Would being a "2 Star" CSM driver be a positive professional development position?

2014-03-19T10:41:19-04:00

So I was voluntold to go to an interview to be a "2 Star" CSM's Driver. That happens tomorrow. My question is; is this something i should go for? I'm not fond of decreasing my level of responsibility just for the oppourtunity to make a couple of connections that i may never get the oppourtunity to use. Or is this something that can give me the "Edge" we all so desperately need in todays trimmed down Army?

Response by 1SG Steven Stankovich made Mar 19 at 2014 10:57 AM

2014-03-19T10:57:39-04:00

I have to tell you SGT Brooks, sometimes it doesn't hurt to "be the guy" who drives "the guy" around.  The possibility exists for you to be exposed to some great things and have an opportunity to meet some great senior leaders and be privy to a lot of professional development.  On the flip side, it is not all rainbows and champagne.  I have known many Command Drivers at the most senior levels and it is a tough job.  The hours are long and there are a lot of "other tasks" that are implied.  I would also say this, having a 2 Star equivalent CSM in your rating chain does have its positive notes.  If I were you, I would be locked and cocked for your interview.  Good luck!!!

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 19 at 2014 11:29 AM

2014-03-19T11:29:18-04:00

Shoot to be the MG's driver, if that means being the SGM's driver first then so be it.  You can gain a lot of understanding and experience being around leadership at that level.  Being a communicator once for General Mattis and then General Austin the current CENTCOM Commander, provided me exposure to a whole other world, it's pretty amazing what is done strategically at that level.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 19 at 2014 11:35 AM

2014-03-19T11:35:47-04:00

Don't look at this as a step down, think of it as an opportunity to have constant direct access to one of the most experienced NCOs you will ever meet.  You will be able to learn a wealth of knowledge from that CSM, as well as get pointers for future success in the military.  He/she has already worked their way up and can give you a good idea on how to do it as well.  So again, don't think of this as a burden, think of it as a blessing in disguise!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 19 at 2014 11:58 AM

2014-03-19T11:58:56-04:00

Aside from the potential networking and professional development, think of it this way: Your command identified YOU as an outstanding representation of your unit. That is a HUGE honor. Do you think they select lazy, unprofessional Soldiers to serve as drivers for leadership of that (or any) echelon? I would go to the interview without question, just to echo back to your command that they were right to identify you as one of the best of the best.

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Mar 19 at 2014 4:00 PM

2014-03-19T16:00:59-04:00

Being a general's driver does not decrease responsibility, it increases it.<br><br>If performed well, your career can get to another level.<br><br>Personal Note: I was assigned as the Executive Administrative Assistant for Fort Knox's Garrison Commander and had the opportunity (a few times) to drive him on post and to nearby cities...just the personal communication and interaction I had with this colonel really helped me in my career and it's one of my most memorable assignments.  I grew up a lot quicker with that assignment than hanging out with a squad/platoon of Soldiers.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Sep 26 at 2014 6:47 AM

2014-09-26T06:47:25-04:00

Did you take the gig SGT Private RallyPoint Member ? Did they offer you the job?

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Sep 26 at 2014 7:08 AM

2014-09-26T07:08:37-04:00

What's the old saying, "Never look a gift horse in the mouth". You were obviously selected for this position because you are an outstanding NCO because these positions are not offered to just anyone. Run with it as the opportunities for travel and connections could be endless, not to mention the responsibility and duty involved in being part of a GO's staff.

Response by CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana made Feb 12 at 2018 11:17 AM

2018-02-12T11:17:44-05:00

Are you just seeking a promotion or a promising future; what does your heart, mind and soul tell you to do? If working as the driver of a Division CSM doesn't give your the "Edge" then, you sure don't have a clue. Believe you me; as an junior NCO, you can be assured PLDC and promotion in this opportunity. Don't lose this chance Frazer; this chance is your highway to SFC at a bare minimum. Best of luck.

Remember; no position is too small or too much for you. The greater your responsibility, the larger the pinch of your effort needed to succeed. Don't lose focus or sight of your objectives.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made May 22 at 2018 9:29 AM

2018-05-22T09:29:59-04:00

Look- being a DIV Cdr's driver is a big deal- I never saw a CSM, except the CSMA have a driver. You will be in the inner circle and privy to 1 hell of a lot- you can also learn a hell of a lot. The job will be a bitch- but it could be exciting, rewarding and educational.

Response by SFC Wendell Pruitt made Jun 29 at 2021 9:04 AM

2021-06-29T09:04:28-04:00

I was selected as an E5 to join a 2 Star's Staff in the G3 Section, It was a defining moment in my Career as I was both young and green in many ways, The number of things I learned in those 2 years is near endless, being surrounded by all of the Senior NCO's and Officers daily provided me with both insight and understanding of how decisions were made and when to think outside the box to see a possible solution to unknowns, When I returned to a line unit 2 years later as a SSG in the same Command I was already known by all the Senior leadership which opened every possible door for me to climb the ladder. 8 months after returning I was the only SSG Platoon Sgt in the Battalion. I was later selected to be a Service School Instructor, I was DA selected to go to both Recruiting and Drill Sgt Schools, now 35 years later the 2 Star is in my friends list on facebook as are many others from that time frame, My point is simple, Be at that interview with bells on and a positive attitude it is a gold mine going forward if used wisely......

Response by MAJ Ronnie Reams made Jun 29 at 2021 9:41 AM

2021-06-29T09:41:52-04:00

I only ever drove for a Bn CO and Bn XO. Both sounded good, but a lot of overtime (LOL) depending on how early they wanted to be picked up from their quarters and how long at OOM in the evening. It was OK, but not my favorite.