Should the new Army Instructor Badge be available to all Instructors, not just NCOES personnel?

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 11 Mar 2014 07:27:31 -0400

As of right now the Army Instructor Badge is only availible to NCOES SGL/Instructors. There has been no mention of AIT/IET Instructors or Specialty Instructors (Airborne, Air Assult)recieving this. Does anyone have any information on this or know of a change that is coming out?

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Mar 11 at 2014 7:47 AM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Tue, 11 Mar 2014 07:47:52 -0400

Yes, yes it should. AIT instructors spend FAR more time with their students than NCOES instructors...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 11 at 2014 7:49 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 11 Mar 2014 07:49:32 -0400

Yes, I believe if you hold the '8' identifier and have met all requirements by TRADOC to instruct then you should be awarded that badge. Past and present instructors should be authorized to wear it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 11 at 2014 9:20 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 11 Mar 2014 09:20:49 -0400

You know what my answer is going to be SSG Plato.  Yes, anybody that is a qualified military instructor and has and "8" identifier should be authorized to wear the badge, not just NCOES.  It would be the same thing if only Basic Training Drill Sergeants could wear the badge and not AIT Drill Sergeants (when we had them). 

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 11 at 2014 9:26 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 11 Mar 2014 09:26:50 -0400

Check out TRADOC Regulation 600-21, reguarding the Instructor badges. I believe all instructors should receive the badge, as long as they meet the requirements stated by TRADOC.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 11 at 2014 9:46 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 11 Mar 2014 09:46:52 -0400

I believe that if you are in a special duty like AIT PSG, drill, recruiter, instructor, etc you should get a badge to recognize it, and it should be everyone, not just the ones at NCOES for example

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Mar 12 at 2014 9:37 AM

SGM Matthew Quick — Wed, 12 Mar 2014 09:37:12 -0400

Updated MILPER and ALARACT message included.<br><br>http://www.armyreenlistment.com/army-instructor-badge.html<div class="pta-link-card"><div class="pta-link-card-picture"><img src="http://www.armyreenlistment.com/profile.gif"></div><div class="pta-link-card-content"><div class="pta-link-card-title"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.armyreenlistment.com/army-instructor-badge.html">Army Instructor Badge</a></div><div class="pta-link-card-description">10 Years Army Strong for Soldiers and Families</div></div><div style="clear:both"></div><div class="pta-box-hide"><i class="icon-remove"></i></div></div>

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2014 2:35 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 12 Mar 2014 14:35:13 -0400

I definitely think that an instructor badge should be awarded to anyone who's had the instructor skill identifier especially those who teach AIT.

I haven't been a SGL, but from what I've seen the skill set required to teach AIT far out weighs the skill set required to teach NCOES Schools. AIT instructors have to instill discipline, motivation, purpose, direction and facilitate the instruction, whereas an SGL in my opinion only has to facilitate the instruction.

I say that because soldiers who go to these NCOES schools should already have that motivation, purpose, and direction.

I'm not saying that the instructors who teach NCOES schools are less deserving but that AIT instructors are just as deserving of this badge.

Like SGM Cousins said, "we have to 'be patient' and wait until the kinks are 'ironed out'."

I also think that not all instructors are deserving. Because of the lack of time and care they put in. If you leave at 1630 everyday just going through the motions... You should not be deserving of such an honor... You have to put in the work to be recognized. Even if it means staying until 2000... Or later.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 13 at 2014 4:11 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 Mar 2014 04:11:21 -0400

As of 4 March 2014, MILPER Message 14-058 was released and states the criteria for instructor badges. It mentions only NCOES instructors and has no reference for instructors at AIT. I am in a position that issues badges at the Transportation School at Fort Leonard Wood and the RFI has been sent to clarify such a badge. Currently, the badge is only going to be awarded to NCOES instructors. More to follow as I get verified information from the source directly.<br>

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 13 at 2014 6:38 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 Mar 2014 18:38:58 -0400

An Instructor is an Instructor. Acknowledging those that are assisting in the development of one's career is important. However, they go through BCT then AIT before ever qualifying for attendance in any NCOES. AIT Instructors should be awarded the badge first and foremost.

