What are some ways I should go about getting a tough assignment within my brigade before I PCS? Should I start emailing at the company level?

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 12:32:43 -0500

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 5 at 2017 1:00 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 13:00:33 -0500

It always starts at the lowest level. Getting an assignment at BDE will require endorsements from your company and battalion commanders. That is a practical first step.
I would suggest getting a bit of a packet together to help establish your bona fides at echelon. If you are the best man for the job, show it. This will prove useful in the event you get turned down or need additional training, and is good practice for the civilian world as well.

Response by SFC David McMahon made Jan 5 at 2017 2:37 PM

SFC David McMahon — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 14:37:02 -0500

You headed to Grafenwöhr, Germany?

Response by SGT Felicia King made Jan 5 at 2017 3:01 PM

SGT Felicia King — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 15:01:25 -0500

Contact your branch manager. Usually worked in the past.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Jan 5 at 2017 4:54 PM

LTC Jason Mackay — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 16:54:33 -0500

It is common for officers to write letters of introduction to brigade or battalion commanders. One page max. See the thread on RP on how to write one. Target it for your CSM.

Option 2. Get your ERB cleaned up, write down a synopsis of where your career stands (NCOES, last three jobs, what you think might be next, your goals), schedule an office call with your CSM before you get released from in processing, and gain his advice. It puts you on the radar for assignment/development lets the CSM put you somewhere he needs help and sets conditions for your career. Then follow through violently with your shot.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Jan 6 at 2017 12:40 AM

CAPT Kevin B. — Fri, 06 Jan 2017 00:40:49 -0500

Interesting things on process. What's missing is the "why". What are you trying to accomplish and for what reason? You don't have to tell me, but a good CoC will want to filter on that to evaluate person-job-capability and likelihood of success parameters. BTW, tilting towards stuck in a rut, generically want something more meaningful, etc. tend to be nonstarters. I had my staff look at this stuff in filling a need and a positive thing for both the command and SMs long game. After all, you want something, but have to sell it. BTW, if you're not a good writer, stay away from the nasty Admin or JAGMAN investigations.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2017 2:55 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 07 Jan 2017 02:55:08 -0500

My personal opinion, since there is no "two cent" jar here. What is a "Tough" assignment? For some Soldiers/NCOS is tough enough to get up to do PT. First, excel at your current assignment, be the best in that position, earn that MOST Qualified bullet and the tough assignments will come to you! You want a challenge? Volunteer for Drill, Recruiting, become an Audie Murphy club member, go to Ranger school. Be the Brigade's NCO of the year, the CSM himself probably would select you to go work in the BDE.
Actions speak louder than words.