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

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."

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.

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.

"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.

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.....