BOSS Frequently Asked Questions
What does BOSS do?
Every Army installation is authorized a formal BOSS program, with a president and representatives from each Major Subordinate Command Group. These representatives are the voice for all single Soldiers on post. A senior military advisor works with the program to make sure that steps taken for any BOSS actions are within regulation. This advisor will be the post command sergeant major, garrison command sergeant major or the Family and MWR sergeant major. An advisor from Family and MWR is also assigned to the program to assist with financial planning, marketing and provide guidance wherever it may be needed.
What's the history of BOSS?
The BOSS program was established in 1989 to address the recreational needs of single Soldiers. As the program was implemented throughout the Army, it became evident that quality of life was also a primary concern to single Soldiers. In 1991, the Chief of Staff of the Army expanded BOSS to include all aspects of Soldiers' lives. BOSS members later began to express an interest in participating in community service projects.
Who may participate in BOSS events?
While the BOSS program is designed to support single Soldiers, unaccompanied Soldiers, and single parents, it open to all authorized MWR patrons.
What happens to the issues raised by BOSS?
Issues raised at company level are first handled at company level. If it cannot be resolved, it is brought to the BOSS installation meeting. The issue may or may not become an installation issue based on the results we get from presenting it to the senior military advisor. If the advisor sees merit in the issue, he or she will forward it to the garrison commander, who will determine if the issue should be elevated to the commanding general or the Major Army Command.
What's the Soldier's role in BOSS?
Without Soldiers, there is no BOSS program. Every company, battalion, regiment and brigade will have a primary and an alternate representative on orders for this additional duty. This Soldier should be highly motivated, with leadership potential and a willingness to work for his or her fellow single Soldiers. In addition, every company in each Major Subordinate Command Group, will have a primary and alternate company BOSS representative. These representatives act as communication lines for every single Soldier on post. They not only provide information to the Soldier, but they take information from the Soldier (questions, comments, and concerns) and present it to BOSS committee members and or the unit chain of command for action.
