ARCOM for calling out inappropriate use in Social Media. Appropriate or not?

2014-12-27T10:42:51-05:00

1SG Katrina Moerk gets ARCOM for trolling

No this is NOT satire, it's not the Duffel Blog, it's Military.com and it is about 1SG Katrina Moerk who got an Army Commendation Medal for scolding other soldi

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 10:46 AM

2014-12-27T10:46:47-05:00

Joe's should be able to have their options, but Joe needs to fix his privacy settings.hahaha

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 10:49 AM

2014-12-27T10:49:30-05:00

oh wait, its about SHARP. I don't think that's trolling is it? its seeing something stupid and calling it out.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 11:42 AM

2014-12-27T11:42:20-05:00

I'll just say that I answered No.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 11:50 AM

2014-12-27T11:50:52-05:00

this is a slippery slope here. Award worthy, no, her job, yes. It's a weird realm that we are entering. On one hand we need our Soldiers to remain professionals at all times but are we invading their privacy by cyber stalking them? There is a fine line we as leaders are walking by trolling a Soldiers page and it is only a matter of time that someone goes to far. If a 1SG has enough time to be trolling then they aren't doing their job to the fullest. Police these kids up in your spare time but becareful not to go to far. As for the original question, I am shocked that the COL signed this award. At the root of this issue is simply an NCO doing her job. This situation deserved a coin and a handshake, but not the blatant abuse of awards and decorations.

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Dec 27 at 2014 12:17 PM

2014-12-27T12:17:12-05:00

not for chastising someone for face book. If you gotta search this hard to give somone an award then they need looked at in other areas.

Response by SFC Mark Bailey made Dec 27 at 2014 12:23 PM

2014-12-27T12:23:06-05:00

An ARCOM for any soldier should mean that they went "Above & Beyond" the expected actions scope and requirements of a soldier 1-2 pay grades above their current one.

My first ARCOM was earned by doing more than looking at the internet and sending PM's or leaving posts on other peoples Facebook pages.

My recommendation?

She did her job digitally
Award her a Digital Award that can be added to her Facebook page

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 12:28 PM

2014-12-27T12:28:50-05:00

Wow... I got an ARCOM for rebuilding the entire website for tracking casualties in A'stan. Then again, I got an AAM for taking in 150 casualties.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 12:33 PM

2014-12-27T12:33:18-05:00

No, because in two years there is payback coming.

Response by CMSgt James Nolan made Dec 27 at 2014 12:34 PM

2014-12-27T12:34:51-05:00

I can say this, because I have called out stupidity myself. NO. Congratulations for being an NCO and pointing out that some have exceeded the limits of good taste, morale and discipline. She is deserving of a pat on the back and the knowledge that she has done the right thing, which is to step up upon seeing something wrong.

The reason that this got brought out, is because she also fired off notes up channel regarding a program, which generated a Command response.

my .02

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 12:34 PM

2014-12-27T12:34:58-05:00

I dislike that they are calling what she did "Trolling" because being a troll really means pointlessly harassing someone on the internet. The example from Urban Dictionary:

Guy: "I just found the coolest ninja pencil in existence."
Troll: "I just found the dumbest thread in existence."

I don't think she should have been given an award of any kind, but I do think the situation should be publicized to generate online awareness.

That said, two things:
1) I really, really, really do not want this to become part of my job. I do not "friend" my Soldiers and I do not want to be ordered to patrol their online personas.
2) The point here is not to "shut up" objectionable speech or force it underground by having Soldiers create fake profiles, block access to their accounts, etc. It's to have a dialog. If Soldiers feel like they cannot talk about their racist, sexist, etc opinions, they will probably always hold them. Talking about them should not be taboo.

And to again clarify, this is NOT a free speech issue because they did it in uniform. That is the violation, not necessarily what they did or said. What they did or said is a point for discussion with their leadership. What they wore makes it UCMJ actionable.

Response by CPO Greg Frazho made Dec 27 at 2014 12:51 PM

2014-12-27T12:51:32-05:00

From a 3-star general, no less! Wow, I guess if you live long enough you get to see everything.

Now, given she's in intel, she SHOULD be monitoring her people's blogs for possible OPSEC violations and that kind of thing. No problem with that. That's part of her job as it is for any senior NCO.

Do either of those things, in and of themselves, warrant or constitute the level of recognition inherent in an ACM? No way.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 1:18 PM

2014-12-27T13:18:20-05:00

SFC Private RallyPoint Member. OMG!!! I am the last person to get wound up by the award of a medal intended to reward heroic conduct at the risk of one's life. Did SECDEF Hagel or LTGEN McConville even bother to review the criteria for the Army Commendation Medal ??? What the blazes does the citation for this medal say???

The next thing you know we will be awarding Bronze Stars to people who never even visited a combat zone.

Warmest Regards, Sandy

Army Regulation 600–8–22 . . . 3–18. Army Commendation Medal . . .

a. The ARCOM was established by War Department Circular 377, 18 December 1945 (amended in DA General Orders 10, 31 March 1960).

b. The ARCOM is awarded to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the Army after 6 December 1941, distinguishes himself or herself by heroism, meritorious achievement or meritorious service. Award may be made to a member of the Armed Forces of a friendly foreign nation who, after 1 June 1962, distinguishes himself or herself by an act of heroism, extraordinary achievement, or meritorious service which has been of mutual benefit to a friendly nation and the United States.

c. Awards of the ARCOM may be made for acts of valor performed under circumstances described above which are of lesser degree than required for award of the Bronze Star Medal. These acts may involve aerial flight.

d. The ARCOM may be awarded for acts of noncombatant-related heroism which does not meet the requirements for an award of the Soldier’s Medal.

Response by TSgt Jackie Jones made Dec 27 at 2014 1:46 PM

2014-12-27T13:46:15-05:00

While what she did was "right" by correcting others who were doing wrong, I'm undecided if it was worthy of that level of recognition. Maybe they can add an Internet police award? (I was chastised for years ago for receiving the Outstanding Volunteer ServiceMedal- it's a real thing and I didn't even know it existed. I was just majorly involved in the community and doing anything I could to keep busy in a positive way while serving overseas.). I think if I had received an achievement medal or commendation medal that would not be appropriate recognition. Maybe this 1SG should just have been recognized with a coin or something? http://www.ofm.wa.gov/servewa/about/movsm.pdf

Response by SSG Peter Muse made Dec 27 at 2014 2:08 PM

2014-12-27T14:08:52-05:00

Sorry.. I find the whole thing ridiculous. Her statement, to me, showed no maturity whatsoever. She told them why they were stupid (as opposed to explaining good order and discipline and the importance of image while in uniform) or telling SHARP where they were lacking (as opposed to any other option because that had nothing to do with SHARP)
As my British friends would say, "Poor form, ole man" (woman)).
I will say that it's a new day with social media but if the troops were acting up downtown, what would have been the proper response and would it have been award worthy. Sometimes we take this crap too far.
What do current members think about it???

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 2:16 PM

2014-12-27T14:16:14-05:00

SFC Private RallyPoint Member. So . . . do we give the entire Kunsan AFB Legal Team a medal for herosim now?
Warmest Regards, Sandy

Response by TSgt Kristin Parsons made Dec 27 at 2014 2:21 PM

2014-12-27T14:21:56-05:00

The exact reason that she received this award was for doing her job. In this age of technology and social media, part of a supervisor's role is to monitor social networking sites to ensure their SM are adhering to written policies. Here is an Army policy published Jan 2013, in particular the section that says: "It is your responsibility as a leader to monitor Soldiers' conduct on social media platforms."
http://www.arcent.army.mil/docs/default-document-library/social_media_handbook_version3-1.pdf?sfvrsn=2

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 2:27 PM

2014-12-27T14:27:13-05:00

Totally ridiculous.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 2:28 PM

2014-12-27T14:28:26-05:00

Correcting idiots goes with the territory. Too many would click away and punt on doing what she did.
However, in my humble opinion, the press release indicates to me that she was given an ARCOM because the Army wanted to celebrate a leader who was aggressively supporting their SHARP policy. It is propaganda. She did a good job. But an ARCOM? Please.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 2:26 PM

2014-12-27T14:26:29-05:00

Like it or not it is always up to the final approving authority. In this case he/she thought she did. Why question it? All of us who have been in for more than a minute saw people get awards for things that other did, for things we feel that they should not have received them for, had very very questionable ht/wt or apft that just seem to magically pass right before PCS, not receive the level or award that we felt that they deserved, or not receive an award at all. It does us no good to question it as we have no control over it. Get upset and then get over it if you feel that she did not deserve it. If you felt she deserves it then smile and move on as well. Just my thought.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Dec 27 at 2014 2:42 PM

2014-12-27T14:42:01-05:00

That's the dad of one of our 4-star admins (and my old SCO) who will remain nameless.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 2:56 PM

2014-12-27T14:56:19-05:00

I would say that she did so something beyond that was expected to her. I am glad she did such a thing. If they are wearing a uniform they are representing the military. They should conduct themselves in a professional manner.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 3:04 PM

2014-12-27T15:04:28-05:00

Dang it I was going to post this when I saw it on my facebook feed.

