Can anyone provide information on the Operations Sergeant Major position?

2023-01-30T21:30:23-05:00

I've been pulled up from my unit to perform duties as the BN OPS SGM. I've never worked at this level before. I've just read ATP 6-0.5 and it's clear as mud. Any assistance would be most appriciated.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2023 9:41 PM

2023-01-30T21:41:27-05:00

Congrats Master Sergeant Major. This is one of the more important positions in a BN. From my time in the S3 I have seen it ran differently. A lot of time you are the taskings designator and deconflictor. You will usually get handed a bunch of tasks from BDE or your BN CDR. What that really looks like is that you will get a phone call from one of the companies complaining that they are overtasked or a call from the BDE OPS SGM asking why your BN is late on a task. It is really a true management position. I am sure you will do well.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2023 10:37 PM

2023-01-30T22:37:52-05:00

I may be able to help. Sent you a message.

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2023 12:14 AM

2023-01-31T00:14:21-05:00

Congrats, trust your instincts, you'll be fine. Everyone on the staff showed up for their first day just like you.

Response by CSM William Everroad made Jan 31 at 2023 8:49 AM

2023-01-31T08:49:34-05:00

MSG Private RallyPoint Member, when in doubt start at the source:
ADP 5-0 (and ADRP 5-0): The Operations Process
ADP 6-0: Mission Command
ATP 5-0.1: Army Design Methodology

One of the most critical functions of the OPS SGM is to understand the Commander's intent and ensure shared understanding between the staff and subordinate units. And mediate fights between the XO and the S-3 (apparently).

My biggest piece of advice: Come into the office everyday and remind the staff that they are there to enable subordinate commanders to execute their mission in accordance with the Commander's intent. There is only one boss and the Company Commanders work for the (Lt.)Colonel.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Jan 31 at 2023 12:07 PM

2023-01-31T12:07:48-05:00

Contrasts, you have already received such great advice. I will add gat you were obviously recognized by the CSM for what you have done and what you are capable of doing. You will find in short order that you already know what is expected of you and how to fit yourself into the OpTempo.

Itbis an awesome responsibility and great honor. You will do well.

Response by CSM Chuck Stafford made Jan 31 at 2023 12:47 PM

2023-01-31T12:47:16-05:00

MSG Private RallyPoint Member Top, Lots of good advice already provided.

On top of all that, become familiar with the long term training calendar and lean on the battle captains and NCOs in the 3 shop to adequately resource all activities land, ammo, air -- Prior planning prevents piss poor performance.

Go out to range control and ensure your processes and theirs are sync'd.

Arm yourself with the daily personnel status report so you are aware of which companies are manned for success for which ever tasking come down the pipe. 1SGs are going to push back, have a sound reasoned explanation for them vice that's the egg, suck it.

Lastly, enjoy your fast paced time there. If you change your mind about retirement, it will make you a better 1SG. If you move on to the next chapter, learned management skills can translate well to a resume.

Good Luck