Playing with Grunts

The training period that went on at Cp Roberts, was interesting to say the least. Take 100 people, throw them into a unit, stir, and what you have, at least in our case, was a group of people that bonded pretty fast. There were the occasional spats, and one thing of note, was the command staff auctioned off their spots to younger Soldiers, so that we could get an idea of what it was like to run a Company. I paid $40 for the one of the staff jobs, the person that handles the logistical side of things. Arranging transporation, basically an enlisted Chief of Staff. The reason that this was notable was that the person who won the commander's slot (paid $330), was a person, that without a doubt came into the job thinking that he was going to change things.

He had an agenda, its a shame that he had absolutely no idea what he was doing. He was abrasive, obnoxious, and most importantly, a micro-manager. I warned him and all of the other play along staff, that remember what you do today, because tomorrow, you become a peon again. My advice was not heeded. He managed to piss off just about everyone in the company, myself included. He's lucky that he didn't get his ass kicked by someone, but it was a learning experience for everyone, and I learned that as much as I think I know, I am not ready for that level yet, give me another 5 years and I'll have it down.


The grunts in my platoon are the heart and soul of our little merry family. 2(the 3rd one left 2 weeks into the party, he should be included in this that he is older, has seen 2 wars, and is in a category all his own) in particular, they have between them, 8 months of combat experience. One was in Iraq, and ran over 40+ combat missions, and the other was in Kosovo for a while, and had his own share of the fun. They add a dimension to training that without them, would turn the same boring classes into fun. They are always quick to try and make someone smile, make a joke, or just make fun of you. They are also the hardest working people in the platoon. Any time that there is a job that needs to be done, they always step up to the plate. They inspire me to try and better my craft. I had a lot of fun, and learned more about leadership in 3 weeks under them than I had in the last 3 years in the Guard.