Correction to: "the FA Master Gunner and reset of the redeployed FA battalion".

In my column in the January-February 2007 edition, I made an incorrect statement when recommending how to rate Master Gunners. In the article, I suggested the following rating scheme: the command sergeant major (CSM) rate the Master Gunner and the S3 senior rate the Master Gunner with the battalion commander reviewing the efficiency report. I since have learned that my proposed rating scheme conflicts with new Army Regulation (AR) 623-3 Military Evaluations System because the rater (battalion CSM) must be supervised by the senior rater (in this case, the S3, who is not the CSM's rater). This new requirement only was "recommended" under the old AR 623-205.

I asked the Human Resources Command (HRC) evaluation gurus to look at my rating proposal and give me feedback. Bottom line up front: they said that using the rating chain I suggested could lead to Inspector General (IG) complaints or NCO evaluation report (NCOER) appeals because the rating chain is not in accordance with AR 623-3. So, I must ask you to comply with the AR--not follow my proposed rating scheme.

That having been said, I believe the battalion CSM should rate the Master Gunner, when possible (mission dependent). I rate the Field Artillery Master Gunner and the Chief of Field Artillery is his senior rater. Of course, if the CSM rates the Master Gunner and the battalion commander senior rates him, then the NCOER will have to go outside the battalion for review. As part of empowering the Master Gunner, it might be worth it to institute that rating scheme, which complies with AR 623-3.

I stand behind the rest of my comments in the article, such as battalion commanders' selecting the right NCOs to be their Master Gunners--and not necessarily the most senior Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) 13B Cannon Crewmember or 13M Multiple-Launch Rocket System (MLRS) Crewmember sergeants first class (SFCs) in the battalions. I also am passionate about units "empowering" their Master Gunners.

As you know, due to the current fight, our Master Gunners are performing many other duties as Pentathletes in Afghanistan and Iraq--duties that are helping to make a difference in the War on Terrorism (WOT). However, staying current on their FA skill sets is challenging for them.

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Our Master Gunners, as FA experts, are extremely important to the FA, especially now. Their ability to help FA units certify and qualify their personnel after redeploying is critical.

I apologize for any confusion I may have caused with my recommended rating scheme and thank the G1 for calling my mistake to my attention.

CSM William E. High

CSM of the FA, Fort Sill, OK