Initial Counseling Statement

This is the Document Release Information
Article Number:	7CAV-R-014
Scope:	Guidelines for Enlistment and Re-enlistment
Version:	Version 1.1
Effective Date:	04 AUG 18
Last Modified Date:	DDMMMYYYY
Approving Authority:	Regimental Commanding Officer
Point of Contact:	Regimental Chief of Staff

DOWNLOAD: Blank ICS/VCS Form

Purpose

An Initial Counselling Statement (ICS) is used when an individual first assumes a new billet. The ICS is issued by next NCO in the individuals Chain of Command and should be completed no later than a week after the individual's assignment.

The purpose of an ICS is to ensure the individual understands all of their duties and responsibilities and to ensure that the counselor has a plan of action in place to ensure the success of the individual in their new position.

Content

The content and manner in which is is presented is different throughout the Regiment according to the department or billet being assumed. The minimum standard for the content of an ICS is as follows:

1. New Troopers: New troopers should receive an ICS in the form of a welcome letter sent by the Section/Squad Leader via private message on the forums within 24 hours of being assigned. It should contain:
   • Minimum expectations of posting roll-call, posting at least once every 7 days on the forums and attending one section practice per week.
   • Link to the roll-call forum.
   • Practice day and time.
   • List of the chain of command up to and including Company.
   • Meeting in Teamspeak where any questions are reviewed within 7 days of assignment.
     
     
2. Leadership Billets: Battalions set their own standards for the content and delivery method of an ICS for leadership billets, but the minimum standard required is as follows:
   • Written ICS including minimum expectations in the form of a list of daily, weekly and monthly duties and responsibilities.
   • Meeting in Teamspeak where the ICS points are discussed along with a plan of action and any other pertinent procedures/training required within 7 days of being assigned.
     
     
3. Secondary Departments: Secondary Departments set their own standards for the content and delivery method of an ICS for leadership billets, but the minimum standard required is as follows:
   • Written ICS including minimum expectations in the form of a list of daily, weekly and monthly duties and responsibilities.
   • Meeting in Teamspeak where the ICS points are discussed along with a plan of action and any other pertinent procedures/training required within 7 days of being assigned.