Posted on Dec 9, 2015
SSG(P) Photographer/Owner
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I am assigned to a Headquarters Company in a Engineer Battalion. We have a SHARP Representative, but do not have a Victim's Advocate. The rank requirement to be assigned this duty is E-6. However, I myself have extensive knowledge and experience with this because I am a survivor of sexual assault. I know the sensitive nature of the topic, the resources available through both the military and civilian side, and the type of support needed for survivors of sexual assault. Should the chain of command, mine to be specific, be able to waive the rank requirements so that we have a Victim's Advocate and so I can help my fellow soldiers?
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Responses: 6
CSM David Heidke
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In order to execute the position also may require that you have military authority, and as a Specialist you have none. You have no general military authority as an enlisted Soldier.

That's why.
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MAJ Contracting Officer
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In other words it becomes difficult to protect victims when most of the perpetrators will outrank you and therefor be able to influence you (bad details, evals, etc) Keep with it and you'll make rank soon enough. Just by being an outspoken squared away Soldier you can make significant progress.
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SGT Ben Keen
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I think the requirements come in as a way to hopefully gauge maturity. Not to say that SSG(P) (Join to see) couldn't do a great job in that position but as we all know, with rank comes experience, tact, and a host of other things required for such a position. Is it right? I don't know but I see that being the reason for the requirement.
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CPL Timothy Coffey
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Yes, some require tremendous responsibility and reason, Age, training and time in rank, helps with these qualities.
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