Is RallyPoint supposed to replace the chain of command and NCO support channel?

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 12:00:17 -0400

Lately I've noticed several two types of posts from lower enlisted people. The first they are asking very simple questions that should be answered by their leadership. The second type, is someone complaining about their leadership. I think the two types are connected, they don't go to leadership with questions and then complain how they are being failed. At what point do we tell these guys to ask their own leaders to force them to do their jobs? Are the lower enlisted just being lazy and not doing their own research?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 12:01 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 12:01:55 -0400

No, this does not replace Chain or Support Channels. This is meant as a place to chat with fellow service members but also to augment both of the above.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 12:03 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 12:03:32 -0400

An excellent discussion topic. Asking for assistance in locating this or finding that is one thing. But I believe you've hit on a delicate point. I believe some people are seeking serious advice or looking to build support for an issue outside of their C of C. To your question, I don't think RP was designed or intended to replace command leadership. But a number of discussion postings have raised some doubt whether or not various SMs are not, in fact, using RP for that very purpose. A very unwise decision on their part. "Hey, Lieutenant, some people on a military Internet site told me to tell you to shove it where the sun don't shine!!!" Uh, huh.

Response by SGT Callen Pool made May 26 at 2016 12:06 PM

SGT Callen Pool — Thu, 26 May 2016 12:06:58 -0400

This is quite possibly because the're scared to go to the're command because they've seen what happened to other soldiers

Response by LTC Yinon Weiss made May 26 at 2016 12:08 PM

LTC Yinon Weiss — Thu, 26 May 2016 12:08:25 -0400

If they trusted their chain of command, or felt that their questions would be taken seriously, they would go to their command. I don't like blaming junior enlisted for not trusting their command. That is the command's fault.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 12:08 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 12:08:51 -0400

I think you are seeing a projection of current social media culture into the military. Many of our soldiers, especially the juniors lived most of their lives in a world where the easiest option is to get answers off the social network. It makes sense that this would extend to the military.

I too get amazed sometimes that someone spends time on some topics that are easily found on the first page of a Google search. The social media habit is the only thing i can think of.

Response by SFC Christopher Perry made May 26 at 2016 12:09 PM

SFC Christopher Perry — Thu, 26 May 2016 12:09:07 -0400

Personally, I feel there is a twofold answer here. One, the youngsters are more accustomed to relations via social media than we older folks are. It could even be said that some are more comfortable in this kind of relationship than they are in a real face to face connection. Second, lets be honest, this is far easier than actually approaching their leadership. Real hard to get your feelings hurt in here... It's not real after all.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 12:10 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 12:10:00 -0400

No it does not replace the NCO support channel or COC. But if some leaders would do the research and also answer the questions, the lower enlisted would not use this as their outlet. There are a lot of NCO's out there that do not want to help out their Soldiers at all.

Response by SFC Roberto Garza Jr. made May 26 at 2016 12:10 PM

SFC Roberto Garza Jr. — Thu, 26 May 2016 12:10:55 -0400

No it should not, I have the same complaint. This site encourages going outside of the chain of command for alot of basic questions. I tend to stay away from questions that should be left for first line leadership. I also try to point the answer to lead the service member back to his unit. Many will not agree with my response but the chain of command should be the first place a service member goes for questions. I feel this site should be used as a forum to share information but in no way should replace or devalue tge chain of command. I never respond to those that are complaining. I do feel that they should be pointed in the right direction but not always given the answer and to be encouraged to use their chain of command. Great post! SFC Bradshaw

Response by SSG Warren Swan made May 26 at 2016 12:15 PM

SSG Warren Swan — Thu, 26 May 2016 12:15:12 -0400

"The day soldiers stop bringing you their problems is the day you have stopped leading them. They have either lost confidence that you can help them or concluded that you do not care. Either case is a failure of leadership"...GEN Colin Powell. It could be this very issue. What would concern me more is when we see SNCO's on here asking questions that PV2 Jones knew coming out of basic.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 12:19 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 12:19:10 -0400

Leadership...well the back bone will never be replaced by a website. I saw this as a tool for like minded people who need a tap on the shoulder, maybe a clearer picture or simply just needed a different answer. This site has had its fair share of I didn't go to my leader moments in the last few seconds. The only difference from day to day is that you see it now instead of before this website you only knew of your circle and the conversations you had with other service members. I think it's a great opportunity to go be more engaged as a leader and make sure your soldiers are not utilizing this site for short cuts to hard work and allowing them to know you have there back. I spent over a decade on the other side of the tracks before matching my rank to my ability almost. They know when they're being failed and will run to the first open door they find that sounds good.....

