5 Page essay on making a decision to leave the army or stay a Soldier based off of these hardships:
- Back-to Back Deployments
- Found out last minute you were non-deployable during SRP
- Personal Struggles (Divorce and Dad’s Death) affecting Performance
- Single Parent with a Family Care Plan
- Got into a terrible accident, not at fault, and don’t remember anything that happened. Made you want to leave the army.
Describe how each hardship correlates and corresponds with the Army’s Mission Command ADP 6-0.
Full Answer Section
The Toll of Back-to-Back Deployments:
ADP 6-0 emphasizes the importance of "developing leaders who are competent, confident, and committed" (p. 2-10). Back-to-back deployments, however, can erode these very qualities. The constant state of high alert, the physical and mental strain of combat operations, and the prolonged separation from loved ones take a toll on leadership effectiveness. My ability to make sound decisions, inspire my troops, and maintain situational awareness can become compromised after extended deployments.
The Sting of Non-Deployability:
The recent discovery of non-deployability during the Selection Restriction Period (SRP) added another layer of complexity. ADP 6-0 highlights the commander's responsibility to "employ the right forces at the right time and place" (p. 3-14). Being deemed non-deployable creates a sense of inadequacy and undermines the core tenet of military service – readiness. Witnessing my comrades deploy while I'm left behind is not only personally demoralizing, but also raises concerns about my ability to contribute meaningfully to the mission.
Personal Struggles: A Soldier Divided
The recent loss of my father and the ongoing challenges of divorce have significantly impacted my emotional well-being. ADP 6-0 emphasizes the importance of "leaders who are physically and mentally fit" (p. 2-10). Grief and the emotional strain of a broken marriage undeniably take a mental toll. Focus and concentration deteriorate, impacting my ability to make sound decisions and effectively lead my soldiers. The potential for these personal struggles to manifest in my job performance is a heavy burden to bear, both for myself and for my unit.
Single Parent and the Fragility of Family
Being a single parent with a Family Care Plan (FCP) adds another layer of concern. ADP 6-0 emphasizes the importance of "leaders who are committed to the well-being of their Soldiers and their families" (p. 2-10). The constant fear of deployment and the potential for extended absences create significant logistical and emotional challenges for my family. The potential for another deployment, especially after a period of non-deployability, could jeopardize the stability of my FCP and ultimately, the well-being of my child.
A Life-Altering Accident:
A recent accident, though not my fault, left me with amnesia regarding the incident. While physically recovering, the mental trauma and memory loss have shaken me profoundly. The very essence of leadership, as outlined in ADP 6-0, rests on "intellectual competence" and "decision-making capability" (p. 2-9). The accident has raised serious questions about my long-term cognitive health and its potential impact on my ability to lead effectively.
A Crossroads with No Easy Answers
These hardships have brought me to a crossroads. The Army has instilled in me a sense of duty, honor, and a deep respect for my fellow soldiers. Yet, the cumulative impact of these challenges forces me to question whether I can continue to serve at the level demanded by both myself and the Army. Staying on would mean potentially compromising my physical and mental well-being, hindering my ability to lead effectively, and potentially jeopardizing the stability of my family.
Conclusion: A Difficult Choice for a Dedicated Soldier
The decision to leave the Army is not taken lightly. The sense of camaraderie, the purpose, and the deep respect for the institution remain strong. However, the cumulative impact of these hardships compels me to prioritize my well-being and the welfare of my family. This may be the end of my chapter in the Army, but the lessons learned, the values instilled, and the unwavering commitment to service will forever be a part of who I am.