Marine Corps Joint Officer Management policy and O-7 Joint Service Officer requirements

Abstract

This study constituted a qualitative analysis of current Marine Corps Joint Officer Management policy. The research was conducted at the request of Manpower and Reserve Affairs, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps to review current policies and their effectiveness in supporting the requirements in the FY 05 NDAA, that all O-7 nominees be Joint Service Officer qualified prior to promotion by September 30, 2008. The Marine Corps Joint Officer Management Office, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps provided all categorical data (O-4 through O-7), the majority of which represents 2006, as well as limited historical data representing 2003 to 2005. The data showed a high degree of effectiveness of the current policies, and that an increase in JPME II seats at the O-4 level would significantly increase the percentage of qualified JSO's. Currently, the number of JSO qualified Brigadier Generals is just above 50 percent. Over the next year's time, the Marine Corps must reach 100 percent JSO qualification of Brigadier Generals. A follow-on study is needed to forecast O-7 continuation rates utilizing specific, career progression data to further support the FY 05 NDAA stipulation.