Posted on Jun 6, 2018
How do I talk to my Commander about leaving the Unit?
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So after a break in service I went from ARNG to AD and in the process reclassed. I am doing poorly in my new field, lack trust from my first line as well as my soldiers, and have even been "fired" once. I feel like it's in my best future to revert back to my old MOS, which has an opening in my current BN. I would also like to join SFAB, and since it's been a bit since I did my old MOS, the change would get me back up to the level of proficiency needed to be an advisor.
I know the decision ultimately rests with BN. But if I can get the Commander to sign off on the 4187, that vastly increases my chances. I plan to use the open door policy to present my case. I'm just looking for some outside opinions on how I should go about it. I know officers generally only care about how things look on paper, regardless of the real world application is doing them a disservice. So my question is how do I go about convincing the Commander to willingly let someone leave his Company?
I know the decision ultimately rests with BN. But if I can get the Commander to sign off on the 4187, that vastly increases my chances. I plan to use the open door policy to present my case. I'm just looking for some outside opinions on how I should go about it. I know officers generally only care about how things look on paper, regardless of the real world application is doing them a disservice. So my question is how do I go about convincing the Commander to willingly let someone leave his Company?
Posted in these groups: 
DA Form 4187
Officers
DA Form 4187 Officers
Posted 6 y ago
Responses: 8
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The Commander is going to look at what is best for the unit and the service. If you are not doing well, but did well previously, he/she will see that and act accordingly. I would state your case this way: " I feel like I am letting the unit down and not providing the most leadership value to the unit in this field. My previous MOS, of which there is an opening, I was able to provide much more positive results for the unit and service." Best of luck to you!
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SGM Erik Marquez MAJ James Woods My guess is that you approach the Commander in the manner of what's best for his unit and the Army. That is how you are going to have to sell it. You were successful prevously and the Army benefited and that is where you feel you need to be. If that is you going back to your old MOS where you can still serve in an effective way and be a solid soldier then let him know that. Let him know that you have given it your all and just can't get it and you feel that if you continue it won't be good for you, your soldiers, or the Army. Just my two cents but you probably need to hear from various folks here on RP especially Army types.
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MAJ James Woods
SSG (Join to see) SGT Randolph, I agree with Lt Col Shuttleworth; not knowing how long you have been with the unit and how long you've been in your new MOS, you should engage an NCO that you feel you can talk to in confidence. If no NCO, hopefully an officer. I would like to believe there is someone senior in your sphere of influence that can coach, mentor, assist in your development.
And if you still want to reClass MOS and have an office call with BN Commander, be sure you attempt office call with your 1SG and Co CDR to ensure you know where they stand on this because the CSM and BN CDR will definitely engage them. Also ensure you've engaged your Re-enlistment NCO to ensure you even have the option to reClass based on your current enlistment contract.
I wish you the best. Keep your head up and hope it works out for you.
And if you still want to reClass MOS and have an office call with BN Commander, be sure you attempt office call with your 1SG and Co CDR to ensure you know where they stand on this because the CSM and BN CDR will definitely engage them. Also ensure you've engaged your Re-enlistment NCO to ensure you even have the option to reClass based on your current enlistment contract.
I wish you the best. Keep your head up and hope it works out for you.
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SSG (Join to see)
MAJ James Woods I have been in my current position about 7 months. When I enlisted I didn't want any bonuses or guarantees so that I could "change my fate" if necessary and permissible.
This MOS is very fast paced and my first line wears many hats and doesn't have really any time to mentor me. I'll work on some projects but I generally have to be led around by my E-4s and E-3s and when I break something they're the ones who have to pick up the pieces. I technically answer to a CPL before I answer to my SSG so I don't have an avenue to even develop as a leader. I'm anticipating an ALC date at the beginning of FY19 and the last thing I want is to risk a BAR because I failed out. We're currently in the field but my RNCO as well as S1 are tracking what I'm currently trying to do.
This MOS is very fast paced and my first line wears many hats and doesn't have really any time to mentor me. I'll work on some projects but I generally have to be led around by my E-4s and E-3s and when I break something they're the ones who have to pick up the pieces. I technically answer to a CPL before I answer to my SSG so I don't have an avenue to even develop as a leader. I'm anticipating an ALC date at the beginning of FY19 and the last thing I want is to risk a BAR because I failed out. We're currently in the field but my RNCO as well as S1 are tracking what I'm currently trying to do.
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SGT (Join to see)
It would not hurt your case to speak with the senior NCO or officer in charge of the slot your are looking at obtaining, interviewing with them and trying to get a conditional acceptance by them. If they are willing to receive you on paper, then the decision for HRC will be that much easier, it really isn't your CO's position to decide, just to sign and possibly recommend on your 4187. Of course talking with your first line and the CO about your wish to revert to your old MOS for the good of the service after you talk to the potential receiving chain in your BN, would be a good idea to ease the transition.
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The decision is not actually your Commander's to make. In the NG the decision would have fallen on him. In the AD the decision rests on HRC strength management. Your Career Counselor has to process your reclass. Your commander has to sign your 4187, but whether or not he approves it, the 4187 is sent up with your request.
The Commander is NOT the decision authority in this instance, HRC is.
The Commander is NOT the decision authority in this instance, HRC is.
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SSG (Join to see)
Thank you SFC, so what you're saying is do all actions through my Career Counselor and just see where it goes?
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SFC (Join to see)
Yes, exactly. You should look at the In/Out calls to see the strengths of your MOS. That's what determines whether or not you can reclass.
There may be more. For instance, you'll need a memo from your old MOS proponent stating you're qualified in your old MOS and they will accept you.
There may be more. For instance, you'll need a memo from your old MOS proponent stating you're qualified in your old MOS and they will accept you.
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