How can I help a soldier that is getting screwed over?

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 16:11:47 -0500

I have a peer that is getting it really rough in the Army right now. He just lost his best friend a few months ago and is getting shoved around by command. Today I was told that he would need to go to NCOPD PT test after working a night shift (we work a 24 hr ops). While this sucks, it does happen and we are more than happy to get it out of the way most of the time. Due to snow, the PT test was "cancelled" and he was sent home. Thirty minutes after getting back and going to sleep, he got called back in to take it at noon. Things didn't go well and turns out this is the first PT test he has failed in the Army after nearly 5 years. He just got promotable status and I imagine will lose that. Is there anything I can do to help or resources to give him besides behavioral health?

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Dec 6 at 2019 4:14 PM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 16:14:41 -0500

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member: Brandon, I really admire you. Thank you for what you are attempting to do for your peer.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2019 4:21 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 16:21:48 -0500

This is not a behavioral health issue. This would be IG, but only after you go to the first line to attempt to resolve the issue. If no help with first or second line supervisors, utilize the ope door policy. If all else fails and the command completely fails you, go to IG.

Response by SPC Angela Burnham made Dec 6 at 2019 4:49 PM

SPC Angela Burnham — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 16:49:25 -0500

I've been there too. CPT Private RallyPoint Member has given sound advice, unfortunately your friend has to initiate most of those steps. What you can do however, is help motivate him to stick up for himself and start those processes. The ultimate goal here is to retest and pass, and regain his promotable status. Also, just wanted to say that you're living the army values by looking out for your peers like this, thats really cool. Keep being awesome.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Dec 7 at 2019 3:10 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 07 Dec 2019 15:10:48 -0500

Does he have PTSD?

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2019 5:45 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 07 Dec 2019 17:45:28 -0500

Be there for your buddy, make sure he knows where he can go to if he needs to talk. Do not involve yourself and talk to your command on his behalf unless you are part of his NCO support channel.