professional officer development course for non …

VIRGINIA DEFENSE FORCE

PROFESSIONAL OFFICER DEVELOPMENT COURSE

FOR NON-PRIOR SERVICE PROFESSIONAL OFFICERS

Adapted from the VDF OCS Candidate Guide, VDF IET Training, and AR 600-25

January 2020

THIS BELONGS TO OFFICER:

BRANCH:

Professional Officer Development Course * January 2020 1

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 1 – General Information 3

Chapter 2 – VDF Policies 4-7

Chapter 3 – Chain of Command and Rank Structure 8-10

Chapter 4 – Marching and Formation Information 11

Chapter 5 – VDF Mission 12-13

Chapter 6 – VDF Standards 14-19

Chapter 7 – Required Knowledge 20-21

Appendices 22-29 Appendix A – Government Data Collection and Dissemination Practices Act Statement 22

Appendix B – Chain of Command 23

Appendix C – Training Record 24

Appendix D – Recommended Reading 25

Appendix E – References 26

Appendix F – United States Flag Folding Ceremony 27-28


Chapter 1 – General

Gender Statement. All references to the male/female gender throughout this document apply to

both sexes unless otherwise indicated.

Purpose. This Course describes the policies for administration, training, conduct and discipline

for all VDF non-prior service Professional Officers.

Mission. The mission of the VDF Professional Officer Development Course (PODC) is to

provide basic military training for non-prior military Professional Officers who will be serving in

the Virginia Defense Force.

Program of Instruction (POI). The PODC is to be completed by all non-prior military service

Professional Officers (Chaplain Corps, Medical Corps, JAG) that will be serving in the Virginia

Defense Force. This course is to be completed by the Professional Officer in conjunction with the

required courses of each assigned branch as well as required professional training.

Selection. Individuals that apply as Professional Officers must be dedicated. Profession Officers

are direct commissioned into their respective branches on the basis of both professional training

and experience. These officers will serve under the command of the Commanding Officer in

special professional areas.

Process. Non-prior military Professional Officers will complete this course IAW the standards

set forth in this VDF Regulation.

Program Changes. Requirements for this program are subject to change. Any and all

exceptions to this course policy must be approved by the VDF Commanding General (CG).


Chapter 2 – Policies

General. a. The policies established for Professional Officers require that the officer have the

ability to follow instructions, pay attention to detail and demonstrate leadership.

The policies prescribed require strict compliance. Failure to comply may result in

disciplinary action or discharge from the VDF.

Fraternization.

a. Fraternization is described as relationships between Officers and cadre which cause

the actual or perceived appearance of preferential treatment or partiality which are

prejudicial to good order, discipline, and unit morale. Officers and cadre are not

authorized to form such relationships.

b. Fraternization includes, but is not limited to, sexual relationship with the cadre,

public display of affection, to include close dancing, handholding, touching, kissing

or other similar contact.

c. Fraternization between Officers is also unacceptable. It has the potential to

undermine unit esprit and cause unnecessary tension within the unit. Officers will

refrain from all actions that are, or could be perceived as, fraternization.

Officer Preparation.

a. Drill and Ceremonies. Officers must study and become familiar with FM 3-21.5 (Drill

and Ceremonies). A sound, thorough knowledge of Drill and Ceremonies will be of

great value to the Officer. * Specific attention should be paid to chapters 2 through 7 *

b. Clothing and Equipment. An Officer’s appearance makes a statement about the

individual's personal organization, pride and attention to detail. In observance of that

fact, Officers will maintain the highest possible standard of appearance through proper

wear and care of the appropriate uniform. In addition to this, all Officers will be

uniformly dressed for whatever task or situation that they are in. It is the Officer’s

responsibility to make sure that he/she has possession of all authorized and required

items. Diligence and persistence are always necessary.

c. Officers should have a minimum of 2 sets of class C uniforms (BDU woodland pattern).

Each Officer must acquire and maintain the high standards of personal appearance of

the Officer Corps. It is expected that the Officer will set his/her uniform standard for

the remaining years of service in the VDF. Those Officers who have uniforms that

show considerable wear or that are ill-fitting will correct those deficiencies as soon as

possible.

d. Officers will wear their uniforms as prescribed in AR 670-1 and the directives of the

Chief of Staff.

Appearance (Detailed further in Chapter 6)

a. An Officer’s appearance makes a statement about the individual’s professionalism,

pride and attention to detail. Officers will maintain the highest standards of appearance

and always set a positive example. Wear and appearance of VDF uniforms will be in

strict accordance with AR 670-1, except where specific changes are outlined in this

Course.

b. The Officer will keep all uniforms clean and neat in appearance, including keeping

his/her boots clean at all times. The Officer will wear identification tags at all times

and will always carry his/her military identification card when wearing the uniform.

c. Hair.


1) Male Officers must wear their hair IAW AR 670-1. Extreme, fad style haircuts or

hairstyles are not authorized. Hairstyles that prevent the uniform headgear from

being worn properly are not authorized.

