Bad leaders for not checking Soldiers FB daily?

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 23:56:36 -0400

So during my last NCOPD the topic was social media. During this briefing we were told that if your not on your Soldiers. Facebook checking it daily then you are failing at a leader. I stated why do I need to check their Facebook if I interact with them daily to keep up with what is going on with them. I could understand if the Soldier had a history of social media abuse. I could also understand a peak here and there but really we are bad leaders for not looking at Soldiers FB everyday. What do you think?

Response by SPC David S. made Oct 9 at 2014 12:15 AM

SPC David S. — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 00:15:51 -0400

Not so sure about that SFC Private RallyPoint Member. I always looked at SNCO's job as making me a better soldier. How that translate to Facebook I'm finding it hard to connect the dots. If its OPSEC that's a whole other story. Did they state the reasoning behind their claim?

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2014 12:47 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 00:47:57 -0400

It's hard to check their pages if they it's set to friends only and I refuse to be friends with my soldiers. After we part ways yes, should we serve together again I kick them. But I'm not spy and I'm not going to spy in my soldiers facebook pages.....unless there is some reason I feel I need to.

That said I might and have looked a soldier up on FB if they are in bound and I've not spoken to them yet. I've used it to get a sense of the person, what their hobbies are or family situation is, after that I'm not looking again. Look once if you want but don't go crazy

Response by COL Randall C. made Oct 9 at 2014 1:24 AM

COL Randall C. — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 01:24:10 -0400

SFC Private RallyPoint Member, daily is a bit too much. I have a feeling that (I assume) the NCO leadership that conducted the NCOPD put their own spin on guidance put out by the Army.

The Army's policy when it comes to social media is that it is a leader's responsibility to monitor Soldiers' conduct online just as it is your responsibility to monitor a soldiers conduct offline. However, there is no requirement, or even encouragement, for 'daily monitoring'.

If you were to draw the parallel between online and offline behavior, consider that it is your responsibility to ensure that your Soldiers are adhering to EO/EEO tenants when interacting with others. Does this mean that you're going to eavesdrop on every conversation? Not at all. You may listen in occasionally, and if you get any indication that PFC Snuffy is is no-go, then you would look into the matter further. Same thing for Snuffy's online performance.

Just as you would give a task to a Soldier to accomplish and how you would keep tabs on the Soldier in the performance of the task, so to with online social media. Make sure your Soldier understand the standards for the accomplishment of the task, then spot check that performance and keep your eyes/ears open for indications that the standards are not being met.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2014 1:21 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 13:21:12 -0400

I think that they're trying to grasp the excellent idea of "Know your people and what's going on with them." Nonetheless, using Facebook (or RallyPoint, for that matter) to do that is a terrible idea. Why? First, because some people (including ones I know) throw nonsense out on social media just to get a reaction from their friends - reading that stuff will give you a false idea of what's going on with your people. Second, I find that social media can be a good way to find out whether people are interesting, but it's not a good way to actually get to know them.

In the Navy, we talk about deck plate leadership - as Chiefs (and Senior and Master Chiefs) we're expected to know our people - their strengths and weaknesses, hopes and dreams, etc... We're also expected to know what's going on with them - are they happy in the Navy? Having girlfriend/boyfriend/husband/wife/other family problems? Are the edging into PTSD or other stress related issues? Where are they in their education? What do they do with their free time? You get the idea.

All that stuff you get by interacting with your people - not fraternizing, but getting out and around during the workday. We maintain that a Chief who's in his or her office most the day on a regular basis is "doing it wrong." We call it deck plate leadership because that's where you do the leading - outside your office, where your people work. Being called an email Chief is an insult and I'm sure that we'll be adding Facebook Chief to that category soon (if we haven't already, it could be that I just haven't heard it).

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2014 1:25 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 13:25:56 -0400

If the first line supervisors are really interacting with the Soldier, there is not a need to visit their Facebook page. You should be able to read your Soldiers like a book.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2014 3:30 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 15:30:32 -0400

*Sigh* Now I need to go and see how many of my leadership I can find on FB and block them.

I have trouble understating how massively moronic it is to be stalking your troops on FB. Besides being invasive and exposing your own social media, (Are we all proud of what comes across our FB?)we are also crowding the troop. Even my dog has a safe place to go where I don't correct his behavior.

I think this is a symptom of the 'Zero Defect' army. Worried that private snuffy is ging to post something stupid or do something stupid. Of course he is that is why we call them Privates because they do stupid things.

On a separate note when a brand new 2LT showed up at our unit her PSG showed her everything he could learn about her online. Nothing embarrassing, or illegal but although I am less than interested in my troops FB page I know that they will snoop mine. As leaders we need to be aware of that.

*Sigh* now I need to block my troops accounts...

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2014 5:08 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 17:08:30 -0400

I think so many people rely to heavily on social media when they should be focusing on their real world relationships.

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Oct 9 at 2014 5:14 PM

SGM Matthew Quick — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 17:14:44 -0400

Checking a Soldier's social media daily seems to be micro-managing.

Educate them on proper use and trust (but verify, by spot checking) they're doing the right thing.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2014 5:19 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 17:19:28 -0400

Should leaders and subordinates even be friends on social media? It only causes problems at our unit.

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Oct 9 at 2014 5:54 PM

TSgt Joshua Copeland — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 17:54:36 -0400

Social media stalking is always a bad idea.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Oct 9 at 2014 6:29 PM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 18:29:43 -0400

FB is a personal communication tool and no leader should be "expected" to look at it, at any interval

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2014 6:47 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 18:47:29 -0400

I don't think any leader should check their Soldier's Social Media accounts. What we should be doing is checking on our Soldiers.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2014 8:39 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 20:39:28 -0400

Interesting, if my supervisor was cheeking my FB everyday, I would perceive that he/she is stalking me. Just saying...

Response by CMSgt James Nolan made Oct 9 at 2014 8:54 PM

CMSgt James Nolan — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 20:54:17 -0400

The only time that I go out and look at the troops social media with the intention of examining it, is if I am advised of something stupid. I think it is unreasonable to expect a supervisor to monitor daily the status on FB of the troops.

Follows the old adage: The probability of someone watching you is directly proportional to the stupidity of your actions.

Sadly, I get advised of stupidity fairly regularly, which then leads to interesting conversations....

I try and and stay out of their social media, but sometimes that just ain't in the cards.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2014 10:18 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 22:18:03 -0400

Matter of fact is that if we aren't checking subordinates FBs then there just might be a chance for OPSEC to be broken. I would be highly infuriated if I found out one of my battle buddies died in combat or even with all this ISIS/ISIL BS going around, put in jeopardy. Look fellow service members, if we aren't practicing OPSEC, we aren't doing our jobs as protectors of the people of the US, each other, or our equipment. Why do you think we do annual CA training? Another thing is we might just learn things about our soldiers on BTA's or AD. You might just end up saving a soldier's life if they are "Psychologically Unstable" I would highly recommend that all leaders have at a minimum of their sections or subordinates' FBs. I am all for privacy, however if it becomes a threat I want to know about it.