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made May 26 at 2016 12:21 PM

SGM Erik Marquez — Thu, 26 May 2016 12:21:40 -0400

Id prefer the word augment...
And then ask yourself.. where is the issue?

If the Sm is unable, unwilling to ask those questions of the squad leader, section sergeant, platoon sergeant,. PL.. WHY?

Were they not taught that was proper and advisable? (Leadership failure)
Are they too scared of an abusive response? (Leadership failure)
Have they tried before and received only platitudes or nonsense response, but not actual guidance allowing them to discover a solution or reasonable help to solve the problem? (leadership failure)
Or have that had all of that handed to them and choose to not ask the question in a quest to "find the answer on there own, thus impressing the leadership of thier ability to make it happen...

Of course it's just as likely they are a dirtbag , to lazy , to inept to open a book, read a policy letter

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 12:25 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 12:25:55 -0400

RallyPoint, like ADP, Central Army Registry (CAR), etc. is a resource. Having been a PV1 trying to read a reg is like trying to read the user manual to an Atomic Plant ... in Mandarin, and it sucks if you only speak Cantonese.

REF: "lazy and not doing their own research?"
Possibly. But when I do respond I will provide the AR and the para. Depending on how convoluted the reading, I will interpret as best I can IAW the couple of days of which I served, which is pretty much what their FLL's will do anyway.

With many of the answers I've seen from other members, it's better they get the answers here than from the Private News Network.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made May 26 at 2016 12:34 PM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Thu, 26 May 2016 12:34:50 -0400

"Do I really need to bug Sgt K about this? He's got other IMPORTANT stuff he's got to worry about. I can just ask in RP."

That isn't to say leadership won't help. But they have a PERCEPTION that they are not as important as the current task.

Remember, one of the hardest skillsets to learn as a junior is when it is appropriate to ask for help or additional resources. It's akin to admitting defeat. We pound self-reliance into folks heads, and having to go to seniors because we can't accomplish something or don't know something triggers a specific response where going to a peer (like someone on RP) does not.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made May 26 at 2016 12:53 PM

Cpl Justin Goolsby — Thu, 26 May 2016 12:53:28 -0400

You bring up a valid point. They should be able to go to their own leaders with any form of questions. You ask whether or not they are being lazy and not doing their own research, well part of doing your own research is being able to ask the questions. I won't chastise any one for asking the question because for all we know, their senior leadership could be setting them up for failure by not giving them accurate information. The people asking the questions could just be looked for a second opinion to see if they are off track.

Let's not forget that as leaders it is our responsibility to shape the junior troops. If you feel that giving them a direct answer will not benefit them in the long run, then give them an indirect answer. There have been many times where a Marine would come to me looking for me to give them the answer and I would simply ask them "what does the reference say" because I am forcing them to know where to look for the answers. Now if I've got a Marine that almost has it figured out for himself, I might sit down with him and help guide him towards the right answer.

Yes, it could be a product of laziness, it could be an act of verification. There is nothing compelling you to answer their questions. If you feel they would benefit more making them think for themselves, then initiate a conversation. Lead them to their leaders so they think to go in that direction for future issues.

Response by MSG David Johnson made May 26 at 2016 1:03 PM

MSG David Johnson — Thu, 26 May 2016 13:03:10 -0400

I have responded a few times here in the last month that you just hit with an 8 pound sledge.

I can hardly believe some of the questions are asked on here that should be asked of team leaders, or even assistant squad leaders, if they have those anymore, even a squad leader should be queried about these posts first.

