807th MC(DS) hosts annual Equal Opportunity Leaders course

Courtesy Photo | Brig. Gen. Michael Pyle speaks with Soldiers about the importance of their role as the first line action officers for Equal Opportunity at their respective commands during the Equal Opportunity Leaders Course at the George W. Dunaway United States Army Reserve Center, Sloan, Nev., Sept 23, 2022. (Courtesy photo)  

SLOAN, NEVADA, UNITED STATES

09.23.2022

Story by Maj. Sherrain Reber 

807th Theater Medical Command

SLOAN, Nevada - Select Soldiers, between the rank of sergeant (promotable) through captain, completed a 60-hour training as Equal Opportunity Leaders (EOL) for their respective commanders at the George W. Dunaway United States Army Reserve Center, Sloan, Nev., Sept. 17-24, 2022.

“The EOL is the eyes and ears of the commander to provide information on the current climate of the unit,” said Mr. Greg Rogers, the 807th MC(DS) Sexual Assault Response Coordinator and former Command Equal Opportunity Specialist. “They are the person who is approached by the Soldiers and civilians in the command who can provide guidance on an issue or simply listen to issues that the commander needs to know about.”

Guest speaker, Brig. Gen. Michael Pyle, 807th MC(DS) Deputy Commanding General, said, "This event is significant as it provides commanders with qualified EO Leaders. The EOL mission is vital for promoting a command climate of dignity, mutual respect, and inclusion. Ensuring fair treatment for Soldiers, the EOL is the first line action officer when it comes to complaints, and they have the capacity to solve issues at the lowest level – improving overall unit readiness."

The role of EOL is significant, as they become that approachable agent for change within a unit. Intervening when needed, they can de-escalate situations in the command before potentially developing into a hostile climate.

The course primarily focused on equal opportunity and diversity management. Once completed, the graduate possesses the skills to advise commanders, handle EO complaints, provide EO training for units, and assist in conducting command climate assessments. All of which, keep the command on track.

This year, of the 31 attendees, 20 were from 807th MC(DS)’s brigades. Pyle presented Staff Sgt. Jennifer Payne, 2nd Medical Brigade, a coin from Lt. Gen. Jody Daniels, Chief of Army Reserve and Commanding General, U.S. Army Reserve Command, for completing the course as the honor graduate.

• Date Taken: 09.23.2022
• Date Posted: 10.13.2022 16:59
• Story ID: 431257
• Location: SLOAN, NEVADA, US