Posted on Apr 11, 2014
Your Soldier is getting out after their first tour, what do you do?
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I am sad to say that more often than not, I have seen first-term Soldiers get chastised by their peers & NCOs when it comes time for them to ETS. I really hate it when I see this happen and I will tell you why:<br><br>The combined United States Armed Forces make up about 0.03% of the American population (To include those in our territories). When a person decides that they want to serve in the military, regardless of their reasons, they should be thanked for their service and helped out the door. So, what do I mean by helped out the door?<br><br>When a Soldier tells me that they want to get out (Basically, forgo a reenlistment), I congratulate them on their decision and I ask them what their plans are. Even though this person will no longer be in uniform, I still want to make sure they are well taken care of. I usually have a sit-down for at least an hour where we discuss their future plans for college or employment, their 5-year goals, and how best to achieve them. Once separated, if they wish to do so, I continue to communicate with them if they need any help or guidance I can provide. I also go over their options as far as the USAR or NG are concerned because if I can retain a good Soldier, I will try to do so. Once out, I thank them for their service and leave it at that.<br><br>Why do so many people ETS-shame Troops for getting out? Do you think it is a cultural thing? A leadership thing? Have you ever done this or have you seen others do this? And finally, what do you think is the best way to handle a Soldier who wishes to conclude their service?<br>
Military Career
Military service
ETS/EAS
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 3
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The best thing we, as leaders, can do for our young service members is to ensure that whatever decision the make (to stay or to go) is an INFORMED decision (in the Army that would consist of spending some time with their servicing Career Counselor). Once we are confident that the individual has and understands the information, we need to support them in their decision. A career in the military is NOT for everyone. Honorable service is just that, Honorable, and we owe it to them to support their decisions.
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Well beng in the National Guard I would ask the why? If they are a good soldier and have used there time wisely and they have there college and are ready to be done, have a job lined up, Which most due, the I say thanks for sering wit me and being in the company, glad to have known you keep in touch. There are soldiers that are tired of the run around, the standing around, the follow the training schudle that isn't followed or changed. no promotion, or just tired of being in the guard. Now if they are sub par which I have seen alot of then good ridence, good luck.
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<p>Sir, I do what I always do with Soldiers deciding on staying on getting out. If they are leaning towards the latter, I ask them what their plan is. Most say they are going to go back to school. If that is the case then I ask 100 questions. Which school? Are there any prerequisites to get in? When does the semester start? Where are you going to live? If it is back with your parents, do they know? Do you understand the dynamics of moving back home? What are you going to do for money? Do you have a job lined up? This goes on for a little while. Usually after I am done, the Soldier now has a lot to think about and I ask them to come back and see me in a few days. Then we reassess the plan. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Re-enlisting is a big deal and some Soldiers are just fine doing their initial enlistment and moving on. I have no problems with that. They have served their country. They volunteered where so many have not. It is out job as leaders to ensure that they are as prepared as we can make them for the transition back to civilian life.</p>
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