A Trial Program for Selection to Infantry Training Brigade Company Command

Michael D. Matthews · Jean L. Dyer

Jan 1999 · U.S. Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences

About this ebook

"This research evaluated a trial program in which carefully selected, volunteer senior first lieutenants and junior captains were assigned to U.S. Army Infantry Training Brigade company command prior to completing the Infantry Captains Career Course (ICCC). Pre-ICCC commanders were promised a fellow-on command in an operational unit and served in the ITB command for 11 months, versus the standard 18 months. The job performance, leadership, organizational and training management skills, and turbulence effects of the shorter command tour of captains in the trial program (Pre-ICCC commanders) were compared to captains who assumed command after completing ICCC (Post-ICCC commanders). A combination of surveys and interviews with drill sergeants, battalion commanders, battalion command sergeants major, and the company commanders was conducted. Results showed Pre-ICCC company commanders received as high or higher ratings than Post-ICCC commanders. Turbulence effects were rated as minimal to moderate and were minimized by various management techniques. Battalion commanders spent relatively greater time developing Pre-ICCC commanders, but the Pre-ICCC commanders' great enthusiasm and motivation compensated for their lack of experience.."--DTIC.