It's the sign of the newest generation that have no respect for their leadership, AND a failure of the leadership within the platoon to not give a briefing about RP, I was in during a period when computers came bursting on the scene and was given OPSEC briefings from the very beginning about what you put online and where.

Now on the other side of the coin, if a Soldier has already exhausted ALL resources at his disposal, then I agree this would be a forum to get information.

As an E5 section sergeant I was asked a question by an OC during an NTC rotation. I had to be honest, the training manual didn't give the answer to the question. So the OC said he would find the answer and mail me the info, I thought ok, this won't happen. It took that OC about a month to find the answer, but he did snail mail me a copy of the FM, and newest TM that answered the question.

Now I understand that not every question can be screened but there should be a response from, maybe there should be a first comment asking "Did you ask your COC before posting this question?".

Maybe I'm just old fashioned about this whole deal.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made May 26 at 2016 1:05 PM

SGT Ben Keen — Thu, 26 May 2016 13:05:06 -0400

"Replace"...no..."enhance"...yes.

I do not disagree with your comments about the two types of posts you see here but I do not think it is limited to just lower enlisted. I think you can expand it to posts that are truly seeking information and posts that are just rants, or self-promoting or the "angry Veteran" type posts.

RallyPoint is unique in that people can come here and get several different views of a topic outside of their Chain of Command or NCO Support Channel. Does that mean Service Members should not seek answers from these sources? No, of course they should use these powerful tools but lets face it, as Leaders we do not always have the best answer. Sure, we can research and find out, but I think it speaks loudly for the leadership potential of younger service members to try and find the answers themselves and/or to seek secondary views to an issue. I also think it forces us as leaders to do a better job and to support younger service members because I am sure the last thing a leader wants to do is come on RallyPoint and see one of their Soldiers on here talking ill of their Chain of Command or NCO Support Channel.

Response by A1C Amber Planting made May 26 at 2016 1:07 PM

A1C Amber Planting — Thu, 26 May 2016 13:07:01 -0400

I'll be honest here, when I was in, if I had a resources like RP, I would have had people I could of reached out to for advice on how to improve my situation and better myself, rather than being thrown under the bus as I had, and stonewalled by my chain of command.

Response by Amn Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 1:08 PM

Amn Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 13:08:35 -0400

No. Simple answer to simple question. In context, I was a senior on the E4 Mafia back on my past life and complained about cold chow on the field, today, there are issues like wifi or on that realm. After some maturity I believe that we could do a better job on how to explain the big picture (when appropriate), that would reduce the complaining, but not eliminate it. As far as asking questions, I think they should, but they maybe do not want to look bad in front of the leaders or are looking for the answer they want to hear. At the end of the day, the great majority of us here do not approve or disapprove any Soldier actions. Plus this is a social media generation, by no means we should body body with subordinates on any media, but social media could be used as a communications channel.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 1:29 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 13:29:28 -0400

When I think back on being 18 years old, a LCDR was like some kind of mythical monster you never wanted to see...but were in awe of if you did. A Senior Chief was a virtually all-knowing superman who could not only sail Noah's Ark-but was probably a plank owner. The point being, that I try to remember that when commenting on a question asked by a junior enlisted person-even if they are obviously playing sea lawyer. They're likely here because they figure it's more anonymous...or because, as some have suggested, they've lost faith in their COC. Hopefully, we're answering them in a way that at least supports what their leadership is trying to instill...or if that system is failing them, provides an alternative solution. As a salt encrusted Senior Chief at my first ship always said, "Sir...you've got resources for a reason."

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 1:30 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 13:30:57 -0400

I don't think our juniors are lazy but I try to instill in my subordinates what my seniors instilled in me (as well as my parents) and that is to give just enough info to aid the learning process. My detachment sergeant is one of the finest NCOs to serve in the Army and he rarely gives away the answers to questions. Rather, he guides us to the regulation(s) that will help answer. He then asks that we come back to him when we found the answer. This puts the responsibility on the junior to learn and gives them a sense of pride when they find something out on their own. This is how we should lead, in my honest opinion.

