Command Sergeant Major: Job Description, Responsibilities, and Required Skills

The Role of a Command Sergeant Major

A Command Sergeant Major (CSM) is an E-9 rank in the military, marking the highest position an enlisted service member can achieve. With over 30 years of experience, a CSM brings not only extensive combat and leadership experience but also a high level of respect from both enlisted personnel and officers. In the army, a CSM, such as the one I had the privilege to work with in Iraq, holds significant responsibility and influence within his battalion.

Job Description and Responsibilities

My experience working closely with my battalion's CSM in a tactical operations center (TOC) in Iraq provided valuable insights into the role. This position is not just about being a high-ranking officer but also about:

Leadership: Ensuring that the objectives of the unit are met, and that all members are supported and ready for their missions. Training and Evaluation: Overseeing the training of junior officers and NCOs, conducting evaluations, and providing feedback for improvement. Conflict Resolution and Stress Management: Dealing with conflicts and helping personnel manage the stress of combat and high-pressure situations. Advocacy and Support: Acting as a liaison between junior members and officers, advocating for the well-being of all personnel. Strategic Planning: Assisting with the development of long-term strategies and plans for the battalion. Decision Making: Making crucial decisions in stressful situations, often under the pressure of time and danger.

Required Skills for a Successful CSM

To be an effective Command Sergeant Major, one must possess a unique set of skills and qualities:

Patience

Dealing with a continuous influx of fresh faces, especially with a majority of the battalion under 25 years old, requires a great deal of patience. The CSM I worked with, despite being 41 years older than me, always treated me with respect, and never lost his composure.

Clear Communication

Making expectations clear from the start is crucial. The CSM emphasized this, always communicating with the private in a clear and understandable manner. Whether correcting or praising, he made sure his message was heard and understood.

Equal Opportunities

The CSM I worked with ensured that the private’s work, such as sweeping the floors and emptying the garbage, was recognized and appreciated. He made it clear that everyone was valued, regardless of rank.

Ethical Leadership

He was tough but fair, looking after everyone. He expected senior enlisted personnel to lead by example but also showed leniency when appropriate, such as using shame as a non-punitive method to discipline.

Adaptability

CSMs must be adaptable, as they often face unexpected challenges in high-stress environments. The ability to remain calm and focused is crucial.

Conclusion

In summary, the role of a Command Sergeant Major is multifaceted, requiring a unique blend of leadership, conflict resolution, and ethical decision-making skills. The position demands patience, clear communication, and a ethical approach to leadership. If you have these qualities and the experience of an E-9, such as over 30 years in the military, you could excel in this role.