On maintaining accountability of sensitive items

In this RBI I will explain why accountability of your sensitive items is important. To lose a sensitive item can be detrimental to the readiness of your unit in times of war or training. The consequences of losing sensitive items varies from item to item according to its value and importance. In times of war losing a sensitive item such as a loaded SINCGARS radio or an ANCD you have just given your enemy the ability to intercept all secure radio transmissions between any two operators in your area and you could have charges of treason brought against you for which the maximum punishment is death. This should be the worst of your worries, if the enemy knows your location or plans then you have just put all the troops in your area, on your frequency, in danger of a surprise attack. Could you live with the knowledge that you are responsible for the death of your team, squad, platoon, unit, or your own battle buddy or best friend? I think not. There are many other punishments such as life in prison. To lose a sensitive item can also be a violation of the army values. It violates the values of Duty and Integrity. It violates duty because without the proper equipment you cannot perform your duties. You also let down your platoon and/ or squad by not knowing where your items are. It violates the integrity of yourself by letting your platoon down. Your platoon counts on you to make sure you know where all your items are.

imagine you are in a situation and you need your night vision goggles, but you cannot account for them. The enemy is approaching rapidly and the sun is setting even faster. You are the spotter for your team and your night vision is not so good. You have been placed far from your other platoon members and have to relay information to the rear. during your guard shift you hear shots ring out through the quiet night sky. You cannot determine where the shots came from. Your battle buddy is now screaming...