Maintaining unit cohesion in a "volatile" social climate will be a leadership challenge of the information age. How are you guys doing it?

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Jan 2017 18:39:02 -0500

We can't deny the impact of the current social scene in our country on the lives of our soldiers and families. It is an unspoken rule that you never discuss politics or religion at work. That being said, I would love it if some senior leaders or retired folks could cite how they kept units focused & cohesive during some of the more troubling parts of our history similar to our current social climate.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2017 6:42 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Jan 2017 18:42:28 -0500

I've kept it simple. I've told my Soldiers that, regardless of their political and social views, they are still Soldiers and will conduct themselves accordingly. And if they cannot do this, then I will personally see to it the paperwork is done and put them out of the Army. So far, it's worked.

Response by Maj John Bell made Jan 30 at 2017 6:44 PM

Maj John Bell — Mon, 30 Jan 2017 18:44:36 -0500

Sometimes when there is division in the unit, there's nothing like a common enemy. At the company level, I usually called a conference of SNCO's and officers and almost always the consensus was that the Company Gunny was best suited to be that enemy.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2017 7:47 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Jan 2017 19:47:43 -0500

This is a great question and one I'd encourage leader at every level to discuss during odp/ ncodp/ jr enlisted pd. For seniors, keep your personal feelings in check, easier said than done. Know what right is and stand for the right in all you do. It's not a brief or a training, but what you do all the time. When you slip, they're watching you like Americas got talent. But guess what, you're human, admit your fault and move forward.

Response by CSM Chuck Stafford made Jan 31 at 2017 8:28 AM

CSM Chuck Stafford — Tue, 31 Jan 2017 08:28:29 -0500

If it's between you or me - I choose me; but if it is between us or them - I choose us. That said, your unit can find a common enemy and develop consensus based on hate or; I would rather see consensus based on being the best -- your organization provides a unique value to its parent -- be the best at what you do. Best team in the squad, squad in the platoon, etc.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 1 at 2017 8:30 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Feb 2017 20:30:23 -0500

Sir, I would have a couple of meetings one with the SNCO's or those serving in those positions and then one with E6 and below. Have a one way conversation with them that yes they may have their own personal feelings and thoughts about everything that is going on in the world. That those that fail to adhere to policy and orders will be helped along their way out the Army. It isn't complicated they have a job to do and they get paid for it. There will be a select few that might cause some problems Sir but we are here for something greater than ourselves and that is to obey the orders of those appointed over us.