How Many Of You Have Taken The Time To Mentor A Junior Soldier/ NCO/ Officer?

LTC Paul Heinlein — Thu, 21 Aug 2014 20:32:32 -0400

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Aug 21 at 2014 8:43 PM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Thu, 21 Aug 2014 20:43:14 -0400

The last officer I mentored was my replacement. A young LT former Navy, he became the BN S6 with me as the Bde S6. The most valuable quality time we got to spend together was 3 weeks in Japan for Yama Sakura. Got to go through every detail of comms setup, doctrine and go through the whole exercise. It was a very rewarding experience for both of us. I left my unit in great hands when I retired.

Response by SSgt Gregory Guina made Aug 21 at 2014 9:31 PM

SSgt Gregory Guina — Thu, 21 Aug 2014 21:31:08 -0400

Sir

As a SNCO it is my job to mentor and train junior Marines and Officers every day. I try to make sure that I will leave the Marine Corps better. I think the best assignment that I had was as an instructor at an entry level MOS school traning and mentoring new Marines.

Response by 1SG Mark Colomb made Aug 22 at 2014 12:09 PM

1SG Mark Colomb — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 12:09:10 -0400

I speak to the TAP class once a month and during my discussions I make it a point to offer "a crusty old 1SG's" help in navigating that transition.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2015 10:43 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 10:43:21 -0500

I introduce myself to any face that looks new to me at my unit. Sometimes I've done it before, but everyone appreciates the recognition and assistance, especially if new to the unit or military.
I know, I was "that guy" once. And I was extremely lucky to be mentored by someone far above my rank in my first year.
That resonates, and I pay it forward.