Response by PO3 Shaun Taylor made Oct 10 at 2014 4:11 AM

PO3 Shaun Taylor — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 04:11:17 -0400

Next they'll be tapping your cell phones.....in the name of OPSEC.

Response by SSG Steven Borders made Oct 10 at 2014 7:36 AM

SSG Steven Borders — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 07:36:23 -0400

That seems a little much to me. I can understand if they add you to their Facebook page. But really? There is no requirement that any soldiers add their NCO's to their Facebook/Instagram/Pintrest/Linkdin etc account. So, I don't know how affective that kind of reasoning is going to be.

All and all, I think this is a horrible idea and can only lead to pushing away soldiers. Just my thoughts.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2014 7:53 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 07:53:04 -0400

Having to check on a soldiers FB page seems like micro managing and snooping like a parent with their kids. I agree maybe an occasional look just to see what's up if you missed anything. The only real reason a leader should have to check their soldiers FB page is if they have abused social media and been on it during duty hours instead of training, or have made anti government remarks.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2014 9:57 AM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 09:57:36 -0400

We can talk OPSEC and a million other reasons but I agree with others - if you are doing your job there is no reason to check their facebook. I have learned that when you have too much involvement in a Soldier's life they tend to see their leaders as overbearing and compare us to their mom and dad.

You can still interact with your Soldiers and stay up to date with their lives and if done correctly you would never have to go online and check anything.

Some leaders out there put out bad information with good intentions. Continue to be a leader, be approachable and interact with them daily. As long as you do that you are doing everything right.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2014 10:58 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 10:58:58 -0400

I would remind soldiers "If I can read it on line it's the same as saying it in front of formation".

Set your security strong and don't friend people you don't know or you don't want reading your stuff.

---
If I were joe, I would NOT friend my leadership. Hell, I don't "friend" my leaders now.

Response by SGT Christopher Camacho made Oct 10 at 2014 11:01 AM

SGT Christopher Camacho — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 11:01:52 -0400

The fact that this was discussed during an NCOPD is laughable and an indicator of the lack of priorities for whoever thought this was a good idea. The person responsible for this thought process sounds like they would be the same 'leader' to turn around and ask why an NCO has an 'unprofessional relationship' with a subordinate because they're interacting on Facebook.

In my professional work I've used social media for good. I believe in the power of SM to bring about a change for good. In my professional opinion, this is not one of those instances.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Oct 10 at 2014 11:18 AM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 11:18:27 -0400

I concur. I am your LPO not your Mother. Your personal life is just that as long as it doesn't interfere with the Mission. Hopefully I and the rest of the command have done an adequate job of briefing you about the UCMJ and Military Law, Duty and Responsibility.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2014 12:38 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 12:38:16 -0400

Are you failing as a leader by not checking FB, my answer is no, and you should not be required to. And I know some had said that you have no business looking. But, and I might get some flack for this, your first responsibility is to those that you have been entrusted with. And if you believe an individual may be heading for an error in judgement then you should use all means possible to prevent it. Including looking at a FaceBook page if necessary. They may not like it, others may not like it but as leaders we MUST guide these kids down the proper path. You are not in the position to be their friend, father or mother but their mentor. They may not appreciate it now but in the end they will.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2014 1:18 PM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 13:18:20 -0400

Not even a topic for discussion since it is a clear violation of that soldier's right. Now, where there is probable cause, I can understand but I think that if leaders converse with their soldiers on a daily basis, they would know what n when something go wrong-isn't that the reason also behind family integration mettings/social functions? If a leadership is trusted, information rather comes to them through the soldier in question, friends or family members. Gain ur soldier's trust n the job will be lot easier.

Response by Sgt Jennifer Mohler made Oct 10 at 2014 1:35 PM

Sgt Jennifer Mohler — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 13:35:04 -0400

I would block anyone who checks my Facebook daily unless we are close friends. That is called stalking and can get you in legal trouble. If you can't lead without relying on (daily) FB, there is an issue with you as a leader. Now I am not against checking their accounts periodically, but you should have the rapport with them to pretty much know the substantial stuff they post anyways (not cat vids or whatever).

*edit* And if the profile is private, don't push your luck by doing any shady shit.

Response by MSgt Kip Holscher made Oct 10 at 2014 1:50 PM

MSgt Kip Holscher — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 13:50:39 -0400

Is it Army policy then that everyone must establish and maintain a Facebook account a Twitter account, Instagram, Pinterest etc, etc, etc?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2014 2:38 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 14:38:53 -0400

There is also a mental health dynamic here. Back in the day before the interwebs soldiers could go out on the town and get blasted or sneak off behind the barracks in order to get some relief from their bosses. What the NCODP was suggesting was to remove that privacy. Because our social media is so tied in to our lives if your boss is checking your page then you have no other life.

My dog has a place where he can go and no one tells him what to do, because even border collies need their own space.

As I write this I am thinking of the two of the three suicide risks I dealt with while deployed. I am seeing that soldier and remembering they complained the supervisor was up their ass. (I had to tell one supervisor that if he knocked on my CHU one more time at 2am we were both going to the 1SG) Everybody needs some space. A chance to get perspective, maybe chat with friends.

Any actual mental health professionals out there who want to chime in on this? I it is anecdotal both cases when the troop got some space they got better, but the sample size is too small.

Take a poll of your enlisted, how do they feel about this?

Response by MSG Wade Huffman made Oct 10 at 2014 2:45 PM

MSG Wade Huffman — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 14:45:06 -0400

Nonsense. Period. A good leader should, however, check RallyPoint daily (at a minimum) ! :-)

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2014 2:49 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 14:49:26 -0400

I had a NCO who would stalk my Facebook everyday. There is one thing of checking up on them making sure they are not doing anything stupid and another of stalking.

When you have nothing better to do besides check your Soldiers Facebook everyday then you in my opinion need better things to do instead of obsessing to see if they are doing anything wrong.

Response by SGT Suraj Dave made Oct 10 at 2014 6:47 PM

SGT Suraj Dave — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 18:47:09 -0400

Though I don't really ever post anything on facebook that could be seen as "negative" i still appreciate my privacy. From PFC to SGT, I would seek out my superiors on facebook and block them immediately. I only accepted friend requests from people in the unit whom I actually was friends with, and not people within my unit whom I don't interact with. Never had social media issues.

And when I get a new soldier, I tell him to up his privacy setting (so "public" cant see anything), and to find and block me on facebook, because if I see something wrong, I will do something about it. They usually take the hint and block all the NCO's, which is an incredibly smart thing for them to do.

We already govern most of what they do all day, and where they live, and how they live. Do we really need to govern their interactions with their hometown friends and families on line if they have not given us a reason to check up on their online conduct?

