Is it possible to get my SPC laterally promoted to CPL now that SGT does not have to complete BLC before getting promoted?

2024-08-08T15:32:39-04:00

I have a need for a CPL/SGT in my section. This Soldier has not completed BLC but is promotable. Does the Soldier have to have BLC complete even though the promotion criteria has changed for SGT?

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2024 8:03 PM

2024-08-08T20:03:27-04:00

A Lateral Promotion, specific to the unit, is merely a 4187 approved by the unit commander.

Response by MAJ Ronnie Reams made Aug 9 at 2024 10:40 AM

2024-08-09T10:40:10-04:00

The easiest way would be to make him an acting CPL. Wear the stripes, have the authority, own private room, NCO table in Mess Hall with DRO servers and go to NCO club instead of beer garden. My CO did not want any non NCOs working in the orderly room and made me an acting CPL as a PV2 Company clerk. First set of orders that I typed, with 1SG's help.

Response by SSG Robert Perrotto made Aug 9 at 2024 1:00 PM

2024-08-09T13:00:53-04:00

I think BLC is still required for CPL promotion, despite the changes to SGT promotion. But I'd double-check with your personnel office to confirm.

Response by COL Randall C. made Aug 10 at 2024 8:06 AM

2024-08-10T08:06:51-04:00

No. Army policy hasn't changed (for RA and USAR) since the implementation in 2022 (AD 2021-17*, para 5c).

• In order to attend BLC, a SPC must be recommended for promotion.
• When the Solider graduates BLC, then they will be laterally appointed to CPL

As the Army has given prescriptive guidance, there aren't "alternative methods" that can be used to get around it (again, for RA and USAR Soldiers) - "The CPL rank will be worn only by Soldiers who are both recommended for promotion by a unit promotion board and graduates of the BLC, regardless of the grade of position to which they are assigned" (AD 2021-17, 5b(1)).
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* Army Directive 2021_17 _ https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/ARN32643-ARMY_DIR_2021-17-000-WEB-1.pdf

ARN32643-ARMY_DIR_2021-17-000-WEB-1.pdf

Response by CPL Kyle Ongsing made Dec 18 at 2024 3:26 PM

2024-12-18T15:26:32-05:00

During a period of time they made it mandatory to serve as CPL for a certain amount of time ?
But it seems promotions are different now where SPC go straight to SGT rank most likely because of promotion points.
Your squad leader should inform about BLC get with your local chain of command