Response by 1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 13 at 2014 10:05 PM

1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 Mar 2014 22:05:10 -0400

I think a better question is, "Should the Army be bothering with this?"<br>

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 14 at 2014 10:05 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 14 Mar 2014 10:05:52 -0400

I run the track (Phase II) portion of ALC for the 15Ts coming through school. I cannot speak for all MOSs, but for the aviation side of the house this badge only going to SGLs assigned to the NCOA leaves a pretty nasty taste in our mouths. Our academy SGLs only instruct the Common Aviation Maintenance portion of ALC which boils down to only 30% of the Phase II. The other 70% is instructed by PME instructors not assigned to the academy, yet we are not authorized to receive this badge (as of now). My concern is giving credit where credit is due. I support the above comments that all instructors should have been included in this. It seems a little ironic to me that the criteria required (IAW this new TR 600-21 dated Jul 13) seems to have been specificly created just to facilitate SGLs getting this badge, but the rest of us have met these requirement for years and years already. I have a hard time swallowing this as being labeled as a "pilot program" and that eventualy the rest of us will be included, but of course I may be wrong. We will just have to wait and see.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 14 at 2014 10:30 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 14 Mar 2014 10:30:52 -0400

<p>i hole heartedly believe that the Instructor Badge should be given to all instructors that hold the SQI 8. My main aregument on this message is the fact that the Individual Development Program is used in all Schools, whether it be an NCOES or IET/MOS School. I believe that that other instructors deserve it more than the NCOES instructor. As an AIT instructor, I push through 2,500 students annually. Accordning to OD Reg 350-67, Ordnance instructors must complete 100 hours of instruction time, attend the "Systems Approach to Training Basic Course (SATBC), and have 6 satisfactory evaluations to receive our own instructor badge. For the Senior Instructor Badge we must complete 600 hours of instruction time; complete a course that covers the development, administration, and control of test; complete an advanced training course or civilian equivalent course that is 40 hours or more; make a revision to the lesson plan and must be approved; and receive 6 satisfactory evaluations. For the Master Instructor badge you must have 1000 hours of instruction time; must mentor at least 2 instructors for at least 6 months; complete 1 SFD course since attaining senior instructor; complete a civilian personnel sponsored course with 40 hours or more, or a professional development course;complete2 AIPD course; have a score of 90% or higher on tests in your area of instruction; conduct a seminar; submit a proposal on a topic of instructional concern; submit proposal for MI project. complete 4 training evaluations on Associate Instructors and Instructos; complete a project; and appear before a board for evaluation.

</p><p> </p><p>The NCOES instructos do not have to do need to do nearly as much as we do. theres is as follows:</p><p> </p><p align="LEFT"><font size="2">FOR AWARD OF THE BAIB, SOLDIERS MUST MEET THE INSTRUCTOR REQUIREMENTS IN REFERENCE B ABOVE; COMPLETE THE INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS IN REFERENCE E ABOVE; SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETE 80 HOURS OF INSTRUCTION AS A PRIMARY INSTRUCTOR; AND COMPLETE THE INSTRUCTOR EVALUATION REQUIREMENTS IN REFERENCE F ABOVE.</font></p><p><font size="2"></font> </p><font size="2"><font size="2"><p>FOR AWARD OF THE SAIB, SOLDIERS MUST MEET THE INSTRUCTOR REQUIREMENTS IN REFERENCE B ABOVE; COMPLETE THE INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS IN REFERENCE E ABOVE; COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING PREREQUISITES: THE SMALL GROUP INSTRUCTOR TRAINING COURSE/INTERMEDIATE FACILITATION SKILLS COURSE AND THE SYSTEMS APPROACH TO TRAINING BASIC COURSE/ FOUNDATION TRAINING DEVELOPER COURSE; SUCCESSFULLY TEACH AT LEAST 400 HOURS OF INSTRUCTION AS THE PRIMARY INSTRUCTOR AFTER BEING AWARDED THE BAIB; AND COMPLETE THE INSTRUCTOR EVALUATION AND PRACTICUM REQUIREMENTS IN REFERENCE F ABOVE. </p><p> </p><font size="2"><p>FOR AWARD OF THE MAIB, SOLDIERS MUST MEET THE INSTRUCTOR REQUIREMENTS IN REFERENCE B ABOVE; COMPLETE THE INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS IN REFERENCE E ABOVE; COMPLETE ALL COURSES REQUIRED FOR THE SAIB, AS WELL AS THE FOLLOWING PREREQUISITES: ADVANCED FACILITATOR SKILLS COURSE (AFSC) OR THE FACULTY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM-1 (FDP-1), AND THE EVALUATING INSTRUCTORS WORKSHOP; SUCCESSFULLY TEACH AT LEAST 400 HOURS OF INSTRUCTION AS THE PRIMARY INSTRUCTOR AFTER BEING AWARDED THE SAIB; AND COMPLETE THE INSTRUCTOR EVALUATION AND MASTER INSTRUCTOR BOARD REQUIREMENTS IN REFERENCE F ABOVE. </p><p> </p><p>I believe the badge should not be depicted to only one type of instructor. If you are going to award someone an instructor badge then it should be for all instructors. Im sure that all the other schools who do not fall under NCOES schools would agree with me. </p></font></font></font><font size="2"></font>

