Posted on Jan 10, 2016
What can I do if I suspect my unit is singling me out or if there is possibility of discrimination against me?
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Summary version of events that has me baffled:
I've been in my unit since April 15, so that's what...8-9 months?
Within my first week I was voluntold on Sunday morning to replace an E-6 doing Staff Duty that same Sunday.
Couple weeks later, my own Staff Duty on a weekend.
Then a CQ on a Friday, shortening my weekend.
Then another Staff Duty on a Friday, shortening my weekend.
8 days later another Staff Duty...you guessed it, on a weekend.
Now, about 2 months ago there was a "sh|t detail" that of course I was put on. In addition, 4 soldiers from my platoon were added. 3 latinos + myself for a total of 4 latinos out of 5 in the detail. This was shortened to 2 latinos + the other soldier.
3 weeks ago, and with 5 days advance notice, I was made the NCOIC for yet another detail, baggage detail. Want to know how many latinos were originally sent to this detail from my platoon once again? 4 latinos.
How many soldiers were originally sent in total? 4 soldiers.
Now, we've had a Soldier on Extra Duty for Alcohol related offenses and instead of sending him to Staff Duty for the Extra Duty program, our 1SG wants us to take responsibility, but of course it is only us E-5 doing the extra duty watch with this soldier.
Someone has to watch him in weekend of course...guess who has gotten tapped several weekends? This guy.
At one point, during block leave, I jokingly told my wife I was going to ask for a weekend in advance because I knew they would tap me again.
And sure enough, on New Year's eve I get a message telling me that I have extra duty watch on Sunday. When I reminded them I was on leave they threw a fit.
I guess the operating point is that I knew I was going to tapped for weekend extra duty. As in "I know i'm being singled out"
As of an hour ago, I was sent another message informing me that I have to do the extra duty watch tomorrow, which for my unit, is a DONSA.
So once again, I am being assigned to a "sh|t detail" that more and more looks like a punishment.
For what reason I don't know.
I am the Master Driver for my Company and I just passed an unscheduled Program Inspection with a 91% first time GO. Inspector was impressed as it was the highest score by far he had seen for an unscheduled inspection.
I have nothing but stellar reviews from every Battalion/Brigade NCO/Officer I've worked with since arriving to this unit...but for some reason that doesn't translate to my own unit.
I keep getting shoved into the duties no one wants to get, and not only that, a majority of latino named personnel is sent to those details as well.
So with all this said, I'm not certain if this can be retaliation (against what...I don't know), or flat out discrimination? (I am 46 and latino?) or I am being singled out simply because my PSG doesn't like me?
My wife is having heart surgery this Tuesday at 0500, and tomorrow Monday we had plans to spend the day doing activities to relax her for her surgery, last minute plans/what ifs, etc.
Of course my unit ran out of "Fs" to give as they stuck me with this extra duty watch and so far no one is replying to my concerns.
UPDATE:
My wife surgery is today, she should be released either tomorrow or Thursday. And this weekend is a 4 day (MLK), so that would have been enough time off for me to nurse/monitor her.
Now, because of the last minute (Sunday night) new extra duty watch burden, I figured I would get tagged during her recovery, so I put in for leave this morning.
I am told that I will be counseled for it being last minute.
So it is ok for them to tag last minute details forcing people to change scheduled events...yet I am the one getting counseled for trying to fix their mess. Of course!
I've been in my unit since April 15, so that's what...8-9 months?
Within my first week I was voluntold on Sunday morning to replace an E-6 doing Staff Duty that same Sunday.
Couple weeks later, my own Staff Duty on a weekend.
Then a CQ on a Friday, shortening my weekend.
Then another Staff Duty on a Friday, shortening my weekend.
8 days later another Staff Duty...you guessed it, on a weekend.
Now, about 2 months ago there was a "sh|t detail" that of course I was put on. In addition, 4 soldiers from my platoon were added. 3 latinos + myself for a total of 4 latinos out of 5 in the detail. This was shortened to 2 latinos + the other soldier.
3 weeks ago, and with 5 days advance notice, I was made the NCOIC for yet another detail, baggage detail. Want to know how many latinos were originally sent to this detail from my platoon once again? 4 latinos.
