SUBJECT: Documentation of Interaction Following Formation on 28 July 2026
Purpose. This memorandum for record documents an interaction that occurred on 28 July 2026 following formation involving 1LT K______. The purpose of this memorandum is to establish an accurate record of the circumstances surrounding the interaction, the context in which I was using my cellular telephone, and concerns regarding comments made about my pending separation from the Army.
BACKGROUND: I was present for a formation that primarily involved personnel and responsibilities unrelated to my assigned duties. My position is unique within the section in that I am the only individual whose primary duties involve direct patient care. Additionally, I serve as an NCO and have responsibilities that require me to transition to patient-care duties and other mission requirements as soon as possible.
1. The formation, specifically the portion referred to as "quarters," lasted significantly longer than it normally does and extended beyond approximately 40 minutes. During this time, I used my cellular telephone briefly to communicate with a colleague and advise them that I was still present and had not yet been released to return to my assigned duties. My intent was not to disregard the formation, demonstrate disrespect, or act as though I was exempt from standards. I remained physically present for the formation despite having responsibilities that were waiting for me elsewhere.
2. Following formation, 1LT K______ approached me and corrected me regarding my use of my cellular telephone during formation. I acknowledge that the correction itself was appropriate. I understand that the use of a cellular telephone during formation can be viewed as contrary to the expected standard, and I accept responsibility for that particular action.
3. However, the context surrounding the correction is important. The formation had extended considerably longer than usual, I had mission-related responsibilities that required my attention, and I was attempting to communicate that I was still present. My use of the telephone was not an attempt to undermine leadership, disregard an order, or demonstrate a lack of discipline.
4. During the interaction, 1LT K______ referenced my pending separation from the Army by stating, "I know that you're getting out and all, but..." This comment was made twice during the interaction. My pending separation has no bearing on whether I am required to follow Army standards, nor does it excuse inappropriate conduct. However, I do not believe that my separation status was relevant to the correction being made.
5. The repeated reference to my separation was particularly concerning because I have previously experienced situations in which information regarding my circumstances has been discussed or interpreted by individuals without the full context. As a result, the comment gave me reasonable concern that information or perceptions regarding my pending separation had influenced the interaction rather than the matter being addressed solely as a professional correction.
6. I would also like to document that I sat down twice during the formation due to my medical profile. This was not intended to show disrespect toward the formation or leadership. I followed the limitations applicable to me and remained present despite the prolonged duration of the formation.
7. I recognize that standards should be enforced consistently and that leadership has the responsibility to correct deficiencies when they occur. My concern is not that I was corrected. My concern is the manner and context in which the correction occurred, particularly the unnecessary reference to my separation status and the apparent assumption that my actions reflected a broader lack of discipline.
8. I am an NCO with significant military experience and understand the importance of discipline, standards, and setting an appropriate example. I have served in multiple environments and understand the difference between being held accountable for an action and having an individual's character or commitment questioned based on assumptions.
9. I also recognize that standards and expectations must be clearly communicated and consistently enforced. When a standard is not consistently applied or routinely upheld by personnel across an organization, it becomes particularly important for leadership to clearly communicate expectations rather than relying on assumptions about what personnel should already know or understand.
10. I am not documenting this interaction to avoid accountability. On the contrary, I accept the correction regarding the cellular telephone. I am documenting the circumstances because I believe there is an important distinction between constructive correction and comments or assumptions that can contribute to an inaccurate perception of an NCO's professionalism, discipline, or character.
11. I respectfully request that future corrections involving me remain focused on the specific conduct or standard being addressed and not be influenced by my pending separation, hearsay, workplace gossip, or assumptions regarding my intentions. My separation status does not diminish my obligation to meet Army standards, nor should it be used as a characterization of my commitment or professionalism.
12. I remain committed to fulfilling my duties, supporting the mission, and maintaining professional standards for the remainder of my service. I expect the same level of professionalism, consistency, and good-faith communication from leadership that is expected from me as an NCO.
13. This memorandum is intended to document the events and context as accurately as possible while they remain fresh in my memory. It is not intended to challenge the legitimate enforcement of standards or to prevent appropriate corrective counseling when warranted.