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 14 at 2014 5:18 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 14 Mar 2014 17:18:34 -0400

If they are going to make the instructor badge then all instructors should be able to get NCOES or not. Also I was a WLC instructor for almost 2 yrs and also a 19D ALC instructor for the same amount of time but according to what I have seen it is only for those instructors after 2013. I believe we should all get it no matter what time period. What do you all think

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 14 at 2014 5:57 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 14 Mar 2014 17:57:15 -0400

Not sure, but as an OCS First Sergeant it pisses me off. I take nothing away from NCOES Instructors, but my cadre work just as hard as them if not harder and get little to no respect. This whole badge thing has pissed me and them off. One of these candidates could be the next Chief of Staff of the Army and to not reward all the BOLC and ROTC instructors is a slap in the face. The army needs to fix this and fast. Again, I want to restate that I have a lot of respect for NCOES instructors, but having seen both the BOLC and OCS instructors they are deserving as well of this badge.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 14 at 2014 9:51 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 14 Mar 2014 21:51:49 -0400

I'm looking forward to my next assignment as an instructor and understand the importance they perform in the Army. However, am I the only person that thinks a badge is unnecessary for this job?

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2014 8:34 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Mar 2014 08:34:51 -0400

Down and dirty, I think if you were awarded an 8 identifier as an instructor that means you met the qualifications for being an instructor you should be deserving of the Instructor Badge as well. I have the distinct privilege of being an NCOES instructor/SGL from 2008 to 2011 and now having the honor to lead one of the best companies of instructors in Army Aviation, to include over the last year 5 of them became Master Instructors. Although I was an SGL I am not being awarded the badge either unless they make it retroactive. I don't necessarily think the Badge is really necessary but if you are going to award it, it should be given to all qualified instructors. Very disappointed with the whole situation. I truly hope they do the right thing and fix this!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2014 11:20 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Mar 2014 23:20:55 -0400

<p>SSG Plato,</p><p>Completely agree. I dont know how much this badge needs to exist but if you are going to make it, it should exist for all qualified instructors. Another BS badge. </p>

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2014 3:56 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 16 Mar 2014 03:56:42 -0400

I'd have to agree with 1SG, if you attended the school trained Total Army Instructor Course, or the Army Basic Instructor Course, this badge should be awarded to you, if they want to release the Army Instructor Badge.  Otherwise, what's the point of having the TAIC or ABIC courses which teach you how to be an effective Instructor, but then you get the big shaft when the AIB comes out.  It's a contradiction in terms.  Seems like someone in an NCOES got butt hurt about some chest candy so yet another badge has been released.  Ok, cool.  But then lets release it to ALL INSTRUCTORS not just NCOES.  

