Soldiers sometimes have issues that they believe are not being properly addressed by their chain of command. Usually this is the result of a lack of understanding or poor communication between leaders and Soldiers. So the question becomes how does the Soldier attempt to resolve the issue?
Start at the bottom and work your way up
The answer is usually very simple. Talk to your chain of command. In most cases the issue is the result of a simple misunderstanding and open communication can usually resolve the problem. Handling the problem at the lowest possible level usually ensures the best possible result. In cases where the Soldier is uncomfortable speaking with a member of the chain of command they can always move up the chain of command. In doing so, the Soldier will eventually find a member of the chain of command that is removed from the situation and will examine the issue from a professional perspective.
What if I can’t talk to my chain of command about the issue?
When communications have totally broken down and for whatever reason the Soldier does not feel that they can speak with anyone in the chain of command they have several options to include: Commanders open door policy (this is usually available at every level of command),IG, Chaplain, JAG, and by writing their congressmen. A Soldier choosing to go outside their chain of command should also realize that by doing so they are asking a third party to approach the command regarding their problem. This means that the same people in the chain of command that the Soldier should have spoken to in the first place will be addressing or resolving the problem.
