D/ACD - Foxhole Leadership Policy
| This is the Document Release Information | |
| Article Number: | 7Cav-DACD-005 |
| Scope: | D/ACD - Foxhole Leadership Policy |
| Version: | Version 1.0 |
| Effective Date: | 28MAY2026 |
| Last Modified Date: | 28MAY2026 |
| Approving Authority: | Auxiliary Combat Detachment Commander |
| Point of Contact: | Auxiliary Combat Detachment HQ |
This does not supersede the requirements of 7CAV-R-002, but instead provides additional requirements & provisions to enhance the quality of life and longevity of the Foxhole AO.
Purpose
This SOP establishes standardized procedures for the selection and appointment of leadership personnel within the Foxhole AO based on demonstrated merit, competence, and leadership ability rather than tenure or on-paper qualifications alone. The focus is on fostering commanders who bring not just competence, but a certain reliability and strength to the field, cultivating leaders who can navigate the uncertainties of war with both skill and steadiness.
Scope
This SOP applies to all members of the Foxhole AO seeking or being considered for leadership positions, including but not limited to, Section, Platoon, and Company leadership roles.
Guiding Principles
In addition to tenure, time-in-rank, or on-paper qualifications our leadership selection process must consider the following principles:
- Demonstrated ability to support & improve others
- Demonstrated operational & administrative leadership capability
- Consistent volunteer presence in primary / secondary billets & social engagements
- A high standard of professional conduct and interpersonal skills
- Demonstrated willingness to develop, improve & respond positively to constructive feedback
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for a leadership position, troopers must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Rank - Must hold the rank of Private First Class (PFC) or higher.
- Experience - Must have a minimum of 250 verified hours in Foxhole
- Training Requirements - must complete required Professional development courses, including:
- Officer Development School (ODS)
- Non-Commissioned Officer Academy (NCOA)
- Interview - Must successfully complete a formal interview in accordance with 7CAV-R-002 Command Authority [or ACD in lieu of CoC]
Selection Process
In accordance 7CAV-R-002 and a position opening has been posted through the appropriate channels, as it relates to the Foxhole AO potential candidates that have expressed their willingness to serve their fellow troopers will undergo the following:
- Candidate Identification - Potential candidates may be identified through:
- Performance evaluations
- Peer and leader recommendations
- Demonstrated leadership in operations
- Voluntary application
- 7th Cavalry Regimental Coursework
- Evaluation Criteria - Candidates shall be evaluated based on:
- Tactical and strategic understanding of Foxhole
- Demonstrated ability to support & improve others
- Communication skills
- Demonstrated operational & administrative leadership capability (eg, the ability to manage personnel and resources or general reliability and availability)
- Consistent volunteer presence in primary / secondary billets & social engagements
- A high standard of professional conduct and interpersonal skills, to include initiative and problem-solving skills
- Demonstrated willingness to develop, improve & respond positively to constructive feedback
- Command Review
- To be conducted in accordance with 7CAV-R-002, chaired by the command authority, or their delegate.
Appointment and Probation
Initial Appointment
- Selected individuals will be formally appointed to their leadership position.
- Appointments may be designated as provisional until training requirements are completed.
Probationary Period
- Newly appointed leaders may be subject to a probationary period of up to three (3) months.
- Performance will be reviewed during this period. Leadership development will take place on a weekly basis by their immediate Chain of Command.
- Failure to meet standards may result in reassignment
Foxhole Operational Considerations
Unique Nature of Foxhole
Foxhole differs significantly from traditional FPS-based operations within the organization. Unlike standard match-based environments, Foxhole requires:
- Long-duration operations
- Persistent world management
- Extended logistical coordination
- Continuous leadership on the frontline and rear areas
- Strategic planning across multiple play sessions
- High-level decision making involving an entire group’s worth of effort & time
Leadership Commitment
Due to the persistent nature of Foxhole gameplay, leadership positions require consistent engagement both in-game and outside of active operations. Leaders are expected to:
- Coordinate planning and logistics
- Maintain operational continuity
- Leaders communicate up and down the Chain of Command
- Provide guidance & command intent beyond scheduled play sessions
- This level of responsibility exceeds the standard organizational requirement of one (1) hour per week and demands sustained commitment.
Performance Review and Removal
Ongoing Evaluation
All leaders will be subject to periodic performance reviews conducted by Battalion and Company Staff.
Grounds for Removal
Leaders may be removed or reassigned for:
- Repeated failure to meet performance standards
- AWOL
- Failure to complete required training within the allocated timeframe
- Repeat Misconduct as defined by the UCMJ
Appeals Process
Individuals who are not selected or who are removed from leadership positions may submit a formal appeal to the command authority. Appeals will be reviewed and responded to in writing with a clear direction enabling the involved parties to improve if they wish to continue & be successful.
Review and Revision
This SOP shall be reviewed by the most senior Foxhole billeted leader as required.
- Revisions must be approved by the most senior billeted Foxhole command authority
- This policy remains subject to the Right of Review policy in 7CAV-R-001