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I see this question frequently on Social Media. When I was the Personnel Assistance Clerk in the Army. People would constantly come into my office with this question. What's funny is that they ask me and without even looking at my rank expect a PFC to know. However, because of my job I owe them the due diligence to research the answer and give it to them.
1. Weapons- Since we don't go to the range as often than what people think. You should go to your Arms room and sign your weapon out. Once you do so take 20-30 minutes to learn and familiarize with it. Why is it important? Most Soldiers haven't seen a M4 up close not to mention any weapons system. They have to understand how to adjust sight, windage and their trigger release. Ask your Armour for simple shooting drills to improve your breathing, steady grip, trigger pull and release. Dry firing can help you get that 40/40 and translates to max promotion points for the weapons portion.
2. Awards- It pays to be an outstanding Soldier. You're not going to get an AAM or ARCOM every time you pick up trash. But every bit counts, from COA to GCM understanding this can get you on the road to that next stripe. Also update your ORB to reflect your proper awards.
3. Education- Go to School. Either Military or Civilian those points can be the difference of you being promoted. Yes. Military life isn't easy, nor does having a family (families are cool) because both requires your undivided attention. So, you need to sit down with your loved ones and explain to them the reason your not home after work on certain days. Most Soldiers who're single take their time for granted and decide to skip out on school and wait til they ETS. However, if you plan on being in for 20 you must get this portion done.
4. APFT- This one isn't hard to explain. Let's face it you can be an expert shooter, a decorated Soldier and well educated but, you fail APFT none of those matter. Some old head once told me, "Look here fatass, one hour of PT isn't enough. Once you get off work go run, do push ups and situps. That's the only way for your Fatass to remain in this Army". Sadly, he was correct and most Soldiers only do the minimum but maximum partying.
Hope this helps feel free to add to this below.
1. Weapons- Since we don't go to the range as often than what people think. You should go to your Arms room and sign your weapon out. Once you do so take 20-30 minutes to learn and familiarize with it. Why is it important? Most Soldiers haven't seen a M4 up close not to mention any weapons system. They have to understand how to adjust sight, windage and their trigger release. Ask your Armour for simple shooting drills to improve your breathing, steady grip, trigger pull and release. Dry firing can help you get that 40/40 and translates to max promotion points for the weapons portion.
2. Awards- It pays to be an outstanding Soldier. You're not going to get an AAM or ARCOM every time you pick up trash. But every bit counts, from COA to GCM understanding this can get you on the road to that next stripe. Also update your ORB to reflect your proper awards.
3. Education- Go to School. Either Military or Civilian those points can be the difference of you being promoted. Yes. Military life isn't easy, nor does having a family (families are cool) because both requires your undivided attention. So, you need to sit down with your loved ones and explain to them the reason your not home after work on certain days. Most Soldiers who're single take their time for granted and decide to skip out on school and wait til they ETS. However, if you plan on being in for 20 you must get this portion done.
4. APFT- This one isn't hard to explain. Let's face it you can be an expert shooter, a decorated Soldier and well educated but, you fail APFT none of those matter. Some old head once told me, "Look here fatass, one hour of PT isn't enough. Once you get off work go run, do push ups and situps. That's the only way for your Fatass to remain in this Army". Sadly, he was correct and most Soldiers only do the minimum but maximum partying.
Hope this helps feel free to add to this below.
Posted in these groups: 
Promotions
Advice
Promotions Advice
Posted 9 y ago
Responses: 28
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SPC Eddie "Nemo" Aiumu Good advice, one other thing that I did, was ask for a counseling statement about why I have not been promoted, and 30 days later was promoted.
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SPC Aiumu, you are wise beyond your years! If you're junior enlisted, you'd do well to follow this advice. PT and weapons Qual and familiarization are critical not only to your promotion, but also to your survival on the battlefield. If you can't reach out and touch the bad guys, you better have a good running game! Make the time for classes, both professional and personal. Start mapping out your future and make it yours. Make a plan and work your plan. Set goals and deadlines for yourself. The sooner you start, the better
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SPC Eddie "Nemo" Aiumu
Sir I appreciate the compliment as well as the advice. Its very true that setting goals whether short or long term can go a very long way. Thank you and much appreciation for the insight.
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Show you have the mettle, wisdom, tactical and technical knowledge, and leadership skills or potential of an E-5. I liked it when soldiers and NCOs forced my hand at promoting them because of the track record.
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