Can S1 kick back an Award recommendation and not let it go to the approving authority? Can an S1 stop an award?

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 11:20:26 -0500

Can S1 kick back an Award recommendation and not let it go to the approving authority?
My BN S1 sent back an ARCOM and said it was not worthy of an ARCOM. I am all for S1 sending back corrections but as I understand it if I recommend an ARCOM it has to go all the way the BDE CO even if it is recommended for downgrade by the company and battalion commander. Is it in the Reg I cant find it?

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Jan 22 at 2019 11:28 AM

CPT Jack Durish — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 11:28:58 -0500

I'm fairly certain that the regs have changed a lot since I served (66 to 72) but I would consider rewriting the recommendation inasmuch as it may be inferred that by "kicking it back" the S1 is telling you that it does not merit recognition "as written". I hosted many Awards and Decorations boards during which recommendations were sent back for more information. Remember, those reviewing the recommendation have nothing to go on but the words on the page. They didn't not witness the service, achievement, or act of valor as did you...

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 22 at 2019 12:09 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 12:09:49 -0500

Usually, S1 just checks to determine that the award is correct from an admin/ grammar perspective. I've never seen them kick one back because it wasn't strong enough. I have seen the CSM do that though. If you feel the Soldier is deserving you might need to strengthen the bullets without fabricating anything.

Response by LTC Kevin B. made Jan 22 at 2019 12:12 PM

LTC Kevin B. — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 12:12:33 -0500

The S-1 can neither approve nor disapprove an award. Only an approving authority can do that (i.e. a Commander). The S-1 can't downgrade it either. Sounds like they are trying to do a pocket veto of the award. The S-1 is only responsible for the timely processing of the award.

The Bn Cdr does have the responsibility of recommending approval or disapproval of the award. The Bn Commander does have the authority to downgrade it and approve it as an AAM. However, no S-1 (Bn or Bde levels) can make that decision (downgrade or reject).

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 22 at 2019 8:01 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 20:01:44 -0500

Unofficially, the S1 and/or subordinate leaders can do whatever approving commanders allow them to do. Sad, lazy or arrogant; depending on the situation.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 22 at 2019 8:02 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 20:02:45 -0500

Unofficially, the S1 and/or subordinate leaders can do whatever approving commanders allow them to do. Sad, lazy or arrogant; depending on the situation.