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 9 at 2014 10:13 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Apr 2014 10:13:02 -0400

I am currently stationed at FT Rucker,  and I can tell you right now that we are in the process of fixing and requesting anyone with an "8" indentifier and is IAW TRADOCC regulation.  I will post anything that I come up with as it happens.  feel free to email me at [login to see] .

Response by COL Thomas F. made Apr 9 at 2014 1:41 PM

COL Thomas F. — Wed, 09 Apr 2014 13:41:55 -0400

Curious, why its only for NCOs at the NCOES schools? Plenty of officers who are qualified 5K and do instructor duties in other school houses. Instructor is an instructor is an instructor as long as they check the boxes shown in the MILPER, no?<br><br>Are there officers that teach in the NCO Academies as a primary instructor? What about the SGM Academy at Ft Bliss?<br>

Response by SSG Jeffrey Spencer made Apr 9 at 2014 1:50 PM

SSG Jeffrey Spencer — Wed, 09 Apr 2014 13:50:55 -0400

When I was in the Army, we had a "Z" designation after the MOS.  I was the NCOIC for driver training (64C20Z) at Ft. Ord.  Would this be the same as the '8' I hear about in the discussion?

Response by SFC Timothy Riser made Apr 10 at 2014 8:07 AM

SFC Timothy Riser — Thu, 10 Apr 2014 08:07:31 -0400

Yes, I believe the Instructor badge should be for all certified instructors, staing that NCOES are more important dut to the training of NCO's? What about training the Soldiers to be proficient in their jobs and as leaders maybe the AIT instructors who spend more time with the Soldiers than the NCOES do.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 10 at 2014 11:29 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 10 Apr 2014 11:29:03 -0400

I think they should.  Instructors within Basic Training/OSUT units and Basic Officer Leader Courses should be able to wear wear it because they are required to attend the same certification that NCOES instructors do to be able to instruct.  I can see Drill Sergeants not being able to wear it because their training is a bit different, plus they have their hat and badge that uniquely identifies them already.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2014 9:12 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 12 Apr 2014 21:12:37 -0400

<p>Why do we need this? I am sorry and I don't want to be a negative Nancy but I see no point in this badge.  I thought that the NCOES instructors already wore some sort of pin that dangled off there uniform that looked kind of like a DUI or some sort of unit crest.</p><p><br></p><p>I think the Army is getting to carried away with these badges.  Remember pre- OEF/OIF days.. Depending on what unit you were serving in at the time you never saw much more than the occasional Airborne/Air Assault Badge.. a few Drill Sergeants and Recruiter Badges and very few Combat Patches.</p><p><br></p><p>I feel like the Army now a days is trying to create things just so we some how feel important.  I will be honest with you.. I know some guys who are garbage that are instructors.  I remember going to WLC and those Instructors being over weight but at the same time "thought" at least to me that they were Drill Sergeants.  Now of course I am not saying all Drill Sergeants are squared away but there is a MASSIVE difference in what the Drill Sergeant does and an AIT Platoon Sergeant or an NCOES Instructor.  </p><p><br></p><p>If I were the CSM of the Army or whoever is in charge of this policy I would award maybe a Ribbon for the position but I would not award a badge.. We already have to much stuff to put on our uniform as it is, Career Counselor, Recruiter, Drill Sergeant, Tomb of Unknown, Combat Identification Badge, and your staff badge if you are awarded it for working up in D.C. all go on those same two pockets.  Where will this badge go?</p><p><br></p><p>I can see me getting a few dislikes for this comment but again its just my opinion. Enough with the badge already. </p>

Response by SFC Timothy Riser made Apr 22 at 2014 4:21 PM

SFC Timothy Riser — Tue, 22 Apr 2014 16:21:33 -0400

I believe if you are a qualified instructor currently or previously rated you should be allowed the INSTRUCTOR BADGE. I just dont see how they make the justification that NCOES Instructors build NCO's and that makes them better instructors. I will contend that the life of an NCOES Instructor is far less complicated and less stressfull than say AIT Instructors. I know I am biased since I am an AIT Instructor but really everyone else is included in the instructor badge to include Drill SGT's.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2014 7:22 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 11 Jun 2014 19:22:24 -0400

