What is BOSS?

BOSS is the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers program. The BOSS program is made up of three core components. Well-being (Quality of Life), Recreation and Leisure and Community Service. BOSS gives single Soldiers the opportunity and resources to raise concerns and recommend changes that will improve their quality of life. BOSS also provides Soldiers the opportunity to participate in recreation and leisure activities that they have selected through their participation and input at monthly installation BOSS meetings. BOSS also creates opportunities for Soldiers to get involved and make a difference in their on and off-post community. The program is an effective way to bring important issues to the attention of the Chain of Command, however, it is not a substitute for the Chain of Command.

History of BOSS

The BOSS program was established in 1989 to respond to the recreational needs of single Soldiers (single Soldiers make up 35% of the Army). 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 officially expanded BOSS to include all aspects of Soldier's lives. BOSS members later began to express an interest in participating in community service projects.

What does BOSS do?

Every Army Installation is authorized a formal BOSS program, consisting of a President and representatives from each Major Subordinate Command Group (MSC). 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 either be the Post Command Sergeant Major, Garrison Command Sergeant Major, or the MWR Sergeant Major. An Advisor from MWR is also assigned to the program to assist with financial planning, marketing and provide guidance wherever it may be needed.

Who may participate in BOSS events?

BOSS events are open to all single Soldiers, to include single parents and unaccompanied Soldiers. BOSS Community Service projects are open to everyone, regardless of their marital status.

What happens to the issues raised by BOSS?

Issues that are raised at the Company level are handled at a Company level first. If after the issue has been presented to the Chain of Command without resolution, 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 Military Advisor sees merit in the issue he/she will forward it to the Garrison Commander for review. Once reviewed by the Garrison Commander, he/she will determine whether the issue is serious enough to go up to the Commanding General or possibly even as far forward as the Major Army Command (MACOM).

What is 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/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 each and 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.

What are the three BOSS Components?

Quality of Life/Well-Being
This component is comprised of issues that can directly or indirectly influence the morale, living environment and or personal growth and development of single Soldiers. Some examples include problems in the dining facilities, single Soldier living quarters, parking, PX/Commissary issues and utility issues (such as telephone and cable service).

Recreation and Leisure
Ideas for these events are suggested, planned and supported by BOSS Soldiers. Some activities may be in conjunction with previously planned MWR activities. All activities and events are coordinated through the MWR Advisor and BOSS President. All activities must receive BOSS military and civilian chain of command approval. Money raised through various BOSS fundraising activities often pay for a portion of the Soldier's expenses associated with the activity of event.

Community Service
These activities are planned in conjunction with outside on or off-post agencies. Many existing programs contact us to provide support for their projects through volunteer work. These projects are worthwhile for all who are involved. Many Soldiers have acknowledged a difference in their own lives, as well as, in the lives of others through their participation. BOSS volunteers visit with Veterans, participate in the Muscular Dystrophy Summer Camp, assist with many Youth Services sponsored activities here on Post and much more. Every community service project provides BOSS the opportunity to spread awareness about their program and exhibit the outstanding character of the Soldiers that make up the BOSS program.