All that being said, there are still leaders who don't know the answer or don't know how to tactfully provide the guidance that their juniors need. This can be perceived as the poor leadership that we often hear of in these forums. While poor leadership does exist, we need to continue to be available to our troops and also be willing to admit to not knowing the answer. We can all learn from each other and we need to show that to our next batch of leaders.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 1:31 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 13:31:08 -0400

I think people ask questions on this site because it allows them some anonymity. They do not want to ask their chain of command for fear of being labeled as stupid or a boot. Just my two cents. You could argue that is a failure of leadership on the part of NCO's being approachable, or maybe the NCO's don't know the answers to some common questions, and the junior has lost faith. It is hard to say for sure.

Response by SGT David T. made May 26 at 2016 1:32 PM

SGT David T. — Thu, 26 May 2016 13:32:58 -0400

I think there are a couple of reasons for this. 1. They may not trust their NCO support channel and COC. I know by the time I got out, I didn't trust any of them at all. Tends to happen when you get thrown under the bus one too many times. 2. They may not want to look dumb. Asking questions in here is more or less a safe place to ask. 3. This is the social media generation and they are more comfortable with platforms like this. I think it's great they ask and complain here. Everyone needs something outside of the workplace to ask questions and gripe.

Response by CMSgt Donald Felch made May 26 at 2016 1:45 PM

CMSgt Donald Felch — Thu, 26 May 2016 13:45:17 -0400

This question poses several interesting observations.

I'm a member of a Facebook group designed for Air Force E-9s (Chiefs) to answer questions in a "virtual online panel" type forum. As I read some of the questions, they would seem to support your point; some are perhaps questions with answers available through either individual research or using the chain of command. But, these Airmen are getting steered that way in many responses as well. Some of the Chiefs (and other SNCO subject-matter experts) are not very polite when they tell the OP to "look it up" or to "ask your supervisor." Some, on the other hand, provide links and thoughtful interpretation the young Airmen may not be able to get from their SSG who may be unavailable or less experienced.

I think social media is changing the way our young warfighter (of all branches) communicate. Is it relpacing the chain of command? I don't think so. Not if the chain of command, especially first-line supervisors, are involved in the lives of their troops. Are those asking questions just being lazy? Good question SFC--and you know, probably some are and some aren't and we can usually tell the difference, right? ;-)

Response by MSG Pat Colby made May 26 at 2016 1:45 PM

MSG Pat Colby — Thu, 26 May 2016 13:45:50 -0400

Sometimes the Command is 8^ from the top down.

It took a Social Media site to call out CSM Flournoy and then the Soldiers experiences with her in previous Commands came out of the woodwork.

Let that sink in for a minute.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 1:55 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 13:55:55 -0400

Maybe because our NCO's response is to Google it. As a junior enlisted I have been told to "just Google it and figure it out yourself" many a times. As opposed to when I get on RP and am given answers with actual help and links to do more research myself on the matter. Perhaps it is because, and I mean this in the most respectful way possible, NCO's are getting complacent with their junior enlisted.

Response by Capt Tom Brown made May 26 at 2016 2:03 PM

Capt Tom Brown — Thu, 26 May 2016 14:03:03 -0400

1SG Private RallyPoint Member There could be any number of reasons why an E2 would ask a 'simple' question on RP or a SM would relate a 'raw deal' or personnel problem seeking counsel which might otherwise come from the COC. Rather than shut these folks down I think the attitude here is to take the question at face value and try to provide a good response. At the same time we should also add the advice to make the same inquiry within their COC and suggest the person or position who is more likely to know the answer and give them straight advice. There seems to be a number of such questions coming from reserve or NG units where troops live a distance from their units and only see the units on a monthly basis.

Response by MSG Pat Colby made May 26 at 2016 2:08 PM

MSG Pat Colby — Thu, 26 May 2016 14:08:06 -0400

Another case in point is the recent question regarding the measurement of the 2 mile run in the APFT. I provided my usual Trademarked smart ass comments/observations. Many people quoted FM 21-20 Which by the way is a Manual NOT a Reg.

