As a Specialist, how can I help improve our unit? Boost unit morale?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 12:09:53 -0500

The first step towards change is awareness, the second would be taking initiative, being intuitive and doing something about it. As you all may know this can be hard to do especially coming from the bottom, but not impossible. I was just wondering if I could get any feedback or input on steps I could do as a lower enlisted to help my units morale?

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Jan 15 at 2019 12:25 PM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 12:25:44 -0500

WOW! SPECIALIST, I HIGHLY LAUD YOUR INITIATIVE! RIGHT ON, SPECIALST! I WISH I COULD HELP YOU, HOWEVER: IT HAS BEEN DECADES SINCE I WAS ACTIVE. MANY PRAYERS FOR YOUR SUCCESS, JAMES.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 15 at 2019 12:41 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 12:41:14 -0500

For starters, find out if your unit has a Unit Morale NCO. If not, volunteer for that position then start brainstorming ideas with 1SG, the Commander and fellow Soldiers to see what events and activities they are interested in doing.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 15 at 2019 1:34 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 13:34:25 -0500

First identify the problem and then develop steps to address the problem in terms of an overall solution. It’s a tough issue so you need buy-in from those around you. One turd can ruin the punch bowl.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 15 at 2019 1:40 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 13:40:20 -0500

Does your unit have a solid family readiness group (FRG)? From my experience, including Soldiers' families into the mix helps to develop bonds between Soldiers. If your unit has one, see what you can do to help them become more effective by reaching out to the NCOIC through your chain of command.

That aside, you can lead from any position within your unit. Simply showing up early, volunteering for additional duty when asked, doing well in PT, maintaining a solid appearance, and having a good attitude no matter the situation will not go unnoticed. Moreover, it will open opportunities for you to become an NCO where you can really begin to make a change.

Most importantly, be patient in everything you do. I know this world preaches instant gratification but the best way to work on morale is to have a level head and lead by doing the right thing and by helping others.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Jan 15 at 2019 3:09 PM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 15:09:49 -0500

You could volunteer to be the MWR NCO or rep. You then would work closely with the FRG and the Command Team. From their you could set team building exercises, MWR excursions etc. Thank you for your service.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jan 15 at 2019 6:14 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 18:14:18 -0500

Find out if your unit has MWR funds to use.

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Jan 15 at 2019 6:35 PM

SFC Jim Ruether — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 18:35:47 -0500

Set the example, set the standard!

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2019 12:54 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Jan 2019 00:54:11 -0500

Become the BOSS rep for your company and the guys in the barracks know about it. BOSS does all sorts of stuff for free.
There is also a program called Warrior Quest. There are a few qualifications that must be met, ie certain time before or after deployment, but they also do some cool stuff for free for the entire unit. My company went paintballing and had a lot of fun. Good luck

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2019 4:17 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Jan 2019 04:17:24 -0500

Good luck.....

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2019 6:07 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Jan 2019 06:07:03 -0500

Biggest thing is to not have a crappy attitude towards work and the Army. A bad attitude can drag down your fellow soldiers quicker than anything. It's ok to think, yeah it sucks, but lets make the best of it! Army is too easy, I dont get why a lot of juniors have a crap mentality

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2019 10:15 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 19 Jan 2019 10:15:33 -0500

I am a SPC too. I got involved with the FRG program. There were no volunteers at the time so I jumped in. Usually it’s a civilian that steps in or someone’s spouse it then if soldiers don’t jump in at the opportunity nothing happens! Also single soldier program. Along with going through your chain and offering ideas to the commander and 1SG