2) Female Officers must wear a hairstyle that conforms to AR 670-1 even during

physical training. Hairstyles will not interfere with the proper wearing of military

headgear or protective masks. Hair holding ornaments (such as but not limited to,

barrettes, pins, clips, bands) if used, must be unadorned and plain and must be

transparent or similar in color to the hair, and will be inconspicuously placed.

Officers are not authorized to wear cosmetics.

Titles. Officers in the Chaplain Corp will be identified by the title of “Chaplain (Last Name)”

regardless of rank. Officers in all other areas are to be addressed by “rank (last Name)”.

Saluting, Forms and means of Address, and Courtesies. a. Military Customs. A custom is an established practice that includes positive actions (things

you do) and taboos (things you avoid.)

b. Purpose. Many customs complement procedures required by military courtesy. Violations

of some customs will bring official censure or disciplinary action. Customs are common

law.

1) Never criticize the VDF or a leader in public.

2) Never go “over the heads” of superiors—don't jump the chain of command.

3) Never offer excuses.

4) Never “wear” a superior's rank by saying something like, “the first sergeant wants

this done now,” when in fact the first sergeant said no such thing. Speak with your

own voice.

5) Never turn and walk away to avoid giving the hand salute.

6) Never run indoors or pretend you don't hear (while driving, for example) to avoid

standing “Reveille” or “Retreat.”

7) Never appear in uniform while under the influence of alcohol.

8) If you don't know the answer to a superior’s question, you will never go wrong with

the response, “I don't know sir, but I'll find out.”

c. Military Courtesies. Military courtesy means good manners and politeness in dealing

with other people. Courteous behavior develops good human relations.

d. Purpose. Military courtesy is respect shown by members of the same profession.

Military courtesy is not a one-way street.

1) Enlisted personnel are expected to be courteous to officers and likewise officers are

expected to return the courtesy.

2) Mutual respect is a vital part of military courtesy.

3) The hand salute is a privileged gesture of respect and trust among soldiers. The

salute is not only prescribed by regulation but is also recognition of each other’s

commitment, abilities, and professionalism.

4) The junior extending the greeting first is a point of etiquette. A salute extended or

returned makes the same statement.

5) The hand salute may have begun in Roman times when assassinations were

common. A citizen approached a public official with his right hand raised to show

that he did not hold a weapon.

6) Knights in armor raised visors with the right hand when meeting a comrade.

7) In early American history, the salute sometimes involved removing the hat.

8) By 1820, the motion was modified to touching the hat, and since then it has become

the Hand Salute used today.


9) All soldiers in uniform are required to salute when they meet and recognize persons

entitled (by grade) to a salute except when it is inappropriate or impractical (in

public conveyances such as planes and buses, in public places such as inside

theaters, or when driving a vehicle).

10) Salutes will be exchanged between officers (commissioned and warrant) and

enlisted personnel, and with personnel of the Armed Forces of the United States

(Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard), the commissioned corps of

the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the

commissioned corps of the Public Health Service entitled to the salute.

e. When salutes are required:

1) U.S. National Anthem, "To the Color," "Hail to the Chief," or foreign national

anthems

2) To uncased National Color outdoors

3) On ceremonial occasions

4) At reveille and retreat ceremonies

5) During the sounding of honors

6) When pledging allegiance outdoors

7) When turning over control of formations.

8) When rendering reports

9) To officers of friendly foreign countries

f. Salutes are not required when:

1) Indoors, unless reporting to an officer or when on duty as a guard.

2) A prisoner

3) Saluting is obviously inappropriate. In any case not covered by specific

instructions, render the salute

4) Either the senior or the subordinate is wearing civilian clothes

g. Other Courtesies

1) When talking to an officer of superior rank, stand at attention until ordered

otherwise.

2) When you are dismissed, or when the officer departs, come to attention and salute.

3) When speaking to or being addressed a noncommissioned officer of superior rank,

stand at parade rest until ordered otherwise.

4) When an officer of superior rank enters a room, the first soldier to recognize the

officer calls personnel in the room to attention

5) When an NCO of superior rank enters the room, the first soldier to recognize the

NCO calls the room to “At ease”

6) Walk on the left of an officer or NCO of superior rank

7) The junior ranking soldier is the first to enter a vehicle and the senior in rank is first

to exit

8) When outdoors, greet the NCO by rank, e.g., “Good morning, Sergeant”

9) First person seeing an officer enter a dining facility gives the order “At ease,” unless

a more senior officer is already present

10) When command “At ease” is given in a dining facility, remain seated, silent and

continue eating unless directed otherwise.

h. Reporting. When you report to an officer of superior rank, approach the officer to whom

you are reporting and stop about two steps from him, assuming the position of attention.

Give the proper salute and say, for example, “Sir, Private Smith reports.”

i. Rendering Honor to the Flag

1) Reveille: When the flag is raised in the morning, stand at attention on the first note

of "Reveille" and salute.


