Monday, December 14, 2009

An open letter to Major Thomas W

As someone who provides target designation data to our manoeuvre forces, you would probably know - better than most people who visit this blog - how it feels when a position has been zeroed in and the big guns are waiting to fire for effect.

Events that have transpired are most unfortunate.

Now, more than ever, your command will require leadership to guide it through this episode.

The combat arm you serve - the oldest of all our combat arms - has a reputation for living up to the ideal: Care for Soldiers. Even after tragic accidents that had horrific consequences, many who served before your time have stood by their fellow soldiers in your combat arm, supporting families of the fallen quietly and away from the glare of media publicity. Those who know, will know.

It must have been hard to come to the decision that you have made, after years of hard work and time serving our country. I can sense you have done so in the best interest of your Formation.

I have to say that the courage to stand up and be accountable for your command's actions have not gone unnoticed, even as the episode itself is lamentable.

But who amongst us hasn't done lamentable deeds before?

Do not leave your command in the lurch, guide the battalion through this rough patch, close ranks and ensure all ranks are there for one another.

Your Formation and your battalion will pull through.

Stout hearts,

David Boey

11 comments:

goat89 said...

Whats this anout Mr Boey?

Bigfunk said...

Check out the 90 cents paper today. Wed Dec 16

Anonymous said...

So I take it that MAJ W reported this himself, but ended up covered in the same s**t?

How on earth is this going to promote a culture of honesty and integrity in the Forces???

goat89 said...

Bigfunk... I am in Vancouver. :D

David Boey said...

The CO did not report the irregularities in SOC scores, but he has nonetheless displayed a greater sense of responsibility than most people will appreciate.

Anonymous said...

Hi ChineseJunk, thanks for the clarification, the article in 90c did not go into much detail on the actual turn of events or the sentences meted out. I would think that this case has effectively ended the career of all three involved...

FIVE-TWO said...

unfortunately, the way it is reported in the press, one would assume the collusion comes from the very top.

Anonymous said...

Who hasn't seen cheating of scores in shooting, IPPT, and more during NS? Come on!

Anonymous said...

Nothing was mentioned in the papers on who squealed on him? Maybe, righteous whistle-blower would be a better term.

edwin said...

Command responsibility. Regardless of how the event transpired, the fact that it has occured makes the CO liable. This goes to the core of what it means to be in military command.

Anonymous said...

None of those responsible blew the whistles on themselves due to guilt. They were reported upon and found guilty after investigations. Maj Thomas is also no longer the CO. A new CO had taken over shortly after the incident came to light. Hope that clarifies.