No, you are one click away from finding something on the internet to upset you. However, it was uncalled for the Soldiers to speak/message a 1SG in that manner.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 3:29 PM

2014-12-27T15:29:42-05:00

She does not deserve an ARCOM. She does not deserve an AAM or any medal. At MOST she deserves a certificate because she was just trying to do her job as a NCO. Her statement “I looked them up, introduced myself and explained to them why they were stupid." falls short of the professionalism I expect of a senior NCO. Since the NCO Creed starts with "No one is more professional than I", I believe there is a learning opportunity in this for the 1SG and also an opportunity for her to share her experiences.

Since she was so quick to let the director of the Army SHARP program know about these service members transgressions, she must have some knowledge and interest in the program. I would have her appointed as a SHARP representative for the Brigade, Battalion and Company, and I would have her prepare a presentation on 'Monitoring Social Media of your Service Members'. After her Battalion and Brigade Command Sergeants Major were satisfied with the presentation, I'd make sure she had the opportunity to present it to every unit in the Division as part of the Divisions SHARP training program, as long as it did not interfere or take away from her assigned duties.

Her move to turn them into the director of the Army SHARP program rather than an immediate supervisor or someone in their chain to deal with the problem tells me she was either to lazy to find out about their immediate supervisor or chain of command or was looking for recognition she ended up with.

The Soldier's who attacked her and who were wearing uniforms in their profile photos are evidently not only not professional but also not the sharpest tools in the shed. It would probably behoove a serving member of the armed forces to not 'put themselves out there' by using a profile picture in uniform.

Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made Dec 27 at 2014 3:49 PM

2014-12-27T15:49:14-05:00

Make on-the-spot corrections as necessary, contacting chains of command as needed....sure, that's what a 1SG should do.

Getting an ARCOM for dealing with internet trolls? Nope.

If that's the case, I should have a Bronze Star by now...

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 3:50 PM

2014-12-27T15:50:43-05:00

I'm contemplating a re-entry to service next year (gotta get in "fighting" shape) after about a 13 year break in service... PLEASE tell me this is not the kind of BS I will have to put up with!

Did the 1SG DESERVE an ARCOM? Not just "NO," but HELL NO!

Sure, what these soldiers did was wrong, but rather than make an ass of yourself and try to pull rank online, why not just report them to their respective commands and let them be appropriately counselled. More importantly, how was it that she didn't have something better to do than surf the net?

To me, she certainly wasn't doing anything "above and beyond" and she certainly is NOT deserving of such an award!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 4:11 PM

2014-12-27T16:11:06-05:00

She looks a little surprised about it herself.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 4:10 PM

2014-12-27T16:10:55-05:00

Some may disagree with me, but there are entirely too few AD senior personnel doing what should be done - calling out AD online loudmouths. There are some that believe the First Amendment allows this "open bullshit" online - any that believe that are completely and utterly WRONG. The First Amendment only covers thought and comment against the government - not bad mouthing anyone and everyone online or otherwise. If you identify yourself online as AD then you have to properly manage what you say online, just as you would in person. If you won't say something to someone in front of 200 people then you might consider not saying it online.

As for the 1SG - maybe the Army is trying to get a message out there - we need more senior NCO's to monitor and call out the bullshit online.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 4:32 PM

2014-12-27T16:32:54-05:00

Not worthy of the award, she did her job, that's it. Now, here's the devil's advocate questions, does her actions set a precedence? Does this open the door for any service member to make reports via email and send said email to the SHARP director jumping everyones chain of command? I believe she initially did the right thing by reaching out to them to do an on the spot correction, but I also think she crossed the line by using the language she chose, by meeting them equally in calling them idiots, and then by goading them into arguing back some more.

1SG Moerk didn't notify the 1SG's of the other commands; she jumped her entire chain of command and their's.(by her own admission) If a private were to jump the chain of command to the CSM, the private would've been destroyed for not following the chain of command properly. Was there a fear that the other commands would brush this under the rug? Not only is that Soldier's unit under the microscope, every unit all the way to the top is now. Some high ranking officer is probably asking their leadership "how screwed are we and how f***ed up are we". Every SHARP/UVA representative is going to called to the mat trying to find out what the hell just happened. Its already a media storm. I'll bet every service branch is squirming right now, that all it takes is some email sent to the very top, saying something is wrong in some unit in regards to SHARP. Ok perhaps it's a bit of a stretch, but could it be feasible?

SAPR really kicked in 2004 and now in 2014, and we've made significant changes in the attitudes and behaviors regarding sexual harassment/assault, it's been 10 years if using that timeline. However, SHARP is trying to correct a behavior that is so immersed itself in military culture that we're a long way changing this behavior. The behavior we need to change are the people that think this is harmless.

Response by PO2 Corey Ferretti made Dec 27 at 2014 4:43 PM

2014-12-27T16:43:52-05:00

Yes she she was doing what needed to be done because SM are trained on how to act on social media. But to be awarded a ARCOM is crazy How did she go above and beyond? This is why people think these awards are a joke and dont matter.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 4:54 PM

2014-12-27T16:54:39-05:00

Maybe I've been out too long and maybe am...ah hell I'm going to say it. Of all the 1st Sgts I know, I know they have a hell of a lot on their plate. If she has nothing more better to do than to spy on her soldiers on social media then I personally believe she needs more work to do or to get a life. I'm well aware as a federal employee what conduct I am to uphold. I have coworkers and even my boss as facebook friends but I also know not to post anything I'm going to regret. I also have them restricted to only certain posts on FB. It seems to me that they are expecting Senior NCOs to be babysitters and that frankly isn't your job. Wow, just Wow. she got an ARCOM for this? I'm doing a facepalm.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 5:00 PM

2014-12-27T17:00:39-05:00

This is a prime example of how the newer ARMY is shaping up to be. Instead of keeping things at the lowest level we escalate every situation to the highest level possible. To me this is a sign of weak Leadership.

I do believe that the 1SG was right to try and handle it through PM. I think there may have been another avenue to resolve the situation instead of ensuring higher commands got CC'd on the wrong doing. I have mentors whom I ask about handling a situation. No matter your rank you should always have mentors.

Rewarding this action only reinforces circumventing your Chain of Command and going straight to the top. I saw this tactic in TRADOC as well. TRADOC has avenue's for initial entry Soldiers to e-mail the General directly. Since that is all they know when arriving to a Unit they do not trust or have faith in the NCO Corps and ask to see the highest Command possible utilizing open door when it could have been handled at Platoon level or lower.

SHARP however is now considered a big issue because it was disregarded for so long. It is the primary focus within the Military right now. Therefore this situation is being highlighted to try and bring a more positive light on the ARMY by showing the program does work. I find it disgusting how Leaders utilized their position to get pleasure. I personally only see Soldiers.

I do have an issue with awarding someone who openly admitted to stating that an individual is "stupid." At the level of 1SG more tact is in order. Not to call the kettle black as I am still working on my tact daily. I just wonder to what level of name calling came into play during this back and forth banter.

We are in a digital age now and therefore we must be completely computer literate as well as keep up with all "Social Media." I do not consider what the 1SG did as trolling. As Leaders we are going to have to maintain order and discipline in all facets of life. Soldiers are representing the United States and the Military! It is our job as Leaders to police up wrong actions. I would not be surprised to see an MOS develop out of dealing with internet situations.

I do not constantly check but if I see something inappropriate I do message the individual if they are on or appear to be Active Duty. There again I am not friends with lower enlisted; only NCO's and Leaders with whom I worked with but are no longer stationed together. Unfortunately it is a powerful tool to stay connected.

I can see where some would get riled up over this award but it is what it is. Individuals are always going to get an award which some do not agree with. I personally do not care for awards as most are given off who you know, rank, and numbers. I would not want such fan fare for being a Leader. Of course that is me personally. I prefer to quietly Lead.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 5:02 PM

2014-12-27T17:02:59-05:00

I don't have a problem with her trying to do something when she came across an offensive video, if I had been the General I would most likely have taken a few minutes to write a nice letter thanking her for her efforts. I don't believe a medal for this is appropriate.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 5:19 PM

2014-12-27T17:19:23-05:00

She was right to call them out! Soldiers are Soldiers 24 hours a day! Act like one and do what's right in any public forrum. A public chat room is a public forum. If you want to act like a jackass in a chat room...join a private room!

As for the ARCOM, Hell NO! But I am not surprised! I have seen Soldiers receive an AAM for having with the Colonel said during a Command Inspection was, "the best room in the barracks!" Not only should the commands be embarrassed for recommending either one. However once it was decided to be awarded to her, she had no say!

