The IG’s protocol states that a Soldier does not specifically have to lodge a complaint within an IG investigation. With this knowledge in mind, the Army IG assures Soldiers they are not prohibited from seeking IG assistance to inspect the leadership within an organization, if the organization is in question of adhering to regulatory guidance.īutler also said that many Soldiers are unaware that an outside source can file an IG complaint. “With many reserve units far from military installations, Reserve Soldiers feel they may not have the ability to reach out to authority who can assist in issues concerning their Army careers.”
“Many Army Reserve Soldiers are not aware of the benefits of seeking out an IG,” Butler said. The last concept we discussed entailed how Butler felt Army Reserve Soldiers, in particular, benefit from the services of the IG. The IG can assist Soldiers in measures to accommodate their individual needs. In addition to assistance and investigations, the IG adheres to maintaining the well-being of all Soldiers within the Army. Through this channel of authority, Soldiers can lodge a complaint against their leadership. The IG can conduct an investigation if an organization is not in compliance with following regulatory guidance. “These resources include assistance and investigation.”Īssistance within the IG encompasses ensuring a unit or organization is following proper protocol and regulatory guidance stated within the regulations. “If a Soldier has a problem with a leader following regulatory guidance, there are additional resources the Soldier can take advantage of through the IG offices,” Butler said.
According to Butler, the IG “provides an individual within a unit an opportunity to receive ideas and lessons from previous experiences, as well as teaching and training leaders how to manage their Soldiers in career progression and day-to-day operations concerning a unit’s welfare.”Įstablishing this understanding of the IG’s role, Butler explained why the IG is significant for all Soldiers. One of the things we discussed was the role of the IG.
Speaking with Butler gave me an excellent opportunity to examine the role the IG plays within the Active Duty Army and the Army Reserve. Additionally, Butler establishes mentorship programs with leaders, which allows them to have an avenue to receive further guidance for their growth and development as leaders within their military careers. Butler’s responsibilities include teaching and training leaders, and ensuring all Soldiers are in compliance with the regulatory guidance.
An assistant field inspector general for the United States Army Recruiting Command, Butler inspects recruiting companies and centers throughout the United States.
Through my research of the IG, I interviewed my mother to grasp insight on the scope in which the IG covers as leaders within the Army. Butler, as a means to foster a greater understanding of the importance the IG plays in the lives of active duty and Reserve Soldiers. Through examining the role and authority of Army IGs, I had the opportunity to interview my mother, Master Sgt. The Army IG is comprised of noncommissioned officers, officers, and Department of the Army civilians.Īrmy IG inspectors hold positions of authority as confidential advisors and fact finders who report directly to their assigned commanders. The Army Inspector General is an Army organization that upholds and epitomizes the Army values, Warrior Ethos, and the Army Civilian Corps Creed.