The CSM and the NCO Support Channel.
Abstract
The command sergeant major is not only the senior noncommissioned officer of a unit, he is traditionally the most experienced and the premier role model for all noncommissioned officers and soldiers of the unit. However, command sergeant majors are conditioned to function in a dual channel of communication - the chain of command and the noncommissioned officer support channel. Depending on the command sergeants' major interpretation of the purpose of the NCO support channel, there exists the very real potential for critical conflict, especially between the subordinate commanders of a unit and the CSM. This potential for conflict is exacerbated because the duties and responsibilities of the CSM are informally negotiated by him and the unit commander. Subordinate commanders complain that the CSM, in his role as the head of the NCO support channel, infringes on their duties and responsibilities by using the support channel as a conduit for orders. Should the Army compose a general job description for the command sergeant major; and, is there a true necessity for a formalized NCO support channel? What can be done?
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 30, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA195020
Entities
People
- John J. Mcnulty Iii
Organizations
- United States Army War College