Platoon Role. Always have the Backs of the Soldiers Assigned to You. Thicken your Skin, as the enlisted that have been in awhile have seen 2LT's come and go, some they've viewed with favor when they've proven themselves to be true leaders, while others are viewed with disdain because they tend to yell "At Ease" to often when they should be Silent & Observant. ALWAYS pay attention to the NCO's, ESPECIALLY those w/ Multiple Deployments or Any deployments at all, they after all CAN & Will Impart Information that can NEVER be illustrated or May not be Known of in a Classroom environment. Therefore, my advice as a 90's Peacetime Serving Specialist of the U.S. Army. Be Strong, Be A Leader, But DO NOT BE A JERK. Be a Sponge when New to your Assignment, as the Time WILL come when the soldiers Under your command will look to you for guidance in Completing their Mission as a COMPLETE Unit.

Response by SSG Rob Cline made Apr 4 at 2015 10:21 AM

SSG Rob Cline — Sat, 04 Apr 2015 10:21:54 -0400

IMHO, the thing that gets most newly commissioned officers in trouble is that they think they know everything. When I was stationed in Germany, we had a new 2LT come to our platoon and thought he knew all of the 'ins and outs' of how we perform. He was sadly mistaken...
Listen to the 'Old guys' that have been there and done that and you should be just fine.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 10:38 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 22:38:05 -0400

When I was a battalion radio operator in Iraq, I had a convoy commander radio up to me asking for permission to pass up route clearance so he could get back and watch the football game.

I had to ask a few times to clarify in case he was just messing with me, which sadly, he wasn't.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2015 12:38 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 00:38:15 -0400

An old thread, but I'll share a "horror story" anyways. I deployed with a PL who, simply put, did not lead from the front. He delegated his responsibilities away to the point where he happily proclaimed he was simply a "figurehead" for his Platoon. While much of the Company leadership was so busy it was hard to find time to get a haircut, he complained about "having to" buy an XBox because he was so bored. His saving grace was that he was everybody's buddy and his PSG was more than happy to run the show for him. He spent 8 years as an E4 prior to commissioning and in my opinion never left that mentality.

The take away from this story is simple. A leader shoulders more than their share of the task, whatever it may be, 100% and then some. As a 2LT you're paid more than your men for a reason. Earn it.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Apr 16 at 2015 12:54 AM

COL Charles Williams — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 00:54:06 -0400

Horror Stories no... 2LTs are a work in progress... I have some funny ones...

1. 2LT (Me), Scout PL looking through my tracks (circa 1986) in the motorpool, after we got back from the field, and I find a yellow smoke grenade we missed and forgot to turn-in. So, what do I do, I decide the easiest COA was to pop it in the motorpool and get rid of it. In about 30 seconds, my troop commander and squadron commander were there to tell me what a bad idea that was...

2. 2LT X shows up at the range (circa 1988) with his unit patch sewn on his right sleeve...

3. 2LT Y shooting on the 9mm range (circa 1988), prone, and she has her face so close to the slide, the slide is slamming into her forehead... The funny thing was, she did not stop pulling the trigger... Her forehead as bruised and her eyes were watering before we could stop her.

4. 1LT (Me), MP PL and SRT Commander (circa 1988), doing a Building Clearing exercise with the Louisville PD, at abandoned school in Louisville, KY. They were providing the bad-guys/role players, and we were doing a slow and deliberate clearing. No power in the building and no light, as all the windows were boarded up. We were using flashbangs and white smoke (HC) (not sure why we thought white smoke was needed...)... Somehow a flashbang (apparently) landed in a box of books and started a fire, and the HC made it worse.... FD responded, and several firefighters and police officers had to be treated for smoke inhalation... And, the Network News came too... This was my first ever live news interview...

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2015 12:33 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Apr 2015 12:33:31 -0400

Listen to your senior NCOs, if you are in the Navy listen to your Chief and let them run the division. You will have your hands full getting qualified and learning what they can teach you. But don't use that as an excuse to be absent from the troops. I call it the PRP program, Presence, Relationship (appropriate Officer to enlisted ect...) and Performance. Spend the time you need to learn the job you got through college so you are not an idot put that intelligence to work learning what you need to best officer, tactician, leader, ect...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2015 12:33 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Apr 2015 12:33:54 -0400

Never, ever sell out your subordinates to try and make youself look better.

Response by MSG Morgan Fiszel, CPCM, CFCM made Apr 29 at 2015 12:37 PM

MSG Morgan Fiszel, CPCM, CFCM — Wed, 29 Apr 2015 12:37:47 -0400

Ben, just know that your job is different and stay in your lane. If you have a plan or idea run it by the PSG. Never surprise the PSG, or a SL. Never attempt to pull rank. Scold in private, praise in public. Be confident.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2015 12:39 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Apr 2015 12:39:39 -0400

A good study on how not to be a good JO is "The Cain Mutiny" but instead of looking at it as a story about a crazy captain, trust me the navy is full of those, look at it from the perspective of a Wardroom that did not support the chain of command, had inappropriate communications and relationships with the crew and all in all was a group of backstabbing douchebags. That should provide you some stories and examples. Plus it is a good read.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2015 11:26 AM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 May 2015 11:26:35 -0400

My step dad a WW-II vet told about a time he was stopped by a 2LT for not saluting. Dad was carrying a mound of paperwork at the time.

Another (senior) LT told Dad that the next time this happened he was to drop what he was carrying and salute the 2LT.

The next day it happened again and Dad did as he was told. The senior LT appeared and directed Dad to sit under a tree while he made the 2LT pick up all of the paperwork, sort it and have it ready to file.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2015 11:27 AM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 May 2015 11:27:33 -0400

There is a lot of good advice here about listening to your NCOs, but I would add listen to your GOOD NCOs. It won't take long to figure out who they are. I had very high expectations for my first PSG and was very disappointed. I learned to lean more heavily on my squad leaders for knowledge and development.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2015 11:29 AM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 May 2015 11:29:36 -0400

Also was stationed at a base where the CO of the Security Forces ( a LTC) would pull gate guard duty on New Year's Eve.