Response by SSG Ronald Rollins made Oct 10 at 2014 6:57 PM

SSG Ronald Rollins — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 18:57:20 -0400

When I was active duty, we were told to check our soldiers FB and other stuff online. I told my Platoon SGT that I refuse to go online and check any of my soldiers. I did not have a FB account and was not going to make one just to check on them. I felt if I interacted with my soldiers and talked to them and checked on them it would be better than stalking them online and TRYING to find something to get them in trouble with. It does not make sense to do that. But that is what the new leaders in the new army want us to do. That is one of the reasons I decided to call it a day and retire.

Response by LCpl Karen Lowes made Oct 10 at 2014 8:14 PM

LCpl Karen Lowes — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 20:14:04 -0400

Checking it daily is going overboard, especially referring to being a bad leader. But the younger generations are using social media websites constantly. For a large percentage it is a daily/hourly activity. Also, we know that from previously recorded events, individuals who committed crimes, made mention prior to the event on their social media page (Facebook, Twitter, etc..). Having older nieces and nephews in their 20's, and two teenage boys, it would be naïve of me not to use this to my advantage. The same goes for people who are in charge over others, military or not.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2014 10:06 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 22:06:01 -0400

Looking at soldiers Facebook account daily seems like a slight invasion of privacy, unless that soldier is suspected of something that may warrant it. I know that we need to be involved in soldiers lives to help steer them in the right direction, but we can influence our soldiers a lot of other ways than going to that extreme. I do not even agree with supervisors having their soldier(s) as friends on Facebook, because that to me crosses the line of being their supervisor and not their friend. Now with the homes on post being owned by a private company contracted by the military, you can not enter the home of a soldier unless you are invited in. Doing the good old "Heath and Welfare Check" is a thing of the past, unless you have a valid reason to show that that the soldier is posing a risk to themselves or their family.

Response by SGT Suraj Dave made Oct 10 at 2014 10:35 PM

SGT Suraj Dave — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 22:35:13 -0400

This is what really frightens me...... if you were curious about your soldier on a 3 day weekend, what would you do? Text them? Maybe Call them right? You wouldnt right off the bat start driving by their homes trying to see what they are doing would you? I sure hope not, because that is weird. If another soldier reports some kind of risk factor or illegal activity, or a soldier hasnt been showing up for formation, are situations where its warranted to hang out around their home..... because they have given you a reason to go there.

If the soldier hasn't given you a reason to, why are you going to intrude on his outside life? Why dont we make it a part of the initial counseling, let them know it can be checked if it is accessible. Let the soldier know there is no pressure to add anyone from the unit they don't want to, there is no repercussions for blocking, unfriending,or ignoring anyone in the unit.

By doing that, you are preventing it from ever happening. You are telling them they will be checked, and are telling them how they can keep themselves out of trouble.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2014 10:43 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 22:43:14 -0400

I refuse to have anybody I work with or any Soldier's I may have (it includes anybody in my chain of command) on my FB. Why? It sets a precedent that "hey we are friends and now I can see what you do and don't do when you're not at work." "hey let's hang out." When I (or them) leave a duty station I then will accept them on FB.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2014 10:54 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 22:54:32 -0400

Feel free to check my profile. You'll see a picture and approximately nothing else.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2014 11:22 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 23:22:39 -0400

I've read through about 50% of the comments and replies to this question and think I have a general handle on the arguments both for and against this question.

To be frank, it doesn't matter one little bit on which side of this discussion you fall, because FB has already answered this question for you.

The internet didn't even exist when I was serving, but if I were in today and was concerned about my chain of command monitoring / stalking / checking up on me, then I would simply take advantage of a simple security feature of FB:

I would create a group and place every person in my chain of command in that group. Every time I posted ANYTHING, I would simply edit who could see that post to include everyone EXCEPT that group.

Everyone else would see it. My chain of command would never even know that they had been excluded. They would see a filtered version of my FB postings, and never be the wiser for it.

No matter where you stand on this issue, it's moot. FB has given the power to the user to prevent it.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2014 1:04 AM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 01:04:18 -0400

I am going to throw out the bull shit flag. If there was a problem that is one thing, but there is no reason to micromanage your troops. Hell lets go through their call history and text messages while we are at it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2014 3:46 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 03:46:17 -0400

To me this seems not only to be micromanaging, but also a waste of a leaders time. Time better spent training soldiers, making sure packets are in order, or spending time with family. And the only time you would have to do these checks would be on your own time, because regardless of the reason, if my NCO was in the office for hours every day just checking facebook, I'd definitely have an issue with that. Some of the best NCO's I've had didn't keep me out of trouble under threat of punishment, but because I knew they trusted me, I didn't want to violate that trust.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2014 4:49 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 04:49:43 -0400

I agree and disagree. As a leader we must have an open communication line with our soldiers, the best way is one on one, not only is personal but it shows that we really care. At the same time, checking on their media from time to time, does not hurt, but I don't think is something that we should do on a daily basis.

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Oct 11 at 2014 7:15 AM

Sgt Packy Flickinger — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 07:15:19 -0400

Social media should be private. People have no right to it if you don't want them. Except if word gets back your being unprofessional. Some civilian bosses check it before you're highered. What an invasion of privacy.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2014 7:23 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 07:23:09 -0400

I have only "friend'ed" one of my Soldiers during the time I was his supervisor. He turned 21 and was going about 100 miles north with his buddies and I was close enough that if he would become dumb or needed me I could get there in less than 2 hours. I have had peers that have become too close with their troops because of social media such as facebook. Plus I don't want my troops to see my pictures from when I was a Joe at Fort Bragg, trolling social media works both ways.

Response by SFC Vernon McNabb made Oct 11 at 2014 7:27 AM

SFC Vernon McNabb — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 07:27:47 -0400

So, we are being required to check something that is not required for the Soldier to have to begin with? I guess while I'm at it, I should request TDY money so I can visit everyone of the Soldier's family members to see what the Soldier is saying and doing. What about those Soldiers who choose not to have Facebook? Are we going to insist that they have one just so we can check it. This is absurd, and shame on your leadership if that is their answer to connect with the Soldier. Getting to know them and their families personally shows more to the Soldier that you care, than trying to stalk them through media. If the leadership is so scared that the Soldier is saying something about them, then maybe the Leadership is part of the problem. Just sayin'...

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Oct 11 at 2014 8:47 AM

SFC William Swartz Jr — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 08:47:22 -0400

I would doubt that many of my Soldiers would have wanted me on their FB pages and would not have friended me; I fail to understand how as an NCO you can be forced to check on something that is not required to be had by anyone in uniform and that you can not force someone to befriend an NCO should they choose not to...smfh...I am glad to be retired now if that is what some units are attempting to require of their NCOs and Soldiers....