I do give her a thumbs up for taking the action she took, as it did reflect an active duty Soldier acting inappropriately, infact, several soldiers from 3 different commands. SHARP is a probem in the Army (not just the Army) and zero tolerence is the only way to combat it. Some may disagree, but thats their choice!

OBTW...LTG Bromberg was my Battalion Commander during my last assignment as 1SG before coming out on the SGM Promotion list. A damn fine Battalion Commander, one of the best! I am not surprised at all that he followed up and took action as Dep. Chief of Staff for Personnel!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 5:28 PM

2014-12-27T17:28:09-05:00

I just vomit In my mouth.

I know that if i would have done the same thing I would never have got an answer from no one.

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made Dec 27 at 2014 5:29 PM

2014-12-27T17:29:40-05:00

The 1SG is doing what is expected of them. Soldiers need to realize that there could be consequences for what they write on social media forums. It is worthy of an ARCOM? No way! But we all know that awards are not always given out fairly to Soldiers...

Response by CMC Robert Young made Dec 27 at 2014 5:36 PM

2014-12-27T17:36:17-05:00

WTF??

There is no question that counseling the soldiers involved and pursuit of all other appropriate and applicable COAs is an absolute requirement for the good order and discipline of the service; however, an ARCOM for correcting poor behavior.....really?

I, along with my leadership team from a previous joint assignment, have an ARCOM. A host of my junior members have AAMs. They all worked above and beyond to get a difficult job done for all of the stakeholders in the mission. All well earned, and probably then some. It's one of my proudest accomplishments, but I have to question the value of it now if it can be awarded for correcting behavior not consistent with our core values. That's what SNCOs do. It's our job!!

Disappointing....

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 6:11 PM

2014-12-27T18:11:18-05:00

Ladies and gentlemen, this is a politically driven award. The Soldiers and former Soldiers that besieged her with aggressive unprofessional typed comments should have been put in check, but not by the HQDA Director of SHARP. That was a spiteful "oh yeah, I will make sure you get hemmed up move". She went about her correction wrong. You should always handle situations on the lowest level. Her comments in reference to the situation are unprofessional and demonstrate a serious lack of real leadership. As SNCO's we are supposed to correct deficiencies not take a personal vested interest in destroying Soldiers. By going to the highest level, she spotlighted and put on blast the entire organization for which these Soldiers belong, all without allowing the leadership an opportunity to fix the situation. In my professional opinion this SNCO wasn't deserving of an ARCOM, a COA, or a Coin. If anything, I believe she should have been counseled for not upholding the creed in reference to "Officers of my unit will have maximum time to accomplish their duties, they will not have to accomplish mine." She "CC'ed" the HQDA SHARP Director and therefore elevated this situation to a level that was unnecessary and involved a whole lot of Officers that had better things to do then to police up some unprofessional Soldiers on the internet. Our duty as NCO's is to enforce good order and discipline for Commanders, not run to them for recognition or for them to enforce the regulations for which we are supposed enforce.

Granted this is all based off of my "Monday Morning Quarterback" assessment of what has been written. There might be more to the story or it maybe distorted in the conveyance of these articles, but I stand by my assessment based on what I can see.

Finally, we all have a duty and obligation to teach, coach, and mentor our next generation and it is getting increasingly more difficult with Social Media and other forms of technology. Never pass up an opportunity to make a correction, create a professional learning point, and reinforce good order and discipline. AND FOR THE LOVE OF GOD....STOP THE POLITICALLY MOTIVATED STYLE OF LEADING! "BACKBONE!!"

Response by SSG Felix Najera made Dec 27 at 2014 7:03 PM

2014-12-27T19:03:47-05:00

An ARCOM for trolling on social media...and doing your job as a 1SG...all I can do is shake my head. Good job for her for doing what she did because thats what NCO's do, but the dog and pony show and award...smh

Response by SPC Stephanie Oanes made Dec 27 at 2014 7:39 PM

2014-12-27T19:39:29-05:00

You have soldiers who deploy who don't get ARCOMS!

Response by 1SG Cameron M. Wesson made Dec 27 at 2014 8:20 PM

2014-12-27T20:20:17-05:00

Wow... I really can't say more than that. I had soldiers (PVT to SGT) that drove gun trucks in Iraq for year and I couldn't get them a "V" for their award... and this warrants a ARCOM. No I don't agree with this award.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Dec 27 at 2014 8:48 PM

2014-12-27T20:48:30-05:00

I wish I could view the video and the comments that followed so that I could evaluate the situation more thoroughly. I am at a lost of words to why she would recieve an ARCOM for doing her job, and I suspect it was an impact award. She must have brought attention to her good deed, and someone recommened her for an award.

Response by CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 8:44 PM

2014-12-27T20:44:56-05:00

As a junior NCO, I would expect my 1SG to do this. It's part of his or her job. I've always been told that an AAM is for those going above and beyond. Rarely see the ARCOM handed out in garrison.

I would hope that no 1SG feels this is "above and beyond". This was the right thing to do. Kudos to this 1SG for her actions, but ARCOM worthy? I would hope not.

Response by John Russell made Dec 27 at 2014 9:51 PM

2014-12-27T21:51:43-05:00

If she was actually doing her job...dont think she would actually PHYSICALLY get out of her office and do on the spot corrections at the barracks or have soldiers policing up the company area or better yet..getting paper work through to the commander rather than sitting desk side with nothing to do than to through rank around in the virtual world? Going above and beyond means doing more for YOUR OWN soldiers. What a waste of ink and card stock paper.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 10:25 PM

2014-12-27T22:25:12-05:00

It's time to retire!

Response by SPC Daniel Edwards made Dec 27 at 2014 10:28 PM

2014-12-27T22:28:51-05:00

I have to say both on this. I think it is a great job that she held soldiers to a high standard on social media but I am still pissed that she got an ARCOM out of it. My battle buddy during deployment survived an RPG at point-blank-range and got just a purple heart and an hand shake. Don't get me wrong, the purple heart is a great medal to have but it always comes with a sacrifice.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 10:58 PM

2014-12-27T22:58:49-05:00

No it is not worthy of a ARCOM in my opinion. Should military personnel be aware and careful of what they post or say, absolutely. Is it wrong for a SNCO to be checking out media sites where SM post to make sure they are using proper edict or for OPSEC reasons, no. Especially if they are using a profile picture in uniform. Because your actions reflect on all of us.

The problem I have is why did you even comment in the first place if you know your action will be attacked or misunderstood. If a subject or action is that offensive or contraversial the best course of action is to walk away. There are threads/topics here on Rally Point that are just best to stay away from also. Otherwise they can and will get nasty and down right rude.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 11:24 PM

2014-12-27T23:24:06-05:00

Something I realized several hours but hadn't been able to post it yet. From the results of the survey, as of 2217 hours tonight, the vast majority believe what 1SG Moerk did was warranted especially considering her job as a senior NCO. What we don't agree with is the awarding of an ARCOM for her actions. With that said, how many are upset at her for the award? To be blunt, if you are then you are wrong because it is higher ups who are to blame for the recommendation, approval and actual awarding. Think about it. I would take a gander to say if she's a good 1SG then she's probably embarrassed by the award for such a simple action commensurate with her job. BLUF: I blame the senior commanders for the actual award.

Response by SSgt Robert Clark made Dec 27 at 2014 11:32 PM

2014-12-27T23:32:35-05:00

Based on this, I should have received at least 4 AFCOM medals for the times I had to correct subordinates, instead of the one I received for actually doing something above and beyond what was expected of me everyday. Guess medal inflation is worse than I realized. Don't even understand how this would warrant a coin, but then again I don't get the whole coin thing either.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2014 12:11 AM

2014-12-28T00:11:06-05:00

That is not worth for an award, that is disrespectful for those who actually earned an ARCOM

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Dec 28 at 2014 12:33 AM

2014-12-28T00:33:48-05:00

I went to Iraq for a year and got an ARCOM. I could have just surfed the net in the A/C I guess.

Response by SGT Chris Hill made Dec 28 at 2014 1:19 AM

2014-12-28T01:19:57-05:00

So a 1SG steps in on a social media website, pulls rank and stops some Soldiers from doing wrong, which is the same thing a civilian or pvt could do as well, and because she did that, she received an ARCOM.

If that's that considered a standard to receive an ARCOM, I'd love to see the bullets used and citation. That way my Soldiers can see why their actual army achievements that are downgraded to AAM's/COA's in comparison to this joke.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2014 2:37 AM

2014-12-28T02:37:10-05:00

Disagree because she is a Senior NCO and or just a NCO doing what is right. I have seen soldiers complete a combat deployment, day in day out missions and only receive AAM.

