What are best command practices for closing down battalions?

CH (MAJ) William Beaver — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 21:18:03 -0400

Across the Army, more battalions and brigades are being cut to save money. Have you ever been assigned to such a unit where your end-state was (or is) to case the unit's colors? If so, what are some 'best practices?' How can a Unit Ministry Team best help the command team in such a mission?

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 21 at 2015 9:29 PM

SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 21:29:03 -0400

I was assigned to a base that was closing. There was a lot of unknowns and angst amongst the troops. Being transparent is very important. Ministry teams are important because you can provide guidance and hope. Especially for those that are in limbo and don't have a lot of answers about their next assignment. Ministry teams can also assist families ie spouses so the soldier can focus on the mission. Great question.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 21 at 2015 10:50 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 22:50:32 -0400

Lock the supply storage cages and secure the keys. I stood down a Reserve POW camp Command after Desert Storm. Did a complete PB inventory along with expendable supply's. The Saudis and Kuwaitis were giving them any thing they wanted, with no accountability. I had CID support because these guys were MP's' . One CPT was selling Concertina wire, blue lights and all kinds of law enforcement stuff in the State Capital parking lot, and the local LO's were buying. He was even charging sales tax. Quick trip to Leavenworth. There were other units that could have used that stuff along with procedures to assume accountability.

Response by SFC Kevin Presser made Jul 21 at 2015 11:18 PM

SFC Kevin Presser — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 23:18:33 -0400

In 1993 I was heavily involved in tracking and reporting the progress and benchmarks in the deactivation of our field artillery battalion in Germany. These procedures were in accordance with CFE (Conventional Forces in Europe) treaty. I can't help but believe AAR's are filed away somewhere on the entire drawdown process. The AAR'S should give you an idea of the type of issues that would be the province a Unit Ministry Team.