Can a soldier be forced to attend an Audie Murphy board?

I believe forcing someone to attend a board, dedicated to Audie Murphy, is a slap in the face to 1LT Murphy. He was a selfless man, who went out of his way to get into the war, to serve his country. His passion was so strong that he falsified documents to enlist, and basically was the real life "Captain America" is terms of heroism in the face of danger.

With his passion, his drive, eagerness, dedication, I personally feel any soldier sent to a board, that is in honor of such a man, should fit some degree of the character of said man. The people sent to this board shouldn't just be A+ soldiers who know how to square it away, but most importantly, they should embody the character of 1LT Murphy and be clawing to the bone to be considered.

Anything less, shouldn't be rendered in his name. He was one in millions, broke the mold kinda guy. Just because you don't have many of those lying around, doesn't mean you should send in filler to pack the halls. If there isn't anyone who has earned a specific award in the year, do you just give it away to someone? No, same should be said for a board of such prestige.

Anthony Molnar
Former 68W10, E-4, USArmy

Forced is a union term. In the ARMY I learned to follow orders and give a few as well. Once told to be some where we did and we likes it. Hell some times we even asked for another... hoorraah..

Sounds like one of those things that should be voluntary, not ordered. My military experience was long ago, but looking up this board, it seems to me it would be an honor to be recommended, even if not selected for membership. A learning experience, either way. Why he doesn't want to go is anybody's guess, but I wouldn't force him. However, It's a thing to remember and his superiors will be sure to do so.

Builds character. Perform under pressure of knowledge is a learning tool. How will react when life or death outcome.

Only if his/her command doesn't mind being humiliated when said soldier refuses to answer questions.

Make the best of it and treat like a learning curve. Not an insult, were better for our failures

What an honor.

Should be an honor not manatory

As a member of the first Audie Murphy Club in 1986, I would say being forced to attend the board is poor leadership. Wouldn't have happened back then. Sounds like this leader is trying to pad stats for an elevated evaluation.. shameless at best. Speaks volumes to the character of a leader who forces soldiers to attend boards without adequate preparation. I'd find a way to distance myself from this organization.

I believe he should go. If he's been nominated for this prestigious award, that speaks for itself. Professionals sit on this board and they have no desire to make a nominee look foolish. I guarantee he'll be treated either respect. He'd pretty much have to want to make a fool of himself for that to be the outcome. In any case, [login to see] a learning experience. He'll learn something more of what is expected of a professional Army NCO.