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Dec 28 at 2014 3:03 AM

2014-12-28T03:03:05-05:00

No..... is this a bogus question????? what will they think of next???Arcoms should be for exceptional duty in and around your MOS, not BS like this.Guess Ill be taking mine off my un iform since it just became a trash ribbon.... Look Top...I found a typo on a web page !!!!!
!!!!!! do I get an award too????? such bullshit

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2014 3:07 AM

2014-12-28T03:07:20-05:00

It's quite clear exactly what this 1SG's command is doing. They are making a positive example out of her because they want to encourage this behavior. I would hardly call it trolling when she was going through and specifically calling out active duty service members for behavior that is absolutely not kosher. Considering the backlash she's been getting on various pages and websites suggesting she fucker her way into this award, her rank, etc it's hard to not agree with both her COC and the 1SG herself that this kind of self policing's actually needed.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2014 5:21 AM

2014-12-28T05:21:55-05:00

That was definitely not ARCOM worthy. Personally, I feel that she should have that ARCOM rescinded after she trolled the writer of the blog and called him an "asshat".
(sarcasm)That's very professional of you, Top!(/sarcasm)

Response by SFC Richard Haugh made Dec 28 at 2014 9:10 AM

2014-12-28T09:10:22-05:00

As you kidding me! A pat on the back at best... what happened to doing the right thing - because its the right thing to do! My lord is the Army turning into the TSA when ever you "do your job" then a Supervisor or Lead Supervisor writes you up an "attaboy". All that is doing to the ARCOM is diluting the value of it. I personally would not even give the soldier an AAM either... If the Chain of Command is that excited what about a "Letter of Recognition". Hell - this 1SG who received that ARCOM just made me proud for getting a "Letter of Reprimand" (from my Infantry Battalion CSM) back in 1979, I think I am going to frame it now and hang it and pull down my ARCOMs...
Why didn't the 1SG jump down the throats of the Platoon Sergeant/s who are the assigned leader/s of these social media violators... So the Platoon Sergeants can go after the Squad Leaders who I am sure can jump down the throats of the social media violators... I am sure that is how the Chain of Command works or at least did work at one time.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Dec 28 at 2014 9:14 AM

2014-12-28T09:14:56-05:00

ARCOM is too high of an award. There are hundreds of thousands of people who deployed for a year or more and didn't even get an AAM.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2014 10:44 AM

2014-12-28T10:44:25-05:00

Whether on Social Media or not, inappropriate behavior is inappropriate behavior. Maybe seeing praise and reward for such actions will encourage more to follow in her footsteps.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2014 12:07 PM

2014-12-28T12:07:35-05:00

That could have been a bullet comment on her NCOER. Soldiers deploy and stand guard, patrol, security convoys and come back with an ARCOM after a years deployment.

If you are a combat arms guy this stinks, but in MI i guess this is big... In no way am i bashing the 1SG for her actions, but an ARCOM????

Response by Cpl Peter Martuneac made Dec 28 at 2014 12:41 PM

2014-12-28T12:41:11-05:00

What a joke. Grunts have to go through Hell and feel lucky to come out unscathed to get that kind of medal.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2014 12:45 PM

2014-12-28T12:45:11-05:00

Hey! Can't hate on her. I mean she got an award for something that she would give an NCO a "Success" for on their NCOER. Her chain of command hooked her up, it is what it is.

Response by SPC Erica Simonsen made Dec 28 at 2014 2:24 PM

2014-12-28T14:24:07-05:00

I commend her for saying something and other soldiers should have as well, but an ARCOM? I swear they are just giving out medals these days.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2014 4:39 PM

2014-12-28T16:39:45-05:00

She is an NCO, a Senior NCO at that. It was her job to do the right thing. While I applaud her efforts and dedication, I don't see anything in what was done that would merit any level of an award (and I review award for a living, so believe me, I've seen some really questionable awards). In fact, I once reviewed a submitted award for a Soldier because they passed a record APFT (on the 3rd try, after 9 months of failing diagnostic APFTs). I'm sorry, since when do we award people for doing their JOB to STANDARD....

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2014 5:00 PM

2014-12-28T17:00:49-05:00

This was really a dumb read.

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2014 6:37 PM

2014-12-28T18:37:25-05:00

I don't think it deserves an ARCOM, but any SM should correct any other SM out of line. I don't see soldiers getting ARCOMS that make sure their soldier gets home when they are drunk or taking time out of their day after duty hours to help another soldier out.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2014 8:14 PM

2014-12-28T20:14:10-05:00

I've been on my share of Awards Boards. We turned back every recommendation that was just for someone doing their job. Sounds like this is one of those.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2014 8:25 PM

2014-12-28T20:25:32-05:00

I would not accurately vote for either answer. I voted yes because i had to vote in order to write this response and to show my support for the soldier. I agree she was doing what a 1SGT should do to insure OPSEC and respectful image of the Army and its soldiers is maintained. Trolling-the media hyped up that word. however, from what I know, an ARCOM was probably too high an award if just awarded for just this action. Perhaps the award did encompass other things. Again, media can exaggerate things. Hard to make a fair judgement without knowing the facts. But to belittle that soldier becauses her superiors may have been too leniant with the awads, as some have done on other sites, is absolutely wrong!

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Dec 28 at 2014 9:47 PM

2014-12-28T21:47:48-05:00

SFC Private RallyPoint Member, I vote no. Totally absurd. Politics or public relations.

Response by SFC Vernon McNabb made Dec 28 at 2014 10:40 PM

2014-12-28T22:40:28-05:00

The new motto for the ARCOM? "Highly coveted, widely distributed."

While I applaud the 1SG for standing her ground, I disagree wholeheartedly with her being awarded an ARCOM. I also disagree with the fact she aggravated the situation further with her response. As we say in the Army, there is the right way, there is the wrong way, and then there is the Army way.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2014 12:46 AM

2014-12-29T00:46:20-05:00

While I commend her for doing the right thing and calling people out about an issue the fact the Army gave her an ARCOM for doing it is disgusting at best. What does it say about leadership that gives out a medal for stuff like this. If this is the case where is my medal for every time I correct a fellow service member for for doing something out of line with the regs. SAD!!!!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2014 1:02 AM

2014-12-29T01:02:43-05:00

She did her job. Should I get an ARCOM for telling a Soldier to put their cell away while doing road guard duty during PT? Ummm No! She did her job. This is political more than anything. She is an NCO and made a correction like most of us do on a daily basis. So this is another overblown award like a TOC NCO getting a BSM and NEVER seeing combat!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2014 2:53 AM

2014-12-29T02:53:28-05:00

What you say on Social Media is the same as saying it in person. If you make inappropriate comments online you should be stopped, and as a bystander, if you see that happening you have a duty to stop it.

Response by SSG Tim Everett made Dec 29 at 2014 4:16 AM

2014-12-29T04:16:41-05:00

I saw this on Facebook and the "warrior culture" friends of mine were outraged. Me personally, I served in the 74worst at Ft Meade and I'm neither surprised nor shocked. This is typical par for the course. Edit: regarding the ARCOM for something like this. So that's why I voted no.

With regards to the actions she took, absolutely call people out. However, calling John Lillyea an asshat, however deserved *I* feel that was, was unprofessional.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2014 7:44 AM

2014-12-29T07:44:26-05:00

I would also like to take a moment to point out the last word in her Facebook rebuttal to the blogger ... it's a$$hat for those who don't want to look it up. While she may have been sending a message with her response to inappropriate comments online, what type of message is she sending now?

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Dec 29 at 2014 9:14 AM

2014-12-29T09:14:39-05:00

Would this means that CPT Private RallyPoint Member should get the Legion of Merit for the amount of trolling he does on here?? ;)

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2014 10:21 AM

2014-12-29T10:21:44-05:00

As I read the article I thought for sure it was a joke or a Duffel Blog satire page. This SNCO actually went searching for people in uniform to call them out for making offensive and sexist comments. "I looked them up, introduced myself and explained to them why they were stupid," and then said "look what I did" to senior leaders and got a medal? Wow!

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2014 10:21 AM

2014-12-29T10:21:27-05:00

I've seen commendation medals handed out for stupider things than this. No surprises here.

Response by CMSgt Mark Lewis made Dec 29 at 2014 10:55 AM

2014-12-29T10:55:56-05:00

I agree that as a 1st Sgt she should ensure personnel know and follow the rules regarding social media. But is this worthy of a military decoration? I do not think so.

All NCOs and SNCOs need to be aware of DoD guidelines for professional and personal use of social media. They should also be willing uphold those standards even if that means saying something to people using social media inappropriately but that action certainly does warrant a decoration.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2014 11:14 AM

2014-12-29T11:14:00-05:00

(My comedic response) I have trolled your responses, contacted high ranking people who will contact the president and expect my legion of merit in the mail. On a serious note, she was doing the right thing. The general saw fit to award her for standing up when most wouldn't. That is a different form of bravery. We can't compare our awards to everyone else's. Some of yours may be considered less worthy. People have sacrificed their lives and received less than a bronze star. How many seniors do you know have one for deploying and never getting of the FOB. What you don't see is that those staff officers and NCOs were charged with the operations section. Their jobs were different but no less important. As far as this first sergeant, I see much on social media that bothers me. I don't engage when it is minor. It's like hearing soldiers complain about something. I could stop and yell at them and tell them that they are unloyal to the commander for not supporting his policy. But sometimes soldiers just need to gripe and complain. And we need to let them. Then engage later.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2014 2:09 PM

2014-12-29T14:09:01-05:00

nope...Nope....NOPE! Yeah, I'm done. Lets just start passing out awards like candy.