2) Retreat: In the evening "Retreat" is played before "To the Colors." At the first note

of "Retreat," come to attention and face the flag (or the direction of the music.).

Salute at the first note of "To the Colors."

3) When you are passing or being passed by colors that are being presented, paraded,

or displayed, salute when the colors are six paces from you. Hold the salute until

the colors are six paces beyond you.


Chapter 3 - Chain of Command and Rank Structure Chain of Command: Rank Structure, Insignia, and how to address:

Chain of Command: Is a TWO-WAY communications channel between subordinates and leaders.

It is very important that the chain of command be respected and followed.

Orders Policy:

Information and Inquiry travel down while Information Questions travel up

This keeps everyone involved informed. It also renders assistance & solves problems

The UP & DOWN flow of information: Keeps all Informed, Provide Assistance, Solve Problems

UP or DOWN: CHAIN NOT JUMPED

The VDF Chain of Command 1. Commonwealth of Virginia Commander in Chief

2. Secretary of Public Safety

3. The Adjutant General (TAG)

4. Brig. Gen. (Va.) VDF Commander (CG)

VDF Rank and Proper Address Enlisted Soldiers

PRIVATE (PV2) (ADDRESSED AS "PRIVATE")

PRIVATE FIRST CLASS (PFC) (ADDRESSED AS "PRIVATE")

SPECIALIST (SPC) (ADDRESSED AS "SPECIALIST")

CORPORAL (CPL) (ADDRESSED AS "CORPORAL")

SERGEANT (SGT) (ADDRESSED AS "SERGEANT")

STAFF SERGEANT (SSG) (ADDRESSED AS "SERGEANT")

SERGEANT FIRST CLASS (SFC) (Addressed as "Sergeant")

MASTER SERGEANT (MSG) (Addressed as "Sergeant")

FIRST SERGEANT (1SG) (Addressed as "First Sergeant")

SERGEANT MAJOR (SGM) (Addressed as "Sergeant Major")

COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR (CSM)(Addressed as " Command Sergeant Major")


Warrant Officers

Warrant Officers are formally addressed as either Mr. or Ms. They can also be addressed as

Sir, Ma’am, or Chief.

WARRANT OFFICER 1 (WO1)(Addressed as Mister or Miss)

CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER 2 (CW2)(Addresses as Chief)

CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER 3 (CW3)(Addressed as Chief)



Officer Candidate School

OCS (Addressed as Officer Candidate)

Commissioned Officers

SECOND LIEUTENANT (2LT) (Addressed as "Lieutenant") O-1

FIRST LIEUTENANT (1LT) (Addressed as "Lieutenant") O-2

CAPTAIN (CPT) (Addressed as "Captain") O-3

MAJOR (MAJ) (Addressed as "Major") O-4

LIEUTENANT COLONEL (LTC) (Addressed as "Lieutenant Colonel " or "Colonel") O-5

COLONEL (COL) (Addressed as "Colonel") O-6

BRIGADIER GENERAL (BG) (Addressed as "General") O-7

MAJOR GENERAL (MG) (Addressed as General) O-8

LIEUTENANT GENERAL (LTG) (Addressed as General) O-9


General (GEN) (Addressed as General) O-10

General of the Army (GOA)


Chapter 4 - Marching and Formation Information

The following videos will be reviewed:

Fort Jackson PAO Drill and Ceremony Videos: http://vimeo.com/channels/524805 Date Completed /Video

______Position of Attention: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/65837228

______Rest Position at the Halt: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/65837530

______Hand Salute: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/65837915

______Facing to the Left Flank: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/65838472

______Facing to the Right Flank: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66424088

______15 Inch Step Left: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66729667

______15 Inch Step Right: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66729936

______15 Inch Step Backward: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66730709

______Marching in Place: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66730978

______30 Inch Step from the Halt and the Halt: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66731531

______Changing Step While Marching: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66737737

______Marching to the Rear: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66739077

______Left Flank: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66739477

______Right Flank: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66740569

______Column Left (squad): https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66744009

______Column Right (squad): https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66751510

______Column Left (platoon): https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66752236

______Column Right (platoon): https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66752616

______Counter Column: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66753172

______Form. Align, and Dismiss: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66753873

______Align a Platoon, Column Formation: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66755016

______Align a Platoon, Line formation: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66755845

______Opening and Closing Rank: https://vimeo.com/channels/524805/66756684


Chapter 5 - The VDF Mission Mission of the VDF a. The Adjutant General (TAG) has further defined the mission, assigning the VDF specific

National Guard Civil Support (NGCS) tasks:

Incident Management Assistance Resource

HF Radio Resource

Mobile Communications Platform Resource

JOC Augmentation Resource

VEOC Augmentation Resource

State Agencies Radio System Resource

Virginia Finance Augmentation Resource

Chaplain Support Resource

Access Control Resource

b. Code of Virginia Title 44 defines the status of VDF troops as being on either (Training Duty) or

(State Active Duty)

1. "Training duty," which is the normal service and training performed by the VDF in order to be

prepared for state active duty, and which includes but is not limited to organization, administration,

recruiting, maintenance of equipment and training.

