M06,
First, I would like to clarify that, in my opinion, 35P (Cryptologic Comunications Interceptor (Linguist)...just being anal JD!) skills SHOULD be considered different that the necessary tactical & technical skills needed by a SOT-A. I would even go one step further: SOT-As should have their own MOS since our job is unique to the CMF 35 and has completely different requirements. Which other 35Ps are required to be able to infil/exfil with an ODA? Operate independently? If our guidance is to infil with the ODAs, why do we not have MFF or CDQC qual'd guys? Operate independently, to me, means a SOT-A should include a JM, everyone be physically fit, attend SERE, all be EMT qual'd, have a SOTACC, a Pathinder, etc.
How does MI branch KEEP a motivated 35P who can shoot, move, and communicate with the SF guys if he could go to Selection and then the Q? The bonus for a 35P4S (RU) was pretty sweet compared to even a 18E4.
Crip,
The majority of my 35P training has not prepared me to be a SOT-A (admittedly my path to 20th is different than most). The biggest issues that I've noted in my short time as a Support Soldier is getting the right soldier on the Team and integration into the ODAs. How do you take a four guys who you've NEVER worked with, shot with, etc. and leave the wire with them? How can I, as a TL, shorten that time period where your team trusts my guys?
I suggested SUT since, as I understand it, that is the basis for team tactics (followed by Team SOP). I believe that we MUST be as tactically (and medically for that matter) competent as the guys we're traveling with. I suggested the Echo course because we have similar requirements: networking, making commo, and carrying heavy rucks. My thinking behind Ranger school is patrolling, leadership, & the suck fest: if a guy makes it, he has the confidence that he can handle the tough stuff (I myself need to lead from the front) and suffer in silence.
I would agree that Sage is probably not the best place to introduce something new into mix when the teams are focused on UW. I am adamant that we get more time with the line companies but, like everyone in the Guard, how can we use our time wisely once a month: MOS or collective training? I am advocating our MID "devote" one SOT-A to each Company...of course travel is an issue.
I value your experience and your opinion. I'm not advocating SOT-A's change their headgear but rather improve our image (tactical proficiency) and not be considered a liability when the primary plan encounters friction.
"Too light to fight, to heavy to run"