Making the right ethical decision, is it as hard as it really seems?

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 13:29:16 -0400

How many of you have ever been faced with making a decision that could of caused an ethical dilemma? I came across this poster in the break room at work and it got me thinking about my past decisions in the Military, especially while dealing with contractors while deployed and now while being CONUS.

Response by SCPO David Lockwood made Aug 5 at 2015 1:31 PM

SCPO David Lockwood — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 13:31:18 -0400

I would think common sense would be a factor in this.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 5 at 2015 1:34 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 13:34:17 -0400

Always, always, ALWAYS be above reproach. (Integrity)

Response by SGT Jeremiah B. made Aug 5 at 2015 1:41 PM

SGT Jeremiah B. — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 13:41:02 -0400

Ethical decisions aren't usually that difficult. In situations like the one above, it's frustrating. When in doubt, consult Legal or your compliance department if you have one.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 5 at 2015 1:55 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 13:55:36 -0400

I think that the above situation CAN be ok, if the contract is up for bids. Giving a reference is ok. Pressuring to accept a particular bid due to nepotism is not.

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made Aug 5 at 2015 3:43 PM

SFC Joseph Weber — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 15:43:03 -0400

If the mugs have night vision and laser tracking I would consider it, otherwise go with the pens.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Aug 5 at 2015 4:38 PM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 16:38:10 -0400

Generally speaking it's not this situation that is difficult. It's the reverse of this situation that is difficult.

It's when you have to ask yourself "Did I put Steve in a position where he was in an Ethical Dilemma?" or "Will this create a Conflict of Interest with Jennifer?"

As an example, and I am loathe to use this one, but I think it highlights the point well.

In the Bowe Bergdahl case, the General Officer in charge of his Courts Martial has the potential of becoming the Army Chief of Staff.

First, I believe he is unequivocally beyond reproach. Let me reiterate that. He is UNEQUIVOCALLY beyond reproach.

However, should a Leader, ever put a Subordinate into a position where it "could be?"

This trial is going to be watched like a hawk, and regardless of it's outcome, the General's future career is (potentially) on the line. His decisions are are going to be second guessed by political figures, and this "may" cause him to review them with that in mind.

I do not believe he will, but there is the possibility when you threaten a man's future, that his present becomes a secondary concern.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Aug 5 at 2015 5:22 PM

SSgt Alex Robinson — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 17:22:31 -0400

There is the correct act and then the proper act. Follow the golden rule and you can't screw up.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 5 at 2015 5:26 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 17:26:41 -0400

It's inherent in our nature, gossip and lying are something we all have the capability to do. But we also wear the uniform and represent something greater than ourselves; it's a matter of integrity and honor that we must adhere to.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 7 at 2015 2:39 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Fri, 07 Aug 2015 14:39:42 -0400

I believe if one has strong values, the decision is already made.