Should Soldiers (E?-E5) be able to become SHARP Representatives?

SGT Zila Winstead — Fri, 19 Dec 2014 07:39:10 -0500

A few years ago I encountered an amazing SFC back in S. Korea who was a SHARP Representative and she was very influential and after meeting her I really wanted to do my part by becoming a SHARP Rep. as well. The kicker, I'm only a Sgt. I was told that even though I am a Sgt. I could receive a 'waiver'. I haven't quiet asked my chain if I could qualify but I find it unfair because I am not a Staff Sgt. I am not automatically able to become a SHARP Rep.

I understand that a Staff Sgt. holds the rank and experience in the military and is upheld as a higher leadership ranking position, but regardless of my rank I personally believe I hold the passion and capability of being a great SHARP Rep. I say this more because I too was once a Sexual Assault victim (not in the military) and I find that my experience could help many.

I am curious, should becoming a SHARP Representative position be open to all ranks?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 19 at 2014 8:09 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 19 Dec 2014 08:09:47 -0500

SGT Zila Winstead I think that as a rule they have E-6 and above for enlisted and 1LT and above for officers as the lower ranks are still trying to learn their jobs. I know as a 2LT I was at training then learning my platoon. Adding an additional duty (to all the other ones I got) would have made it more difficult, particularly if I started receiving cases. I think it is more about professional development and growth. I never heard of the waiver part for E-5. I do think that there are always an exception to the rule when it comes to rank requirement as you might be ready, able, and willing, but I think most of the others should focus on developing themselves as leaders first before trying to add another skill. Just my thoughts on why they picked the ranks they did.