Response by MAJ Dallas D. made Dec 29 at 2014 2:21 PM

2014-12-29T14:21:33-05:00

I had to make sure I wasn't reading The Duffel Blog - Amazing, I am at a loss for words

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2014 2:54 PM

2014-12-29T14:54:16-05:00

If that was a 3-star general out of line, I doubt she would be so bold. I think her intent was legitimate but her zeal misapplied.

Response by Sgt Paul Cavnar made Dec 29 at 2014 8:08 PM

2014-12-29T20:08:17-05:00

Her actions hardly rate a medal. If the people on social media are REPRESENTING the military as some do, then they should be taken to task. However, social interaction should not cause someone in the military to be "scolded" for their opinion. To me, this iis like rewarding a 'tattle-tale' back when I was a kid. Fastest way known to anyone to become
a bully magnet....

Response by MAJ(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2014 8:42 PM

2014-12-29T20:42:51-05:00

I've seen awards given for much less. Awards are always a sore point. I believe we've cheapened awards over the years. Handing out AAMs and ARCOMs for individuals doing their job.

I believe in rewarding exceptional service and responsibility - not simply because a Soldier came to work and then moves on.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2014 12:01 AM

2014-12-30T00:01:42-05:00

Sounds like a NCOER bullet point. No more, no less. (Wait isn't that required now?)

Response by SPC Joseph F Dolloff made Dec 30 at 2014 7:46 AM

2014-12-30T07:46:04-05:00

She was doing her job, and should have gotten a letter added to her service record, and not an ARCOM. I was denied an ARCOM, after saving a fellow 18 year old soldier, who had collapsed during a PT run. Members of his unit were tripping on him, lying in the road, but no one stopped to check on him, or help him. I had been on detail, for being late to formation. I gave CPR, and rushed him to the hospital, in my Jeep, saving his life. I received a letter of appreciation, because it would not have looked good to have a soldier, reduced in rank for 15 days, to receive an ARCOM. Anyway...rambling...... There are more deserving soldiers out there, who have , or should have earned that ARCOM, and not Top!

Response by SSG V. Michelle Woods made Dec 30 at 2014 8:25 AM

2014-12-30T08:25:27-05:00

I find it absurd and disheartening that so many people on RP resent how "soft" the Army has gotten and continues to get "softer". However, a 1SG calls some obnoxious troops "stupid" and she is condemned as unprofessional by fellow NCOs. You have got to be kidding me!

Is the focus on how this article downplays soldiers' comments and attitudes about SHARP issues? No.
Is the focus on how great it is that leaders are finally supported by their chain of command? Nah.

Apparently the more important picture here is her choice of adjectives, her supposedly "trolling" social media and then receiving an award for it.

An ARCOM is entirely inappropriate for a 1SG doing her job. She shouldn't have received any award in my opinion, although good job for checking those troops. I think soldiers making light of sexual harassment and assault is unprofessional and someone holding them accountable to their actions is hardly trolling!

Your idea of "learning opportunity" for the 1SG comes across as you mocking her as well as mocking the SHARP Program. Accusing her of being too lazy or seeking recognition, really CSM Dula? How professional is that?

Thank God for the noncommissioned officers on here who are intelligent enough to know she didn't give herself an award and for those who support their fellow noncommissioned officers.

Response by SSG John M. made Dec 30 at 2014 9:32 AM

2014-12-30T09:32:57-05:00

All the 1SGs I know would have Pted the person who tried to put them in for an award for that. What's wrong with you Airborne? Elevate your feet!

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Dec 30 at 2014 9:29 AM

2014-12-30T09:29:10-05:00

Seriously, the chain of command had nothing better to do that day??

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2014 9:48 AM

2014-12-30T09:48:37-05:00

This is ridiculous. Dumb, dumb, dumb.

This will only encourage the people in her command to avoid friending her or liking the unit, and further degrade the lines of communication in her chain of command.

Let this be a lesson about making sure your privacy settings are where you want them on social media, also being aware that those privacy settings are magic bullets that somehow lock out the rest of the world.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2014 10:09 AM

2014-12-30T10:09:30-05:00

What she did was right. She did not go above and beyond in any way. We had medics run into blast zones consistently that were put in for an ARCOM with V device that were shut down for doing their job. That is above and beyond. This was her policing up soldiers which is the job of any NCO worth his or her salt. So no. She didn't deserve any award. Maybe a letter of recommendation from the lieutenant general, but not an award.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2014 10:54 AM

2014-12-30T10:54:07-05:00

I believe that 1SG Moerk was attempting to do the right thing. As NCOs, we have SHARP training constantly shoved in our faces for the purpose of combating rape and sexual harassment, and as leaders, we aren't well-equipped to deal with the often hateful and exploitative nature of social media, so we handle it differently.

Some of us turn a blind eye, citing freedom of speech. I tend do this, because it's easier, and in my mind, a Soldier's lack of professionalism and respect will catch up with them in the long run, and they will either get right or discontinue their service. That's what I tell myself, anyways.

I see that a lot of people angry that 1SG Moerk got an ARCOM for what she did. However, are they mad that she called people out, or mad that she involved SHARP, or mad that it escalated or just mad that she got an ARCOM? I seriously doubt she went seeking an award, so that has no bearing on whether her actions were right or wrong. They are two separate issues.

Response by CW5 Jim Steddum made Dec 30 at 2014 11:51 AM

2014-12-30T11:51:35-05:00

I believe leaders should monitor Social Media of their subordinates, but on the spot correction and education are appropriate in 99% of cases of public posts.

Response by SFC Stephen Hester made Dec 30 at 2014 12:58 PM

2014-12-30T12:58:38-05:00

Making an on-the-spot correction, whether online or in person, has never rated an award. I think this makes a mockery of the entire awards process (which is already a joke).

Response by PFC Kevin Adrian made Dec 30 at 2014 1:02 PM

2014-12-30T13:02:47-05:00

Gee what's next an ARCOM for policing cigarette butts? I mean really folks I don't see why you would give an award for doing this, and the other thing I did not get is why it wasn't given to their command to deal with internally. Then again when i served from 79-83 the social media was not even an issue then.

Response by SSG Jeffrey Spencer made Dec 30 at 2014 1:57 PM

2014-12-30T13:57:48-05:00

An ARCOM!??? I rescued two guys from a flipped tanker truck and my CO wouldn't put me in for anything. Guess it just depends on who is in your line of command.

Response by SSgt Nicole Biscoe made Dec 30 at 2014 2:56 PM

2014-12-30T14:56:21-05:00

No... if that's the route we're going to go and we're going to start giving out ARCOM's for someone doing their job, the medal will lose all impact completely. Maybe I should receive an ARCOM for doing a good job too. She is a 1SG and she did her job... it was definitely not deserving of an ARCOM.

Response by Sgt Jennifer Mohler made Dec 30 at 2014 2:59 PM

2014-12-30T14:59:50-05:00

Oh myyyy.... I didn't realize calling someone an asshat was award worthy. If that was the case I would have cursed up more of a storm while active duty. Ha ha ha!

Response by SFC Nikhil Kumra made Dec 30 at 2014 3:17 PM

2014-12-30T15:17:49-05:00

Equally her fault for accepting it - she should know better. This is just another disgrace.

Response by PFC Aaron Knapp made Dec 30 at 2014 3:31 PM

2014-12-30T15:31:13-05:00

I understand we need to be better about our online status on social media but an Arcom for this?? I don't think so..You answer the question with your Yes..Its her job...an Arcom is above and beyond the call of duty.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2014 4:02 PM

2014-12-30T16:02:33-05:00

I agree with a very large majority here...Not only NO...but hell f#-%& NO. If that NCO spent that much time on the clock... My first question is...how do you plan to make up that. Time back to Uncle Sam? Second....I would drag her commander and her to my office and chomp a piece of their asses off for abusing govt time.
A pat on the back... With great initiative....extremely BAD judgment!

Response by Rick Wiseman made Dec 30 at 2014 4:17 PM

2014-12-30T16:17:24-05:00

It's kind of like when the Army took away the Rangers Black Berets and gave them to everyone. By god when I was in only Paratroopers, Rangers, and SF had their berets. I got my ARCOM for saving an 8 year old choking, while I was on duty as an MP on Ft. Bragg. Basic Training is sucking hind tit from my understanding now as well. They have to give these kids their electronics while in AIT and these stress cards I keep hearing about.... Get stressed out pull your card and the DI's can't fuck with you for the day. The traditions are fading away thanks to Political Correctness. Something that has absolutely no place in the Military!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2014 4:29 PM

2014-12-30T16:29:52-05:00

It's absurd these days that we give out ARCOMS for anything. Let's say she was just doing her job, why should anyone be rewarded for doing their job? Celebrating mediocrity is, in my opinion, one of the handful of black eyes the Army is giving itself.