Any way, there is absolutely NO regulatory guidance on specifically how the route is to be measured or marked on streets/roads. Some people measure the shortest distance around corners while others measure following the middle of the road. Sure, it may not make a big difference in the overall scheme of things but when someone fails (or passes) by a matter of seconds, those extra few feet make a difference.

Until definitive Regulatory guidance is provided, we will see this question again and again. Since that guidance can NEVER cover every aspect of every situation, NCO's need to do the best they can given the situation. This is a Forum for much needed assistance in overcoming these types of situations.

Response by CW5 Andrew J. Foreman made May 26 at 2016 2:20 PM

CW5 Andrew J. Foreman — Thu, 26 May 2016 14:20:04 -0400

Mentorship and leadership come in many different forms. Social media is just one of those forms in today's military. However, there are times when we need to point Soldiers to their chain of command or NCO support channel. But that is part of mentorship.

Response by SPC David S. made May 26 at 2016 2:34 PM

SPC David S. — Thu, 26 May 2016 14:34:50 -0400

No but there are many reasons I feel that drive this -

1) Using RP as a sounding board - doing research
2) Playing devil's advocate and vetting information
3) Looking to capitalize on the experience on RP
4) Complaints about poor leadership - they want to try resolve the issue without getting the CoC involved
5) There's a real underlying issue with their NCOIC or CoC
6) Jr SM's are not well informed - no such thing as a stupid question mentality.
7) Leadership allowing SM's to be lazy
8) Millennials - there's an app for that - really there is.
9) Instant gratification
10) Getting something off their chest - venting.

However regardless the SNCO or CoC needs to invest a little time and drill down to see what's really going on - is it a matter of getting the jr pointed in the right direction or holding their peers accountable to their troops. Hey I've had many LT's ask me questions - never thought of it as a hit on them though more so an opportunity to inform and train them.

Response by SGT William Howell made May 26 at 2016 2:43 PM

SGT William Howell — Thu, 26 May 2016 14:43:03 -0400

So my questions to your question is this.

Why are lower enlisted coming on here for answers? What are they not getting from their CoC?

Why is senior leadership not addressing or knowing that there soldier has an issue? While I only lead a squad I knew if my soldiers had issues. If I could not handle an issue then it went to the Platoon SGT. If he did not handle it then I went to the 1SG. Mission First, Troops Always.

Why is a SFC asking why he is not in the support channel instead of asking how can I he better support his troops? You should know your troops better than your troops know you.

While I do not know you or your leadership, it does concern me that you think the problem lies with the soldier and not the leader.

The second paragraph of the NCO Creed should answer your question completely.

"Competence is my watchword. My two basic responsibilities will always be uppermost in my mind - accomplishment of my mission and the welfare of my Soldiers. I will strive to remain technically and tactically proficient. I am aware of my role as a Noncommissioned Officer. I will fulfill my responsibilities inherent in that role. All Soldiers are entitled to outstanding leadership; I will provide that leadership. I know my Soldiers and I will always place their needs above my own. I will communicate consistently with my Soldiers and never leave them uninformed. I will be
fair and impartial when recommending both rewards and punishment"

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 3:02 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 15:02:01 -0400

Obviously a website can not replace leadership, but it was a good hook that made you all comment. Seriously though, I think when we get questions that should be answered by leadership it highlights all the posts about how standards have dropped and leadership sucks. If the new generation feels more comfortable turning to social media to answer questions then we have failed as leaders. Personally, I use RP as a last resort after I've done due diligence to find answers myself. As leaders we should be the first resource our men turn to.

Response by Maj Rob Drury made May 26 at 2016 3:05 PM

Maj Rob Drury — Thu, 26 May 2016 15:05:52 -0400

Maybe they're just being typical immature, self-absorbed millennials. They feel they can say or do anything they please. Nothing is good enough, and any reasonable standards of behavior violate their "constitutional rights." I guess if this is the only pool from which the military has to pull, I guess it's what we're stuck with.

