Should there be a minimum time in service for nomination as the Sec of a branch?

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Apr 2016 09:25:41 -0400

For the Sec of the Navy he only served 2 years in the Navy. He is making decisions on behalf of two branches of service. Is two years long enough to have that kind of influence?

Response by SGT Edward Wilcox made Apr 20 at 2016 9:28 AM

SGT Edward Wilcox — Wed, 20 Apr 2016 09:28:05 -0400

Since we are a civilian controlled military, I don't think the highest positions, which exist outside the military, should be required to have served, first. These are largely administrative positions. The Chief of Staff for each service provides the Secretaries and the President with the information they need to perform their duties.

Response by SSG Ed Mikus made Apr 20 at 2016 9:31 AM

SSG Ed Mikus — Wed, 20 Apr 2016 09:31:53 -0400

It would be nice if they served 2 to 6 years in the branch they support, i would like to see this included in their qualifications but not used as a dis-qualifier. as SGT Edward Wilcox we are meant to be civilian controlled which brings me to the point of the max years i mentioned. you want them to understand the service but not be completely indoctrinated into it.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 20 at 2016 9:41 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Apr 2016 09:41:25 -0400

I don't think it should be a requirement. Each Branch has its Civilian Controller. If they are prior Military Service Members they may not be able to make the decisions they need to make.

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Apr 20 at 2016 9:55 AM

SGM Erik Marquez — Wed, 20 Apr 2016 09:55:11 -0400

No, not at all.. the position of secretary would be better served by an accomplished businessman and politician. Like it or not, those are the qualities that will allow them to be successful. They have SME's on staff to help them understand the path.
Service in a branch at less than the career level will not give them any useful insight for doing the tasks assigned as SECNAV, Army, AF, ect.

Response by SGT David T. made Apr 20 at 2016 6:00 PM

SGT David T. — Wed, 20 Apr 2016 18:00:22 -0400

You have to remember, at that level it is a very corporate mindset. His ability to manage the enterprise has nothing to do with his ability to function on a vessel's crew. You have to look at the whole resume and not just the military time. At that level he needs to manage large budgets and the overall organizational goals which I can tell you is very money driven.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Apr 20 at 2016 7:55 PM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Wed, 20 Apr 2016 19:55:42 -0400

There are those that have never served.