A 2LT approached the gate and was waved in. He stopped his car and backed up yelling that the guard had failed to salute. The LTC moved to the window showed his silver leaf and said Lt I salute officers but not punks like you.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made May 19 at 2015 12:47 PM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Tue, 19 May 2015 12:47:50 -0400

Though you have a lot of training behind you, and this is mainly for non prior service folks, you don't have the experience using it yet with actual troops. Wield your power cautiously and prudently. You are dad to your PSG's mom and believe me in this case, mom generally knows best.

You don't know it all, though we all thought we did at one point. Listen, observe, relate, study and evaluate for at least your first 30 days to get a feel for the authority that you have and the people you preside over - your platoon/section.

Allow yourself to be mentored, its the best thing you can do from your senior NCOs and Officers. The only dumb questions are the one's you didn't ask yourself or others before making a snap decision.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2015 12:49 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 May 2015 12:49:03 -0400

In AIT, i had 2 2LT's salute me. i was looking at the ground trying not to trip on the Arizona rocks below my feet and i see a shadow and look up, and bam! im being saluted by 2LT's

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made May 19 at 2015 12:57 PM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Tue, 19 May 2015 12:57:00 -0400

Don't talk to me or to my soldiers like we are "servants" working for some rich dude in year 1867 or like there is a class system in the Army. I am a veteran of three deployments, and I have more education that most LTs. I have lots of self pride, and I don't bow down for anyone nor do I kiss rear end. Do not question my integrity by asking me a thousand questions like an investigator and I won't question your common sense and intelligence or a lack there of. In return I will be loyal, honest and if I don't know something, I will let you know but I will try to find out as quickly as I can. By the way, I have placed LTs into hand restraints and basically told them to be quite but that was law enforcement related.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made May 19 at 2015 2:53 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Tue, 19 May 2015 14:53:21 -0400

I was a relatively new 2LT, and the Armor Brigade made me the OIC of rail loading. I was the fall guy for not controlling hundreds of drivers form various battalions.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2015 3:08 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 May 2015 15:08:18 -0400

"Don't wait around for guidance. You'll be well on your way to fixing things before you get the guidance on how to do it." - General Dempsey

I had this hanging on my wall in my office at my old assignment.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2015 3:40 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 May 2015 15:40:35 -0400

Below are two items that would be beneficial for any 'new' LT to read (they are for USAF - but the ideas presented can be applied to any branch).

1) Heirpower!
2) Eight Basic Habits of Exceptionally Powerful Lieutenants

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2015 4:33 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 May 2015 16:33:44 -0400

I have 2 of them for you, with 2 different 2LT's

First one -
We were preparing for an exercise and the new Lt was in charge of planning/prepping the site. About a week before the start of the exercise, he grabbed myself and one other guy to install the grounding grid. The two of us spent 8 hours in 115 degree temps installing it. The next morning the 2Lt went and looked at it, called us in to redo it. He said it looked great, but the plan had changed and it needed to be moved, he said he was sorry he forgot to tell us. We were upset, but followed his order. We dug the entire thing up, and moved it 10 feet to the new spot, spending another 10 hours that day doing it. The next day, he called us in again, and again wanted it moved. This continued for 4 days. On the 4th day, we called the 1LT that was training this 2LT and talked to him. The 1LT came out to where we were, and saw what was going on. He then called the 2LT out. The 1LT told him, ok where do you want this, these guys are exhausted and are not moving it again, and WE are helping them do it this time. After about 40 minutes, the 2LT is pouring sweat, looks at us and starts apologizing. He was not aware of the amount of work it took to perform the task and "assumed" it only took 30-60 minutes to do the job. FYI, this 2LT learned from it and became one of best LT's I have ever worked for.

Second Story -

Another exercise, different 2LT; A group of 5 or 6 guys were installing a ground grid at a different site. The 2Lt in charge wanted to see how it was done so came out to "help". He brought a chair out with him, with an umbrella for shade and watched the team work the entire time without lifting a finger while sipping on his water. After it was done, he told everyone they had done a good job, and was proud of the work we had done. He then went to the commander and informed him that he had spent the day working with the team to ensure the job was done "correctly". Needless to say, this 2LT lost the respect of a LOT of people because of this and no one wanted to work for him ever again.

Response by CPT Jason Torpy made May 19 at 2015 4:42 PM

CPT Jason Torpy — Tue, 19 May 2015 16:42:53 -0400

I was managing admin support for an exercise in Germany. The whole division was coming into bivouac areas, parking areas, lodgings, and other locations for a multi-week exercise. I was out inspecting as units selected their locations and saw two people arguing with each other over a piece of land. I quickly realized it was a 2LT saying something along the lines of, "This is my location, and you can just tell your commander, that it's reserved".... then I heard the end, "Sergeant Major," and I realized this 2LT was trying to pull rank on a Sergeant Major, that is to say a Command Sergeant Major, the Division Tactical Operations Command Sergeant Major, who worked for the Division Maneuver General. I basically tackled him and drug him away while saying, "Whatever you like Sergeant Major. Set up anywhere you'd like. I'll take care of this." And then told the 2LT in great detail the mortal danger he was in. "You tell your CO that DTAC got that spot and you'll need to pick something else."
protip: 2LT don't really outrank CSMs. Try it out and see how that works for you.

