A bit over a year ago, I was appointed XO. In my first report, I outlined a group of goals that I wanted to achieve. Some of those goals are on the way to being achieved, while others still need some work. Those goals will not happen unless two things happen. Firstly, all members working hard towards those goals, and secondly, all members working together. I will be expecting 2003 to be a year of high output and cooperation between all COs.

In line with this, I have set goals and projects for most of the COs. Those I haven't mailed yet will receive their emails soon. These instructions are not recommendations. You will not pick and choose which you will do. These goals and projects are coming down from me as an effort to coordinate the work of all COs for maximum result for the entire EH. So, if these projects don't exactly make sense, keep that in mind. It might be something to benefit the entire EH, not just your corner of it.

As a result of these higher expectation, core duties such as reports will be expected on time. They will also be expected to be more than filling fluff to make up a few paragraphs, and for SGCOMs, the reports are not to be straight copy-pastes of the reports of your subordinates. Meeting attendance has been fairly woeful for a couple years now. I'm hoping this will also improve.

An issue that has raised its head lately is people who think they can have the best of both sides - be in the EH and not follow the directives of those in senior positions. I've personally tried to be patient with these people but my patience has worn off. Any resistance, refusal of any form to an order from a CO without justification will be referred to the SO.

I'll be hoping to get a few NLs out in the next week or two to get us caught up with being on time again. The vacant CO positions should be filled this weekend as well.