2. "State active duty," which is the performance of actual military service for the Commonwealth

when called by the Governor or his designee to active duty in service of the Commonwealth in

accordance with Article 7 (§ 44-75.1 et seq.) of this chapter. This is referred to as SAD.

a) How does State Active Duty occur?

i. The call to State Active Duty (SAD) is authorized by the Governor.

ii. VDF personnel cannot perform the emergency duties called for in

the VDF mission without State Active Duty orders subsequent to an

executive order or proclamation by the Governor.

iii. The Virginia Emergency Operations Center (VEOC) will task the

Virginia National Guard (VNG) through the Joint Operations Center

(JOC) to take the mission.

iv. VNG staff in the JOC will determine which components (Army, Air,

or VDF) will be tasked the mission.

v. That unit will then be given a warning order and activated for the

mission.


vi. Orders for those VDF personnel who are placed on SAD will be cut

and distributed to them by the VDF G-1 or his/her designee.


Chapter 6 - VDF Standards VDF Soldier Standards

1. VDF is a uniformed military force under the command of the Adjutant General.

2. VDF members serve in two duty statuses: TRAINING and STATE ACTIVE DUTY. VDF

troops are called to State Active Duty when authorized by the Governor and tasked by the JOC,

JFHQ, Virginia Department of Military Affairs.

3. Minimum satisfactory participation is 10 training assemblies per year.

4. The VDF is authorized firearms only at the direction of the Governor.

5. Members on duty are under military discipline and will obey lawful orders.

6. Customs and courtesies will be rendered with respect for individuals and the VDF.

7. Personal integrity is an absolute requirement. We do not tolerate lying, quibbling, cheating, or

stealing.

8. The senior line officer, warrant officer, noncommissioned officer, or enlisted person assigned to

a unit is in charge of that unit.

9. Every member is responsible for achieving the highest degree of training in his or her duties

possible.

10. Every VDF member is a potential trainer in an emergency.

11. Rank indicates responsibility for decision making. Commissioned, Warrant, and

Noncommissioned officers have key roles.

12. The chain of command will be followed.

13. Members in the field wear the Class C Uniform, clean, neat, shaved, and with good personal

hygiene.

14. Members in the field carry their equipment with them at all times.

15. Superior performance is recognized by awards and is a promotion requirement.

16. All leaders are responsible for troop safety.

17. Every member on duty represents the VDF, the Adjutant General, the Governor, and the

Commonwealth and will govern his or her dress and behavior accordingly.

Appearance and Uniform Wear:

References

Army Regulation 670–1

VDF Regulation 670-1

Training Objectives

Grooming standards for men and women

Standards for accoutrements

Approved VDF uniforms

Placement of all insignia and patches

Grooming Standards

Project a military image

Uniforms will be fitted, clean and pressed

Articles do not protrude from pockets

No items attached to belt or belt loops

Uniforms kept buttoned as designed


Boots will be cleaned

Men’s hair:

Neatly trimmed on top of the head.

Not over ears, eyebrows or touch collar

Not interfere with headgear or PSE masks.

No braids, cornrows, or dreadlocks.

Men’s sideburns:

Neatly trimmed and not flared

Base is clean-shaven, horizontal line

Not below exterior ear opening

The face will be clean-shaven

Men’s mustache:

Trimmed, tapered and tidy

Not cover the upper lip or beyond corner of the mouth

No goatees or beards, unless approved by medical authority

If medical, not exceed ¼ inch

Women’s Hair:

Neatly groomed.

Not fall over eyebrows or below collar.

Not interfere with headgear or protective masks.

No hairnet unless health or safety reasons.

Wigs or hairpieces must be natural color and conform to appearance standards.

Holding devices (barrettes, pins, etc.) must be unadorned and same as hair color

No beads, bows, or ornamental items

Cosmetics:

Females wear simple cosmetics (as determined by commander)

Color of lipstick and nail polish conservative and natural color

No multi-colors or designs on nails

No lipstick or nail polish for males


Fingernails, Hygiene, Body Piercings, and Tattoos:

Fingernails clean and trimmed

Male keep nails trimmed so not beyond the fingertip.

Females not exceed a nail length of 1⁄4 inch from the tip of the finger

Good hygiene & grooming on daily basis

No attaching objects or jewelry to or through skin

Female soldiers may wear pierced earrings.

No tattoos on areas of the body exposed while in class A uniform; no grossly

offensive tattoos on any part of the body.

Wearing of Jewelry:

No jewelry, watch chains, pens, etc., will appear exposed on uniforms.

Wrist watch or a wrist ID bracelet (e.g., MIA/POW) is allowed, one item per wrist

No more than two conservative rings

Allowed: tie tack or tie clasp and a pen on food service, CVC, and flight uniform.

