Posted on Dec 29, 2020
Is a Pre SCCC 1LT taking command of a Brigade Signal Company a bad idea?
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Hey RP Community,
My BN Commander is looking at me to take command of a Brigade Signal Company. However, I have not completed Signal Captains Career Course (SCCC) nor Pre-Command Course(PCC). I transitioned from the said Company as the XO to the BDE S6 shop in an O-3 slot so I can promote to CPT once my promotion board convenes in the spring(2021). My hesitation/concern for taking command is that I do not have any staff experience(until recently) and do not know all the staff roles/responsibilities and how to leverage those positions to support the company mission and its Soldiers. In general, I feel like taking command with limited experience as a Junior Officer would probably be similar to that of a dumpster fire.
I am chewing on this a bit and currently leaning towards not taking command, at least until I complete my time in the BDE S6 and graduate from SCCC. I think then I would reconsider, having a better understanding of Staff roles and how I can use them effetely to facilitate the BDE Signal Company mission and METL tasks.
I would really appreciate everyone input in the matter. Thank you!
- Rob
My BN Commander is looking at me to take command of a Brigade Signal Company. However, I have not completed Signal Captains Career Course (SCCC) nor Pre-Command Course(PCC). I transitioned from the said Company as the XO to the BDE S6 shop in an O-3 slot so I can promote to CPT once my promotion board convenes in the spring(2021). My hesitation/concern for taking command is that I do not have any staff experience(until recently) and do not know all the staff roles/responsibilities and how to leverage those positions to support the company mission and its Soldiers. In general, I feel like taking command with limited experience as a Junior Officer would probably be similar to that of a dumpster fire.
I am chewing on this a bit and currently leaning towards not taking command, at least until I complete my time in the BDE S6 and graduate from SCCC. I think then I would reconsider, having a better understanding of Staff roles and how I can use them effetely to facilitate the BDE Signal Company mission and METL tasks.
I would really appreciate everyone input in the matter. Thank you!
- Rob
Company Commander
25A: Signal Officer
Reserves
Edited 5 y ago
Posted 5 y ago
Responses: 25
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CSM Charles Hayden Passed 7/29/2025 COL (Join to see) LTC John Mohor SFC James J. Palmer IV aka "JP4"
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It’s never a bad idea. I’m retired, so I’ve not kept up with OER current policy. It used to be that LT OERs were masked. If that is still the case, an LT Command might yield ratings that do not count as centralized board viewable Command OERs. If the board can’t see how you did in your Command it could affect future promotion.
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CPT (Join to see)
I'm actually due for promotion already. Had my CPT board in April. Results should be released in late summer. so I'll do a CoC and turn around and promote within a month or two of taking command.
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I would not turn down a command position. I've yet to be put in a position I truly felt ready for in 14 years of service. Right now I'm a BN XO as a senior CPT if that gives you some idea. Furthermore, your BN CDR thinks you're the best person for the job. Usually wisdom comes along with LTC rank.
You have hit on a salient point however. You're inexperienced and undereducated compared to someone who would normally fill that position. Recognizing this issue means you can improve on it. The first thing I would recommend doing is start reading the appropriate doctrine. It won't replace hands-on experience, but you'll at least know what right looks like. I took command of a rifle company as a 1LT and didn't promote until my 2nd year. Knowing the doctrine helped me be successful when I had experience gaps.
You have hit on a salient point however. You're inexperienced and undereducated compared to someone who would normally fill that position. Recognizing this issue means you can improve on it. The first thing I would recommend doing is start reading the appropriate doctrine. It won't replace hands-on experience, but you'll at least know what right looks like. I took command of a rifle company as a 1LT and didn't promote until my 2nd year. Knowing the doctrine helped me be successful when I had experience gaps.
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I commanded two infantry companies prior to attending IOAC. My answer is yes.
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