Response by SSG Byron Hewett made May 26 at 2016 3:09 PM

SSG Byron Hewett — Thu, 26 May 2016 15:09:21 -0400

The NCO support system and the chain of command is should always be the first route a soldier shouldtake and use but that system is only useful and good as it can be when the leadership and the chain want to make it open door policies are a great tool if your if the NCO's and the chain take care of its soldier's no matter situation. Rally point is a great tool it allows for all service members to learn from each other and other branches of the armed forces and helps to unify our services so we are a more cohesive military and very knowledgeable which is why we are the best in the world.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 3:40 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 15:40:23 -0400

No I am not sure they are being lazy but if someone is willing to go out there and get some insight from a few NCO's how can that be a bad thing? I agree that if a younger enlisted needs guidance should definitely seek advise from his/ her first leader but we have all known a few first line leaders that fell short on mentorship.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 3:40 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 15:40:27 -0400

From what I've seen..I think much of it comes from lack of trust in their leadership and sometimes inability to fully understand the regulations.

Response by SSG Jeff Beltran made May 26 at 2016 4:00 PM

SSG Jeff Beltran — Thu, 26 May 2016 16:00:37 -0400

The overall Command climate in the the Chain of Command will determine how well lower enlisted will respond to their leadership. Leaders, who do not communicate or give clear guidance and guideline will develop poor soldiers. Trust is a two way street and Leaders who take the time to follow up with their Soldiers and continue to develop and mentoring their Soldiers will understand what motivates their Soldiers. This, I believe will develop good soldiers who will not come up on SIR and Blotter Reports. A leader has to have the mindset of continually understanding human relationships and developing good interpersonal skills, which takes time and experience and personal development. Many leader's and Soldiers will always default to their last good and bad Leader's who led or did not lead by example. If good leadership is around these SM's will look at their NCO support channel in a very positive way and will want them to emulate their leaders. That's why we have SGT's Time and NCOPD to continue the development of all SM's to prepare for the next conflict or war.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 4:08 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 16:08:36 -0400

Soldiers in my opinion are getting promoted to quickly and soon our ranks will feel the effects. For instance these newly promoted E-6/E-7's who have only been in the military 6-10 years have not had the ability to mold themselves or allowed themselves to be mentored by a SNCO. This failure will only lead to poor decision making, poor leadership, poor moral and you will see a military force crumble under scrutiny and scandals.

The military has become a pomp and circumstance/showmanship competition, and what I mean by this is; Soldiers are required to complete online training (SSD, ETC. and fluff their way through it (cheat)) just to get to the next rank. They also don't earn awards like past Soldiers before them, they have become an entitled Force and think everything should be given to them, much like society has become with this younger generation. Soldiers have forgotten a lot of the time honored traditions that come with wearing the military uniform. It's not about the badges or how bad ass you look in your uniform or your Oakley sunglasses. It's a privilege and honor to wear this uniform that says " US ARMY" across your chest.

In my opinion rank, awards and recognition should be earned at all levels. Too many times I have witnessed Soldiers be given awards they didn't deserve or earn but their young leadership didn't want to put in the work to truly award the correct individuals. I have witnessed too many Soldiers receive coins of excellence for no such reason at all other than they showed up in a clean uniform. Today's force and leadership need to take a long hard look at everything we do and don't do as leaders.

Don't take my opinion with hostility or bitterness. I love putting the United States Army Uniform on everyday and believe me I am not a perfect Soldier but I strive to be a great leader and earn the respect of my leadership and peers daily by putting the needs of my Soldiers, Unit, State and the United States before my own. I don't do what I love for the awards, recognition or accolades. I do this job because I value, honor and respect the past Soldiers who wore this uniform before me and want to mentor and lead the Soldiers along side me that are serving today.

Response by CPT Joseph K Murdock made May 26 at 2016 4:09 PM

CPT Joseph K Murdock — Thu, 26 May 2016 16:09:46 -0400

I would say supplement your chain of support. There are many of us who will look at problems differently, thus the solutions might be different.