Response by CPT Jason Torpy made May 19 at 2015 4:50 PM

CPT Jason Torpy — Tue, 19 May 2015 16:50:22 -0400

I think there are two balancing acts:
1) set the example without acting like you know anything (because you don't). That means good PT, good work ethic, early in/late out, know what's going on, but don't pontificate about how things should be or all the ways your veteran sergeants or young troops should be doing better. Listen and learn how things are done, but set the example for hard work. caveat: Get your hands dirty, but don't forget they don't have time to train their stupid LT how to do everything. Show interest, get the idea, then let them get back to work. They've got families.
2) enforce standards while always being on the side of the troops. Your CO will be putting out a bunch of requirements that you're supposed to be enforcing. That's great. But all the troops are dedicated to a certain mission. You'll be expect to bring troops to bureaucracy and nonsense like formations and admin training events and details and parades. You should spend as much time fighting this stuff off as you do dragging troops to it. All that gets in the way warfighting or logistics or whatever their primary mission is.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2015 6:05 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 May 2015 18:05:56 -0400

I one time had a new 2LT ask me if the OE254 I was putting up was "a whole tent in that bag right there"

Hahahah!!!

Response by 1LT A. Uribe made May 19 at 2015 6:59 PM

1LT A. Uribe — Tue, 19 May 2015 18:59:24 -0400

No shit there we were, we had a AD LTC and his staff come from FORSCOM for the ARMS inspection for deployment status. One of his staff members indeed to check and try to see what is wrong with one of our deadlined M-978s, lo and behold the gaskets gives and fuels showers everyone around within a 5 meter range. Luckily it was fault, my CO bout died, and I began showing the LTC the deficiency on the books and system that it was already identified and had a work number, all while I almost crapped my undies. Luckily, it was his staff members fault that caused that.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2015 7:23 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 May 2015 19:23:52 -0400

Here how is see it in a nutshell: (some repeated from others input)

1. Respect your NCOs and soldiers and get their input (as well as form your superiors and officer peers)

2. But remember you're still the leader and have to make the decision yourself.

3. Be yourself- don't try to mimic other leaders. (but definitely read widely and exchange ideas from other leaders but use them in context of your own personality)

4. Watch old STAR TREK episodes (original is best, but Next Generation and Voyager also showed great leadership case studies!)

5. Join Toastmasters! - There is a club on or near many installations. (I wish I had done that sooner. I was very strong in core values and respect but weak in self-confidence in taking charge when I was in ROTC and as Jr. Officer. Toastmasters played a big role in helping me develop and turn things around in those areas. )
.

Response by MAJ Terry LaFrance made May 19 at 2015 8:37 PM

MAJ Terry LaFrance — Tue, 19 May 2015 20:37:01 -0400

No horror stories but always keep your troops as informed as possible. You'd be amazed at what they can come up with to make the mission go smoother. Also, they are usually way more motivated when they know why they are doing something (at least if its legit).

Response by 1st Lt Blair Ross made May 19 at 2015 8:46 PM

1st Lt Blair Ross — Tue, 19 May 2015 20:46:03 -0400

I had recently crossed over from E to O when I was at the bowling alley. I overheard a freshly graduated ring knocker bragging to his buddies about parking in the enlisted dorm parking lot and walking to his office so he could get his salutes in the morning. I turned around to ask him to step out back with me for a few minutes and quickly discovered that it would not be necessary. I think he understood by the looks he was getting that he might find a flat tire or two on his car if he did that again.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2015 7:22 AM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 May 2015 07:22:08 -0400

I recall a LT telling his NCO leader that what the troops were doing did not have the LTs advance approval.

The next day when the LT showed up the NCO and his troops moved to a spot under a shade tree and sit down.

The LT waited for an extended period of time and then asked what the troops were doing?

The NCO calmly replied "waiting for your orders sir."

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2015 7:56 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 May 2015 07:56:34 -0400

As a 1SG, I saw this in theater: thought he was on a "secret" mission from the boss. When I witnessed his method, I casually walked over to him, made a suggestion and heard this: "...look Top, I respect you for your experience, but this is a mission from the BN CDR...". I let him have at it, while he prepared the Change of Command inventory.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2015 3:15 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 May 2015 15:15:25 -0400

My advice as a fairly new officer (and it looks like its already been said more then x1 here!)

- Don't be afraid to ask questions!!!!...I'm in the R/C & like most newly minted LT's you won't always get to BOLC right off the bat but it puts you in a great place to learn to ask informed & investigative questions. I'm assigned to a BSB & before arriving there I had no idea what a PMCS was until I asked the question. This leads to my next advice:

- Talk to your NCO leadership w/e your position may be / unit your assigned to. They do have that experience that you lack & its their job to bring you up to speed & help raise you up as a jr. officer. Ask those Sen. NCO's those investigative questions, they got where they are because they have the leadership, knowledge + experience.

- Be confident about the decisions that you make as a leader: Draw from the wisdom & counsel of your NCO's & formulate a strategy based on that advice. The worst thing in the world in IMHO is seeing a leader who can't stick to a decision or be confident in their COA. Remember there is a difference between adjusting fire to a situation & just not being confident

- Be excited about your job & the job of your soldiers / platoon / company. People will notice when I take the time to walk out into the yard with the soldiers while they do PMCS / Convoy's / Training ect... All O's & E'leadership can get busy with paperwork or "organizing & planning" but make the time to visit your soldiers & express an honest & keen interest in their work.

- Stick up for your NCO's! They are the ones that make the Army world go round. Plus they are the ones who make sure you get paid when you head of to BOLC!

- LOOK COOL!!! It always help!!

Response by MAJ Keira Brennan made May 21 at 2015 3:24 PM

MAJ Keira Brennan — Thu, 21 May 2015 15:24:35 -0400

I am just glad I was enlisted before commissioning. LT 6 months in services PCSing to a new unit and starts talking about vision. Ive seen it. Not me.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2015 3:41 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 21 May 2015 15:41:20 -0400

Be a sponge and not a brick! Learn from the people who have been around and have some stories to share! The worst thing in the world is for a LT who thinks because he has a degree that he/she is smarter then the PSG that is appointed to mentor them. There are plenty of NCOs with multiple degrees, education is great, but book smarts do not replace on the job smarts or experience! I always learned as a Leader to observe for the first 30 days, take notes, and only intervene during that time period of it were a health/safety issue. Once you have an assessment of what your PLTs strengths/weaknesses are you have a great place to start a conversation with your NCOs!

