Military

NCO CORNER

One of the most difficult jobs in the Army is that of the first sergeant (1SG). CSS 1SGs have an especially difficult and important role to play. Unlike combat arms soldiers, CSS soldiers never take ground, win battles, or send high explosive rounds down range. 1SGs must still motivate their young soldiers, and instill a sense of pride in mission accomplishment.

Feedback is an important aspect of providing results of mission accomplishment to soldiers. Establish close ties with supported units. Gather facts on how CSS provided by your soldiers helped combat arms units to achieve success. Ensure your soldier's efforts are recognized and rewarded.

CSS is an extremely important function on the battlefield. 1SGs must mentor, coach, and lead today's young soldiers, as their combat arms and combat support counterparts do. They must also strive to be the logistical expert in the unit, based on their many years of experience.

1SGs must ensure the company runs like a finely tuned engine. The job is complicated by the lack of a unit clerk to assist in administration. Successful 1SGs delegate. Through delegation, a 1SG can get the job done right, and develop young leaders in the process.

The 1SG should work with company officers on their individual responsibilities during operations. The 1SG assists the company commander to "make things happen".

Peacetime CSS is becoming more and more of a technical field. The proliferation of computers accelerated the different types of automated CSS systems used in the Army. CSS 1SGs must be not only technically and tactically proficient, but also technologically competent as well. Remember to set the example for your subordinates. Know about every automated system your company uses. Be the expert in your unit. Conduct classes to increase the proficiency of your subordinates.

CTCs provide the most realistic training available in the Army today. Most units beginning a CTC rotation feel that they are combat-ready, trained and prepared for every contingency. When faced with the staggering task of performing their CSS mission and their survivability mission (often for the First time), many leave with a different insight on their level of training. Survivability remains a major problem area for logistics units. NCOs departing from the CTCs felt that the following tactical areas need increased emphasis during home-station training:

• Operator/Vehicle maintenance.
  
• Assembly area procedures.
  
• Security operations.
  
• Camouflage procedures.
  
• Displacement procedures.

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Brigade S4 Operations
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