What is the Big Fascination with Military Balls and Socials?
Why do senior NCOs keep making a huge deal about me attending these balls and socials all the time. I have never attended one, and don't intend to in the near future. ( They should be happy enough that I give to CFC and AER) My question is why do people care so much about these, I'm gussing so they look good in front of the CSM by bringing all thier loyal minions to the party. I personally won't pay to go somewhere that I have to wear a uniform to......
2008-03-24T02:56:11Z
Yes, I am talking about the operational military, and right now no ammount of balls or socials will make the cutoff scores drop. Thanks, good answers everyone.
2008-03-24T08:03:53Z
Actually Peanut, I didnt go to the prom, this is a lifetime pattern of me hating social events.
johnny r2008-03-24T05:19:49Z
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Why are people talking about this affecting promotions? It doesn't. SGT and SSG are semi-centralized --- based on points and an in-person board, and SFC and above are DA centralized --- you will likely never meet the people reviewing your file, and I have enough faith in the integrity of our NCO and Officer Corps to hope that those of you suggesting this "good ol' boy, be there and meet 'em" system doesn't not work nearly as well as accomplishing mission requirements and taking difficult assignments. Where do you guys get these ideas? AR 600-8-19 will tell you these things.
Listen, I agree with you. These things are stupid as ****. However, (and this is what I'm assuming y'all meant) when GETTING RECOMMENDED for promotion, it is good to be seen as a team player --- also when your NCOER's are written. I've seen NCO's get "adequate" ratings because they chose not to participate in functions when their presence would have said a lot about how they respect their COC and showing unit pride. And I too, hate CFC time. Every year with the book and the voucher....lol....but I feel guilty if I don't!!
As an officer, maybe I have a different perspective. The way I see it, for enlisted men to go to these balls is a good thing because it looks good to the promotion board. Also, it gives you a chance to improve your relationship with other men and officers, so that as you climb up through the ranks there'll be friendly faces. Just because you're being friendly doesn't mean you're brown-nosing. I suggest you give it a go. Even if you never go again, at least then you've tried it. You might enjoy it.
A traditional chance to socialize in a dignified manner (dining out, christmas ball, Army ball), less-dignified (dining-in), or fun (unit picnic). It allows all ranks to have a good time, break bread, talk about what the unit has done lately, celebrate achievements, etc. Also allows the spouses to socialize. Please do not say it is a means to get recognized or brown-nose; it is a means to build camaraderie and esprit-de-corp ina traditional manner.
Anything commanders and NCOs can do to strengthening bonds with Soldiers is a good thing.
Promotion board plus, interaction with fellow military personnel, and from personal experience, they are fun and sometimes quite entertaining. (Like when you see your Flight Chief get a little intoxicated and fall out of his chair right in front of the Command Chief)
First off, I hope you are talking about the operational military. I really hate it when kids get on here and speak of their JROTC program as the real military. If you are speaking of the operational military, please ignore the previous statement. I agree completely with you except for the fact that you are more likely to gain favor in front of a promotion board if you attend these functions.