Should BDE CSM's be allowed to recommend denial of senior NCOs' PCS'ing ?

MSG Bo Lathrop — Wed, 12 Feb 2014 22:30:14 -0500

I was pending orders to be an Observer Controller in Germany, and was told that my BDE CSM denied my orders.. If this has happened to you, what are your thoughts?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2014 10:47 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 12 Feb 2014 22:47:21 -0500

no, they shouldnt, they may or may not have personal issues (negative) they are trying to force on someone.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2014 10:52 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 12 Feb 2014 22:52:59 -0500

Shame, the OC/T is a good career move.

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Feb 12 at 2014 11:47 PM

SGM Matthew Quick — Wed, 12 Feb 2014 23:47:14 -0500

Could you elaborate a little more on how a CSM denied your orders?

Did you already have orders?

Response by SSG Robert Blum made Feb 12 at 2014 11:50 PM

SSG Robert Blum — Wed, 12 Feb 2014 23:50:42 -0500

SFC Bo Lathorp, That doesn't sound right, Id be on the Phone with my Branch manager trying to find out what's going on

Response by SFC James Baber made Feb 13 at 2014 11:20 AM

SFC James Baber — Thu, 13 Feb 2014 11:20:12 -0500

SFC Lathrop,

I understand the frustration, but have you considered talking to the CSM directly and asking if he has other plans for you, I noticed you mentioned your current unit is disbanding/deactivating in 3 months, he may have another more challenging position in mind for you, that is why I would suggest approaching him professionally and inquiring. He could have something in mind or you might even be able to convince him of the benefit for your career with the position that was pending and he may contact branch and get them to put you back on it.

The old standard statement of "you will never know unless you ask," as a senior NCO you have built up a little credibility to go forth and speak with a higher echelon leader, after informing your level of leadership that you wish to speak to the CSM about it, you know the deal, company 1SG, BN CSM and then go forward with getting on the BDE CSMs calendar for their open-door policy, it is very easy, don't give up so fast.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2014 1:33 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 01:33:28 -0500

Outside thinking on my response here NCOs...

Prime example of "a deactivating unit": The losing unit(s) want to retain the manpower to close out the colors and to assist with this process, it does hurt career development without a doubt. Next issue, it will depend upon ones MOS, 92A/Y and a select 42A's may be left up to 30 days after the unit is deactivate. Paperwork and proper closure of all property. We have seen this in my current command.

However, working with the CSMs and G/S1s can form a plan to put all Soldiers on AIs after the command closes the colors. My BN CC, sat down yesterday with the BDE CSM and they identified the issues, executed a plan of action, and will brief all the BN leaders, NCOs, and Soldier.

Unfortunately, CSMs have that pull and power. Seen it at Ft Bragg and Benning. Looking at some other responses, I would say the same, ask to speak with the CSM. How is your relationship with your leaders? Have a plan and recommendations when you speak w/him (not saying you would not). Good luck and hope it works out for you.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2014 6:46 AM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 06:46:47 -0500

Yes, BDE CSMs should be allowed to recommend (note they don't actually deny, just recommend) that soldiers be deleted or deferred from AI. I suggest there may not be enough data on both sides of the discussion to have the full story, so caution in pointing out right or wrong. It does sound like a drag if it was an anticipated assignment, but like others said the best approach is to request to see the BDE CSM and attempt to plead your case. Even if you don't get reconsideration you may get the rest of the story. Good luck.

Response by 1SG Johnny Carter made Feb 14 at 2014 7:07 AM

1SG Johnny Carter — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 07:07:08 -0500

This has happened to me and at the time I was crushed because it would have put me closer to my kids. But I understand CSM's have to make tuff calls that sometimes that are not going to be in our favor. At the end of the day I understood why the call was made and even though I didn't personally agree I understood why after talking to the CSM and realized hey I am a Soldier and sometimes that means tuff call have to be made to support mission readiness. Trust me you will be taken care of in the end. CSM's don't make those kinda calls just for anybody. You must bring something to the table that is crucial. Selfless service and sacrifice, thats our job.