Response by TSgt Jennifer Disch made May 26 at 2016 4:21 PM

TSgt Jennifer Disch — Thu, 26 May 2016 16:21:05 -0400

This will never change the CoC. However, they may feel comfortable speaking their minds in a forum where they won't be judged and where people actually LISTEN to them.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 4:54 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 16:54:41 -0400

I believe it's an issue with those personnel in "leadership" roles that are not doing their job and perhaps do not have the answers or simply don't know how to research themselves. Junior Soldiers have a right to ask questions and in today's age their form of initial research is asking through social meadia. That's why most senior leaders here respond with correct and doctrinal references and publications for those soldiers to read and start somewhere. But you are right junior soldiers need to be more involved and take some initiative and not wait for "hand me downs"

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 5:00 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 17:00:24 -0400

I agree with your post but this is a complicated issue. I feel that maybe we as leaders do fail when this happens but we must remember that those posting are o a different generation. Their lives revolve around social media. They go where they feel most comfortable and that is social media.
I am not completely sure how I feel hit part of the problem may be that senior people respond to these posts with advice. This is both good and bad. Part of me wants to say that the only reaponse should be "take it to your chain or support chain". But, remember these young soldiers live on their phones and social media. It will be interesting to see how this type of issue plays out over the next few years.

Response by SGT Shawn Schweinberg made May 26 at 2016 5:08 PM

SGT Shawn Schweinberg — Thu, 26 May 2016 17:08:36 -0400

It also depends on the leaderships effectiveness. Your right that soldiers should go through the proper channels when an issue comes up. With that said I've seen leadership that was actually toxic to unit moral and affectiveness. Sometimes it helps to get advice from other military personnel. Granted that advice shouldn't be intended to cause a service member harm.

Most responses I've seen are helpful and in courage soldiers to speak with their leadership.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 5:46 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 17:46:34 -0400

While i would hope that Soldier would have someone in their chain they can talk to. The current generation is more used to Social Media and it truly is their community. Also in some cases Social Media may be the only way to bring a problem to light if it continues to be ignored or the SM is in a Unit with Toxic Leadership.
The Day You Stop Hearing SM Complain Is The Day You Need To Really Start Worrying!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 7:47 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 19:47:24 -0400

Gathering data from specialists in the field is research. I applaud junior enlisted for using this forum to begin their research.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made May 26 at 2016 8:47 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Thu, 26 May 2016 20:47:23 -0400

Actually, I remember the days when all moaning and bitching was the purview of the chaplains. Weren't we supposed to take our problems to them to have our "TS" cards punched?

Response by SSG Trevor S. made May 26 at 2016 9:12 PM

SSG Trevor S. — Thu, 26 May 2016 21:12:43 -0400

Before I retired, the Army was pushing a mentorship program. I personally think many of these Junior ( 1SG Private RallyPoint Member. They are Junior Enlisted, not "lower". They are not "lower" than you, they are junior in rank to you. If you do not get the distinction you might be part of the problem you are seeing.) Service Members are using a medium of research we, as an older generation, were not used to growing up. I would like to think that Rally Point is a good place for Junior Service Members to reach out to mentors that can help them with self development.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2016 12:11 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 May 2016 00:11:52 -0400

I think you have to look at the generation of the people asking questions. For nearly all of the junior enlisted the Internet IS where you go for information. As a father of three with the youngest about to graduate from high school I can tell you it's what they are taught to do. EVERYTHING is done online now- homework, job applications, work schedules, social activity. It's not necessarily that the leadership isn't there or not doing its job, it's that for the current youngest service members (including new officers) this is the natural method of finding out what you want to know.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2016 2:08 AM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 May 2016 02:08:57 -0400

What would be the point of RallyPoint if you were not able to ask people of different MOS's and experience, what would they do to formulate an opinion or plan/course of action? This is a discussion forum I thought?

