Posted on Apr 1, 2021
As a Battalion Commander, what are/were your expectations of your XO?
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I've been selected to serve as a Battalion XO for my next assignment. Besides the counseling I will receive from my BN CDR in the next 90 days, what are some expectations, skills, and characteristics of a good Battalion XO? All feedback is welcome.
Posted in these groups: 
Battalion Commander
Executive Officer
Battalion Commander Executive Officer
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 2
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I just finished a mobilization as a Battalion XO. Although it was very small compared to an average battalion, it still remained a challenge. My thoughts are below...
1. Maintain individual requirements (e.g PT, uniform appearance, etc.)
2. Ensure unit staff are properly dealing with respective issues quickly
3. Preemptively talk to CSM on any issues involving discipline that require CDR attention
4. Be prepared to serve in BN CDR place on short notice if unexpected situation arises
5. Ensure good information flow to BDE XO above and any CO XO below
1. Maintain individual requirements (e.g PT, uniform appearance, etc.)
2. Ensure unit staff are properly dealing with respective issues quickly
3. Preemptively talk to CSM on any issues involving discipline that require CDR attention
4. Be prepared to serve in BN CDR place on short notice if unexpected situation arises
5. Ensure good information flow to BDE XO above and any CO XO below
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MAJ Matthew Arnold
I was a battalion XO. I agree with what Eugene wrote. In addition I'd like to include that the XO's job is to keep the "ship" running smoothly. It's generic and maybe cliche, but it is the essence of being an XO.
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COL (Join to see)
Agree wholeheartedly with LTC Eugene Chu. I’ll add keep pulse on your team via your CSM and NCOIC. Make sure you partner with them for collective success not just for your OER. Hunt out problems and be responsive to creating solutions. Never sweep under the rug. Always be ethical.
(Ex BN CDR and maybe future BDE CDR if I can’t get out of it when I return from my mob)
(Ex BN CDR and maybe future BDE CDR if I can’t get out of it when I return from my mob)
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LtCol Robert Quinter
In addition with all of the above, use your experience to determine where the "holes" are in the CO's emphasis/interests. I know COs are omnipotent, but that omnipotence often comes from having an XO who "sweats the small stuff".
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COL (Join to see)
I must admit, I had a superb XO, he ran the staff like a well oiled machine. I made my intent very clear and my command philosphy. This in turn let the XO off the leash to mind the staff and conduct appropriate MDMP. As stated an XO should be linking up with company command specifically the XO's of those commands. If I was not on ground, the XO and CSM drives on. IMHO, I would always want to kick my XO out of the TOC to circulate the AO and get face to face time with the companies. Just some food for thought.
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Meet with the company commanders as a group. Aside from the usual “meet and greet” small talk, convey that you understand their direct line to the BN Commander, but that you should be kept in the loop where appropriate as you will on occasion, be the acting BN Commander. Interface sooner rather than later with the other units you will interface with throughout the year. Find out early if you’re expected to play the liaison role for the BN, and make the necessary contacts early on.
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