Response by SSG John Erny made May 21 at 2015 4:25 PM

SSG John Erny — Thu, 21 May 2015 16:25:43 -0400

1. I got a lawyer friend of mind to sign up for JAG, he told me that when he was at FT. Lee some new LT put the post CSM at parade rest. As he told it the LT's entire chain of command was called to post HQ along with the new LT. This would have been 2011-12 time frame.

2. If you get your jump wings and you are not rigger, do not tell me how to do my job. The Division Parachute officer will not be happy.

3. Don't fall for one of the troops, career ender, saw it happen.

4. MP's have the post commanders blessing to enforce his/her laws, tell them other wise and the post commander will not be happy.

5. Your enlisted soldiers as a single entity will decide your future. If they perform well you will do well. Don't give them a reason to not respect you, it will show in their work.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2015 4:28 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 21 May 2015 16:28:57 -0400

Don't come in acting like you know it all when there are pvt's that the job and the unit better. Come ready to learn from the senior NCOs because they know the do's and don'ts.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made May 21 at 2015 11:50 PM

SPC Charles Brown — Thu, 21 May 2015 23:50:18 -0400

During my first tour of duty in Korea there were about 120 enlisted and only 8 officers in my particular unit. A new bright and shiny butter bar rolls into our unit and decides that our CO's policy of no saluting is wrong. He catches the first young private he sees and proceeds to read him the riot act about not saluting an officer.

Long story short his arm got tired because he was constantly being approached by every enlisted member in the company including the NCO's. It was a short time before word got around about this overzealous young LT and a plan of attack was organized. Needless to say he learned why there was a no salute policy in the unit. 120 to 1, not odds I would want against me. Especially when the line never ends and he cannot move because he is far too busy saluting the lower ranks that went by him

Response by LTC David Stender made May 23 at 2015 1:02 PM

LTC David Stender — Sat, 23 May 2015 13:02:52 -0400

Ben,
Here's the deal, if you want to be successful, do what's right. I've had many 2LTs that I've mentored, rated, and senior rated. The ones who struggled were the ones who couldn't get out of their own way. That was integrity problems, identity problems (too close w/ troops; inappropriate relationships), and give a shit problems. As soon as you realize that it's not about you and what you learn now will impact your development and reputation, your ready to move out and be the leader the Army needs.

Response by SGT Edward Perez made May 25 at 2015 3:48 PM

SGT Edward Perez — Mon, 25 May 2015 15:48:06 -0400

You know the movie Sandlot? Well dont be Smalls.

Response by LTC Erik Spike Thiesmeyer, Sr. made Jun 15 at 2015 4:10 PM

LTC Erik Spike Thiesmeyer, Sr. — Mon, 15 Jun 2015 16:10:07 -0400

1. Don't get mad when an NCO or enlisted person called you "LT". It's a complement.
2. Don't ever use the term "That's an order."
3. When you meet your platoon sergeant, take him/her aside and ask, "show me sergeant".
4. Never ask your soldiers to do some crap detail that you're not willing to do yourself.
5. If your platoon is asked to do some crap detail, you lead the way!

Response by SGT Edwin Claudio made Jun 25 at 2015 9:08 PM

SGT Edwin Claudio — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 21:08:40 -0400

Main thing that I always saw with my awesome commands was COMMUNICATION between the Officer and their respected NCO counterpart. Plt, Co and BN ran soooo smooth.

Response by SSG Ed Mikus made Jun 25 at 2015 9:58 PM

SSG Ed Mikus — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 21:58:43 -0400

I had an 2LT tell me once that she was the boss because she makes more money than me, so I handed her my LES. She was not happy to learn that i received BAH, BAS, and all the other pays that were there at the time. She went to S1 to ensure I qualified for all that since I surely don't deserve it as only an NCO.

Response by SPC George Rudenko made Jun 25 at 2015 10:00 PM

SPC George Rudenko — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 22:00:20 -0400

Listen: just listen. Believe it or not, we all care about you and want you to succeed. Great leaders at one time were the best followers.

Response by SSG Stephen Arnold made Jun 25 at 2015 11:02 PM

SSG Stephen Arnold — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 23:02:16 -0400

Avoid exerting your authority just because you can. It WILL come back to bite you at some point. If your NCO(s) state that they will handle something within their purview, allow them to do so.

Without getting into all of the details, and extending your question to include a 1LT, I had a situation during Operation Desert Storm in which I was accused of violating a general order. The LT was with me at the time, and made sure to not be seen by the superior officer involved. Upon rejoining our unit, the LT insisted that he would handle the problem. I informed him that I would take care of it. He rushed off to the CO to accuse me of insubordination, intending to have me reprimanded or brought up on charges. I found out because as soon as I was able I went to the CO to report my situation. I was told that a decision was made that such actions would result in an automatic Art.15 & a fine. I said, "Yes, sir," and returned to work.

A week later I was asked about a standing GO from the Corps HQ to which my unit had been attached for DS (I had served under the same HQ in Germany), related to a situation with one of the troops. The situation had to do with a superior being present in a vehicle. I informed the PSG that the superior was responsible for the safe operation of the vehicle.

About 30 minutes later my PL asked me about the GO. I explained again. He returned awhile later and informed me that the LT in my situation was receiving a written reprimand and to not be concerned about the problem. When I was answering questions, I did not consider my own situation, nor was I looking to get out of trouble.

I was willing to accept the consequences solely. I figured I was a big boy and didn't need an officer to take the blame for my actions. His interference only got himself in hot water.

TLDR: Don't be an idiot.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 25 at 2015 11:02 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 23:02:34 -0400

As an young commissioned officer into the military nothing you can do to not leave a nasty taste in a NCO mouth. No matter what you do or don't do they feel like your rank was handed to you. As long as you adhere to the regulations and follow the military training Youll definitely do fine!

