1. This statement serves as my formal rebuttal and context regarding the counseling administered by SFC Akey on 13 October 2026.
2. I respect the counseling process, the role of leadership, and the importance of the chain of command. However, I am submitting this rebuttal to correct factual inaccuracies regarding the two incidents cited in the counseling:
a. **First Incident (Kinder Range / Supply Position):** The counseling states I inappropriately discussed a potential position change with 1SG Seigman. In fact, 1SG Seigman initiated the conversation with me while on the range, asking how I was doing and inquiring about my college coursework. When the topic of my duties arose, I answered his direct questions honestly. At no point did I seek out 1SG Seigman to bypass my chain of command; he approached me. Furthermore, 1SG Seigman's open-door policy permits direct communication.
b. **Second Incident (Facility / Shift Length Feedback):** The counseling cites a conversation regarding the transition from 8-hour to 12-hour shifts. On this occasion, 1SG Seigman approached me inside the facility and asked for my perspective and the general morale regarding the shift change. In response to his direct inquiries, I provided professional operational feedback addressing our current manning crisis, noting that 8-hour shifts make timely cell inspections and soldier breaks difficult under current constraints. Providing solicited, objective feedback to a First Sergeant when asked is a professional duty, not a breach of the chain of command.
3. At no time did I intentionally bypass my platoon sergeant or violate the chain of command. In both instances, I was responding to direct inquiries initiated by the First Sergeant. Because both counseling points directly involve interactions with 1SG Seigman where he initiated the conversation and asked for my input, I request that this counseling and my rebuttal be brought to 1SG Seigman's attention so that the record accurately reflects the context of these events.
4. I remain fully committed to upholding unit standards, executing my duties as a Team Leader, and supporting my leadership and soldiers.
5. Point of contact for this matter is the undersigned at xxxxx.x.xxxxxx.mil@army.mil or (XXX)-XXX-XXXX
