To reduce shrinkage, and improve overall readiness, should Army mechanics be issued their own tool kits for the life of their contract?

CW3 Kevin Storm — Thu, 07 Jun 2018 15:33:54 -0400

During my many years, I have seen the Army go through tools, a lot of tools. I always thought if you want to prevent tool loss issue the soldier a tool box in AIT and let them keep till their time was done. Don't make it part of the Commanders Property book, but make it part of the soldiers initial issue. Deduct $25.00 a month till it is paid for, then at the time of turn in they get the option of keeping it, or being reimbursed. This sets them for a trade they can walk into when they leave the service if they so desire. What think you RP members?

Response by TSgt David L. made Jun 7 at 2018 4:00 PM

TSgt David L. — Thu, 07 Jun 2018 16:00:14 -0400

Thinking larger, we could do that with other tool sets, bomb suits, maybe even weapons. I take better care of my own gear than I did unit items. Incentivize maintenance and encourage proper care. Replace damaged or destroyed items as needed.

Response by SFC Marc W. made Jun 7 at 2018 5:15 PM

SFC Marc W. — Thu, 07 Jun 2018 17:15:35 -0400

I've actually thought about this for infantrymen, what if at OSUT, we were issued our M4 that we had to carry for our career? We kept track of all shots fired, maintenance schedule, etc. Issue a good pelican case for travel. Only thing I'd drop is the option to keep after service.
I love this idea.

Response by SGT Joseph Gunderson made Jun 7 at 2018 7:36 PM

SGT Joseph Gunderson — Thu, 07 Jun 2018 19:36:47 -0400

I like this idea. Depending on the mechanic's MOS they could be issued a tool box as part of their issue and at the end of their contract can be turned in. If something is damaged or destroyed, SMs can perform the FLIPL process to replace the item.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Jun 20 at 2018 11:31 AM

SGM Bill Frazer — Wed, 20 Jun 2018 11:31:53 -0400

No- tool bags change all the time. The way to prevent tool loss is the regs- Mechanics will hand receipt their tools from the Company and are subject to inspections and cost of replacement of them. A good supply SGT/XO will make use the CO doesn't get bit in the ass.