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Jun 25 at 2015 11:21 PM

LTC Bink Romanick — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 23:21:55 -0400

When I was at Tac Intel Officer Course at Fort Bragg in 75 as a 2LT I was standing with a group of Nurses in Moon Hall . A MAJ walks by who had obviously put his ribbons on in the mirror, they were over his right pocket. Me showing off for the nurses says MAJ your ribbons are on wrong! He turns and says LT your zipper is open.,Guess who the nurses laughed at?

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Jun 26 at 2015 12:08 AM

LTC Bink Romanick — Fri, 26 Jun 2015 00:08:29 -0400

ADVICE

Know your job ( read and study assiduously)
Know your troopers, not just their names, know about them.
Be observant, learn everything you can.
Listen to your NCOs, don't micromanage and let Sergeants do Sergeant s business.
Don't get too familiar with your soldiers..no first names..you're not their buddy, you're proud of your rank.. they're proud of theirs
Don't be compromised professionally or morally...never lie, th.e troops know a BEer.
LISTEN TO YOUR NCOs
Understand your units mission and your part in it.. if you don't...clarify it.
Wear your uniforms properly.
Know your weapon systems
Be eager and willing not a spring butt
Above all don't take yourself too seriously and have fun..
My personal motto,,..never believe your own bullshit.

Stay on the tank.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 29 at 2015 2:55 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 29 Jun 2015 14:55:31 -0400

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 29 at 2015 3:11 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 29 Jun 2015 15:11:04 -0400

I had a 2LT stand in for the company XO once. He was put in charge of navigating our 25mi Ruck march. He got us lost around mile 7 and we ended up adding almost 4 miles to the trip. It was grueling enough at 25 miles; it was worse at 29 miles.

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Jun 29 at 2015 8:03 PM

SGT Dave Tracy — Mon, 29 Jun 2015 20:03:52 -0400

Most LTs I’ve had were fairly good, even if they were brand new to the Army, but the worst one I had was a PL who had been an NCO prior to getting commissioned. This is a guy should know so much more than your ordinary “Butter Bar”…alas, he didn’t. Thank God I never had to follow him into battle or I wouldn’t be here to write this.

If he wasn’t micromanaging our platoon—to include running PT all the way down to the squad level—he was mastering the art of piss-poor decision making. At a time when it was no longer tolerated, he encouraged a little birthday “hazing” (pink belly and dumping some water on the birthday boy) and allowed himself to be recorded on VIDEO viewing and participating in it. He got a letter for that.

In a training exercise, OPFOR scored a vehicle mobility kill on our lead MAXXPRO in an ambush; LT insisted we move our vehicle into the kill zone but gave no orders except “GO, GO, GO!” to me, his driver. In fact he didn’t coordinate with the other vehicles (Ah, Sir, wanna maybe press the button and say SOMETHING to the trucks behind us???). So we rolled onto “the X” with no support by fire, no maneuvering elements…basically, no React to Contact going on WHATSOEVER! As we arrived, the MAXXPRO was now a catastrophic kill with OPFOR knocking them off from a position of cover & concealment at point blank range, and we were soon to join the MAXXPRO’s notional fate. Eventually the other vehicles took the initiative to maneuver after our vehicle was bumped off. Didn’t matter to us by that point however as we were already be fitted for our make-believe halo & wings.

Privately, the OPFOR guys told us they were stupefied by what we did and didn’t do. During that training exercise he promised Driver’s Badges to all the vehicle drivers; that didn’t happen. It would have meant nothing coming from him anyway.

Still, the worst thing he did was try to take advantage of the nativity of the young soldiers under his command. Seriously. That or he was an even bigger idiot than I thought. He assembled the platoon one day and gave us a sales pitch. LT told us he was on the board of a company looking to build a video game theme park, and they were looking for investors. He said the normal buy-in was 20K, but for $500, we, his soldiers, could get in on the ground floor! (Woo-hoo, we can all retire with our champagne wishes and caviar dreams!) The BS just began piling up from there. 1000% return on investment, little risk, and so much more. Basically every Red Flag in the book was waving proudly as he spoke to us. You didn’t need a degree in Finance to realize he was hustling us—or hustling himself with this fucking fantasy—but as lowly little E4 me just so happened to have a bona fide bachelor’s degree in Finance, and worked in varying aspects of the finance industry, I actually understood what I was really hearing and pulled several guys aside and warned them the LT was doing nothing more than selling smoke and mirrors, and that regardless of my rank vs. LT’s, I KNEW what I was saying.

I don’t think anyone “invested” in this frighteningly bad scheme. Not so much because of anything I said, but because young soldiers are often cash-strapped and “investing” in this nonsense wasn’t even an option for them; even at $500.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 2 at 2015 9:36 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Thu, 02 Jul 2015 21:36:41 -0400

I was doing force on force as a tank PL. At the last second a SGT suggested an unconventional and rarely used formation. The result was very bad and we looked inept. The second iteration I looked at the moon as my guide and went full throttle in the desert. My other tanks were complaining about the dust I was kicking up. We were able to win this round. The lesson I learned is executing differently might hurt you or is an absolute necessity.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 3 at 2015 11:14 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Jul 2015 23:14:58 -0400

Let your platoon sergeant do his job...overstepping causes headaches not
Only for the NCO's but the joes especially as well

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 3 at 2015 11:24 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Jul 2015 23:24:31 -0400

You're never going to have enough time to get everything done that you need to. Learn to delegate intelligently. This will require you to know your NCOs and Soldiers Strengths and weaknesses. At the end of the day one of the hardest things is to be able to stop working and realize that the vast majority of your work will still be there the next day. In other words take time for yourself, have a hobby and try to improve it.

In the same vein of knowing your troops, counsel your NCOs separately from your PSG. You can use DA form 2166-8-1 or a 4856. Just as your junior Soldiers appreciate feedback, good and bad, your NCOs are asking themselves the same questions that you are. Counsel them on what you see as excellence and what they need to do to get an excellence in the respective blocks on their NCOER so they have an overarching goal to work toward.

