What do you think of the role of "clubs" in the military?

2014-06-14T15:45:28-04:00

Ok here is a dangerous topic.

Clubs in the military, whether they are ring knockers from a school, members of the "prestigious" club (you know who) or a civilian club that manages to insert itself into military life.
In my experience, and in broad non specific strokes, most club "members" seem to be of the "self promoting" personality cult of "me first".

Any thoughts on that? For instance, why would you join a club because you think it will get you promoted?

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 14 at 2014 3:59 PM

2014-06-14T15:59:06-04:00

Yeah...I'll say you picked a "hot-button" topic.

I have never really had a good experience with the aforementioned "clubs" while on active duty. I agree with you when you stated "most club "members" seem to be of the "self promoting" personalilty cult" ". Some people do join those clubs for self-promotion - you can't remove the JA from the fool no matter how hard one tries. But these types will find a venue no matter whether it's a club or not...it's just in their nature.

Since retiring I've joined two clubs - one being the VFW and the other being the FRA - both military related and both dedicated to helping active duty and other veterans. My choice. My poison - as it were.

What's the solution for those "self-promoters"...dang if I know. I've got some ideas, but I know they're not PC.

Response by 1SG Chris Brown made Jun 14 at 2014 7:59 PM

2014-06-14T19:59:37-04:00

I guess it depends on which clubs you're talking about. I am a member of the Sergeant Morales Club and an honorary member of the Sergeant Audie Murphy Club. As any Army NCO knows, these are both very prestigious clubs that take some serious hard work and dedication to be selected. Has it helped my career? Perhaps indirectly here and there, though I don't attribute any promotion directly to my club membership. For me, working hard to show I'm a cut above was just about being an NCO working toward my full potential. I use the experience to encourage other NCOs to strive to achieve more than just what you are today. I would never look down upon anyone for not being a member. However, I would say it does give an NCO instant credibility with me if I know they are a member.

Response by MSG Martin C. made Jun 14 at 2014 8:09 PM

2014-06-14T20:09:20-04:00

I agree with you in the Signal community it's a big deal and it does seem as if they do take care of themselves behind closed doors. However I am proud to have earned everything on my own without any clubs etc. I attribute my success to the people that I worked for and specially those who worked for me they are the ones that made it possible for me to shine because of their hard work and trust in me as their leader.