Response by CPO Jon Campbell made Oct 11 at 2014 8:50 AM

CPO Jon Campbell — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 08:50:22 -0400

Facebook was blocked on my government computer so I never got a directive like that, but telling someone to check their subordinate's FB posts daily sounds like a policy that stems from a profound lack of understanding of social media. There are scores of other platforms that someone can use if they know that their privacy is being invaded by having their FB account monitored.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2014 10:37 AM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 10:37:18 -0400

I can understand where your leadership is coming from with this. We had a Soldier, in my last unit, who would take to Facebook, and bad mouth our S-1, and other portions of leadership. He didn't think that anyone could see it, but it was found out and afterwards, he deleted everyone from the unit who was in a leadership capacity, and changed his Facebook settings.

There are service members who get on Facebook, and show nothing but disrespect towards their leadership, from their first line up to the President, there are also service members who are doing illegal acts and are posting them on Facebook.

Now do I think that we as leaders should be checking their Facebook everyday? No, I don't think that we have time for that, to check all of our Soldier's Facebook profiles everyday.

However, I don't have Facebook, so there is no way for me to check anyone's.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2014 1:35 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 13:35:47 -0400

After a few experiences I have learn to loath social media. It creates more unnecessary evils in a leadership role. You want to check on your subordinate? Be a leader and do what we are instructed to do. Coach, teach, mentor with a paper and pen and on the job training. Get away from the social aspect as you are in a leadership role not a I want to friend you to know you role.

Response by SPC Chelsea Fernandez made Oct 11 at 2014 2:08 PM

SPC Chelsea Fernandez — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 14:08:23 -0400

I just think its an invasion of privacy. I don't want my COC knowing what I do on weekends or what pictures what I post. Seeing the soldier on a daily basis should be enough. Soldiers should be brief on what is accepted and not accepted on social media such as location sharing and what missions that are bring conducted. A soldier in my unit got in trouble with IG. He posted something about the food being nasty and some how it got back to CSM.

Response by SGT Alicia Brenneis made Oct 11 at 2014 2:19 PM

SGT Alicia Brenneis — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 14:19:02 -0400

I do not put my soldiers or leaders on my FB page. One... my soldiers do not need to know what I'm doing. We all need a little privacy. Not to mention when I first came to my new assignment my soldiers warned me not to let our NCOIC on my FB. I thought it was odd but then we got a new soldier. She was literally still in-processing. I had only met her 3 times. Next thing I know she is getting an AR15 for adultery. She is a married soldier getting a divorce, legally separated for 2 years. She apparently accepted the friend request from our NCOIC and her FB talked about her boyfriend. Her divorce was final before her extra duty was even complete. I know by regulation she was wrong but because of her lose in rank she hit her RCP and is leaving the military.
Not all leaders would use FB like this but It can lead to distrust with your soldiers. Give them their privacy. Before social media we had to trust they were doing the right thing away from work. We should go back to that.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2014 2:33 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 14:33:14 -0400

Many soldiers know they are in fact being watched on their social networking pages and have them fixed so they can only be seen by whom they want. I myself find it as stalking as others have said, if your not finding out whats going on in your soldiers lives while your at work and communicating with them face to face then your either not doing a good job communicating with them or they dont feel the need to share.

Response by SFC Melker Johansson made Oct 11 at 2014 5:25 PM

SFC Melker Johansson — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 17:25:14 -0400

I do not have people I work with as 'friends' on Facebook. No superiors, no peers, and no subordinates. I like to keep my job and private life as separate as possible. I would be pissed if I find out that my supervisors was screening my profile on a regular basis. I consider it a violation of my privacy and I put it in the same category as stalking me at the Commissary or peeking through the windows at my home.

That said, I do have Facebook open to the public, but I do not post anything OPSEC-related or anything I would be ashamed of saying on national TV.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Oct 11 at 2014 5:28 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 17:28:08 -0400

Wow. I seem to recall the words "Seek responsibility and take responsibility for YOUR ACTIONS" somewhere before. I chose to address this in my initial cunseling. "You are a soldier 24/7 and represent the US Army by action, word or deed. You are accountable for YOUR actions (This included on post, off post, social media, etc). Learn to cover your own a$$ my brothers and sisters. There aren't enough hours in a day to monitor your troops 24/7, nor should you have to. Make them aware of the course of action that will be taken if they decide to act the fool. Counsel them, charge them, correct them, and replace them when necessary. Go home and spend time with, and raise your own children.

Response by LTC Hillary Luton made Oct 11 at 2014 5:49 PM

LTC Hillary Luton — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 17:49:52 -0400

Wow! Really? I think I would have some issue with a statement like this. First, do you really have time to be checking your Soldier's FB page every day? I would think time would be more effectively unitized by doing what you've already stated you are doing and interacting with them. I agree, occasional peeks (unless they have a history of FB abuse) is probably more logical. Besides, this type of activity (checking your Soldier's FB page every day) sends a really BIG, LOUD message that you don't trust your Soldiers. Is this really the message we want to send?

Response by SPC James Mcneil made Oct 11 at 2014 5:54 PM

SPC James Mcneil — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 17:54:55 -0400

I think whoever told you that was full of it. Taking a peek here and there, yes. But there are much better uses for a leader's time than checking a soldier's FB.

Response by SGT Richard H. made Oct 11 at 2014 7:34 PM

SGT Richard H. — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 19:34:01 -0400

Facebook...Meh. Spot check unless they give you something to worry about. You're their leader. If you don't have a fair idea about their lives without facebook, I'd worry more about how you relate to your soldiers than how they relate to the facebooking public.

Now, with that said....If you aren't getting on RP every day and checking US, you're a bad leader. (Said with tongue pressed firmly in cheek)

Response by SSG Warren Swan made Oct 11 at 2014 10:16 PM

SSG Warren Swan — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 22:16:08 -0400

SSG, I don't see how not looking at your Soldiers FB page makes you a "bad" or "ineffective" leader if you are doing your counseling's and other NCO duties. Has there been an update to Army Command Policy on how to check social media for questionable posts? I wouldn't want my Soldiers as "friends" on social media, and with the privacy settings, it's not like they're going to just open up the gates of their page for you. I think I'd need better clarification on what is the standard of privacy in regards to this. I know there are basic standards of what you cannot post, but I don't know how I'd ask a Soldier to let me see his personal page vs. his public page unless there is something wrong and JAG's involved. Even with that, I don't think I'd have much to say once it gets to that point. I'd like to hear how this would work in todays Army.

Response by 1SG Mike Case made Oct 11 at 2014 11:04 PM

1SG Mike Case — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 23:04:30 -0400

I akin checking someone's Facebook page daily to sitting outside their house with some binoculars to see if they are always doing the right thing. You can talk to your Soldiers about Social Media and how to behave themselves online just like you talk to them about weekend safety. At some point in a Soldier's career, we have to trust that our Soldiers are doing the right thing and if they don't then some corrective training or if necessary, UCMJ, to correct the bad things that they are doing. Teach them the standard and if they fail to meet the standard then deal with it.