Females allowed earrings with service, dress and mess uniform

Not to exceed ¼ inch spherical; gold, silver, white pearl, or diamond

Fit snugly against the ear

Matched pair, one per ear lobe

Males not authorized to wear any type of earring when in uniform or when on duty.

Fad devices, vogue medallions, personal talismans, or amulets are not authorized for

wear when in uniform or on duty.

Wearing of Eyeglasses:

Conservative eye-glasses are authorized

Sunglasses are authorized for wear except when in formation and while indoors.

Not be worn with protective masks

Clear or natural color contact lenses are authorized, both must be same color

In accordance with VDF regulation 670-1, the VDF soldiers are authorized to wear three basic

uniforms:

Class A: classic Army Blue Uniform

Class B: Class A, without the coat


Class C: BDU (Battle Dress Uniform)

Class A Uniform, Two options:

Blue Army Service Uniform (ASU)

Buttons must have seal of the of the Commonwealth of Virginia

Approved by wear by Commander

Class B Uniform, Two Options:

Class “A” uniform without coat, with or without black four-in-hand tie or neck-tab

Blue Army Service Uniform (ASU)

Authorization for year-round wear when authorized by Commander

Class C Uniform Option 1:

Woodland BDU as defined in AR 670-1

Desert Tan Boots VDFR 670-1 compliant.

All insignia non-subdued (bright) with exception of DIV patch and nametapes.

Insignia either all pin-on or all sew-on

VA DEF FORCE branch tape to be replaced with VIRGINIA

Class C Uniform, Option 2:

Woodland BDU as defined in AR 670-1

Desert Tan Boots VDFR 670-1 compliant.

All insignia subdued including rank and branch, except state flag (non-subdued).

Insignia either all pin-on or all sew-on,

VA DEF FORCE branch tape to be replaced with VIRGINIA

Class C Uniform, Option 3 after 30SEP2016:

Woodland ACU

Patrol cap (Woodland pattern) with non-subdued rank insignia for officers and

subdued rank insignia for enlisted personnel.

All insignia subdued including rank and branch, except state flag (non-subdued)

Sleeve insignia affixed using Velcro

Name tapes and rank insignia on OD green background may be sewn on or

affixed using Velcro


Army Brown crew neck T-shirt

Socks are green, brown or black

Tan or desert riggers belt

Boots are minimum 8” in height

Boots are Desert tan colored rough-side out cattle hide with a plain toe and tan

rubber outsoles

No zippers

Honor: It is the duty of every VDF officer to be a soldier of Honor. Professional / Special

Staff Officers should review and practice the VDF OCS Honor Code listed below:

a. Honor.

1) Honor may be defined as that quality in a person that shows them to be truthful and fair in

word and deed, both to themselves and to others. It also implies loyalty, courage and devotion to

duty.

2) A commissioned officer must possess honor as an integral portion of his character in order

to meet the demands placed upon him as a leader. In the profession of arms, the welfare and

indeed the very lives of so many, hinge on the honor and integrity of the few who lead. You will

be among those few. In peacetime, it is imperative that you maintain your high standards of honor

so that in combat, the trust placed in you will not be misplaced.

3) The honor code takes a simplistic approach to govern the behavior of Officers in a complex

environment. The honor code simply holds the Officer to conduct what our society deems

acceptable and honorable; the conduct primarily learned at home, school and church. The honor

code to be effective must be monitored and sanctioned by the Officer.

i. Webster’s Definition of Honor. “...a sense of what is right, just and true, scorning

meanness.” Honor, like courage, is a word, which has resisted thorough definition, though such has

been attempted by the philosophers of the ancient world and perhaps by aspiring officers caught in

situations of compromise. Honor encompasses all of the acts, thoughts and aspirations of an

individual. Its presence or absence in the personal make-up of an individual determines how he

lives, what he derives from life and how he is thought of by others.

4) A leader must have the respect of those persons given into his charge. This respect is based

upon his conduct, his personal courage and his sense of honor. Honor is, therefore, a necessary

and essential part of every officer. He is bound by his word, his devotion to Duty, Honor, Country

and the oath of his commission. In times of war and peace, his word will invariably be given in

times of extreme tension, stress and danger. His subordinates depend on this word for their

physical survival and his superior depends on it in shaping the plans of battle. Honor among

soldiers, invariably, makes the difference between life and death.

5) Provisions of the Honor Code. The honor code is simple: An Officer will not lie, cheat, or

steal, nor tolerate those who do.

6) The Honor Code is a rule of personal integrity, which requires each student to be absolutely

and unfailingly honest in all matters. The code at Officer Candidate School is as follows: “Belief

in and application of the principles of the Honor Code will set the standard for and influence

everything you do! Never fear the truth and never compromise honor or truth for expediency.”

7) The element most important to the success of the Honor Code is the belief in that code by

every person. That belief, together with an appreciation for the importance of honor, will foster the

assurance that you can put complete trust in your comrades. Honor and trust are the cohesive

agents, which transform a group into a unit.