Proof-read your emails and memos. This is something I am terrible at, so I always ask one of my peers to look over anything that might get exposure from my higher. Your correspondence might be the only link your higher has to you and a badly written memo will reflect on you.

In the end you are not a friend to your Soldiers, you are their leader. You will probably find more in common with your junior NCOs and junior Soldiers, but resist the temptation to "hang out" with them. I had to learn the hard way that there is no such thing as work and personal time separation.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 3 at 2015 11:41 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Jul 2015 23:41:00 -0400

Don't speak unless spoken to

Response by CPT Darisse Smith made Aug 5 at 2015 4:15 PM

CPT Darisse Smith — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 16:15:03 -0400

I'd rather not focus on any horror stories and just relate that the best thing to do as a 2LT is 1) listen more than talk 2) find a trusted NCO, Senior Warrant Officer and O-3 and above as mentors and 3) Take care of Soldiers first and foremost. You will be balancing a whole bunch of priorities and options--your own flight time and gaining experience, the needs of your platoon/company, maintaining equipment and training, etc. Be willing to learn and learn from your mistakes. You will make them--learn and move on. Fortunately, the Aviation branch is full of awesome, intelligent folks who want you to succeed, mostly because they don't want a crappy Company or Battalion Commander later. There will be times you will need to step up and take charge but mostly--you are there to learn so you'll be a better leader later. Will your platoon go on fine without you? Yes. Remember that, and you will be fine.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2015 5:54 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 17:54:59 -0400

Mr. Nichols-Here's a few things I learned during my first tour as a new O-1:

1. Don't believe everything you hear. Advice is always valuable, so long as you learn to discern between good and bad "gouge". Listen often-talk less, and it will slowly start to become obvious.

2. The very fact you're asking says a lot about your respect for what you have yet to learn. Still, here's some advice a very experienced NCO gave me once; Learn to show potential even when you don't have experience.

3. Here's some advice from a senior officer of mine; "Potential is interesting...Performance counts".

4. If you put your platoon above your self, things will fall into place. Your junior enlisted soldiers
will not want to put you in a bad light, your NCOs will try to teach you, and your superiors will put you in a position to put those lessons to the test.

5. Study. In the absence of experience, try to learn from others. Read the classics. Have three good reads at all times in garrison. Keep up with current events. Learn what interests your soldiers, your NCOs and your senior officers. If you aren't a sports fan but your platoon sergeant has a favorite team, be able to discuss who's winning...the next decisive game...be able to carry on a conversation that cares. Be able to do the same thing with the battalion commander if he prefers NASCAR.

6. Slow is smooth...smooth is fast.

7. Ask your Platoon NCOs to show you things...know when to ask, and when not to. My Chief used to meet with me before formation to discuss this maintenance procedure or that piece of equipment. Later in the day, while the division was working, he'd ask, "Sir, what do you think about the way those gaskets are packed?" I'd respond with some basic assessment from the knowledge given earlier. The result? the division knew I didn't know everything about our job, but they saw I wanted to learn, and as a bonus, I got to look like I might actually be there for a reason.

8. There's a fine line between fraternization and isolation...learn it and live by it.

9. Be an advocate for your soldiers. You may not be General Sherman yet, but you are still a human being capable of being compassionate, honest, consistent and humble.

10. Think about the future. Save you money. Stay single and out of debt. The world changes a lot between O2-O4.

11. Most importantly-Never ask someone to do something you wouldn't be willing to do. Be a leader who wants to be followed...not a leader who wants to give orders. Be an example of the service you represent.
Best Wishes and Good Luck!

Response by PO3 Jody Wangen made Aug 20 at 2015 8:53 PM

PO3 Jody Wangen — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 20:53:09 -0400

I was an E-3. got off work, went and picked up the baby from daycare. went to the exchange. was coming out with the baby in one arm and a jumbo bag of diapers in the other. an officer was going in. my hands were full, I did not salute. "airman, do you know how to salute? Yes sir, would you like to hold the baby or the diapers so I can?"

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Nov 5 at 2015 4:37 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 16:37:47 -0500

Don't make fun of your Battalion Commander who is standing right behind you.

Response by SPC William Del Valle made Nov 6 at 2015 12:32 AM

SPC William Del Valle — Fri, 06 Nov 2015 00:32:10 -0500

Yes, Don’t sleep (intercourse) with your soldiers, don’t drink and drive, don’t drink a flaming Dr pepper out in the ville (bar or clubs), Don’t beat your wife or loved ones, don’t have relations with your dogs or cats or any animals, Don’t invite your buddies over to see you put a glass coke bottle in you souses body parts. And the number one thing NOT to do is eat YELLOW SNOW!! And yes these all have stories!!! LOL

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2015 10:39 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 09 Nov 2015 10:39:43 -0500

I'll shoot myself in the foot for this one; I was tasked with assisting the S-1 shop in filing papers (record briefs, pay inquiries, stuff like that) into personnel records and I was instructed on what setting to use for the hole punch depending on the folder that I was placing files into. So I organized and filed just fine, everything got where it needed to be. Except I didn't hole punch a single piece of paper for a single folder. I just laid the paper in the right place and moved on. I wasn't even trying to sham. Didn't get in trouble, but I was the laughing stock of the shop for many days.

Response by SFC Jim Mergott made Dec 31 at 2015 2:34 PM

SFC Jim Mergott — Thu, 31 Dec 2015 14:34:12 -0500

As a new officer be willing to share leadership of your new platoon with the platoon sergeant. It will be a learning experience. Things can go south very quickly if you are not willing or unable to communicate effectively with your enlisted counterparts.

Response by SGT Ron Egan made Nov 20 at 2017 11:54 AM

SGT Ron Egan — Mon, 20 Nov 2017 11:54:05 -0500

Don't piss off the company 1sg. Nuff said.