Response by MSgt Brian Portlock made Dec 30 at 2014 4:43 PM

2014-12-30T16:43:44-05:00

This is ridiculous!! Are you kidding me, an ARCOM for using social media to scold soldiers? What has the Army turned into? Is this equivalent to doing something meritorious in theater? I think not...

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Dec 30 at 2014 5:08 PM

2014-12-30T17:08:02-05:00

I'm sorry, but I can't contribute to the vote tally. I don't see an option that reflects my opinion.

I might have voted "Yes" but not "...because the 1SG was doing what a 1SG should do." Indeed, no soldier should receive any award for doing what they should do unless they do it in an outstandingly meritorious manner.

I might have voted "No" but I am not a commanding general. I don't have a vote in deciding who should or should not receive any award. Had I been the CG in this case, no I probably would not have made the award unless there is other information to which I am not privy.

I received two ARCOMs for meritorious achievement, one in Vietnam and the other in Hawaii, while on active duty. In both cases I managed ad hoc teams that successfully completed difficult projects, projects which others had attempted and failed. I am proud of those awards.

Given the information presented, I might feel that the cited award of an ARCOM possibly was demeaning to my awards. However, the citations accompanying my awards speak far more eloquently than the medals themselves. When the granddaughters ask what they are for, I am proud to explain. I wonder if the 1SG will be equally proud?

Response by SPC Zachary Jordan made Dec 30 at 2014 5:08 PM

2014-12-30T17:08:31-05:00

If this merits an ARCOM, are we going to start handing out AAMs to junior enlisted for keeping their nose clean on social media? Or for 'inspirational posts'? Last I checked, such decorations are reserved for something a little more significant than social media. This is a PR action for the SHARP program, I'm betting.

Response by 1SG Frank Boynton made Dec 30 at 2014 7:34 PM

2014-12-30T19:34:46-05:00

The position of 1SG must have changed description since I was one. As a 1SG, I never had the time to troll the internet (of course there was no social forums like facebook or twitter back then), even so, we were too busy with the day to day running of a company to be browsing on the internet. And a 3 star general thinks it's important enough to give her an ARCOM really? Getting a medal for browsing the internet. Must be a hell of a 1SG.

Response by SPC John Decker made Dec 30 at 2014 7:47 PM

2014-12-30T19:47:35-05:00

We all know that some of the things we see on social media sites (dare I say most of the things we see), not true or real or accurate. I myself sometimes use social media to blow off steam. My only problem with the whole thing is the uniforms worn in the profile pictures. While being proud to wear the uniform, if you're going to post things like that, perhaps they should have set up secondary profiles, so as not to give the military a "bloody nose".

Response by SPC David S. made Dec 30 at 2014 8:35 PM

2014-12-30T20:35:29-05:00

ARCOM for calling out SM's conduct? Every sarge in the Army should get one.

Response by SSG Mike Merritt made Dec 30 at 2014 10:28 PM

2014-12-30T22:28:12-05:00

Absolutely asinine!!!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2014 11:01 PM

2014-12-30T23:01:46-05:00

Nope. AAM, maybe...

Response by SMSgt Judy Hickman made Dec 30 at 2014 11:19 PM

2014-12-30T23:19:57-05:00

I'm sorry since when do we give out specific achievement medals for doing your job? She's a First Sgt, so she should correct folks when she see's them doing something wrong.

If anything she does look a little sheepish receiving the medal, but her comments in the articles isn't very flattering to a SNCO.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2014 12:53 AM

2014-12-31T00:53:21-05:00

We are continuing to devalue awards or give them to people for whatever the flavor of the day is.

Response by CPT Brian Kent, PhD made Dec 31 at 2014 8:11 AM

2014-12-31T08:11:34-05:00

Not sure how this was above and beyond the responsibility of any good NCO.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2014 9:43 AM

2014-12-31T09:43:46-05:00

Seriously? Most E-4 and below who deployed and were in actual combat got ARCOMs. Such a disgrace.

Did she go, look at what I did? Print it out? Did it really make a difference - online???

Response by SGT William Howell made Dec 31 at 2014 9:54 AM

2014-12-31T09:54:27-05:00

Hell I have got ARCOMS for less!

Response by SPC Scott Simpson made Dec 31 at 2014 10:41 AM

2014-12-31T10:41:16-05:00

Medic for a Scout PLT in Afghanistan for a year. Every single Joe in our battalion(1/503) received a AAM for their deployment. She got a ARCOM for THIS? Outrageous.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2014 11:00 AM

2014-12-31T11:00:38-05:00

I have a hard enough time pushing ARCOM's up the chain of command for real accomplishments; not for doing what a First Sergeant should be doing. I wonder if she looked at her ERB and saw a lack of awards compared to her peers when it comes to the promotion board.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2014 11:07 AM

2014-12-31T11:07:27-05:00

My guess in this particular command - if you update your Facebook account with a current bathroom selfie it might put you in the running for a MSM.

(Yes, being very sarcastic and tounge in cheek).

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2014 11:22 AM

2014-12-31T11:22:25-05:00

Soldier's are given an ARCOM for a year in combat, I cannot believe this "1SG" got an ARCOM for trolling the web

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2014 11:57 AM

2014-12-31T11:57:46-05:00

Isn't that part of doing your job?! This should not be award worthy. Instead that is what the fitness performance reports are for. She did her job but it was not above and beyond the call of duty.

Response by SSG Kenneth Lanning made Dec 31 at 2014 12:28 PM

2014-12-31T12:28:06-05:00

I could see her getting a coin and a pat on the back, but an ARCOM? She was doing what an NCO should be doing-enforcing the standards, nothing more.

Response by SGT Artiesa Woods made Dec 31 at 2014 1:59 PM

2014-12-31T13:59:38-05:00

An ARCOM is definitely not warranted in this situation. She was doing her job, nothing more, nothing less by correcting soldiers whose actions are not in keeping with the Army values and decorum expected of a US Service Member. However, in her corrections, she made comments that act as a discredit to her professionalism. In calling individuals "stupid" and "asshat", she essentially sank to their level in an attempt to do what was right, which in my mind discredits the action.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2014 2:44 PM

2014-12-31T14:44:00-05:00

I think that the 1SG's actions were wrong and unnecessary. Here intent was good. Those soldiers were out of hand and she did the right by correcting them, but the way she handled the situation I think was wrong. No need to CC the higher ups in SHARP for something that could've easily been handled at the lowest level. That just shows to junior soldiers that if they mess up, their leaders, the ones that are supposed to mentor us and we should look up to, instead of correcting us and making us better soldiers and better future leaders, they simply just ruin our careers and throw us under the bus and not bother helping us.

As for the ARCOM, pure politics. I'm sure she didn't put herself for the ARCOM.

Response by MSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2014 3:01 PM

2014-12-31T15:01:31-05:00

It burns me to see things like 1SG gets ARCOM for trolling. She (1SG Moerk) didn't get the award for trolling, she infact got the award for enforcing standards and going above and beyone to inform uniformed personel on those standards. Trolling is what the other Soldiers did after she confronted the Soldiers who were not adhering to Army Policies. 1SG Moerk did what GOOD leaders do, face adversity head on, not because she wanted an award but because it was the right thing to do. 1SG Moerk did an outstanding job and is very deserving of her award!

Response by SGT Brian Watkins made Dec 31 at 2014 4:29 PM

2014-12-31T16:29:51-05:00

An ARCOM... a friggin Commendation for playing around and browsing Youtube? Well fuck me, I didn't have to go to Iraq for my medals? One of them even got downgraded to an AAM with a citation on it for actions under fire lol. Crazy ass Army, this is just another reason all the good Soldiers get the hell out.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2014 4:29 PM

2014-12-31T16:29:58-05:00

Uh how did that online conversation go? I'm a 1SG, that comment and picture violates SHARP. What is your unit and phone number, I am calling your commander tomorrow.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2014 4:30 PM

2014-12-31T16:30:57-05:00

Where does it end? Is she going to come over and check my closet to make sure it is inspection ready. The stupid comment in this article totally discredited this article, IMO. She could of said, what you are saying online is stupid, but calling her troops stupid, well didn't justify any type of an award . I hope the 1st Sgt I know are more focused on training and morale within a unit.

Response by SPC William Clark made Dec 31 at 2014 4:31 PM

2014-12-31T16:31:08-05:00

Not worthy of an ARCOM. Nope nope.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Dec 31 at 2014 5:07 PM

2014-12-31T17:07:33-05:00

Seems about par for the course for what the Army wants soldiers to do to get an ARCOM.... ARCOMS for all!