Response by SGT Kevin Smith made Oct 11 at 2014 11:33 PM

SGT Kevin Smith — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 23:33:28 -0400

Boy I am glad I am out right now. I understand that when you join the Military, no matter the Branch, you lose certain rights, however there should be things that are "off limits" to Leadership, and social media is one of those things, now if Senior Leadership (LT, SFC, 1SG, CPT SGM ECT) are demanding that Leadership need to be checking this, then they are insecure in their Leadership style. I always drove me crazy when Leadership painted Squad Leaders with a very broad brush. (You are a bad Leader because of.....) I am glad that when I was a leader I had the trust of my Soldiers because they knew I would do all I could to take care of their needs. Leadership needs to stay out of Social Media.

Response by SGT Aja Johnson made Oct 12 at 2014 1:13 AM

SGT Aja Johnson — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 01:13:37 -0400

That is a little ludicrous. I wouldn't add anyone in my NCO support channel on my Facebook in the first place, simply because that's my personal life and is none of their business. I don't add anyone senior or junior (besides the peers I had prior to promotion) to me until either I or they have left the unit. It just keeps business, business, and personal life personal. Why would I want to check what they are doing on their facebook page? To watch stupid cat videos? If there is interpersonal interaction in the workplace, you wouldn't need to stalk a Soldier's facebook.

Besides, you can't MAKE a Soldier add you to their facebook and even if they did, all they have to do is change their privacy settings to exclude you from seeing their posts. I do it all the time to my family members!

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made Oct 12 at 2014 5:05 AM

PO1 Rick Serviss — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 05:05:09 -0400

Spying on your troops shows one thing. Lack of trust and if you don't have trust in them then you, as leaders, failed to instill integrity. So, bottom line-leadership failed.

Response by SFC Raymond Baum made Oct 12 at 2014 7:37 AM

SFC Raymond Baum — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 07:37:04 -0400

This is ridiculous. If a Leader has nothing better to do with his or her time than surf social media then they aren't much of a leader. What ever happened to planning, resourcing, and executing challenging and METL-centric training? What ever happened to instilling pride, discipline, and esprit d'corps by challenging our Soldiers to do the right thing even and especially when no one is looking. For years we have been going down the road of becoming baby-sitters instead of leaders. I weep for today's Soldiers who are being directed by seniors who treat their charges like a social welfare class or a business instead of a cadre of highly trained, highly motivated, dedicated, and intelligent combat-ready (and experienced) killers.

Response by SFC James Liedtka made Oct 12 at 2014 8:26 AM

SFC James Liedtka — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 08:26:06 -0400

I would say checking the FB status of a Soldier who has not friend'd me is the same as asking to see their phone and checking their text messages. It is an invasion of privacy. While I am friends with Soldiers from previous tours I do not friend most members of my current assignment. Some things are really non of my commands business.

Response by MSG Sommer Brown made Oct 12 at 2014 11:33 AM

MSG Sommer Brown — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 11:33:36 -0400

Wow, you would not get anything else done as a First Sergeant, or CSM if you check everyone's facebook every day. Even if you just broke it down to immediate supervised Soldiers. I agree with SSG Leslie Pittman.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2014 11:59 AM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 11:59:34 -0400

If the soldier allows you on the social media site fine; but, to say that you are a bad leader if you don't check on their facebook "DAILY" is Orwellian. Did the briefer explain the basis of their opinion?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2014 2:51 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 14:51:50 -0400

I think that whoever ran your NCOPD was recently attacked by the Good Idea Fairy.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2014 6:29 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 18:29:28 -0400

I do not like the concept of being friends with your soldiers on FB for numerous reasons.

Everyone needs an outlet and Facebook is an often used outlet for soldiers. I think it would be borderline invasion of privacy. It shows a lack of trust in your soldiers. If I hear about something they posted, i'll check it out...until then, i'll leave their Facebook alone. Who is to say that they won't create an alternate page for you to follow anyways? Lastly, yes, you can regulate what I say on Facebook as far as OPSEC, the President, etc... but you can't tell me I MUST be friends with my soldiers.

This smells of one huge CYA, which in my opinion, was probably caused by someone posting on Facebook and then the CoC was blamed for what the soldier posted. This reeks of typical CoC blaming instead of personal responsibility.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2014 7:10 PM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 19:10:13 -0400

If you have time to be on FB and checking every single subordinate's page, you are probably neglecting some more important duties regarding leadership.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2014 9:44 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 21:44:18 -0400

In 2004 a young soldier, rank not important, but he was high enough he should have known better posted on his MySpace after a mortar attack.. "a close call today,, mortars missed our chow hall by 50 meters " 3 days later a direct hit on the chow hall.. 9 soldiers and contractors died.. the enemy checks on us .. take it for what it is worth.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2014 10:13 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 22:13:23 -0400

I think thats a bit too much. For one he or she may not want to add you to there friend list so how are you going to check it. Its coming close to infringing on there privacy if you ask me.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2014 12:36 AM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 00:36:31 -0400

I can think of better ways to spend time leading than by monitoring my subordinates FB accounts. Additionally, even if I did see some questionable material on their account, I can't do anything about it because it's on their off-duty time. I know this because I had an enlisted medic slander and defame my NCOIC on FB. I called JAG to see what could be done and their response was "nothing".

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2014 1:12 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 01:12:02 -0400

I think a spot check periodically for young soldiers isn't a bad idea. Maybe even turn it into a training opportunity. I feel that the below twenty-five age bracket has a different attitude or perspective when it comes to privacy. If they were civilians, I wouldn't care, but as soldiers its a bit different. When I was active, we used to do CI surveys on various units. At the end we would compile all the data we recovered and try to reconstruct what the unit was doing. Maybe doing something like that, but web based, on someones online presence would be a great training tool to educate soldiers that as service members they are targets for many unsavory characters in the world.
Or, at a minimum, convince them to lock down their profiles.

Response by LCpl Steve Wininger made Oct 13 at 2014 3:47 AM

LCpl Steve Wininger — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 03:47:51 -0400

So does that mean every leader prior to Facebook and the internet failed because they weren't checking the barracks or nightclubs every night? I think it is going too far to keep check on the use of social media of a service member by their immediate supervisors.

"Too much information." we all have private lives even as a service member. What if there was technology or a means, like in the show Babylon 5, where we could know what people are thinking. Would that give the chain of command the right to access it also?

If someone is doing something they shouldn't it will eventually come to light, it did in the days before the internet, and I am certain that it will without NCO's policing online social networking.

I'm through talking now!

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2014 7:17 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 07:17:16 -0400

It doesnt make you a bad leader... as one of my leaders has told me "i give you enough rope to hang yourself" i would say unless a soldier gives you a reason to not trust them and have to constantly check on them via FB or text as a leader you dont have to check their fb.... Now i have had a leader that would stalk and question every picture and every post and it got quite annoying and soldiers eventually got freaked out and as SGM Quick said makes it seem like you are trying micro managing

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2014 8:19 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 08:19:17 -0400

I agree with SGM Quick. Checking their social media daily or period for that matter is not only micro managing but is also invading their privacy. If anything that will just push soldiers away. I'm not sure about you but I have far more important matters to tend to and don't have time to be checking FB, twitter etc. I would say however that a class should be given on occasion as to what a soldier can and cannot put on social media. The class should also talk about possible consequences and outcomes if the wrong things are posted by members of our armed forces.