8) The Honor Code is based on the principle that integrity is an essential attribute for all

officers.

i. Lying. Officers violate the honor code by lying if they make an oral or written statement or

gesture of communication in the presence of, or to, another, intending to deceive or mislead.

Quibbling is creation of false impressions through evasive wording, the omission of relevant facts,

or telling a partial truth, and is a form of lying.

ii. Cheating. Officers violate the honor code by cheating if they willingly take information,

which does not belong to them, or present material that is not an example of their own work, to

gain an advantage.

iii. Stealing. Officers violate the honor code by stealing if they wrongfully take, obtain, or

withhold, by any means, from the possession of the owner (or any other person), any money,

personal property or article of value of any kind, with the intent to deprive or defraud another

person of the use or benefit of the property. Officers are considered to be stealing when they take,

obtain, or withhold any item without the expressed permission or knowledge of the owner.

iv. Toleration. Officers violate the honor code by toleration if they fail to report an unresolved

incident with honor implications to the proper authority within a reasonable time period. A

reasonable length of time is the time it takes to confront the suspected violator and determine

whether the incident was a misunderstanding or actually a violation of the honor code.

9) There is a distinct difference between an honor violation and a disciplinary violation.

Although honor and discipline are in many ways complimentary, it is essential that the Officer

completely understand the difference. To be guilty of an Honor Code Violation, you must have

violated one of the four provisions of the Honor Code. A disciplinary violation involves a breach

of policy or regulations.

4-2. Hazing.

a. Any form of hazing is PROHIBITED. Hazing is defined as any conduct whereby one

military member or employee, regardless of Service or rank, unnecessarily causes another military

member or employee, regardless of Service or rank, to suffer or be exposed to an activity that is

cruel, abusive, oppressive, or harmful. Hazing is not limited to superior-subordinate relationships,

it may occur between peers.

4-4. Officer Candidate Code.

“An Officer Candidate will not cheat, steal, or lie, nor tolerate those who do. An Officer Candidate

will always choose the harder right over the easier wrong, and never be satisfied with the half-truth

when the whole truth can be known.”

-From the Cadet Prayer, USMA, West Point-


Chapter 7 – Required Knowledge

9-1. Requirements. The following is the list of required knowledge..

a. Chain of Command.

1) Officer is able to define “chain of command”

A two way communication channel between subordinates and leaders.

Orders, policy, information and inquiry GO DOWN

Information and questions GO UP.

Keeps all informed GOING UP AND DOWN

Renders assistance, solves problems GOING UP AND DOWN

Links in the chain are not jumped, GOING UP AND DOWN.

2) Officer knows his/her Permanent Chain Of Command.

Commander in Chief, Governor

Secretary of Public Safety

Adjutant General

Commander VDF

Company commander

Executive Officer

Command Sergeant Major

3) Officer names, in correct order, all ranks from PV1 to Major General, correctly describing rank insignia and proper verbal addressing of each.

b. A Professional / Staff Officer Honor Code.

A Professional / Staff Officer will not lie, cheat, or steal, nor tolerate those who do.

c. General Orders.

1) I will guard everything within the limits of my post and quit my post only when

properly relieved.

2) I will obey my special orders and perform all my duties in a military manner.

3) I will report violations of my special orders, emergencies and anything not

covered in my instructions to the Commander of the Relief.

d. Army Values.

1) Loyalty: Bear true faith and allegiance to the U.S. Constitution, the Army, and

other soldiers.

2) Duty: Fulfill your obligations.

3) Respect: Treat people as they should be treated.


4) Selfless-Service: Put the welfare of the nation, the Army and your subordinates

before your own.

5) Honor: Live up to all the Army values.

6) Integrity: Do what’s right, legally and morally.

7) Personal Courage: Face fear, danger, or adversity (physical and moral).

a. LEADERSHIP DEFINED – Leadership is the process of influencing people by

providing purpose, direction, and motivation to accomplish the mission and improve the

organization (ADP 6-22).

b. The Troop Leading Procedures.

1) Receive the Mission

2) Issue the Warning Order

3) Make a Tentative Plan

4) Initiate Necessary Troop Movement

5) Conduct Reconnaissance

6) Complete the Plan

7) Issue the Complete Order

8) Supervise

c. The Estimate of the Situation.

1) Detailed mission analysis.

2) Situation and courses of action.

3) Analyze courses of action; war-game.

4) Compare courses of action.

5) Decision.

d. The Five-Paragraph Operation Order.

TASK ORGANIZATION

1) SITUATION

2) MISSION

3) EXECUTION

4) SERVICE SUPPORT (SUSTAINMENT)

5) COMMAND AND SIGNAL (COMMAND AND CONTROL)

e. SALUTE REPORT:

S - Size

A - Activity

L - Location

U - Uniform

T - Time

E - Equipment


APPENDIX A

GOVERNMENT DATA COLLECTION AND DISSEMINATION PRACTICES ACT STATEMENT

Privacy Act Statement

1. AUTHORITY: Government Data Collection and Dissemination Practices Act, Virginia Code §§

2.2-3800 —2.2-3809

2. PRINCIPLE PURPOSES: To obtain data necessary to determine the eligibility of an individual

for the Professional Officer Development Course

3. ROUTINE USES: 1. Identify individual and provide addresses. 2. Obtain civilian occupational

background. 3. Obtain military background. 4. Obtain both civilian and military education. 5.

