PURPOSE OF COUNSELING
To inform SGT Gonzalez of the standards of conduct as related to relationships within the Army
KEY POINTS OF DISCUSSION
AR 600-20, Army Command Policy, Paragraph 4-14. Relationships between Soldiers of different grade (punishable under Article 92, violation of a lawful general regulation)
Fraternization is an unduly familiar personal relationship between an officer and an enlisted member that does not respect the difference in rank or grade. In addition, improper relationships between lower and senior enlisted members that are prejudicial to good order and discipline also constitute fraternization.
The Army has historically relied upon custom and tradition to define the bounds of acceptable personal relationships among its members and unduly familiar relationships between officers and enlisted members have traditionally been contrary to Army custom because they undermine the respect for authority which is essential for discipline and readiness.
As part of your duties, you have a close association with MSG Walker and the Headquarters staff. It has come to my attention that, over the course of the last several months, you have joined MSG Walker and Lt Taylor on several ski trips and also invited and hosted them at a party in your home on post. Although your intention may have been honorable, maintaining personal relationships with senior NCOs and officers, especially those in your chain of command, is detrimental to good order and discipline and forbidden by Army policy.
Improper relationships are dangerous to unit morale and subsequently readiness because they frequently cause suspicion of favorable treatment. Due to their injurious nature, one of the most common remedies is the transfer of one or both parties to another unit. This has a negative effect on both you and our unit as it leaves us short-manned.
PLAN OF ACTION
Cease close association with senior NCOs and officers in your chain of command immediately. Your only contact with MSG Walker and Lt Taylor should be in connection with the performance of your duties.
Any further association with the staff of a personal or social nature will jeopardize your advancement and make you liable for Article 15 action and/or punishment under Article 92 or Article 134.
LEADER RESPONSIBILITIES
Inform the Commander of Lt Taylor's conduct, as in an enlisted-officer relationship, the senior party is also responsible for maintaining a proper relationship.
Monitor SGT Gonzalez's conduct and counsel on the nature of his duties and requirements for advancement.
Keep Soldier updated on any actions resulting from this counseling.
ASSESSMENT
Soldier understands the implications of improper relationships and the effect they can have on morale and his career.
Command staff is evaluating the situation to determine course of action (if any).
Failure to follow these orders is a violation of article 92 (Failure to obey order or regulation) of the UCMJ and may result in initiation of action separating you from the U.S. Army under the provisions of Chapter (5) (8) (11) (13) (14), AR 635-200. Such action may result in either an Honorable Discharge, General Discharge, or an Other Than Honorable (OTH) Discharge. If you receive a General or an OTH Discharge, this could result in the possible loss of some or all Veterans Benefits and substantial prejudice in obtaining civilian employment. In addition, if you have contributed money to the Montgomery G.I. Bill and you are released from active duty with a less than Honorable Discharge, you will not be eligible to receive money for educational purposes and any money already contributed for educational purposes is nonrefundable and may be forfeited.
