Should there be a rank requirement for certain unit positions?

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Dec 2015 10:33:22 -0500

I am assigned to a Headquarters Company in a Engineer Battalion. We have a SHARP Representative, but do not have a Victim's Advocate. The rank requirement to be assigned this duty is E-6. However, I myself have extensive knowledge and experience with this because I am a survivor of sexual assault. I know the sensitive nature of the topic, the resources available through both the military and civilian side, and the type of support needed for survivors of sexual assault. Should the chain of command, mine to be specific, be able to waive the rank requirements so that we have a Victim's Advocate and so I can help my fellow soldiers?

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Dec 9 at 2015 10:37 AM

SGT Ben Keen — Wed, 09 Dec 2015 10:37:00 -0500

I think the requirements come in as a way to hopefully gauge maturity. Not to say that SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member couldn't do a great job in that position but as we all know, with rank comes experience, tact, and a host of other things required for such a position. Is it right? I don't know but I see that being the reason for the requirement.

Response by CSM David Heidke made Dec 9 at 2015 10:40 AM

CSM David Heidke — Wed, 09 Dec 2015 10:40:04 -0500

In order to execute the position also may require that you have military authority, and as a Specialist you have none. You have no general military authority as an enlisted Soldier.

That's why.

Response by MSgt Curtis Ellis made Dec 9 at 2015 11:37 AM

MSgt Curtis Ellis — Wed, 09 Dec 2015 11:37:42 -0500

Depending on the position, I think it helps in the credibility... I know, it shouldn't, but it does.

Response by GySgt Moses Lozano made Dec 9 at 2015 11:48 AM

GySgt Moses Lozano — Wed, 09 Dec 2015 11:48:38 -0500

I don't think putting in for a rank waiver is the best course of action to take. I was too a uniform victim advocate at one time and was an E-6. I think rank has to be a factor otherwise you as an advocate will find it difficult to take cases up the chain of command without question or delay. Your unit commander should be notified of this so he or she can take the necessary steps to get a victim advocate for your unit.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 9 at 2015 12:07 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Dec 2015 12:07:40 -0500

It pretty much comes down to delegated risk and ability to enforce Army policies.
The commander has a lot riding on the SHARP and VA to professionally and correctly handle sexual complaints and incidents, as well as enforcing the policies through their duties. As a Specialist, you may have unfortunately experienced SA and have empathy and a personal touch, but the VA does much more than that. Their chief duty is to ensure the victim gets proper care and if a complaint is lodged, it gets handled appropriately and expediently. This requires a bit of experience in not just life, but how the Army works.
Earn your stripes, and then volunteer. I'm sure you'll do a fine job, SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member

Response by CPL Timothy Coffey made Feb 28 at 2016 9:11 PM

CPL Timothy Coffey — Sun, 28 Feb 2016 21:11:40 -0500

Yes, some require tremendous responsibility and reason, Age, training and time in rank, helps with these qualities.