AR 600-8-19 ENLISTED PROMOTIONS AND DEMOTIONS
MilReg AR 600-8-19 Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of Army Regulation (AR) 600-8-19 Enlisted Promotions and Demotions?
The purpose of AR 600-8-19 is to establish policies and procedures for enlisted promotions and demotions within the United States Army.

Who does AR 600-8-19 apply to?
AR 600-8-19 applies to all enlisted soldiers of the Regular Army, Army National Guard, and United States Army Reserve.

What is the objective of the enlisted promotion system?
The objective of the enlisted promotion system is to ensure that soldiers are selected for promotion based on their demonstrated ability, potential, and performance.

How are ranking lists for promotion determined?
Ranking lists for promotion are determined through a systematic process that takes into account a soldier's eligibility, time in service, time in grade, and performance criteria.

Can a soldier be promoted without completing required professional military education (PME)?
No, completion of required PME is a prerequisite for promotion to certain enlisted grades as outlined in AR 600-8-19.

Are there any exceptions to the maximum time in the grade requirement for promotions?
Yes, there are exceptions to the maximum time in grade requirement for certain circumstances such as serving in a combat zone, recovering from combat-related injuries, or under other exceptional conditions specified in the regulation.

Can a soldier be promoted if they have pending disciplinary actions?
No, a soldier cannot be promoted if there are pending disciplinary actions that may result in a reduction in grade or separation from the Army.

Can a soldier be demoted without a formal reevaluation board?
Yes, in certain circumstances, such as misconduct or substandard performance, a soldier can be administratively demoted without a formal reevaluation board.

How often are soldier promotion boards convened?
Soldier promotion boards are convened as required by the needs of the Army and are typically held quarterly.

What are example questions that are asked at a board?

  1. What are the three primary categories of leadership attributes, and how do they contribute to effective leadership at your current rank?
  2. Explain the significance of the NCO Creed and how it guides your actions as a non-commissioned officer.
  3. How do you ensure the physical fitness standards set by the Army are met and maintained within your unit?
  4. Describe a challenging leadership situation you have faced and how you resolved it, emphasizing the principles of leadership.
  5. Discuss the importance of Army values and how they shape the behavior and decision-making of a leader.
  6. Explain the purpose and importance of the Noncommissioned Officer Evaluation Report (NCOER) in the promotion process.
  7. How do you stay updated on current military policies, regulations, and changes to ensure you are a well-informed leader?
  8. Describe the role of an NCO in fostering a positive command climate and maintaining high morale within the unit.
  9. What steps do you take to mentor and develop subordinates to prepare them for increased responsibilities and leadership roles?
  10. Discuss the significance of the Soldier's Creed and how it aligns with your responsibilities as an NCO.
  11. Explain the principles of the Army's Equal Opportunity program and how you contribute to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.
  12. How do you balance the needs of the mission with the welfare and well-being of your subordinates?
  13. Describe your understanding of the Army's SHARP program and the role leaders play in preventing and addressing sexual harassment and assault.
  14. Discuss the importance of professional military education and how it contributes to the development of leaders within the Army.
  15. Explain the concept of mission command and how you apply it in your leadership approach.
  16. How do you handle conflict within your team, and what steps do you take to resolve disagreements among subordinates?
  17. Discuss the principles of risk management and how they apply to decision-making in a leadership role.
  18. Describe the characteristics of an effective team and how you build and maintain a cohesive unit.
  19. Explain the Army's policy on substance abuse, and discuss your role as a leader in enforcing and promoting a drug-free environment.
  20. How do you ensure that your soldiers are well-trained and proficient in their respective military occupational specialties (MOS)?

MilReg Top Army Regulations