How many soldiers were originally sent in total? 4 soldiers.
Now, we've had a Soldier on Extra Duty for Alcohol related offenses and instead of sending him to Staff Duty for the Extra Duty program, our 1SG wants us to take responsibility, but of course it is only us E-5 doing the extra duty watch with this soldier.
Someone has to watch him in weekend of course...guess who has gotten tapped several weekends? This guy.
At one point, during block leave, I jokingly told my wife I was going to ask for a weekend in advance because I knew they would tap me again.
And sure enough, on New Year's eve I get a message telling me that I have extra duty watch on Sunday. When I reminded them I was on leave they threw a fit.
I guess the operating point is that I knew I was going to tapped for weekend extra duty. As in "I know i'm being singled out"
As of an hour ago, I was sent another message informing me that I have to do the extra duty watch tomorrow, which for my unit, is a DONSA.
So once again, I am being assigned to a "sh|t detail" that more and more looks like a punishment.
For what reason I don't know.
I am the Master Driver for my Company and I just passed an unscheduled Program Inspection with a 91% first time GO. Inspector was impressed as it was the highest score by far he had seen for an unscheduled inspection.
I have nothing but stellar reviews from every Battalion/Brigade NCO/Officer I've worked with since arriving to this unit...but for some reason that doesn't translate to my own unit.
I keep getting shoved into the duties no one wants to get, and not only that, a majority of latino named personnel is sent to those details as well.
So with all this said, I'm not certain if this can be retaliation (against what...I don't know), or flat out discrimination? (I am 46 and latino?) or I am being singled out simply because my PSG doesn't like me?
My wife is having heart surgery this Tuesday at 0500, and tomorrow Monday we had plans to spend the day doing activities to relax her for her surgery, last minute plans/what ifs, etc.
Of course my unit ran out of "Fs" to give as they stuck me with this extra duty watch and so far no one is replying to my concerns.
UPDATE:
My wife surgery is today, she should be released either tomorrow or Thursday. And this weekend is a 4 day (MLK), so that would have been enough time off for me to nurse/monitor her.
Now, because of the last minute (Sunday night) new extra duty watch burden, I figured I would get tagged during her recovery, so I put in for leave this morning.
I am told that I will be counseled for it being last minute.
So it is ok for them to tag last minute details forcing people to change scheduled events...yet I am the one getting counseled for trying to fix their mess. Of course!
Discrimination
Law
EO
Edited 9 y ago
Posted 9 y ago
Responses: 93
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SGT Hector Rojas, AIGA, SHA, YOU may be the problem: (Let me explain...) About mid-way through, you may have unknowingly stated the problem: If you come with great reviews and stellar performance, you may be singled out because you are "the 'go-to' guy." If the situation is as you described, you're getting a short stick. But, as other RP members have pointed out, there should be a protocol in assigning watch/duties/etc.
Going forward:
1.) Put the "race card" back in your wallet (for now).
2.) Maintain copious notes. Keep a record (include who ELSE is being assigned what)
3.) Focus on your wife. (She will be around when you get your DD-214)
Going forward:
1.) Put the "race card" back in your wallet (for now).
2.) Maintain copious notes. Keep a record (include who ELSE is being assigned what)
3.) Focus on your wife. (She will be around when you get your DD-214)
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SPC Daniel O'Neil
PVT William Bresch - What? Is this the current mentality or something you learned before the age of Facebook? Go to Facebook page of the unit? No. Wrong. Ignore that Facebook exists. Open door policy exists. Use real world routes of approach, not childish methods like Facebook.
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Sgt Patrick Carron
Pvt Bresch...you state that "i know that the military teaches rank and file, which I never followed in the first place." You think that may be the reason you are a Private. Granted, you chose to raise your hand and serve this great country of ours. But going in to the military, you should know that there will be many times when you will have to "rank and file" whether you agree with it or not.
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SSG Gregg Mourizen
Bing the "GO TO" guy does kinda suck for the individual. Ben there myself. Just start pointing it out. Become the squeaky wheel. Still do your assigned duties, but be sure to mention the inconsistencies. Your leadership may not even realize they are doing it. Talk to your NCOIC and OIC. If you don't se results, be sure to do it again in writing. Be respectful and don't point fingers. Just keep to the facts about what you are seeing, and try to work out a solution with them. Pulling the Race card will definitely make you "That Guy" so use it only as a last resort, definitely use your chain of command first. Any complaints will always be met with that question first.