Response by MAJ Roy Nickerson made Oct 13 at 2014 11:21 AM

MAJ Roy Nickerson — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 11:21:29 -0400

An occasional look can't hurt. I don't think you're a bad leader if you don't check it every day.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2014 12:18 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 12:18:47 -0400

I think that is the most ridiculous thing ever. I get that social media outlets are primarily the downfall in many cases (especially with soldiers posting things they definitely shouldn't). However, for someone to actually state leaders should be constantly checking the soldiers social media accounts is more than an invasion of privacy. Granted, I will look if the soldiers have their profiles open. However, most sites grant the user more than enough security measures to manage the content and who can view it. So my question for this person who said this to you SSG Pittman, if the soldier's information is blocked for those who are not followers/friends then are they saying leaders should friend request the soldiers or demand them to show us their pages? Because THAT is failing as a leader!

Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made Oct 13 at 2014 2:13 PM

1LT Nick Kidwell — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 14:13:45 -0400

Yeah. That's my stapler.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2014 2:15 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 14:15:23 -0400

I think if FB came up as an issue among the soldiers then, I would make an effort to see what they're doing, but all in all, I wouldn't look at their FB or any other social media because it would be straight micro-managing. I'll go a step further by saying if we had different views or if he/she had said or posted something that they strongly believe in and strongly disagree with, that has an effect on me as being a first line because although I'm suppose to be impartial, I'm still incline to do something that could be deemed as being hard on the soldier

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2014 3:42 PM

WO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 15:42:20 -0400

I agree with a majority of the responses, as a leader you do not need to be on your subordinates social media pages.

I am friends with many people up and down my chain of commands, and other commands I have been in. But I am selective on who I send requests to. It is only people who I can actual consider friends outside of the uniform.

Response by Sgt Arthur Went made Oct 13 at 2014 4:25 PM

Sgt Arthur Went — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 16:25:49 -0400

FB is a personal sight that has nothing to do with Military. I do not believe that is necessary to lead. A good leader knows what needs to be done to keep troops in check. That would be like opening personal mail before FB was around.

Response by CW3(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2014 4:59 PM

CW3(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 16:59:22 -0400

That's terrible. I used to connected with my soldiers on FB, but now I have stopped. I would have to agree with the second half your comments about abuse. I don't agree that it's a leadership failure for not connecting. They blame everything soldiers do these days as a leadership failure. We can't be everywhere 24/7 looking after soldiers. Its a different generation.

Response by SGT Nathan Huff made Oct 13 at 2014 5:37 PM

SGT Nathan Huff — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 17:37:51 -0400

I feel that is stepping into a gray area of personal space and micromanaging to much. The only time I ever checked a facebook page of one of my Soldiers is when they claimed to be at home sick as to why they were not at formation, so I drove to there home to get them to sick call and found no one there. There face book gave me a location to find them because they had synced there phone to it and it posted were they were. Beyond that it is not military property and I feel that is stepping outside of our AO.

The only other reason I could see monitoring facebook and other social media networks is while deployed and I would leave that to the G2/S2 to have a team to monitor the battalions stuff for OPSEC reasons only.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2014 5:40 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 17:40:46 -0400

I think making the statement that you are failing as a leader for not cheking their social media site is overdoing it. Daily interaction between you and your soldiers should be good enough. It's a matter of trust, they probably put their gripes and complaints in there in some form and to invade that area may push your soldier away. I've seen soldiers counseled for the content of their Facebook.

Response by PO2 Rocky Kleeger made Oct 13 at 2014 9:31 PM

PO2 Rocky Kleeger — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 21:31:30 -0400

You know, that goes both ways. While deployed aboard the USS Nimitz, my wife posted on her wall, "I get to see my hubby in three weeks". Vague, right? If anyone didn't know her, they really wouldn't know what that meant. An E-8 came up to me in the hangar bay and said, "PO Kleeger I heard about your wife". Yep, that's how he put it. I freaked out. What's wrong? I couldn't get him to answer, I backed him up to an aircraft and when he couldn't go anywhere else, he said, "her facebook post". (at this part of the story, imagine Scooby-Doo) I actually cocked my head like a dog. Facebook post?

He said, "yes, she said she gets to see you in three weeks. You have to tell her to take that down." I said, "well, Senior, I'll tell you what...I'll mention it to her, but remember, she's a civilian and we can't dictate what she says".

By the way, a week later, my daughter posts, "Daddy will be home in two weeks" No one said a damn thing to me

Response by SSG Stephen Arnold made Oct 13 at 2014 10:02 PM

SSG Stephen Arnold — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 22:02:12 -0400

FB didn't exist when I served.

Today, I do not "friend" coworkers, and certainly not supervisors on FB or any other social media. Work stays at work. Play stays at home.

Response by PO2 Tim Zeman made Oct 13 at 2014 11:15 PM

PO2 Tim Zeman — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 23:15:26 -0400

I worry about military and social media and is too much sensitive information is being released? As a Leader I do not feel it is your responsibility to monitor social media and it is the responsibility of the individual that took the oath when they enlisted.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2014 11:51 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 23:51:25 -0400

I think a Soldier should be allowed some privacy. Why would a NCO need to be concerned with my personal life? I don't care what my NCO's are doing?

Response by SSG Tim Everett made Oct 14 at 2014 7:38 AM

SSG Tim Everett — Tue, 14 Oct 2014 07:38:01 -0400

What does your NCODP instructor have to say about overcoming or circumventing privacy settings that make it impossible for you to see anything but a profile picture? Security-minded people, not just soldiers, will probably have their profiles set fairly tightly. And I, for one, sure as heck wouldn't approve a friend request from anyone in my higher chain of command until I was a civilian again.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2014 7:36 AM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 Oct 2014 07:36:45 -0400

Checking their personal web pages? I had a O6 years ago that required all leaders to have a twitter account because this is how he would interact throughout the day and push out schedule changes. Needless to say, this was the only "public" electronic profile I had out there. I don't give you my log in and passwords for a reason.

Seems more like the leader of your NCOPD needs to get out of the office and remove their head from their ass. Interact with soldiers, go to lunch with them, invite them over during the holidays, etc. Be good neighbor; not a hard concept. You will learn more and receive more in return as compared to stalking your soldiers on social media.

Why doesn't your senior command put a request into the NEC to block facebook if they are so concerned with what the soldiers are doing?

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Oct 14 at 2014 8:43 AM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Tue, 14 Oct 2014 08:43:29 -0400

Wait... are you guys friending your Soldiers? This seems like a fraternization charge waiting to happen...