I agree with every person in this column. I am an AIT instructor at Fort Gordon, GA. I have earned the "8" identifier. Lets analyze what a badge is and should be. A badge is not an award. A badge is a concrete identifier that shows everyone who sees it on you recognizes that you are an instructor. A drill sergeant worked next to me in Iraq. The reason I knew he was an drill sergeant is because he had a drill sergeant badge. The badge simply told me that he was identified as a drill sergeant. The qualifications for drill sergeant was clearly stated before he went to drill sergeant school. When graduate, you wear the badge. I graduated from Army Basic Instructor Course (ABIC), WHERE IS MY Army Basic Instructor Badge BADGE????????????????????????????????????????????????????????

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2014 9:39 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 17 Aug 2014 09:39:23 -0400

Sounds legit

Response by CW3 Clayton C. made Aug 17 at 2014 9:42 AM

CW3 Clayton C. — Sun, 17 Aug 2014 09:42:10 -0400

I don't want another piece of metal to hang on my uniform, however, I have no idea why they insist on calling it an instructor badge when it's restricted to NCOES. There are a heck of a lot more instructors out there than just NCOES and we all go through the same courses, checks, and balances. And adding promotion points to it will rarely help anyone out. Unless somehow a Sergeant (E-5) gets a chance to teach WLC. I'm not saying it doesn't or won't happen, I'm just saying I've never seen it. To me, and please believe it's just my opinion, it's not needed or even wanted in most circles. In an age where everyone gets a participation medal, I don't feel like the Army should follow suit. We're not all the cream of the crop and badges should be reserved for Drill, Recruiting, and Career Counseling. That last one just makes it easier for soldiers to pick him/her out in a crowd. I think we should scrap the whole thing, just like the Distinguished Warfare Medal that drone pilots were going to get that was going to be senior to the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. Some ideas are just bad, and as such need to be recognized for their lack of merit and disposed of properly.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2014 12:54 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 17 Aug 2014 12:54:33 -0400

The Army did a terrible job naming this badge. The intent for it was to recognize and produce a professional NCOES cadre. However, it should have been named to reflect its purpose.

Response by SFC Jeremy Boyd made Aug 18 at 2014 10:54 AM

SFC Jeremy Boyd — Mon, 18 Aug 2014 10:54:25 -0400

SSG Plato, as a proud holder of the 8 identifier and having put countless man hours into quality instruction for IET Soldiers as Cadre for over three years, I do agree that all qualified TRADOC instructors who served honorably and with professionalism should be awarded the badge. I know I would love to receive it. The only exceptions I would say are individuals who were removed from instructor positions for violations of values or outright misconduct.

Response by SFC Siva Williams made Aug 18 at 2014 9:08 PM

SFC Siva Williams — Mon, 18 Aug 2014 21:08:27 -0400

I taught at the AMEDD NCO Academy for three years (98-01). We were SGLs and used small group methodology. The other instructors on Fort Sam team taught. I had 10+ hours of contact time with my small group. I was their only instructor until they went to another phase or graduated. The AIT instructors might teach 3 to 4 classes a week while we taught everything. The Drills and the AIT instructors didn't have nearly the contact time that we did. Our positions were recognizes as the most challenging instructor slots in the AMEDD. We couldn't get AIT instructors to come over because "we worked to hard". I don't have a problem with a badge for NCOES SGLs. They are a cut above.

Response by SFC Siva Williams made Aug 18 at 2014 9:17 PM

SFC Siva Williams — Mon, 18 Aug 2014 21:17:37 -0400

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2014 2:44 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 14:44:27 -0400

