What can I do if my platoon sergeant doesn’t want me to go to the board due to disliking me?

2024-06-09T08:39:30-04:00

When I asked my squad leader about going to the board he asked my PLT SGT and was told I needed to take initiative in training my soldiers. My squad leader didn’t agree with what was said but I also EO my PLT SGT so I assume he’s doing this due to that issue from the past. Can someone please help me and show me the path I need to take?

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Jun 9 at 2024 9:02 AM

2024-06-09T09:02:33-04:00

OK, so....

#1) You assume this is retaliation for EO. But *is it*? what evidence do you have?

#2) If this *is* retaliation for an EO complaint, then that is its OWN EO complaint. Retaliation is VERY clearly outlined as being a NoGo. So *if* you have some form of actual proof, aside from "he just doesn't like me" take that to BACK to EO for a new complaint. But understand you *will* be creating a certain reputation for yourself. If the first complaint came back unfounded (which I have to assume since he is still your PSG) and then this one comes back unfounded, as well, good luck getting anything done anywhere on that post. You will either need to PCS or ETS in order to even be productive, let alone advance. No, that is not a threat, that is the reality. ABSOLUTELY stand up for yourself. But you had BETTER have your ducks in a row when you do it.

#3) You have been given clear guidance as to what you need to do. Start doing it. Yes, your Squad Leader doesn't agree. But:
A) Your PSG has more experience
B) Your PSG has a wider view of who is doing what - he has a better basis of comparison
C) Your PSG should be setting the training tone for both the PLT and the SQD. Your Squad leader, if anything, should be setting standards ABOVE those expectations, not below them.

Response by COL Randall C. made Jun 9 at 2024 9:27 AM

2024-06-09T09:27:54-04:00

** EDIT after rereading EO comment **

I assume this is a question about going before the board while you're in the Secondary Zone as appearance is mandatory when you enter the Primary Zone (your PLT SGT's view doesn't matter for Primary Zone).

Barring the EO complaint, your question comes down to "how do I show my Platoon leadership that I'm a top-performer and should be considered for early promotion".

If you believe it is due to EO, short of a "smoking gun" that it is retaliation, you'll have a extremely hard time proving that 1) you are a superior Soldier that deserves to go to the promotion board early and 2) the only reason you're not being recommended is because of an earlier EO complaint filed against your Platoon Sergeant.

First you should understand the process for secondary zone recommendations in your command. Assuming you're in a standard unit structure, your promotion board will be at the Battalion-level. When I was in command, I relied upon my CSM and Company Commanders to give me the recommendations for Secondary Zone consideration and usually just rubber stamped them. Is this how the process is done in your unit? If so, then talk to your Platoon Leader or Company Commander about your concerns.

BUT ... you better make absolutely sure you have the facts on your side and not some vague suspicion.

The reason you were given is that you aren't taking the initiative in training your Soldiers. Is there evidence to the contrary? Do you proactively get them into training they need? Help with civilian education opportunities? Pursue additional skill training outside of what's on the unit training schedule?

If so, then meet with your Platoon Sergeant and show how they have the wrong impression and that you are very involved in the training and education of your Soldiers. If you show that you do take the initiative and the Platoon Sergeant comes up with something else, then there is merit to the "they just don't like me" view and you should have an open door meeting with your Platoon Leader or Company Commander.

Short of that - you'll have to wait until your primary zone eligibility comes up.
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* https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/ARN36067-AR_600-8-19-000-WEB-1.pdf

ARN36067-AR_600-8-19-000-WEB-1.pdf

Response by SGT Aaron Atwood made Jun 9 at 2024 5:54 PM

2024-06-09T17:54:00-04:00

If there's evidence that this is in fact retaliation to EOing him then go and throw him under the bus. It's a serious accusation, and can definitely weed him out prior to rating retirement. EO policies and protocols are there to protect you.

What kind of board is it? Promotion? NCO of the Quarter? Either way they don't take up that much time to get ready for so your soldiers can wait for you to train them (frankly that falls on the squad leader first).

Response by SGT Lorenzo Nieto made Jun 15 at 2024 6:45 AM

2024-06-15T06:45:55-04:00

Stand up for yourself or leave the room

Response by SGT Lorenzo Nieto made Jun 24 at 2024 6:58 AM

2024-06-24T06:58:48-04:00

Man I sure wish I could understand what you guys are talking about, I’m not stupid just old, went in 1967 back then it didn’t matter who liked you or who didn’t you gave 150% kept your mouth shut and did your job. Good luck