As a Battalion Commander, what would you like to see in a Lieutenant's introduction letter? As an LT, what did you put in yours?

Is this a thing now? What an unmitigated waste of effort! It's not like the BN CO is deciding whether or not to hire the 2LT. He doesn't need a resume -- he already knows your qualifications, and knows what he expects. He'll tell you what he expects if you're lucky, and if you're not lucky, you'll find out if you fall sort of expectations. Work with your company CO. He'll have far more influence over your career, and will spot problem areas in sufficient time to fix them.

As a new 2LT when I reached my first unit -- the Battalion Commander's letter that I received clearly laid out what he saw as the top 3 expectations that he had for all LTs in his battalion. Laid it out clear and simple -- "This is what I expect of you -- these are the high standards that I expect you to meet in my battalion." I liked this approach a lot.

How about, Sir, I'm a new lieutenant and I don't know shit and therefore I must be trained accordingly by my platoon sergeant. If prior service or prior enlisted, then a bio would suffice. Just throwing that out there

I don’t think that I’ve ever seen one of these. Honestly, a letter isn’t going to mean much. First impressions are important. However, most people want those in person, not in writing. Make an acceptable in person first impression by being professional and humble. Then consistently learn and get better. That will be your key to success.

The last time I praised a 2 LT, who just happened to be a great CO, I endured a huge personal attack. So much so that I nearly launched a search for the person. It took 3 of my lawyer friends to point out the folly of destroying the fellow. So, good luck getting a truely candid answer.

LTC Jason Mackay should have a good answer on this one.

A new Marine was recognized and introduced at a Hail & Farewell with their peers. The rest is above my pay grade. Some BN Cmdrs would have a private talk with key leaders. Some wanted to meet every new Officer. One CG, a Navy Cross recipient, met with newly joined Os in a small group to welcome them aboard. The same practice applied to SNCOs and the Sgt Maj. Beyond that, you were pictured in the BN Command photo. Your true introduction came through your actions once aboard.

Wow, the army has really changed. We didn't give the battalion commander a letter back in 1981. In fact, when I reported to my BN CO at 1/508 Inf. 82nd Abn. my battalion commander gave me about 1 minute of his time and then had my CO take me out of his office, pronto. You're just another green butter bar on OJT and he'll find out in a few months if he wants to give you a company command or not. Do your best and keep your nose clean, that's your introduction letter.

I did not give a letter (no such thing at the time and why would you? The man has access to your personnel file?) I had had cards made, so I asked the S1 if he had a silver plate, which he did, and placed a card upon it for him to take into the BN CDR's office when he had time. A time honored tradition; a new Officer would actually appear in dress uniform at the Commander's home and place his card on a Silver slaver, where upon he may or may not be invited in for coffee or tea (usually not.) A long time ago, nowadays, I'm afraid. And definitely NOT a good idea to show up to anyone's home nowadays! Especially your BN/BDE Commander's!

Attach a cover letter to your standard military bio with some or all of the following content.
Introduction:
Background: Brief summary of your personal background...
Attitudes: I am dedicated...
Abilities/Strengths: I am especially proficient...
Anticipation: I am looking forward to...
Expectations for Personal Growth: Briefly describe what you expect to gain from this assignment
Introduce spouse and children if applicable.
Sign off with personal statement regarding your commitment and service.

I believe something along these lines would make a good first impression with you new commanders and will create the impression of good initiative on your part.
Best wishes for an excellent career...

P.S. I remember that I wrote something but it's been so long ago I have no recollection of what I wrote to my company commander.