Today we have an ongoing problem in the ranks, sexual harassment. A lot of sexually assaulted military resigned after demobilization for moral or physical reasons. This situation does not contribute to the strength and reputation of the army, and we should reduce the sexual assault rates. As an officer, I will implement and proactively use the This is My Squad program to do that.
This is My Squad is an initiative by Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael Grinston. It calls for empowering front-line leaders’ responsibility, accountability, confidence, and unit cohesion. According to the TIMS initiative, the squad’s brotherly relationship will help prevent sexual harassment (Signore). A squad member will not think of committing abuse toward his “brother” or “sister,” even when their “older brother”, the squad leader, is not around.
The most important thing is not to distance ourselves from our subordinates. Lower-level officers are still officers, and some soldiers cannot fully trust us. That is why it is very important to communicate closely with every unit in your squad, not only in combat but also in times of peace (Signore). I prefer to know what each of my soldiers wants, especially since I can solve certain issues and problems if they arise. A friendly attitude while respecting the chain of command is quite possible.
Every soldier is a human being, first and foremost, and each needs a unique approach. It is much easier for a person to obey their superior if they really respect him. Earning my squad’s respect and friendship is my primary concern, as well as that of any lower-level officer (Morral 16). One day I am helping one of my subordinates with payments; the next day, I am reaching with others’ families and running a social meeting with them as it all helps to bring your squad together. I will launch additional educational studies on sexual conduct combat along with regular training.
A squad is not just a group of soldiers but a group of friends or even family. And between such close people, there should be no secrets. If there is a threat of sexual harassment to a private, he will go to a person he can trust, and I will do my best to become that person as his squad leader. I would make sure there are no such incidents in my squad, lending each member a shoulder if needed.
Works Cited
Morral, Andrew R., et al. Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment in the U.S. Military. RAND Corporation, 2018.
Signore, Daniel. “Get to Know Your Squad.”Association of the United States Army, 2021.