Posted on Mar 31, 2018
2LT Military Police
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I am currently in a unit where the company level commander is a CW4. With that being said, how do I begin the OCS application process? Do I go through my Chain of Command and ask for help? Do I go straight to my S1 to inquire about the process? Or do I begin some sort of paper work and then proceed to ask about the OCS process?
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Responses: 10
CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana
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Damon; always begin any process in the uniformed services with your COC (Chain of Command).

Complete your DA Form 4187 for your COC's approval and endorsement. Attach copies of your educational qualifications, physical fitness test record, awards and recognition. Make your packet appealing with recommendations from your Squad Leader, Platoon Sergeant, First Sergeant and above. Prove to your Command that you follow rules, the CoC and Service Values; you are not alone and your superiors, peers and subordinates support your objective of becoming a Commissioned Officer.

Finally; understand it is best to get endorsements from your CSMs and other commissioned officers. The more the merrier. Members of Congress letters of recommendation weigh gold in this process and GOs weigh platinum. See how your influence can best serve your purpose to achieve your objective.

Thanks.
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SGT Eric Davis
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I just wanted to know what you mean “with that being said.” After you said the CO is a CW4?
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2LT Military Police
2LT (Join to see)
>1 y
I mentioned it because I did not know if or if not the CO being a Warrant Officer played any effect on me beginning the OCS packet process.
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SGT Eric Davis
SGT Eric Davis
>1 y
Nawl it don’t just like the CO being a male or female don’t make a difference but yeah go to your S-1 or retention NCO
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MAJ Ken Landgren
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Edited >1 y ago
Go to the S-1 for the packet. You need to be high speed and impress your seniors to include the commander in order for them to help you with a recommendation from the BN CO. You also need to think deeply about why you want to become an officer. You can't sound tentative when asked the question.
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2LT Military Police
2LT (Join to see)
>1 y
Sir, that helps. Would you recommend discussing OCS with my leadership first or should I get the packet from S1 first?
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MAJ Ken Landgren
MAJ Ken Landgren
>1 y
I don't see why you cant do it simultaneously. I suggest you stay low keyed about this endeavor as it may change relationships. Also the packet is quite large and requires a lot of work to finish it.
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1LT Medical-Surgical Nurse
1LT (Join to see)
>1 y
I agree with MAJ Landgren about it changing relationships. I’m a prior service Corporal in ROTC and I’ve already lost some of the enlisted friends I used to have.
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MAJ Ken Landgren
MAJ Ken Landgren
>1 y
2LT (Join to see) - If u want, u can be a contact. I am sure you have more questions.
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