Short Answer is: Yes you can.
“War Story”
There is nothing that technically prevents you from being a 1SG with a “WALK” profile. I experienced this issue on active duty with an individual who had a “Walk” profile and wanted to be a 1SG. The issue I had with placing him in the position was that he could not meet the requirements of the physical standards inherent with the duties of a 1SG. He could not make or lead unit runs. He could not meet the overall physical requirements required of a 1SG under adverse field conditions. Therefore I could not recommend the Leader for the position. The individual was a great Soldier and Leader he just was not able to lead by example because of the profile.
Options:
There were a couple of options:
1. Have a doctor remove his “Walk” Profile or at least provide a “Run at your own pace and distance” profile.
2. Attempt to find a 1SG job that did not require such physical participation. For example 1SG of a student company, Senior HQ, or other type of organization that did not have a strong field or physical fitness requirement.
I chose to help the Soldier find the a position in which they could serve as a 1SG without the strenuous physical requirements because I did not want the Soldier to take the chance of injuring themselves. The Soldier ended up doing very well.
Other Side of the Argument:
Now let’s look at the other side of the argument. PT is not everything I fully get that. There are people that are PT studs and should never be placed in a leadership position. However many MOSs demand the Leader be extremely physically fit to ensure they have the stamina to accomplish the mission and more importantly motivate their Soldiers by example. I believe Leaders have to be able to do anything they are asking their Soldiers to do.
“Wounded Warrior”
However, in this “POST COMBAT” timeframe. I am sure there will be numerous Leaders who have made a “SCARIFICE” on the field of battle that cannot meet all the physical fitness requirements. If this is the case then I as a senior leader would be willing to evaluate the specifics of the situation and make an exception based on the specifics of the case. I would have a hard time keeping a “Wounded Warrior” from leading especially since they have the ability to motivate their Soldiers by showing how they have overcome the odds.
Bottom-line
The Bottom-line is that this decision will be up to the senior leaders of the organization doing the hiring. I will bounce this off my legal SME and see if he has any experience with this type of issue.
Hope this Helps!
Did you find this information useful? I would appreciate your feedback! Best of Luck!
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