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Oct 14 at 2014 9:25 AM

MSG Brad Sand — Tue, 14 Oct 2014 09:25:17 -0400

I think if you are checking their Facebook as a leadership tool, you may be in need of doing a self check? Now if it was RP, that would be another discussion.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2014 11:49 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 Oct 2014 11:49:37 -0400

If you are "friends" with your troops on Facebook, then you'll be up to date on thier posts. Unless they post something you should be concerned about, ie.. excessive drinking or feelings of depression, then you've done your due diligence. If your troop doesn't want to be "friends" on Facebook, then so be it. With all the work that you have as a leader to include spot checks and counselings, daily Facebook checks seem a little excessive. Being a leader is one thing, being a stalker is something else.

Response by Cpl Brett Wagner made Oct 14 at 2014 1:27 PM

Cpl Brett Wagner — Tue, 14 Oct 2014 13:27:30 -0400

Big Brother is watching you. Should you be checking on them in the head too? Did they brush their teeth today?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2014 2:22 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 Oct 2014 14:22:28 -0400

I feel like your NCOPD was created based on a recent event in your Brigade. Take what was said lightly and keep in mind the Army is often reactive when it looks bad, things tend to roll down to our lowest level of leadership

Response by 1SG Chris Brown made Oct 14 at 2014 3:40 PM

1SG Chris Brown — Tue, 14 Oct 2014 15:40:28 -0400

I think that just because some Army leader said something in NCOPD, it doesn't make it fact. That is that leader's opinion, and while others probably agree with that opinion, it is still just that and not fact. I don't ever check up on my Soldiers' FB pages any more than I eavesdrop on their telephone conversations with their family. If we’re talking OPSEC issues, then I guess from time to time you might want to check in and make sure your Soldier isn’t posting things he shouldn’t, especially if deployed. But check it daily? I think not. I have more important things to do.

As for me personally, I am not friends with any of my Soldiers or unit members and have no intention to be at any time while still assigned as a leader in the unit. I have always stuck with that and never "friended" anyone assigned to the same unit as me, not even peers. I draw the line with sharing personal info back and forth with those I work with. Once I depart a unit, no issue. I'll be friends with those whom I actually care to stay in contact with. This keeps from any partiality as well. If I were friends with a unit member, then I’d have to accept friendship requests from everyone in the unit whether I like them or not. Otherwise, I’d be showing favoritism toward some individuals. Once I leave the unit, I have no obligation to friend everyone and can instead pick and choose who I want to see my info.

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Oct 14 at 2014 4:21 PM

SGT Michael Glenn — Tue, 14 Oct 2014 16:21:21 -0400

Is this for real????I remember when every one wanted to be a SGT Morales member and it was said by my chain that if you didnt have a notebook with everything about all your soldiers, EVERYTHING!!!!! you were a bad NCO and a disgrace, I was happy being a disgrace as I didnt see the need to micromanage everything. but this is of course coming from a command that thought a M113 was a main battle vehicle and never did ANY dismounted training at all to the point where I would take my squad during SGT time and train them on 11b tactics as I believed that at some point in their career they would have to dismount. I got several ass chewing s for "hiding" from the company, but I thought that search and evasion were essential to survival in combat? I spoke to my CSM one day after he caught us yet again "Hiding" from him and asked him to be present at the next field problem and to simulate ( hey we simulated everything) a track loosing its track and see what the soldiers and leaders would do , the results were hilarious, the leaders just sat there discussing how to fix the track, telling the soldiers to get out and fix it ( mind you we are simulating a combat exercise, bang bang pow pow) not once did anyone think to set up a 360 and give cover so that the track could be fixed and we could blaze into battle and defeat all those tanks with our M113 tracks !!!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2014 5:21 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 Oct 2014 17:21:57 -0400

I 100% agree with you; if your Soldiers are tech-savvy (and most are) they won't allow you to "see" anything anyway.

If trust is the bedrock of mission command (and it is) why are we asking leaders to (in my opinion) violate the trust of their Soldiers.

Any good NCO I know doesn't have time to browse all their Soldiers Facebook (not to mention the 20 other social media sites younger soldiers know and we don't).

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2014 9:27 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 Oct 2014 21:27:06 -0400

I don't know about daily. That just seems kinda creepy to me. And very unnecessary

Response by SSG Justin Miracle made Oct 14 at 2014 9:58 PM

SSG Justin Miracle — Tue, 14 Oct 2014 21:58:55 -0400

I see the point they are trying to make, but I think the idea is stupid. I could understand if there were previous issues, or potential OPSEC violations. I agree that I see them every day and have a pretty good idea what they are doing. Also, most people have their pages set for only friends to view what they are doing. I personally do not have any of my soldiers as friends because I want at least some of my personal life separated from work, and I would rather stop any issues that could arise with discipline or anything else from the beginning.

Response by LT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2014 10:09 AM

LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 10:09:56 -0400

I have what I call "business rules" for social media. I will not try to add my bosses, or those who work for me. If desired, after I detach I will respond to requests from juniors and request from seniors should I want to. Navy rules on fraternization are a little different from the other branches though, which is also somewhat of a driving factor. Either way, I do let my sailors know what I expect from them conduct-wise and since social media is a public forum, where others can view their conduct.

Response by PFC William Jacobs made Oct 15 at 2014 10:36 AM

PFC William Jacobs — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 10:36:43 -0400

I don't friend anybody i work with or is associated with my company, my private life is mine. My employer, military or civil should respect that.

Response by SGT Garret DuPont made Oct 15 at 2014 11:19 AM

SGT Garret DuPont — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 11:19:30 -0400

I never added leadership to my Facebook. That is mine and mine alone. I never asked to be friends on anyone that was under me, because, you were right, we see them every day. They will be ok for a few hours.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2014 11:51 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 11:51:20 -0400

Sounds like the NCO Corps is breeding a generation of internet stalkers. Why should I care about what a troop posts on Facebook? As long as it doesn't disclose any mission critical information I'm not too concerned about it. Now...I can hear someone say "well what if they're talking negative about the leadership on their page?" To this I say "grow some thicker mother-loving skin!" It doesn't matter how the Soldier feel about you...do your daggone job and move forward...

Response by CSM Guy R. Niles made Oct 15 at 2014 5:09 PM

CSM Guy R. Niles — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 17:09:59 -0400

Yeah, Great CoC Cop-Out. There are only so many hours in a day. You cannot possibly cover all of the Bases, Tasks, and Requirements that they throw at you. Somewhere, you as a Leader must Assume Risk. I had many spirited discussions with my superior CSM's over this one and many like it during my Reign of Terror. It got so overbearing and short-sighted/short-fused that I informed many to either begin rating me or Piss Off! You pay me to Lead, and as a Leader, you pay me to analyze and mitigate risk and dangers. I will Assume some Risk Somewhere! Cannot do it all.

