Why don't NCOs give Soldiers positive counseling statements when they're doing a good job?

I understand where you are coming from Sir. I am a big fan of recognizing someone for their hard work and when they screw up. There are a lot of people who only recognize Soldiers for all the wrong that they do.

Wait ... there were positive counseling statements?? I always thought those were like Sasquatch ... lots of rumors about them but no evidence of their existence. :)

A few months ago, my platoon Sgt called me into his office and dropped a 4856 in front of me and I did the "awe shit" trying to recount my last few weeks and encounters. He went on to explain that my constant positive attitude, outstanding military bearing, and motivating others at pt while excelling myself not only improved company morale but made me a prime candidate for a positive counseling. This was the first time I had seen this in the 2+ years in, so it definitely still happens, just sparingly.

This is one question that I can use this answer to, and numerous other questions also:

Ask the 82nd how they train their leaders. Almost all the great leaders I've had, wore an All-American patch.

When I counselled my soldiers, I gave an honest counselling.  I pulled out the last counselling statement, and would go point by point in the expectations for the next period, and told them what my observations regarding each point, whether it is good or bad, and it all depended on the soldier.  The soldiers know what is expected, as they receive a copy of the counselling statement, so it is up to them to show that they want to be (excellent, good, just get by, or don't care), and their counselling represented their efforts towards what was expected.  Those that fail to make the standards, get bad counseling, those that meet or exceed the standard will receive good or excellent counsellings.  That is what 600-20 states is supposed to be done, and that is what I did, and my NCOER's reflected that. 

Chief- here is what I will contend to your question- why don't NCO's write soldiers positive counseling. It's called " Lazy !" This is in fact sad, but as sad as it is, its also very true. During my 24 year career, I wasn't given positive counseling- those same NCOs who should have provided this for me, would not hesitate to write me up when I messed up. I also found that, very unfortunately, just because they are considered Senior NCO's, does not insinuate in any way shape or form that they poses clear and concise writing skills. After I retired, I sat back and actually read some of my NCOEERs; I could not believe what I was reading. Many of my NCOEERs were, as we use to say, " I done good " documents. Nothing to separate me from the other NCOs in my field who were cutting teeth, hands and feet to get promoted. I was actually shocked that I was ever promoted to E7 with some of the writing I read. Finally, I'm sure after reading my thoughts on this topic, there will be many NCOs out there and perhaps some Officers who will contend I am wrong. This is ok and I understand, but the soldiers of today tell me that they still do not see positive counseling from their NCO's. Done deal! Rock Steady... HOOAH

In the Marine Corps, there is what is called a "Meritorious Mast". Which is not an award, but is a public "atta boy". It is read in full during the weekly organization formation, and the certificate is given to the Marine.

From what Ive seen SFC, its they dont have the time to write out positives to everyone doing a good job but they can catch the ones doing wrong because dicipline is a must in the military, time is my explaination, granted Im only a PV2 but thats what I see