Response by SSgt Everett Jones made Dec 31 at 2014 5:42 PM

2014-12-31T17:42:18-05:00

Yes, she was doing what she should have done and is expected of her, however, it is nowhere near worthy of a medal. I knew many people who went to help with Katrina and Ike who received Achievement medals or nothing at all, (depends on your rank in the AF if you qualify for an award), so how would what she did be considered greater than what they did?

Response by SFC Gary Comstock made Dec 31 at 2014 7:09 PM

2014-12-31T19:09:37-05:00

It makes me sick to see people get awards for doing nothing.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2014 11:21 PM

2014-12-31T23:21:11-05:00

I didn't even get an ARCOM for a 9 month deployment.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2015 3:30 AM

2015-01-01T03:30:32-05:00

I got a paper cut while OCONUS. Jeez, it hurt and burned so bad. Can I get a Purple Heart?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2015 4:45 AM

2015-01-01T04:45:53-05:00

Now I know its been said more than once and for the life of me why was this not handled at the lowest level? I know when I was in and a PSG we taught our subordinate leaders that most things can be handled at the lowest level i.e. TL then SL and then if needed the PSG/PL.

I wonder how she would feel if Soldiers of her unit started taking problems directly to the CSM/BDE CDR or even the Post level, probably wouldn't feel to happy about it. But has it been posted or can it be found somewhere what the video in question was and what the soldiers said to her that was so offensive?

And just playing devils advocate here: how did she know the soldiers in question were actually the ones making comments on social media. (As a side not if you have never done a facebook search for yourself, you should try it sometime. I found 5 accounts with photos of me..who were not me it was crazy!)

Glad I retired when I did!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2015 8:22 AM

2015-01-01T08:22:08-05:00

Although I haven't completely read through what she did, I do agree with her actions about correcting inappropriate comments on social media, however, hopefully it was done in an appropriate manner. I don't think the Army should have recognized her with an ARCOM for doing her job. It sets a new precedent for awards.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2015 10:11 AM

2015-01-01T10:11:58-05:00

As a SSG, I bet if I went over her head with an issue like this with soldiers I would have been standing in front of her desk in her office with my own 4856, not a 638.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2015 12:17 PM

2015-01-01T12:17:03-05:00

I get what the point was in awarding the ARCOM. The leadership wants to encourage other leaders extend there leadership to more than just duty hours (which has unfortunately become the norm). However, they just set a new, LOW standard for what is considered "above and beyond" for an impact award. In my opinion, what this senior NCO (who is also apart of a command team) did is nothing more than what her duty position as a 1SG or NCO calls for on a daily basis. It is not award worthy, just day-to-day business for a leader charged to uphold the Army values and enforce them in others. If I were the LTG, I maybe would have privately awarded her a coin in the presence of the CSM because she did affect change in other units with her follow through---maybe "bulletized" it on her eval. But, that would be the most! No citations for enforcing standards. That's like me getting an award for providing food, clothing, and shelter to my children---I'm suppose to do that--it's not note worthy....

Response by SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS made Jan 1 at 2015 12:48 PM

2015-01-01T12:48:24-05:00

SFC Private RallyPoint Member No award. She did what she should have done, but was seemingly unprofessional doing it. One act of unprofessionalism does not beget another especially by a 1SG.

This article makes me glad I deactivated my Facebook accounts. I don't post unprofessional comments, but I do utilize my voice when it comes to certain issues. As a retiree I have no rank, but don't need the consternation.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2015 4:17 PM

2015-01-01T16:17:05-05:00

I think the whole point of them giving her an Award and advertising it is to motivate others to stamp out SHARP incidents at the lowest level of any form. I think most of us who saw this and commented the way we did is we missed the total picture, and never thought about the 2nd, 3rd & 4th order effects of what she actually did and how that would affect the Military as a whole. It has less to do with her being a 1SG and doing only "what we are suppose to do anyway" but it has to do with what she did and the extra miles she took to get her point across.

Let's get real for a second. Most of us E8's (or whatever Rank) would have saw those comments and either ignored them and muttered something under our breath about how stupid they were and their COC needs to teach them better OR we would have posted a sly comment to them and went back and forth with them. But exactly how many of us would have went the distance and contacted each person to further explain our position and how it lined up with the Army Values? How many of us would have went the distance to teach coach and mentor in that fashion to each person who made those offensive comments? I'm going to tell you now, NOT MANY because somewhere along the way in the Army, between fighting wars and being in and out of rotations preparing to go to war, we have lost our way to not only Teach Coach and Mentor Troops but also ensure our Troops know and understand the Army Values, what they mean to us as a Fighting Force and what they should mean to each Soldier. The Army Values is part of the Army SHARP Program so if you don't understand or know them, how can you know exactly what the SHARP Program is all about??

I'm old school Army as well, and I WOULD HAVE NEVER blasted out and criticised anyone in an Army Forum or any Forum, especially someone in a position like her's, especially to someone who out-Ranked me and ESPECIALLY where others could read it! If I had choice words I think a simple email would have worked just fine. But once again, today's Troop are a lot different and won't hesitate not one second to give anyone a piece of their mind, regardless of their Rank. Therefore I believe the Army Values and Leadership has fallen by the waste side.

With all that being said, I think recognizing her is to give others an Example of "what right looks like" and we should do the right thing regardless of the work we have to put in to do it. And to also ensure the right message gets to the Soldiers. This was sorta like "corrective training". And even after she reached each Soldier, she still reported them to the Army SHARP, I say HOOHAH. Because I think she understood that this issue was bigger than just her and those folks she emailed. If those folks thought that way and they wear the Uniform then we do have a problem as a whole. Just think about all the folks they influence.

Response by SFC La Tierra De Los Ciegos made Jan 1 at 2015 4:23 PM

2015-01-01T16:23:31-05:00

Granted, she DID NOT have to contact the offending Soldier's Co CDRs and 1SGs as per SHARP doctrine, yet there is such thing as "Professional Courtesy"...

Obviously she failed to control the professional attitude of the offensive bloggers, hence started using her rank and minor offensive language to reinforce her correction (standard procedure in the Army). As things went from bad to worst, she took the time to identify the Soldiers and once again, correct them...and yet again she failed.

So, did she attempt to contact the offensive Soldiers' Chain of Command and NCO Support Channel BEFORE making the decision to contact the Army SHARP Director? If not...why?
Didn't she have faith on her fellow SNCOs, 1SGs, SGMs and CSMs? The local SHARP program?

Or were her feelings so deeply hurt (and I'm not saying this on a demeaning way as we ALL have feelings) that she decided to take this all the way to the top, knowing the SHARP Director would not let this slide due to the current climate of sexism in the service?

I'm 100% sure that once she became an NCO she appreciated been able to be the first one to handle situations before the "higher ups" got involved, which sadly, is a courtesy she did not provide to the others...and was rewarded for.

So I wonder, now that she is a 1SG, what if the roles reverse and she finds herself at the wrong end of the sword due to a fellow NCO reporting an "unruly" Soldier in her unit to her "higher ups"...will she be "upset" at that NCO? Will she point out not receiving "Professional Courtesy"?

So...did she deserved recognition for her actions correcting the Soldiers? Yes. She upheld the values. Was the recognition deserving of an ARCOM? No. She did not allow other SNCOs to "do their job" by making assumptions about the quality of their SHARP program based on "unruly" Soldiers PERSONAL comments..and no doubt her hurt personal feelings contributed.

Response by SPC Dave St.Andrew made Jan 1 at 2015 4:33 PM

2015-01-01T16:33:52-05:00

This is the most redicoulous things I have ever seen, makes me want to tear up my Impact ARCOM I got down range for what I did during a mascal. I wish she would join RP, but then again, she might report us all for hazing and get another ARCOM

Response by Cpl Bob Whitemann made Jan 2 at 2015 4:47 AM

2015-01-02T04:47:25-05:00

Compleatly undeserved, Compleatly deminishes what an award is supposed to mean.

Response by CW3 Clayton C. made Jan 2 at 2015 7:14 AM

2015-01-02T07:14:46-05:00

I agree with the principle of her argument but I disagree with her methods. Her leadership style is her own and we shouldn't try to find fault with that, as we all have our own style. A long, long time ago my first squad leader told me that you can learn something from every leader, even if it's what not to do.

Response by SFC Charles Kolker made Jan 2 at 2015 10:17 AM

2015-01-02T10:17:38-05:00

Others do it all the time. Should we also give awards for waking up on time and going to PT when you're supposed to? She's an NCO and should be doing it anyway.

Response by CPL(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2015 6:18 PM

2015-01-02T18:18:45-05:00

Did anyone see the screen shots of what she said to the soldiers in private messages? She didn't use tact or military bearing to save her life.

