Frocking: Is the Current Army Policy Too Stringent.

摘要

The Army's frocking practice is a contentious issue. With promotion lists spanning protracted periods, there are advocates for liberalizing the Army's frocking policy. The practice of frocking officers provide the Army's personnel managers with increased opportunities to meet assignment requirements. Moreover, frocking is a personal morale enhancer and motivator. However, frocking practices in the Services have received increased congressional scrutiny and guidance from Department of Defense. The DOD Directive restricts the number of frocked field grade and general officers allowed in the Army. This study includes a comparative analysis of current frocking and related promotion policies in sister services and selected allied armies. A survey was developed, conducted, and analyzed, along with interviews and research to ascertain the optimal U.S. Army frocking policy. The author concludes that the Army frocking policy is about right. Recommendations are included to provide minor policy improvements. Keywords: Promotion(Advancement); Army personnel; Officer personnel; Frocking; Personnel management. (JG)