Obtain guide to character of individual and nature of prior service. 6. Data provided is verified and

may be basis for unfavorable action if determination is made that incorrect information was

intentional.

4. MANDATORY OR VOLUNTARY DISCLOSURE AND EFFECT ON INDIVIDUAL NOT

PROVIDING INFORMATION. Disclosure is required for enrollment in the Professional Officer

Development Course. Failure to provide data may negate enrollment.


APPENDIX B Professional Officers Development Course

CHAIN OF COMMAND

THE GOVERNOR OF VIRGINIA

THE ADJUTANT GENERAL, VIRGINIA MILITARY FORCES

Rank/Name:

VIRGINA DEFENSE FORCE COMMANDING GENERAL

Rank/Name:

COMMANDER: Rank/Name:

EXECUTIVE OFFICER: Rank/Name:

SENIOR TAC OFFICER: Rank/Name:

SENIOR TAC NCO: Rank/Name:

FIRST SERGEANT: Rank/Name:

TAC OFFICER PHASE I:

Rank/Name:

TAC OFFICER PHASE II:

Rank/Name:

TAC NCO PHASE I:

Rank/Name:

TAC NCO PHASE II:

Rank/Name:


APPENDIX C PODC TRAINING RECORD

The following training is required along with Unit and/or Regimental specific training that may

also be required.

PREREQUISITE COURSEWORK

FEMA/VDF # COURSE

DATE COMPLETED

Review Reviewed VDF Web Site Regulations and Policy Letters

Orient VDF Orientation Training Course

LVL IIA VDF Level II-A Training Course

IS-100.b Introduction to Incident Command

IS-200.b ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incident

IS-700.b

National Incident Management System (NIMS) An Introduction

IS-800.b National Response Framework, An Introduction


APPENDIX D Recommended Reading List The Constitution of the United States / Available at

http://uscode.house.gov/pdf/Organic%20Laws/const.pdf

The Constitution of Virginia / Available at http://hodcap.state.va.us/publications/Constitution-01-

13.pdf

Army Leadership (ADRP 6-22): http://www.chapnet.army.mil/pdf/ADRP%206_22_new.pdf

Leadership Counseling (QM3515):

http://www.armycounselingonline.com/download/Leadership%20Counseling.pdf

Effective Writing for Army Leaders Department of the Army Pamphlet 600-67:

http://www.armywriter.com/DAP600-67.pdf

Map Reading and Land Navigation: http://www.uvm.edu/~goldbar/FM3_25.26.pdf

Drill and Ceremonies FM 3-21.5: www.usarmyband.com/pdf/FM_3_21_5.pdf

Leader’s Guide to After Action Review US Army 710:

http://www.jackson.army.mil/sites/leaderdevelopment/docs/710

How to write a Critical Book Review: http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/book-reviews/

Small Unit Leadership: A Commonsense Approach, Dandridge M. Malone 1983. ISBN

0891411739: http://www.amazon.com/Small-Unit-Leadership-Commonsense-

Approach/dp/0891411739/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1378745678&sr=8-

1&keywords=small+unit+leadership

Acts of God: The Unnatural History of Natural Disaster in America, second edition. 2006 Ted

Steinberg: ISBN: 0195309685: http://www.amazon.com/Acts-God-Unnatural-History-

Disaster/dp/0195309685

Disaster Response and Homeland Security: What Works, What Doesn't, 2008 James Miskel:.

ISBN: 0804759723: http://www.amazon.com/Disaster-Response-Homeland-Security-

Stanford/dp/0804759723

The Defence of Duffer’s Drift by Ernest Dunlop Swinton:

http://www.benning.army.mil/infantry/199th/ocs/content/pdf/The%20Defence%20of%20Duffers%

20Drift.pdf

Hurricane Sandy: http://www.fema.gov/hurricane-sandy-timeline

Hurricane Sandy After-Action Report:

http://www.nyc.gov/html/recovery/downloads/pdf/sandy_aar_5.2.13.pdf

http://uscode.house.gov/pdf/Organic%2520Laws/const.pdf

http://hodcap.state.va.us/publications/Constitution-01-13.pdf

http://hodcap.state.va.us/publications/Constitution-01-13.pdf

http://www.chapnet.army.mil/pdf/ADRP%25206_22_new.pdf

http://www.armycounselingonline.com/download/Leadership%2520Counseling.pdf

http://www.armywriter.com/DAP600-67.pdf

http://www.uvm.edu/~goldbar/FM3_25.26.pdf

http://www.usarmyband.com/pdf/FM_3_21_5.pdf

http://www.jackson.army.mil/sites/leaderdevelopment/docs/710

http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/book-reviews/

http://www.amazon.com/Small-Unit-Leadership-Commonsense-Approach/dp/0891411739/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1378745678&sr=8-1&keywords=small+unit+leadership



