Signaleers: Tactical or Strategic?

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 Oct 2018 16:23:42 -0400

Question for my fellow signalers: Which do you prefer? Currently at my 1st actual Signal unit in my 10+ years in the Army, been here for almost 2. The environment here is way more laxed than it was at my previous units (ADA, FA) but I enjoy working with my hands more than sitting behind a desk. Anyone else ever had this same predicament?

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 24 at 2018 5:29 PM

WO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 Oct 2018 17:29:40 -0400

I understand. I'm now at my second tactical unit, but I've spent two separate tours in two separate strategic signal units (1st signal BDE and 160th signal BDE). I believe each has their own faults, but each have their own upsides. I enjoy having the desk time, but the hands on time has been just as rewarding. I think its about what you do with the time in each circumstance.

Response by SFC Jason Evans made Oct 24 at 2018 9:27 PM

SFC Jason Evans — Wed, 24 Oct 2018 21:27:56 -0400

They're two different experiences. If you love going to the field then stick to tactical. My favorite duty position was NCOIC of a CG's commo team. That's the best signal duty ever. I had some buddies in WHCA and they really liked it as well. You put one more rocker on and you'll be sitting behind a desk a lot more.

Response by SSG Doug Terrel made Dec 7 at 2018 9:10 PM

SSG Doug Terrel — Fri, 07 Dec 2018 21:10:42 -0500

Have they thrown you into the 25W spot yet? When they do, you'll be on the desk constantly. Or watching PowerPoint and some jag-off that didn't prepare. Or training meetings. Or first sergeants office. But only on Mondays do you get to be out of the office.