SSG Plato,

Thru the power of research here is what i have found.
TRADOC REG 600-21
4-5. Instructor Recognition Requirements
a. Army Instructor Recognition and Badge. Soldiers performing at this level are able to facilitate and present instruction in a variety of learning environments. Instructors closely adhere to the instruction outlined in the training support package and effectively plan, prepare and execute instruction. They communicate effectively and apply various instructional methods, media, and educational technology in order to facilitate learning and present instruction. Instructors at this level question students and provide effective feedback, promote learning retention and transfer, assess learning, and counsel students. Instructors perform self-assessments to improve their performance. To receive the Army Instructor Badge and ASI 8I, Soldiers must:
(1) Meet all instructor requirements in AR 614-200.
(2) Have current passing APFT score. This cannot be waived because of temporary profile or pending MRB.
(3) Meet body composition requirements in AR 600-9.
(4) Complete TRADOC instructor certification requirements per TRADOC Regulation 350-70 and local requirements.
(5) Successfully teach at least 80 hours of instruction as the primary instructor after completing TR 350-70 instructor certification requirements.
(6) Must not have a rating of 3 or more NO-GOs in Section 1 and must score 24 or higher in Section 2 (with no zero ratings) on the Instructor Observation Rubric, TF 600-21-1 (see appendix H) for the last two consecutive evaluations (conducted at a minimum of 30 days apart).

AR 614-200

Enlisted Instructor or Adviser Positions
6–7. Scope
Only the highest quality Soldiers will be assigned as instructors or advisers. Normally, Soldiers assigned as instructors
will hold SQI “8”. Soldiers assigned to these positions will be stabilized for a period of 36 months. However, HRC
may reassign Soldiers with less than 36 months in accordance with paragraph 3–8a(10) of this regulation. Soldiers may
volunteer or be selected for an instructor or adviser position, as appropriate, at the following:
a. Active Army to RC (including full time manning (FTM)) and ROTC.
b. Uniformed Service schools.
c. U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy (USASMA).
d. Basic Officer Leader Course, phase two (BOLC, II).

If I am ot mistaken Uniformed Service Schools does include AIT but that might be a legal battle for a defenition.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2014 6:30 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 18:30:49 -0400

I have been an AIT Instructor and can tell you that for sure it is a lot harder and more time consuming to take care of PVT Snuffy than to take care of NCO's attending WLC, ALC or SLC. Why give more recognition to the Instructors having the easier job. All Instructors should be able to keep the Identifier and get the Instructor Badge. Ones I am done teaching to AIT Soldiers my Identifier is gone!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2014 11:04 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 23:04:42 -0400

I do feel that more than NCOES Instructors should receive the Instructor badge. I have been an AIT Instructor for 2 years now and I definitely believe we have earned the right to wear the Instructor badge. We are not only going over and honing skills that are students already should know as in NCOES schools, we are teaching these Soldiers their future skill. Teaching students something that is totally new to them is a demanding task. There are many hours that are put in to this both before during and after the students have left. As to some of the posts I have read on this thread as they continue to do the times have changed. Now Instructors jump at the chance to go to the NCO Academy as an Instructor, and not as you may think to get the Badge but because of the slower optempo or some may even say the easier job. It is easier to Instruct a course that is more of a refresher than it is to teach a brand new class. If I started one of my classes with a question like, " Why do you think controlling hemorrhage is an important step in Combat casualty care? " , and then as the Soldiers started talking about it I just went to my office and started working on some admin stuff only occasionally popping out if the discussion got too heated or to stagnant. I would have a room full of students that learned very little that day. Do I feel one Instructor is better than the other because of where the work, no not personally. I feel no matter where that Instructor works as long as they give 100% to the mission and their students then they are deserving of wearing the Instructor badge. Now I feel that just because one has the title and the identifier of Instructor they deserve to wear the badge. A lot of those who are and have been on Instructor assignments do or did not want to be there and it definitely shows. So to those who just show up because they have to, and eek through the day doing the bare minimum a badge of honor may not be for you. The greatest reward to me is watching the Soldiers I have taught walk across the graduation stage. I am doubly rewarded when I hear stories and praises from Leaders in their units about how pleased they are with the performance and skill set of the Soldiers. If the badge never makes it to us lowly Instructors who teach Soldiers their new skill, then so be it, I see my badge every time I see or hear a new Medic's name in a story of how they saved the life of another in need. If any of you who read this find it hard to believe that an AIT Instructors' job is a demanding one and by no means an easy one, I'm sure if you call HRC and volunteer for Instructor duty they can find you a spot. Then after you've been on the job a few months please post your thoughts on the subject. Stay positive guys we know what we do on a day to day basis and there are many who are still able to, that are thankful.
Take care,
V/R
SSG Espinosa