Response by CSM Guy R. Niles made Oct 15 at 2014 5:11 PM

CSM Guy R. Niles — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 17:11:58 -0400

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2014 5:40 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Oct 2014 05:40:16 -0400

Extremism seems to take a vital role on how leaders feel they should control certain situations. We as leaders have had to come to the reality that all of the new Soldiers that are coming up in the ranks these days are socially incompetent when it comes to face to face interaction. Soldiers will say a lot through social media which can bring red flags or allow leaders to stop something more serious from happening. I don't agree that we as leaders should be forced to check facebook or other social media sites daily. I know who my high risk Soldiers, I conduct my SLRTs and counseling my individuals. Facebook is just another tool we as leaders can use to gain information about what our Soldiers are doing on and off duty.

Response by PO2 Jonathan Scharff made Oct 16 at 2014 7:13 AM

PO2 Jonathan Scharff — Thu, 16 Oct 2014 07:13:16 -0400

double post

Response by PO2 Jonathan Scharff made Oct 16 at 2014 7:18 AM

PO2 Jonathan Scharff — Thu, 16 Oct 2014 07:18:48 -0400

Am I the only person who doesn't have and has never had a Facebook account? Yes, it didn't exist when I was in the military, but I run a company now and I have never "checked ou"t an employees Facebook page...guess I'm a bad leader.

Not sure if I should check the box below marked: "Share to Facebook". Lol

Response by SGM Stanley Morton made Oct 16 at 2014 7:52 AM

SGM Stanley Morton — Thu, 16 Oct 2014 07:52:36 -0400

No, Soldiers are people that have some privacy just like civilians or your children. Checking someone Facebook is asking a Soldier to check his or her Cell phone daily. Everyone is an adult. At least you have to be to enlist. Understanding that if an issue arises then you may check if a Soldier grant you permission. This is like telling a Soldier that they can't buy a motorcycle. Another touchy subject of what the Army can and can't do. If its an expectation that a Ldr has to check Soldiers Facebook and other Social media we really have a problem of maturity and trust within the ranks of the most professional Army in the world. I would be against any regulation or policy that would force leaders to check Soldiers Social media. That time spent could be spent on other traditional things in the Army. I.E. more and tougher PT, Drill and Ceremony, leadership training, field exercises on how to defend a perimeter, motor pool maintenance. If a unit is doing all the things required by doctrine to be "T", this would eliminate a lot issues that are more civilian mainstream than military. My thoughts as a former tactical Soldier that has traveled the world on all different missions. Is this is where the Army is headed when the focus is to check Soldiers social media accounts, (Is it legally possible for someone to force observation on such things?).

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2014 1:16 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Oct 2014 13:16:58 -0400

It seems that once certain folks get some rank, they believe that just because they "say it" that it is legal doctrine. As a SFC I once had a 1SG tell me he could come to my off post house and "inspect" every room. Let people have their opinions while you stay within the boundaries of laws and regulations.

Response by CW3 Chuck Huddleston made Oct 16 at 2014 2:20 PM

CW3 Chuck Huddleston — Thu, 16 Oct 2014 14:20:43 -0400

You're their NCO, not their mommy! Their Facebook is their social network and really isn't any concern of yours. Get to know your troops on a daily basis and don't get a snooping reputation.

Response by CMDCM Gene Treants made Oct 16 at 2014 2:27 PM

CMDCM Gene Treants — Thu, 16 Oct 2014 14:27:45 -0400

I do not believe FB existed when I retired, but is it did, I would not have had any of my Sailors as Friends. Only Friends can see my FB Page and you are free to see everything you want to on there. Please let me know if you find anything, because I must have missed a setting and left it public I do have a few Friends here on RP and you know who you are).

The point of the above is that unless I invite you, you cannot check my FB Page. If you are in my Chain, I would shut down my Page or hide under another name rather then let you monitor me in any way; I am not dumb enough to voluntarily let Big Brother look over my shoulder.

NO, you should not be monitoring your troops on a daily basis. Bad order, Illegal Order, call it what you want, it is not enforceable. It is stalking your subordinates.

Sorry for the late response - I was on vacation in - ready, Russia!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2014 7:53 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Oct 2014 19:53:37 -0400

I don't think you should check it. I was not socially connected with my Troopers until they were no longer in my unit, and even then it was only NCOs. Face to face is getting to be a lost art. Know them, know them well, but they are still people. Let me have a life. Educate them on what not to post, remind them that they represent their unit, and make sure that they know that they are an ambassador for The Armed Forces. My 2 cents.

Response by SGT Justin Holmberg made Oct 17 at 2014 12:59 PM

SGT Justin Holmberg — Fri, 17 Oct 2014 12:59:31 -0400

If your trying to see what your soldiers are doing on facebook then that would be gathering intel on their lives and what they share with the world. What's the best way to get the best intel? Talk to someone, like they do with HUMINT. If a soldier seems stressed or something when talking to them, then check what's on their fb. Some soldiers are good at hiding emotions so it's good to check their fb every once in a while and if something seems odd or bad then talk to the soldier about it. No need to check their fb daily. But I do believe soldiers that have a top secret clearance should have their fb and other social media checked all the time. If they are talking about hating the military all the time then that might be a sign to something bigger, if you think about it. If you were a spy and trying to find someone to get info from and recruit wouldn't it be easier to talk to someone that says they hate the military all the time than someone that says they love it? Plus, most soldiers put their MOS on fb so it would be easy to figure out which soldier has a MOS with a high security clearance. Does what I'm saying make any sense? Just another way to protect operational security... If you really think about it!

Pretty much... it's easier to understand what's going on in a soldiers head and life if you talk to them. And check their facebook every once in a while. If something seems weird or bad, then definitely check the other one. But in my opinion... always check soldiers social media if they have a security clearance. They might accidentally post something little and not realize it because of stress and other factors. Hope I'm making sense lol. Just thinking about this subject from different angles.

Response by SPC Joe Meisch made Jul 17 at 2015 3:38 PM

SPC Joe Meisch — Fri, 17 Jul 2015 15:38:13 -0400

Checking could mean potentially stopping a negative thing from happening. On the other hand it would show there is a lack of communication and that could be perceived as a lack of leadership. Tough one. I would have to go with the trust component and go over this with folks.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 21 at 2015 1:18 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 01:18:33 -0400

Yeah really. We have a lot to do without micromanaging our soldiers. They are soldiers not kids! Even though some of them act like kids. Lol

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 2 at 2015 11:54 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 02 Oct 2015 11:54:38 -0400

I have saved a couple of my soldiers but I have them on a Restriction so they can't see everything on my page. I might check their page once or twice a month. That's it. My soldiers just put up crazy funny videos. I've already talked to them personally & counseled them on what they post on FB. They learnt the hard way from another NCO who posted a video of one of them sleeping during B.A. The soldier & NCO got a counseling on their actions. So actually the whole unit learnt from that. I don't have the time to check all my soldiers pages everyday on EVERY social network. I have a life.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Oct 2 at 2015 3:39 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Fri, 02 Oct 2015 15:39:38 -0400

This is stupid. Why do you want to see pictures of kids, cats, dogs, relatives, witty sayings?

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 18 at 2017 7:20 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 07:20:36 -0400

If mail tampering is a federal offense, so should "checking" a subordinate's social media account be. There's my 2¢.