If worse comes to worse, Request a transfer, that'll definitely raise some hairs.
If worse comes to worse, Request a transfer, that'll definitely raise some hairs.
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SGT Hector Rojas, AIGA, SHA, as a First Sergeant, what comes immediately to mind is does your unit keep a DA 6 for details and Staff Duty?
If they don't, they should and you should use the CoC to see the First Sergeant about it.
If they do, it is too easy to count names and spot shenanigans. If the disparity is visible, make copies of the DA 6 and prepare to make the next step.
If they don't, they should and you should use the CoC to see the First Sergeant about it.
If they do, it is too easy to count names and spot shenanigans. If the disparity is visible, make copies of the DA 6 and prepare to make the next step.
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SGT Hector Rojas, AIGA, SHA
1SG (Join to see) Top, as far as I know there is no DA 6, not one available to us to see at least. All we get is a copy of the memo put out from Battalion. That our company revises and recommends soldiers for. Which is how I find out that my Staff Duties or CQs 9 out of 10 times are on a weekend or a Friday. Sometimes there is no memo and its either written on a board somewhere or sent a txt message with short notice.
Thanks for your reply 1SG !
Thanks for your reply 1SG !
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1SG (Join to see)
SGT Hector Rojas, AIGA, SHA - Any First Sergeant knows that these types of duties are done by posting a DA 6, for precisely the reason that you suspect. I think your next step is to see the 1SG and see if he'll square up. Honestly, it is easier this way for him.
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MAJ Pete Joplin
SGT Hector Rojas, AIGA, SHA - Every unit MUST have a DA Form 6. Every DA Form 6 is inspectable at any time, by any member on the list and by leadership above the owner of the DA Form 6.
As for attitude and approach, you've heard it all here in the comments, but there is absolutely no reason that there is not a DA Form 6, and (if there isn't) there is absolutely no reason that you should keep that observation to yourself. Help yourself and your unit by bringing this to the attention of the Chain of Command with an attitude of "helping" the unit, versus complaining.
As for the EO business, I am curious if the other Latinos placed on your many details are rock-stars like you are, or are they the dirt-bag variety? Someone might be giving you crappy details, but trying to give you quality Joes they believe you might prefer. More questions than answers on that front, but I would follow other's advice and tuck that away for the time being.
As for attitude and approach, you've heard it all here in the comments, but there is absolutely no reason that there is not a DA Form 6, and (if there isn't) there is absolutely no reason that you should keep that observation to yourself. Help yourself and your unit by bringing this to the attention of the Chain of Command with an attitude of "helping" the unit, versus complaining.
As for the EO business, I am curious if the other Latinos placed on your many details are rock-stars like you are, or are they the dirt-bag variety? Someone might be giving you crappy details, but trying to give you quality Joes they believe you might prefer. More questions than answers on that front, but I would follow other's advice and tuck that away for the time being.
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LTC James McElreath
There is no fudging a DA 6! The unit should be using it and if not why not? You do have a right to look at it, along with the 1SG who's job it is to assign duties. From where I am sitting, it appears that you are the victim. But then again not knowing how many other Sgt's and extra duty assignments I am taking a guess. So, Ask the 1SG to view his DA-6 and there is no guessing at that point. Best of luck, my friend.
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First, I disagree with all the "suck it up" responses. Why are you on duty rosters at both company and battalion?
Both CQ and Staff Duty are rostered details managed by use of DA Form 6. Your first sergeant is in charge of the CQ roster. In my experience in an infantry company, I expected to pull CQ twice a month: one weekday and one weekend. Is "extra duty watch" a rostered detail? If not, are you tasked to supervise soldiers other than your own?
There certainly seem to be issues with your chain of command, based on your post. If your first sergeant or commander can't or won't address the issues, your battalion CSM or commander could be your next step. If that fails, see your IG.
