Reinforce Role of Sergeants

摘要

Like many commanders, I (Jim Du-bik) have been lucky to have teamed up with super NCOs, from my first platoon sergeant through two first sergeants and five command sergeants major. We were partners; we taught each other a lot. One thing this group had in common was an emphasis on using training to reinforce the role, responsibilities and importance of sergeants. That's why I asked two former partners, retired Command Sgts. Maj. Ron Semon and Tommy Williams, to co-author this essay. Together, we pass along six best practices aimed at the infantry battalion level-though, with some modification, each practice can apply to other types of battalions and other levels of command. Each example we present demonstrates how the command sergeant major (CSM) should be properly employed as the senior enlisted trainer responsible for individual training at all levels of command, and how proper use of the Army's training doctrine can reinforce the importance of sergeants: 1. Marksmanship. The battalion CSM is responsible for and should execute marksmanship training in the battalion, from individual through crew-served weapons. Marksmanship training is generally thought to be a "mass production event," with efficiency of time on the range as the mark of success.