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2014 3:32 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 15:32:53 -0400

As an the Senior Instructor for the Engineer Senior Leader Course, and one who is not concerned with this badge at all, I think if a lot of you other instructors knew the paperwork involved and the evaluations that have to be done (which are based on the Army Learning Model, not death by powerpoint), and how much of an overall pain it is to get them, you really wouldn't be interested in getting one. My next statement may offend some, but oh well. The only people I've seen so far who care about them or really want to get one are those who are tab/badge hunters and spotlight rangers. If you walk through the NCOA here at Ft. Leonard Wood, which if I'm not mistaken, is the largest NCOA in the Army (EN, MP, CBRN, WLC, and some ORD) and ask our best and brightest instructors, nobody even wanted it to start with, much less cares about getting one. They are too involved with their courses and teaching students to worry about another badge.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2014 1:27 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 21 Aug 2014 13:27:57 -0400

First off BIG Army needs to change the "Instructor/Writer" title to either "Instructor" or "Writer". There are regular AIT Cadre that have the Instructor/Writer title and do not write ANY thing. So unless you work for a MACOM writing POI/MOI's then you can have the "Writer" title, and everyone else that has completed all the required training for the "Instructor" title be granted to wear the badge.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2014 12:01 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 12:01:15 -0400

Well we just had an NCOPD with CSM Dailey. The instructor Badge is in the process of being reworked to be giving across the Board. But it will not be easy to get. You will have to work for it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2014 6:46 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 23 Aug 2014 06:46:58 -0400

I was a Senior Training Manager for the 12B/12C courses and also a 25B10 Instructor. My 2 cents worth is that it should be for any 8 identifier qualified Soldier that has had or has an approved Instructor packet for a ATRRS course. The instructor packet means that you not only have the 8 identifier, CTC (cadre training course), passed an APFT, other local requirements and also passes 2 evaluations of the POIs that you are to teach. A course has TSP (training support package) is made up of POIs (periods of instruction) and has to be approved from the school house through TRADOC.
You never know how hard or easy 1 persons job is until you worked in that job and maybe even around the same time. An AIT instructor by the Army is an Instructor/Writer and Squad leader but it wasn’t always that way. Depending on what School House/ Unit you are in, the way that is conducted can be very different. If there is going to be a Instructor badge then it should be for all Instructors, otherwise change the name so people don’t get confused.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 8 at 2014 12:18 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 08 Sep 2014 00:18:07 -0400

I spoke with CSM Dailey, TRADOC CSM, it will be expanded to the AIT/IET instructors in the coming year. They are testing it with NCOES Instructors now. The issue they are running into is that each MOS has specific requirements to obtain each badge level and he mentioned something along the lines of keeping each instructor specific badges as the permanent wear....instead of keeping it on standard badge. This way it helps with cutting the cost of producing another badge.

Like me for example, I am an instructor here at Ft Huachuca and we have a specific badge that we have to wear, if everything goes as CSM Dailey said it will, I will wear my badge as a permanent award

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2014 6:25 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 09 Sep 2014 18:25:57 -0400

It has been brought up from our side of the house(so to speak). I know I teach ALC but do not belong to the NCOA here at FT. Benning. We was told we do not get the permanent badges. That seems to have been fixed. They are still fighting getting all instructors this badge.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 18 at 2015 11:15 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 11:15:50 -0500

Ok throw another one out there ASI of 8R, 8J both associated with MRT levels 1 and 2, should they be eligible?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 18 at 2015 11:18 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 11:18:00 -0500

Throwing this one out there skill identifier of 8R, 8J both MRT related should they apply, I hold both but as a facilitator join training teams to train new MRT's to go back to their units

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2015 3:49 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Feb 2015 15:49:33 -0500

Just wondering if anyone has heard of a new milper message authorizing all instructors to wear the badge. The only message I could find was 14-058 which only authorizes NCOES Instructors.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2015 12:26 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 12:26:56 -0400

The Badge was designed for Small Group Leaders at NCOES school who facilitate instead of teaching. Soldiers can up with the standards and design.

