DA FORM 4856 - INITIAL COUNSELING STATEMENT
PART I - ADMINISTRATIVE DATA
Name: [Candidate Last Name, First Name]
Rank: Officer Candidate
Organization: MDARNG OCS Phase II, Squad 1
Name/Rank of Counselor: Candidate Newman, Squad Leader
Purpose of Counseling: Initial performance and expectations counseling for Squad 1 during the SEP 11-13 drill period and associated pre-drill battle rhythm.
PART II - BACKGROUND / PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS
1. Command Philosophy & Leadership Intent
The Squad Standard: Absolute Accountability, Zero Unforced Errors, and 100% Completion on all operational events (including the 9-mile foot march).
Chain of Command: Respect and utilize the squad chain of command. Address issues through your designated Team Leader (ATL/BTL) before escalating to the Squad Leader.
2. Time Hacks & Punctuality Standards
The 15-Minute Prior Rule: The squad standard for all time hacks is 15 minutes prior to the published Cadre or PSG hit-time (e.g., if Cadre orders a 0600 formation, Squad 1 is formed, locked, inspected, and present at 0545).
Zero Excuses: Arriving on time means arriving early. Being at the formation line at the exact hit-time is considered late.
Prep Standards: Gear, uniforms, and water sources must be staged and verified before line-checks.
3. Squad Communication & Message Compliance
Group Chat & DM Response Window: When an official tasking, poll, or message is sent to the squad chat, every candidate must acknowledge receipt with an inline reaction or text reply within 4 hours (or by the specific deadline stated in the message).
Line Check Compliance: Complete all bi-weekly line checks (Tuesdays/Thursdays by 1900) accurately. False reporting on gear or readiness is a violation of Army Values.
Travel & Status Reporting: Notify your ATL/BTL immediately if traveling >50 miles from your home address or out-of-state prior to drill. Upon dismissal from drill, text your ATL/BTL immediately upon safe arrival at your home address.
4. Collateral Duty Responsibility
Ownership: Execute your assigned collateral duty proactively. Do not wait to be asked for status updates; push operational updates to the Squad Leader and Team Leaders.
Peer Leadership: Holding a collateral duty means leading your peers in that functional area. Take ownership of squad standards for barracks layout, scale logistics, safety, uniform checks, or sensitive items.
5. Uniform & Barracks Standards
AR 670-1: Zero uniform deficiencies. Conduct pre-inspections with your buddy prior to every line check and formation.
MD OCSOP: Complete adherence to barracks layout and display standards.
PART III - PLAN OF ACTION
1. Acknowledge & Sign: Candidate will read, understand, and acknowledge this initial guidance via text/signature immediately.
2. Execute Initial Line Check: Candidate will respond to the Baseline Readiness Poll by the Tuesday 1700 deadline.
3. Inspect Gear: Verify all OCIE and required OCS tactical items against the packing list prior to Thursday's uniform check.
4. Maintain Readiness: Notify Team Lead immediately of any emergent medical, equipment, or travel changes.
