Sergeants as Drill Sergeants: Returning Sergeants to Drill Sergeant Duty

Abstract

Abstract : The intent of this Study was to provide senior Army leadership with information to support a decision as to whether the Army should readmit Sergeants (E-5) to Drill Sergeant duty. Surveys, interviews, and analyses of performance in Drill Sergeant School and Initial Entry Training units consistently indicated that Sergeants (E-5) could perform successfully as Drill Sergeants. The graduation rates from Drill Sergeant School were equivalent for Sergeants (E-5) and Staff Sergeants. Supervisor ratings of Drill Sergeant performance in Initial Entry Training units found the Staff Sergeant (SSG) Drill Sergeants to be rated only slightly higher than the Sergeant (E-5) Drill Sergeants which was expected. Overall SGT (E-5) Drill Sergeant performance was rated high. In addition, the SGT (E-5) Drill Sergeants were rated both high% and equivalent to the SSG Drill Sergeants in a number of areas to include: respect for the trainees, ability to manage stress and handle volatile situations, and various gender integrated training issues. The interim results were provided to TRADOC DCSOPS&T in Nov 2004. Subsequently, the Commander, TRADOC, recommended to the Chief of Staff of the Army that a change be made to Army policy. In Feb 2005, the CSA directed that Sergeants be reinstated to Drill Sergeant duty.