Response by SPC Kevin Doiel made Nov 21 at 2017 5:18 AM

SPC Kevin Doiel — Tue, 21 Nov 2017 05:18:52 -0500

What it is they are just a bunch of college grads who are on a power trip. No wonder they are not respected until they are at the 1st Lt. or Capt. position. Unless they were prior enlisteds. Seen too many of them thinking they were above the enlisteds not knowing that many enlisteds do have college degrees themselves.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 17 at 2018 9:23 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Mar 2018 21:23:15 -0400

Don’t blindly listen or follow your platoon sergeant and other NCOs. Ask questions of why you are doing what your doing. This is a time to learn not just follow.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2018 4:55 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Mar 2018 04:55:57 -0400

New people are just that, new at their assigned job, can't hold it against them, everyone entering the service didn't know what to do until told.
Doesn't it work that way, even a child has to learn how to walk. Give the new Lt. a chance to learn how the unit works, that's why we have NCO's.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Mar 18 at 2018 6:17 AM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Sun, 18 Mar 2018 06:17:00 -0400

Never had any 2LT problems, just a few that were a slight comedy act now and then.

Response by CH (LTC) Robert Leroe made Mar 18 at 2018 6:14 PM

CH (LTC) Robert Leroe — Sun, 18 Mar 2018 18:14:32 -0400

Horror Story: A 2LT entered a CSM's office, and chewed him out for not standing. The next week he had orders for Vietnam.

Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Mar 18 at 2018 6:36 PM

Capt Daniel Goodman — Sun, 18 Mar 2018 18:36:23 -0400

I was Army ROTC before going USAF OTS, I was non-prior, I think, had I been prior enlisted, that might've helped me considerably, looking back. I had, as matters turned out, very little clue what I was doing at first, or what was expected of me, on any realistic, day-to-day basis. I had to learn, quite frequently in the very hardest way possible, generally needlessly, as I also think back, that, when one is assigned in a given place, to do a given task, that is it, end of story, case closed, the end. What I wanted meant virtually nothing, zero, zip, goose egg, nada...the only thing that was of any basic, fundamental importance was the unit, and the mission. My personal ambitions absolutely didn't count, that was amply impressed on me more times than I can even begin to recount for you; I'd agreed to do precisely what I was told, I was to do exactly what I was told, no discussions, just to shut up and do my job. I can't begin to tell you how many times I had to learn that very real lesson, plus, I had to learn to function in the role itself, apart from my day-to-day assignment, which was by no means natural to me, as I'd also found out as well, quite rapidly. I further learned, also the hard way, more often than not, that there is, in fact, a very real difference between wanting a thing, and having a thing, I assure you, not because I regret doing it, not because I regret learning the lessons I learned, only as a purely anecdotal observation on my part I thought worth sharing here. I only relate that, as your questions was extremely perceptive; I could relate countless anecdotes of what happened to me, that made me reflect, as I'd read your question, as well as how others answered it here. I hope that was of at least some use; if you'd care to chat further, I'd of course be most willing, by all means.

Response by SSG Anthony Pugh made Mar 18 at 2018 6:41 PM

SSG Anthony Pugh — Sun, 18 Mar 2018 18:41:22 -0400

Just got back from a 30 day field problem in Germany. All of our vehicles had to get washed on small Nelson Kasern. Brand new LT, new to the unit . Decided that she wanted to change the course of how we did things. I'm a spec 4, seasoned in the ways of our operations. As well, I'm directing traffic.. In so many words, I told her to step off. She did. We became great friends. She learned to listen not only to her NCO's but lower enlisted as well..

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 28 at 2018 7:48 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Apr 2018 19:48:36 -0400

From one of my favorite articles about junior officer leadership, “Don’t be a douche!”. Excuse my eloquence, but there’s a huge point to this, in my opinion. Don’t be all Michael Scott-like buddy buddy, just be personable and genuinely care for your troops.
When I was enlisted as a light infantryman, I had a, shall I say, douchebag of a 19-20 year old ECP type 2LT. An overall know-it-all with a penchant for condescension, he didn’t last long as a platoon leader nor officer in this man’s Army at that. He failed to listen to his PSG as well as other NCOs, severely lacked people skills somehow, and was god-awfully immature. He even went so far as to tell his PSG with over 25 years of military experience in the Navy and Army, at that point, that he didn’t know how to do his job. Didn’t help that he somehow got a BFA completely stuck in his rifle; please don’t ask how. Guy was an overall walking, talking cringe-fest.

Response by SSG Harry Herres made Dec 20 at 2018 8:25 AM

SSG Harry Herres — Thu, 20 Dec 2018 08:25:21 -0500

Biggest problem is not listening to those who have been there and done that. Second is thinking the gold bar is better than strips. A chain is only as strong as that gold bar, its one unit not individuals

Response by SFC Mark Caswell made May 17 at 2019 8:53 PM

SFC Mark Caswell — Fri, 17 May 2019 20:53:43 -0400

Listen to your PSG. He's been doing the job for a long time. Best thing you can do is pay attention when he says" I don't think that's a good idea, Sir"

Response by SSG Harry Herres made May 18 at 2019 12:21 AM

SSG Harry Herres — Sat, 18 May 2019 00:21:27 -0400

I have had many contracts with new LTs.butter bars wana bes whatever. I was either an sp4 then sp5. Respecfully I advised them, yes you are an officer by an act of congress. However an act of army made me a specialist in what I know and do. To be able to do your new job you must trust that I do my job. For me to trust you, you must listen to me and do what I suggest or advise. When you have been here long enough to know what is real, you may then advise me of what is best. Till then you are a danger to the lives that I am resposible for. 2LT. s Need to learn to walk before they can run. Good NCOs help them bad NCOs make bad officers.

Response by SFC Francisco Rosario made May 18 at 2019 12:59 PM

SFC Francisco Rosario — Sat, 18 May 2019 12:59:51 -0400

What ever you do, DONT argue with the BN/BDE CSM. Remember he or she works with an 0-5/0-6, this could be a very bad start to your career. I saw this happen fist hand, my PLT LDR (2nd LT) did not fare well after.

