Neither is appropriate if it is solely for personal reasons. If there is a staff meeting, training, or some other official military function, then yes, a Soldier can be ordered to make coffee, go get lunch, etc. to support the function. They key is that is has to be an “Official” function.
No superior can order another Soldier to make coffee, go get their lunch, etc., even if they are on CQ or driver. This is an abuse of power and position. There is nothing wrong if a Soldier is asked and they do not object to performing the request. For example: A leader can ask their Soldiers to run to the shopette for them if the office is busy, but must make it very clear that they do not have to make the trip. In addition the leader should also add something like “it is okay to refuse..I will not be upset if you chose not to go. Then it would also be appropriate to ensure enough money is provided. You might even want to tell them to get themselves a soda or something from your funds.
Bottom Line upfront (BLUF): Unless the request is to support an official military function, then it is an abuse of power and position.
The key to this question is how to surface the issue with the leader. Before busting into the leaders office you might want to first sit down and think about the facts and the specifics of the situation or situations you are concerned about. The wording of the order or request. For example some leaders may believe they are asking you when their specific words are a directive. I have seen this happen. While this does not justify the leaders actions it is something you should consider. Once you have your facts, statements, date/times, witnesses to the events in order, you might want to simply go to JAG and discuss the issue with them and ask for their guidance in how to proceed if you have any concerns about approaching your chain of command. If you go to JAG you can simply state all you want is advice and that you are not looking to file a complaint. Then request to see the leader on open door policy and present your case in a calm, factual, unemotional, and professional manner. If the leader is less than professional about the issue you can take the complaint higher. If you fear repercussions after your complaint (if the leader blew up) you can take the matter back to JAG and explain what happened. Then seek additional assistance.
Typically, if a leader has made an honest mistake and you approach them professionally they will apologize and attempt to correct the behavior.
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TOP & ECK
ECK is one of our SME’s Please Note: “ECK is not an attorney. The opinions expressed are my own and are not to be in anyway interpreted or inferred as legal advice.”