Instead of complaining, figure out how to get the recognition and possible crate a standard and badge for "regular" instructors.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2015 3:41 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 15:41:14 -0400

Folks, the badger is authorized fir wear of all Army Instructors provided they meet the guidance in the now outdated(and under revising). simply attending the army instructor course does not authorize wear of the badge. It doesn't surprise you the SQI 8. being awarded the badge further requires more courses and being observed under the new trade arc observation form. The badge can be revoked if you are Observed with this form. The

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2015 3:43 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 15:43:03 -0400

folks check out the message on March 14th of 2015 talking about authorization for where of the army instructor bad for all individuals who fit the qualifications. Simply attending Army basic instructor course does not authorize where of the badge. You must meet other specific requirements. You must be observed using the appropriate observation form has approved by training and Doctrine Command. Your badge can be revoked.

Response by SFC Steven Harvey made Apr 18 at 2015 11:45 AM

SFC Steven Harvey — Sat, 18 Apr 2015 11:45:50 -0400

Personally I want the Army to move to a more Marine like approach to uniforms.

No patches, no badges, no identifiers, etc.

Just a name tape and U.S. ARMY (just ACUs, dress can stay the same) sown on without the Velcro nonsense.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 5 at 2016 11:38 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 05 Jan 2016 11:38:06 -0500

only instructor badge I need

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2016 3:37 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Jan 2016 15:37:55 -0500

TRADOC is still working on three UPDATED regulation. The badge WAS NOT made for only NCOES, they were simply the"pilot" for the badge. TRADOC has authorized all TRADOC units to adopt the program, to date ORDNANCE is driving the train. The badge is not a bobble, it is recognition of training excellence, whether that is facilitation or teaching. It is fundamentally based off the core fundamentals of civilian teachers and creates an environment where instructors can apply there training towards an education degree. (That will be clarified in the coming months).
It is NOT automatic, nor is it mandatory, but it will be a discriminator for promotion.

David Kerr
SFC Retired
Master Army Instructor (the first)
Since April 2015

Response by SSG Leevon Leggins II made Jan 23 at 2016 11:45 AM

SSG Leevon Leggins II — Sat, 23 Jan 2016 11:45:45 -0500

I am amazed at some of the responses to this topic. The main one that caught my eye refers to Drill Sergeants and Recruiters not being able to wear this badge due to already having a badges. Take into account that you can see individuals wearing these badges together after having completed both courses and served time doing the tasks. The only true reasons for not wearing the instructor badge by these individuals would be spacing or a change of categories in accordance to wear. Now my thoughts on the thread is that all have attended and completed the course requirements to be awarded the "8" identifier should be authorized wear of this badge no matter where you are teaching. It has already been stated previously by others patiently wait for the outcome. This is coming for a retiree that served my last 5yrs of service as an MOS Instructor only having achieved Senior level which authorized me to wear a local fob identifying such.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 9 at 2016 12:42 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 09 May 2016 12:42:34 -0400

I'm currently a instructor and I'm being told it's authorized but I can find no policy or regulation guidance.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 9 at 2016 1:08 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 09 May 2016 13:08:04 -0400

Has this changed beyond NCOES instructors? If so where did you find the guidance?

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2018 4:15 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Feb 2018 16:15:00 -0500

Absolutely it should be for all instructors. Why is NCOPD singled out? That's like only allowing the wear of Airborne wings if you are on active jump status or only the 101 can wear AASLT wings. IMO NCOPD is a lot easier than teaching some other courses, especially with the adult learning model where they just guide the students to teach themselves. So an RI is not doing enough of a job to merit the badge, a SCUBA or MFF instructor isn't worth a badge? Good one TRADOC, good one.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 3 at 2018 9:03 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Aug 2018 21:03:06 -0400

I am a prior service 11B just reenlisted and I was wondering if it is authorized for me to wear an instructor badge after loss of rank because of gap in service.

Response by SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM made Aug 4 at 2019 4:39 PM

SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM — Sun, 04 Aug 2019 16:39:04 -0400

Yes it should.