http://www.amazon.com/Acts-God-Unnatural-History-Disaster/dp/0195309685

http://www.amazon.com/Acts-God-Unnatural-History-Disaster/dp/0195309685

http://www.amazon.com/Disaster-Response-Homeland-Security-Stanford/dp/0804759723

http://www.amazon.com/Disaster-Response-Homeland-Security-Stanford/dp/0804759723

http://www.benning.army.mil/infantry/199th/ocs/content/pdf/The%2520Defence%2520of%2520Duffers%2520Drift.pdf

http://www.benning.army.mil/infantry/199th/ocs/content/pdf/The%2520Defence%2520of%2520Duffers%2520Drift.pdf

http://www.fema.gov/hurricane-sandy-timeline

http://www.nyc.gov/html/recovery/downloads/pdf/sandy_aar_5.2.13.pdf


APPENDIX E REFERENCES FEMA Emergency Management Institute: http://training.fema.gov/IS/crslist.asp

Army Staff Ride: http://www.history.army.mil/srides.html

Virginia Emergency Operations Center: http://www.vaemergency.gov

Platoon Leader: http://platoonleader.army.mil/

Army Writing Reference Center: http://www.armywriter.com/army-writing-references.htm

Center for Army Lessons Learned: http://usacac.army.mil/cac2/call/index.asp

Introduction to Technical Writing: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kmpzzGebHng

Technical Writing – General Instruction: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hxz6-m9vxdg

Technical Writing Definition Rules: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bws5BMVPjY4

MEMS Academy Student Handbook:

http://www.sgaus.org/docs/MEMS%20Student%20Manual%202013a.pdf

http://training.fema.gov/IS/crslist.asp

http://www.history.army.mil/srides.html

http://www.vaemergency.gov/

http://platoonleader.army.mil/

http://www.armywriter.com/army-writing-references.htm

http://usacac.army.mil/cac2/call/index.asp

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kmpzzGebHng

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hxz6-m9vxdg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bws5BMVPjY4

http://www.sgaus.org/docs/MEMS%2520Student%2520Manual%25202013a.pdf


APPENDIX F UNITED STATES FLAG FOLDING CEREMONY

The Flag Folding Ceremony represents the same religious principles in which our country was

originally founded. The portion of the flag denoting honor is the canton of blue containing the

stars representing states our veterans served in uniform. The canton field of blue dresses from left

to right, and is only inverted when draped as a pall on a casket of a veteran who has served our

country honorably in uniform.

In the evening in the armed forces of the United States at the ceremony of retreat after Taps has

been sounded, the flag is lowered and folded in a triangle fold, and kept under watch throughout

the night as a tribute to our nation’s honored dead. The next morning it is brought out at the

ceremony of Reveille and run up aloft as a symbol of our belief in the resurrection of the body.

The First fold of our flag is a symbol of life.

The Second fold is a symbol of our belief in the eternal life.

The Third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veteran departing our ranks, whom

gave of a portion of life for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world, not

to have been in vain and never to be forgotten.

The Fourth fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God it is to

Him we turn to in times of peace, as well as in times of war, for His Divine guidance.

The Fifth fold is a tribute to our country; for in the words of the immortal Stephen Decatur,

“Our country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right, but it is still our

country, right or wrong.”

The Sixth fold, for this is where our hearts lie-and it is with our hearts that we pledge

allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic to which it stands,

one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

The Seventh fold is a tribute to our armed forces; for it is through these same armed forces that

we protect our country and flag against all her enemies, whether they are found within or

without the boundaries of our republic.

The Eight fold is a tribute to the One who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that

we might see the light of day; and this fold is made to honor mother, for whom it flies on

Mother’s Day.

The Ninth fold is a tribute to our womanhood; for it has been through their faith, love, loyalty,

and devotion that the characters of men that have made this country great have been molded.

The Tenth fold is a tribute to Father, for he too has given of his sons for the defense of our

country since she was first born.

The Eleventh fold for in the eyes of a Hebrew citizen this represents the lower portion of the

seal of King David and King Solomon, and glorifies in their eyes the God of Abraham, the God

of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.

The Twelfth fold for in the eyes of a Christian citizen, this represents an emblem of eternity,

and glorifies in their eyes God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost.

We fold the flag from the stripes towards the stars; for whereas the stripes represent the thirteen

original colonies that founded the republic, and they are now embodied in the fifty sovereign states

represented by the stars, so that the stars cover the stripes. When the flag is completely folded, the

stars are uppermost, which reminds us of our national motto “In God We Trust.”

After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever

reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the sailors and

marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones; and they, followed by their comrades and

shipmates in the armed forces of the United States, have preserved for us the rights, privileges, and

freedom which we are enjoying today.


“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it

stands one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

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