Both CQ and Staff Duty are rostered details managed by use of DA Form 6. Your first sergeant is in charge of the CQ roster. In my experience in an infantry company, I expected to pull CQ twice a month: one weekday and one weekend. Is "extra duty watch" a rostered detail? If not, are you tasked to supervise soldiers other than your own?
There certainly seem to be issues with your chain of command, based on your post. If your first sergeant or commander can't or won't address the issues, your battalion CSM or commander could be your next step. If that fails, see your IG.
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SGT Hector Rojas, AIGA, SHA
1SG Charles Hunter Good morning 1SG, you ask some of the many the questions I have.
Staff Duty is on average once a month, sometimes twice. CQ is rarer because our barracks building is shared so the NCO pool is expanded to another BN.
Our Battalion has a standing SOP for Extra Duty Soldiers to be sent there if requested. Our Command Team chooses to have us E-5 do the extra duty watch. Let me be specific, at this point we're down to 3 E-5 doing the watch.
And to answer your question, yes, so far all the soldiers on extra duty belong to other NCOs. For one reason or another (TDY, SD, CQ, approved leave, etc.) they can't watch their own soldiers so we have to. We just finished a 30 day soldier, the current soldier still has 9 days to go...and there is another in the pipeline for 45 days extra duty. It is not rostered, since it's only 3 of us doing the watch, it is pretty much phone call or last minute text due to our own personal lives getting in the way I guess.
Appointments, other duties, etc dictate the last minute daily switches.
It all comes down to our Command Team decision to have us do the watch instead of sending them to Staff Duty to deal with them. Our Command Team believes that rank /grade has it's privileges.
NCO creed says there are no privileges based on rank or grade last I check.
One of the E6's doing the assigning for extra duty watch is our EO Rep, so you see the bind i'm in.
Oh well.
Thanks for your reply 1SG!
Staff Duty is on average once a month, sometimes twice. CQ is rarer because our barracks building is shared so the NCO pool is expanded to another BN.
Our Battalion has a standing SOP for Extra Duty Soldiers to be sent there if requested. Our Command Team chooses to have us E-5 do the extra duty watch. Let me be specific, at this point we're down to 3 E-5 doing the watch.
And to answer your question, yes, so far all the soldiers on extra duty belong to other NCOs. For one reason or another (TDY, SD, CQ, approved leave, etc.) they can't watch their own soldiers so we have to. We just finished a 30 day soldier, the current soldier still has 9 days to go...and there is another in the pipeline for 45 days extra duty. It is not rostered, since it's only 3 of us doing the watch, it is pretty much phone call or last minute text due to our own personal lives getting in the way I guess.
Appointments, other duties, etc dictate the last minute daily switches.
It all comes down to our Command Team decision to have us do the watch instead of sending them to Staff Duty to deal with them. Our Command Team believes that rank /grade has it's privileges.
NCO creed says there are no privileges based on rank or grade last I check.
One of the E6's doing the assigning for extra duty watch is our EO Rep, so you see the bind i'm in.
Oh well.
Thanks for your reply 1SG!
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1SG (Join to see)
I almost never think that EO is the reason why things are the way they are, but this one does smell off. People forget that the DA-6 that publishes who has duty when is every bit a tool for the First Sergeant as it is a means to publish duty rosters. Whether things are fair or not is right there for all to see.
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SSG Wayne Wood
If this Extra Duty Supervision comes up often if it isn't on a DA-6 it should be - a good question is why isn't it? This brings up a memory, with your forbearance: I got stuck on a Saturday "School of the Soldier" for duds by the same First Sergeant mentioned above. The CSM walked in on a class on the UCMJ I was giving and apparently was impressed with how I was running it as the First Sergeant found a "Buck Slip" in his Inbox Monday morning with an ATTABOY! for me. I still laugh at the look on his face when he handed it to me.
There's a lesson there, I learned, and hopefully will help you. No matter what kimshi comes your way, keep your head and strive for excellence, Nil Illegitimus Carborundum! (Don't let the illegitimate children get you down!)
There's a lesson there, I learned, and hopefully will help you. No matter what kimshi comes your way, keep your head and strive for excellence, Nil Illegitimus Carborundum! (Don't let the illegitimate children get you down!)
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