Posted on Jul 2, 2015
How would one write a proficiency and conduct rebuttal?
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How would one write a rebuttal? Looking for knowledge for myself and for knowledge for my junior Marines.
Posted 10 y ago
Responses: 7
First and foremost, be able to articulate why you disagree with a specific point, and with the score in general. Things like PFT (1st class or 285+), Rifle Qual (Expert) all work in your favor on Pro.
Be able to cite examples of why it is incorrect using logic and reason, and avoid emotion where possible.
Remember that Proficiency & Conduct are Subjective to a degree, and without formal documentation, the range is significantly more narrow (4.0-5.0)
Use previous marks to establish a window. If you were at 4.5/4.5 previously, and the marks are being lowered to 4.0/4.0, request documentation to show when, where, and why the opinion has changed so drastically.
Remember, this is also your counselling session, and feedback is INVITED, and it is not necessarily a firm number until after the session. You may be able to present information that had been forgotten or poorly documented to raise the scores, like LoA, CerComs, etc.
Be able to cite examples of why it is incorrect using logic and reason, and avoid emotion where possible.
Remember that Proficiency & Conduct are Subjective to a degree, and without formal documentation, the range is significantly more narrow (4.0-5.0)
Use previous marks to establish a window. If you were at 4.5/4.5 previously, and the marks are being lowered to 4.0/4.0, request documentation to show when, where, and why the opinion has changed so drastically.
Remember, this is also your counselling session, and feedback is INVITED, and it is not necessarily a firm number until after the session. You may be able to present information that had been forgotten or poorly documented to raise the scores, like LoA, CerComs, etc.
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Cpl (Join to see)
I have had a 4.3 4.4 average since I hit the fleet. I don't consider myself an amazing Marine but I know I do my job very well and I do sacrifice most if not all my personal time trying to do it. I received PCS pro's and cons from a unit I returned to for one and a half month's in order to check out. I received 2.9 3.7 and in my counseling it was brought up things I did in the squadron. Yet I still had 4.3 4.4 from end TAD pro's and cons. I have evidence and facts to support my rebuttal but I already PCSed. Is it still possible to fight Pro's and Cons from a former command? No I did not receive an NJP while I was there.
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Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS
Cpl (Join to see) - I have been out a long time, but if I remember the regulation correctly, anything below a 4.0 would be "punitive" and REQUIRE some kind of adverse action (NJP, P.11, etc) showing why the scores were that low. You can absolutely request they be reviewed, "if given in error or in violation of MC Order, Policy, etc." Work with your command and PersO section about correcting the issue.
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Stick to the facts... Leave your feelings out of it, and take responsibility for what was your/their fault. Lastly don't blame other people.
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SSgt Scott Schwerman
I am personally owning up to the facts that my Sgt is totally leaving out of my pros/cons. Basically saying I am average even though holding a SNCO billet, lots of volunteering, 6+ LOA's, and 1 CerComm.
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Cpl Christopher Bishop
Im guessing the Proficiency part isn't all that debatable, but if you think the Conduct part needs to be argued, then Id think you don't have much to lose in arguing it.
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The pro/con system in the Marine corps is flawed, I ha earn where a NCO or SNCO like a marine and give them inflated markings. So I would say stick to the facts, the corps has standards as long as that marine makes the standards then he is an average Marine.
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In general? It is really have to be focused. For example you have to break down the merit of ones argument. Focus on challenging the logic or lack their of in each point of their argument. If you can show instances of where their points have led to failure in the the past then do so. Also in the end you should it all together so they could see the overall impact of their arguments. An example is when you make two small mistakes in succession the overall impact of both combined can be catastrophic.
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You have had good advice. State facts. Document them when possible. Avoid argumentative statements.
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There is no formal appeal or process of review for proficiency and conduct marks as outlined in the IRAM. I would suggest you try the informal resolution method with your chain of command and if the Marine is still unsatisfied with the response, he or she can always utilize his right to Request Mast.
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SSgt Scott Schwerman
I'm aware of the request mast. I was looking for more information for how for my Marines to do rebuttals to try and get them changed.
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Sgt Michael Kieloch
There is no official "appeal" or "rebuttal" to pro/cons in the IRAM (MCO P1070.12K). Using the chain of command and Request Mast are essentially your only options. You can and should first do it through informal resolution, via the chain of command, and present your evidence as to why they should be changed — ultimately to your company commander. There is no form or formal process to do what you're doing. If you're unsatisfied after presenting your case to your chain of command, the Request Mast is your only recourse to get them changed.
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I take a look at the whole Marine, from his off duty education to his involvement in the local community to his maturity on and off duty. Is he good at his job, do they exemplify JJDTIEBUCKLE. If they meet all of this than personal opinions should always be kept out of this process.
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