The Finer Points of the First Shirt

The Finer Points of the First Shirt Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Academy Cadet Training and Education Program Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

Reference Text CAPM SSS-01 • Unofficial Publication • Cadet First Sergeants Guide • Compiled By Capt Shawn Stanford • Will be emailed to you following CTEP to be used as a personal guide. Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

The USAF 1st Sgt Creed • My Job is people—Every ONE is my Business. I dedicate my time and energy to their needs; their health, morale, discipline, and welfare. I grow in strength by strengthening my people. My job is done in faith; My people build my faith. The Air Force is my life; I share it with my people. I believe in the Air Force Goal— ‘We Take Care of Our Own’ Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

Opinions? • First Sergeant: Time for your opinions! Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

History of the “First Shirt” What the heck is a “First Shirt?” • German Military: “Father of the Corps” • Provided Stern Discipline • Wise and learned in the ways of the military Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

Relationships! • Cadet Programs Officers • Cadet Commander • NCO Corps • Cadet Corps • Some Nuts and Bolts Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

Your Relationshipwith Cadet Programs Officers Leadership Officer • Provides Guidance • Keep Him/Her informed as you would the C/CC. • Talk to them about difficulties/frustrations. Deputy CC for Cadets • Should want you around for discussions. (If not, ask to be) • Keep informed as you would C/CC • Should let you know about anything that affects you or those under your command Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

Your Relationship with the Cadet Commander • Single most Important Person you work with • Your one and only boss • You are his right hand • Excellent working relationship • You should know the Cadets best. • You are also responsible for recommending Flt Sgts. Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

First Sergeant: What A Commander IS looking for • The best NCO in the Squadron • A Strong Leader • A Leader By Example • A Competent Leader • A Trainer and Developer • A Good Communicator • A Dedicated Leader • A Loyal Supporter Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

First Sergeant: What A Commander is NOT looking for • Does NOT Listen • Does NOT Inform • Does NOT Support • Does NOT Lead by Example • Does NOT hold his people accountable • Someone who rides the position Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

Developing A Relationship with your Commander • Command Philosophy • Standards, goals and objectives • Expectations • Communication • Labor & Responsibilities Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

Your Relationship with the Cadet NCO Corps • Professional development • Teaching opportunities • Drilling experience • Professionalism • Spend Time with your NCOs • Informed • Loyalty and respect • Individual attention • Camaraderie • “Don’t let your NCOs get too big of a head!” Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

Your Relationship with the Cadet Corps • You are all things to them • Daily existence and intensity • Remember, the only hold you have on them is their desire to participate in the program • Fear crossing you, but not fear approaching you • Discourage “Buddy” relationships among NCOs • Encourage Teamwork • Know your peoples’ needs • Foster compromise between NCOs and your Cadets • Know your Cadets Personally! Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

Nuts and Bolts • Maintain Standard of Appearance and Discipline • Point out discrepancies immediately • Don’t let your cadets and NCOs “Slide” • Enforce Customs & Courtesies • Working knowledge of CAP paperwork • Physical Training • Ensure the Squadron Area is in good condition • Delegate Authority. Don’t micromanage. • DON’T WASTE TIME !!! Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

Your Duties as the First Sergeant What CAPM 20-1 Has to say • Supervisory, Managerial, and Administrative functions • Personnel Guidance For Cadets • Inspection and Correction of Deficiencies • Preparation of Rosters • Counseling Cadets concerning the CAP Cadet Program • Related Duties as required • (anything else the C/CC says) Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

Discipline Your responsibility Keep CPP (Cadet Protection Policy) in mind Make nuisance of yourself 1. Verbal correction is always the first thing (Be stern, not mean) 2. Extra Military Instruction 3. Administrative Action Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

Your Behavior • Be yourself, but be consistent • Your attitude and abilities should be above reproach • Don’t let your cadets forget you’re the top. Be subtle • Proceed at the rear of the formation • Maintain a strong but cordial relationship with them • Unless your help is needed, you should direct and not assist in work details • Remember, Cadets look up to you Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

Your Behavior • Maintain the best uniform and bearing in the squadron • Don’t fraternize with anyone who isn’t an NCO, especially not Junior Cadets • Insist on being called First Sergeant. You have earned it. • Be PROFESSIONAL! Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

And Finally… • Being the 1st Sgt. Is one of the most rewarding, and demanding positions that the CAP Cadet Program has to offer. The best advice I can offer you is… Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

Rise To The Challenge! Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

QUESTIONS? Joshua Vaughan, C/Maj, CTEP Instructor, SNCOA

The Finer Points of the First Shirt