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2016 10:02 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 May 2016 10:02:08 -0400

I see your point and partily agree. When I was a young Spc I would use the internet as a research tool. Many of the forums did not exsit. So this is a form of research. The question is did they use this as research and then go to the command. Many times I was told wroung informationand I think this is because many people get promoted to fast and have no idea what they are talking about. But they can recite the NCO Creed which i guess makes them amazing and competent NCOs.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2016 1:59 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 May 2016 13:59:22 -0400

Some questions that I ask, as a lower-enlisted, have already been directed to my leadership, but never answered. Sadly, the NCO Corps has deteriorated. It is not what it used to be. You can disagree with me, if you choose, but I know more useless NCOs than genuine leaders. In the last three years, I have met 4 legitimate LEADERS that wore NCO stripes. Most others are Rank-WEARERS, and not Rank-BEARERS. Which is why about two months back, I posed the question to RallyPoint, asking for Mentorship and Guidance on how to be a better leader and future NCO. Because the "leaders" I have here, are far from it. They care more about lifting weights in the gym and getting trashed at home after work than taking the time to lead and mentor their Joes.

Response by MSG Lance Kelly made May 27 at 2016 3:32 PM

MSG Lance Kelly — Fri, 27 May 2016 15:32:03 -0400

Working in JAG I get asked questions on a daily basis that should be answered by other sections. It seems if you throw the work "legal" into your question then it is for JAG to answer. It would be something like, "JAG is it legal to promote my Soldier early if he is doing a good job?" That's not a legal question, it is a G1 (personnel) question and there is a regulation that tells you the requirements for an advanced promotion. I feel too many people aren't willing to research information and therefore go straight to a source they think will help them. If lower enlisted are asking questions here then they probably feel comfortable in asking. Maybe they don't believe in their leaders or are afraid to ask in fear of looking stupid. We need to educate these individuals on where to find the answers. Though I get tired of being asked questions that are not of a legal nature I will always help those who ask me. Whether it is in the office, on the street, or here on RallyPoint, I will always attempt to help someone who has a question. I too learn from these and that in turn makes me a better leader.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made May 28 at 2016 10:51 AM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 May 2016 10:51:43 -0400

I think there are several reasons why things are brought to RP instead of the chain of command.

In most cases it is just a convenience. In some it may be that the SM does not want to burden his superiors. Perhaps in some the SM feels his lack of knowledge would be looked upon as a deficiency.

In the cases of complaining about the chain of command I suspect some have found that is is not a good practice,

Response by Cpl Edward T. Brickeen Jr. made May 29 at 2016 4:50 PM

Cpl Edward T. Brickeen Jr. — Sun, 29 May 2016 16:50:26 -0400

calling someone lower enlisted people is probably why people complain about their command...

Response by SGT Sara Hendrix made Jun 11 at 2016 12:12 AM

SGT Sara Hendrix — Sat, 11 Jun 2016 00:12:04 -0400

Unfortunately, I think it is primarily leadership that is lacking actual leadership on a fairly epic level.

RECENTLY I assisted a SM get a medical extension because his unit, chain of command and the medical providers had all FAILED him. It took a great deal of frustration and dealing with people and providers who refused to do their jobs, to get there but finally THANKFULLY we were in front of the General on his FINAL day in the Army (no longer his final day --- he is now extended and awaiting his MEB ) (story is shared
I have often heard stories from other SM's who have had COC's who they feared for reasons of retaliation. If they took a LEGITIMATE issue to them, quite often that COC had a field day with the soldier and would begin to ostracize them.
SM's (especially JR. Enlisted) need to understand that simply because someone says that is the way it is done, does not make it right.
This has carried over into the civilian work force that supports those commands, treating soldiers as if they are an annoyance or a nuisance. It truly is disturbing to see.

Response by A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney made Jul 25 at 2022 12:45 AM

A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney — Mon, 25 Jul 2022 00:45:22 -0400

Although I Only Served 4 Years,
I Was In Management For FMC, Then Self Employed For 27 Years Before Retiring.
I Think I Can Safely Say "Leadership Is Sadly Lacking, Both IN And OUT Of The Service"
Many Don't Lead With Confidence,Therefore Get Little Respect.
THIS Can Easily Lead To The Enlisted Lower Ranks To NOT Go To Them For Advise...
Simply Not Confident In Their Leaderships Ability To Give The Proper Advise..