Response by SPC Roger Giffen made Dec 22 at 2019 6:22 PM

SPC Roger Giffen — Sun, 22 Dec 2019 18:22:48 -0500

Listen. Look. Learn. And NEVER assume

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2019 7:16 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 22 Dec 2019 19:16:36 -0500

Here's a challenge for some of the people making posts about 2LTs. What have you done to intigrate newly commissioned officers into your unit?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2019 7:20 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 22 Dec 2019 19:20:33 -0500

Here's a challenge to some of the people posting anti-2LT comments. What have you done to intigrate a newly commissioned officers into your unit and contribute to this officer's development?

Response by SSG Ralph Watkins made Dec 23 at 2019 10:41 AM

SSG Ralph Watkins — Mon, 23 Dec 2019 10:41:10 -0500

My one company, we got all of our platoon leaders replaced with brand new West Point types. The LT for our platoon, we like to accidentally say "boy" instead of "sir" when talking to him. One day he got mad & asked why we insisted on calling him that. Well sir, the younger member of our platoon is 6 months older than you. You are our youngest child. He grew a pair.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 23 at 2019 12:56 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Dec 2019 12:56:37 -0500

Find a warrant who will help guide you. Then, talk to their recruiter. Then, go warrant.

Response by SSG Roger Ayscue made Dec 29 at 2022 11:32 PM

SSG Roger Ayscue — Thu, 29 Dec 2022 23:32:03 -0500

I had a 2d Lt that I was the RTO for. For those that don't use the term RTO it is the poor dumb schmuck that has to carry a new 2d Lt's Radio. Today you guys use radios that are the size of a shoe box...This was a AN/PRC 77 and two spare batteries...and the Lt had two hand mikes hooked up. One for me to monitor and the other for him to hook under the chin strap of his helmet and drag me around by it. So here I was being drug about by a hand mike cord.
We were at Hohenfels Training Area, West Germany for what was then called an ARTEP later called an ExEVAL. Our platoon was to go 1 Klick WEST of our position and set up an anti-armor ambush. One Klick...1,000 meters, not that far, and we had most of the AT weapons in the battalion with us, TOW dismounts and Dragons. we moved out at 2200 and had to be ready by 0500 in a prepared position. Oh 500 came and went and we were still walking. Then the sun began to rise and we were walking into it. I quietly asked the new LT if we were going the right direction. He got mad and asked why I would doubt him. I said well sir, the mission brief said we were supposed to go WEST and we are walking INTO the sunrise which is the EAST. Plus, Sir we have been walking for 6 hours, the Platoon Sergeant has been up here 5 times to see if you are lost and I think you are. Can I help you? He got red faced mad and began to cuss me and the platoon sergeant out. He then informed me that the sun rising in the opposite direction was normal for this part of the world, I was not in North America after all. Then all hell broke loose on the radio. LTC Thomas Schwartz, who became the III Corps Commander, our Battalion Commander hit the radio waves asking where the ambush was, and our CO broke with all radio protocol and got us on the net and asked the important question, "Where the F are you?"
The Lt was in a panic and began to ping. Then I saw for the first time what the problem was. With the hand mike in his chin strap, every time that he brought the compass up to take a azimuth, the magnet in the hand mike drew the needle 180 degrees in the wrong direction. We had walked all night in the wrong direction.
He began to pull me in a manner that strung the hand mike cable out taught, the Platoon sergeant released that cable from the radio, while it was stretched out to its full length. It flew at him like a Argentinian bolo and cracked the back of his brain bucket. I sat down under a tree and looked up to see a sign that said "OP 12 A" by a gate. I pointed it out to the Platoon Sergeant who got on the A&L Freq to call the 1SG, and handed the hand mike to me, I told the 1sg where we were and when asked how I knew I said, Well I am reading a sign on a tree. I then went to the Company Command net on my radio and the LT made the Following transmission. "B6 this is 1-6 actual, break, To my front I have woods, to my right and left I have woods, to my rear I have woods, I am at an intersection, Over" The Company Commander told him to do a resection in the map to determine the location and he refused again to read the sign that I had pointed out "OP 12 A" because I was only a Specialist and what did I know? Before he had finished the Resection, the 1SG had shown up with hot coffee and Noodles soup in mermites and we got a good nap as they declared us to be casualties and pulled us out of play for 6 hours.
The moral of the story young Lieutenants is this.
1) Your NCO and Specialists are not always trying to hose you
2) Listen to advice and counsel, it might help you out,
3) If you get lots, fucking ask, They will respect a Lt that asks way more than one that is too proud to ask
4) Your Platoon Sergeant is there to train guide and help you. If he does not do that, he is wrong and not doing his job. For every Officer that does not trust his NCOs there is at least one NCO that did not do his job.

Response by SSG Roger Ayscue made Dec 29 at 2022 11:49 PM

SSG Roger Ayscue — Thu, 29 Dec 2022 23:49:03 -0500

I responded with a funny earlier.
This is advice for success.
1) Your Platoon Sergeant is supposed to train you. Let him/her know that you want to learn. Lt you are a really high paid private. The Specialist in your platoon with three years service DOES know more than you do. This should not make you afraid, it should make you hungry to learn.
2) For every officer that does not trust his/her NCOs there is an NCO that did not do his/her job...period.
3) Enlisted Soldiers WILL call you out on shit when you are wrong, OWN it. Yeah I made a mistake. Damn, shit happens.
4) Understand that in training, it is Never a Zero-defect environment. That is where the mistakes are supposed to be made... by you and your troops... AND LEARNED FROM.

Read Number Two real hard, and Share it with everyone you know. A noncommissioned Officer is supposed to be the epitome of professionalism, the core on which the Army is built and the foundation upon which the Army stands. An NCO that will can not or will not mentor and train a new Lt is a "Stripe Wearer" and disgraces all of us that claim the title of Noncommissioned Officer.