How to properly word a request for a Letter of Release?

That's a delicate situation that will really be personality dependent with the various players involved, but I'll offer the way I'd look at it as a battalion commander, though I've been out a long time and things have probably changed.

The first thing I would do, instantly, is ask my CSM what he thinks about the situation, as he is my senior NCO responsible for enlisted matters. Because of this, the best thing for you to have done is to win over the support of the CSM. If the action comes to me with his recommed approval on it, it's probably a done deal. So I would suggest you informally discuss the situation with the CSM, under the topic of career development. See what he says. A really good CSM will appreciate there are times where the unit takes a temporary "hit" in order to take care of our soldiers. No one is irreplaceable and everyone moves on eventually.

It might help to check with the S1 NCO to get the actual figures about your battalions authorizations and fill in your MOS. Also, talk to him about various options should you leave, in terms of how the unit would backfill your position. Maybe he can check with Bde or Div or Corps G1 to see if there may be someone in your MOS wanting to come into a unit like yours.

The reason you want to do your homework with the staff is because as much as possible, you want your request to come to me as a solution, not just a problem. IOW, since of course one of my questions to the CSM will be how long before we get a replacement for you, if you have the facts available it will help.

So the best case is if you get the CSM to support you, and have potential courses of action for a replacement identified. But let's say that doesn't happen. Let's say there is no replacement on the horizon, and the CSM doesn't support releasing you. That doesn't mean I wouldn't still approve it. The CSM will have done his job to make me aware of the potential harm to the unit. So at this point you are essentially asking me to accept the pain to the unit for the good of your development. And that's OK. That's a command decision that only the commander can make. So if you can't get the CSMs support, still prepare a memorandum laying out your case. Tell me how you have been a great soldier for the unit, but have reached a critical juncture in your career development that you strongly believe you need to move on in order to maximize your potential for further service in your MOS at positions of higher responsibility. Explain why in the long run it's a win win for the Army and you.

I would likely be susceptible to supporting a request like that. Because if I believe the battalion will fall apart because one good NCO leaves, then I've got lots bigger problems to deal with. So submit the memo, and ask for an appointment to discuss it with me (with the CSM present). While I will give great consideration to the CSMs recommendation, I would weigh everything and come to a decision. It could be as simple as "you're right, CSM, we're going to hurt for a while, but I'm willing to live with that. Let's give this fine soldier his letter of release ".

I would expect you to be professional and logical throughout the process, even if you initially encounter resistance. If I catch wind of stuff like you are badmouthing the unit thinking that will help your case, your request is toast. But if you maintain your decorum and professional demeanor throughout, it will aid your case. And even if I were to deny the request, how you handle it may effect my willingness to reconsider in a month or two.

That's probably a lot more than you wanted to read, but it's just how I've handled things like this in the past. Hope it helps.

No one can stop you from leaving per the USARC manning guidance if it's outside of commuting distance. I'm glad you're moving to progress. Too often people stagnate which hurts everyone because it keeps others from taking their place.