Response by SGT Mark Sullivan made Jan 2 at 2015 6:51 PM

2015-01-02T18:51:56-05:00

I disagree with her getting an ARCOM for doing her job, the only ARCOM I received was for filling an E-7 slot while an newly pinned E-5, and the Unit was De-activating. This award just shows there is some Politics going on in her unit. As far calling out inappropriate behavior, or slander towards the military or in a chain of command, yes, by all means do that. Every company you go into outside of the military will hold you accountable for what you say about the company, in some cases will terminate you. But, giving yourself an ARCOM for doing so, is just plain politics

Response by SFC Thomas Hrabe made Jan 3 at 2015 10:22 AM

2015-01-03T10:22:47-05:00

Awards; a touchy subject. About 99% of the awards I have received were for doing my job and moving on to a new unit. Did I deserve them? Only the person that recommended and approved the award can answer that. Me, personally I was just doing my job, no better or worse than anyone else. I think the Army has lost its way with just why we give someone an award. I will give you a true example of what I mean: A couple of Soldiers I know had helped a car crash victim escape a vehicle that they were trapped in that eventually exploded. They without regard to their safety saw another person in need of help and fast, they survived and thanks to their action no one died. What do you think they deserved? An AAM, ARCOM, MSM, LSM, or Soldiers Medal. I personally believe that a Soldiers Medal was the appropriate award for this, they saved a mans life. They were put in for a ARCOM. Make sense...not to me. It seems we are trying to give everybody the self-worth that they should already have. I do not need and I believe there are a lot of other Soldiers that believe this as well, an award does not prove who I am or state what I have done or will do. Awards do not make the person mean anything, it is the person that gives the award value. Like it or not, do not judge what others have done and what they have received for it, worry about yourself. The 1SG receiving the award did her job and she was recognized for it. The real question is why did this become so news worthy.

Response by LTC David S. Chang, ChFC®, CLU® made Jan 3 at 2015 6:14 PM

2015-01-03T18:14:20-05:00

I served 15 months in Iraq as a BN S2 and my award for that duty was an ARCOM. I also got an ARCOM for an exercise that lasted two weeks. I think we should have different levels of ARCOMs or have an additional award. The issue overall is that the standards are based on the signing authority. I have seen some give them away like candy and some that are very conservative in doing so. Maybe having a few more that are restricted in how they are awarded may help.

Response by Cpl Anthony Pearson made Jan 6 at 2015 12:26 PM

2015-01-06T12:26:49-05:00

I think no.

Awarding a medal seems a bit much to me. I'm a Marine, and while we have a lot of possible awards/medals/ribbons we can earn, it certainly seems to take much MORE to earn them than this.

I'm not busting on the Army here, I have respect for all of our men and women in uniform, but my understanding is that the Army does have a LOT of medals that are given out, such as throwing a grenade in boot camp. If that is the case, perhaps the mentality is to give awards more liberally in the Army to help boost morale and encourage that behavior.

Anyway, just my thoughts.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2015 11:30 PM

2015-01-07T23:30:25-05:00

I got an AAM a combat deployment. Makes me sick.

Response by 1SG Steven Stankovich made Jan 9 at 2015 5:24 PM

2015-01-09T17:24:45-05:00

SMA supports the actions from the 1SG. I do also. Was it "ARCOM" worthy? Personally I don't think so. Was it the right thing to do to engage those Soldiers? Absolutely.

http://www.armytimes.com/story/military/careers/army/enlisted/2015/01/09/sma-chandler-defends-moerk/21464883/

SMA defends 1SGT's actions that earned her an ARCOM

Sergeant Major of the Army Ray Chandler stepped up to defend an NCO's online on-the-spot correction of soldiers, who berated her online.

Response by SGT Stephen George made Jan 11 at 2015 2:34 PM

2015-01-11T14:34:51-05:00

I wish there was an I'm not sure option.

Response by SSgt Benny Spiller made Jan 12 at 2015 7:16 PM

2015-01-12T19:16:31-05:00

It is an abuse of senior leadership that has plagued the military for years, after retiring from the Marine Corps and seeing first hand a Navy Corpsman putting the life of other before himself and to hear a Colonel say that no enlisted can act braver than the officer in charge of the operation then see the officer put in for a silver star and the navy corpsman put in for a navy commendation I have no problem believing that a senior officer would sign off on a award for a senior enlisted do troll the internet during work hours just to find ways to keep the lower enlisted in lined.

Response by CW5 Jim Steddum made Jan 18 at 2015 10:44 AM

2015-01-18T10:44:48-05:00

Put it on your evaluation... lol.

http://www.duffelblog.com/2015/01/ncoer-facebook-bullet/

Updated Army Evaluation Now Includes Mandatory 'Facebook Presence' Requirement

THE PENTAGON — Sgt. Maj. of the Army Ray Chandler announced this week that senior enlisted personnel would be rated on their ability to police online social media activity, in what many are nicknaming the “Facebook bullet” on the non-commissioned officer report (NCOER). According to senior defense officials, raters would evaluate exactly how many hours …

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 23 at 2015 3:10 PM

2015-01-23T15:10:12-05:00

Wow, 86% nice. Check out on Facebook Dysfunctional Veterans, those guys are funny as all get out (IMO) and love trolling ol 1SG Moerk.

Response by CPL Don East made Jan 23 at 2015 3:48 PM

2015-01-23T15:48:00-05:00

This is a huge Joke. This kind of stupid stuff went on back when I was in. I knew I had to get out when Cooks passing out MREs received a BS for it. I am not surprised by this in anyway. I would have been in deep if this clown had "searched me out".

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 3 at 2015 10:15 PM

2015-03-03T22:15:55-05:00

Ohh goodness…. there is going to be a lot of ARCOMs handed out around here then…lol

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 3 at 2015 10:45 PM

2015-03-03T22:45:13-05:00

I know many Soldiers who do much more and greater and get Nothing! This is a joke!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2015 6:21 PM

2015-04-13T18:21:20-04:00

Well, she still sucks!

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Apr 22 at 2015 1:37 PM

2015-04-22T13:37:57-04:00

I think awarding an ARCOM for this is a little over-the-top. I would probably have recognized her with a Letter of Commendation or something, but not a military decoration.

I applaud the fact that she took action to correct and report something she saw as detrimental to good order and discipline, but, honestly, that is expected of all NCOs. Is it worthy of an ARCOM? Not in my opinion.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 1 at 2015 8:03 PM

2015-06-01T20:03:24-04:00

Just an ARCOM? Come on, that's at least MSM worthy.

Response by CPL Zachariah Chitwood made Jun 4 at 2015 4:35 PM

2015-06-04T16:35:14-04:00

No. Maybe a pat on the back? But an ARCOM? What has happened to the Army?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2015 1:22 PM

2015-06-11T13:22:20-04:00

People are still talking about this with no mention of the "stupid" soldiers that she was trying to correct. How about instead of judging this leaders actions we make sure our soldiers understand that they are accountable for their actions 24/7 365?! I'm sure glad everyone knows what they would've done to "correct" the 1SG here in this situation. Yet and still no mention of a plan to correct the soldiers who comments caused the 1SG to do what she did.

Response by TSgt David Holman made Jun 11 at 2015 1:27 PM

2015-06-11T13:27:41-04:00

At most a pat on the back... maybe a coin. You don't get medals for "doing what is expected". That is part of how the Air Force evaluation system got so over inflated. Where is my AFCOMM for showing up early the last week to get us caught up on work? Where is my AAM for telling a troop it is inappropriate to address an NCO as "sarge".... by gosh, where is my AFMSM for being such a great influence on Rally Point....

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2015 12:20 PM

2015-06-19T12:20:40-04:00

Definitely not especially since she basically blasted it out to the top Os in those chains. Like fly swatting with a 12 gauge.

Response by SSG John Erny made Jun 19 at 2015 12:32 PM

2015-06-19T12:32:30-04:00

She did the right thing by doing an on the spot correction, her choice of words to address the issue are questionable, but she was fully justified in her actions. I doubt that she expected an ARCOM for what she did. I think in this case the "Brass" used the ARCOM to put the spotlight on bad behavior online.

I would hate to be the Joe's who got called out! "Stuff" rolls down hill and that crap HEAT round was fired off by a General officer! By the time it got to the company level it would be like a freight train load of you are screwed dude and in deep.......

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2016 10:00 PM

2016-04-06T22:00:29-04:00

This is a joke and makes me sick, I along with my crews have gone into hot LZ's to rescue wounded men and women on the ground, we have done msns outside of our scope of responsibility to help the wounded,and have had other agencies take credit for what we have done. For the most part I have excepted the denial for recognition and/or clarification. But when I see this it makes me sick, not that this Solder was recognized for what she did but for the level at which she received the award.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2016 10:06 PM

2016-04-06T22:06:31-04:00

This is a joke and makes me sick. I along with my crews have gone into hot LZ's to rescue wounded men and women on the ground. we have done msns outside of our scope of responsibility to help the wounded and have had other agencies even take credit for what we have done. For the most part I have excepted the denial for recognition and/or clarification, but when I see this it makes me sick. Not that this Solder was recognized for what she did but for the level at which she received the award.