TEXAS STATE GUARD OFFICER CANDIDATE …€œSTANDARDS, HONOR, AND INTEGRITY – NO COMPROMISE” TEXAS STATE GUARD OFFICER CANDIDATE SCHOOL CANDIDATE APPLICATION AND SUPPORT PACKET

“STANDARDS, HONOR, AND INTEGRITY – NO COMPROMISE”

TEXAS STATE GUARD

OFFICER CANDIDATE SCHOOL

CANDIDATE APPLICATION AND SUPPORT PACKET

“LEADERSHIP, STARTS HERE!”


Contents

OCS OVERVIEW ....................................................................................................................................... 3

The OCS Program takes five months to complete and is divided into two phases. .................... 3

THE OCS APPLICATION PROCESS ..................................................................................................... 4

OCS APPLICATION CHECKLIST ........................................................................................................... 6

CHECKLIST FOR OCS ENROLLMENT AND COMMISSIONING CLASS # 15 .............................. 6

OFFICER CANDIDATE PERSONAL PROFILE CLASS # 15 ............................................................. 7

OFFICER CANDIDATE SCHOOL APPLICATION CLASS # 15 ........................................................ 8

OFFICER CANDIDATE WAVIER REQUEST CLASS # 15 ................................................................. 9

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS BY OCS APPLICANTS CLASS # 15 ................................. 10

PREPARING THE OCS STUDENT AUTOBIOGRAPHY .................................................................. 12


OCS OVERVIEW

Officer Candidate School (OCS) is a mentally and physically demanding course of instruction designed to

develop and assess the leadership potential of Officer Candidates. The program of instruction includes

both classroom and field exercises. Candidates that successfully complete the program will be

commissioned in the TXSG with the rank of O-1.

The OCS Program takes five months to complete and is divided into two phases.

Phase I is a one month Phase which addresses basic, foundation level courses in an online environment.

Phase II is a four month Phase which provides an introduction to the military officer profession in the

Texas State Guard, the role of a commissioned officer, and basic military leadership. Instruction is given

on physical fitness, with heavy emphasis placed on military courtesy, discipline, customs, and traditions of

the service. During this Phase, candidates will learn—and are expected to exhibit—the traits and skills

required of a commissioned officer.

OCS is stressful by design, but it is no more demanding than a Basic Training environment. As the

program progresses, Officer Candidates must successfully perform and pass multiple PT tests, negotiate

a confidence course, and a leadership reaction course. Throughout OCS, each Officer Candidate's

performance will be continuously evaluated throughout various leadership positions, practical exercises,

assignments, and overall performance.


THE OCS APPLICATION PROCESS

Process: A Guardsman who desires to attend OCS is responsible for initiating the application

process through the applicant’s direct Chain of Command. The process begins when the OCS

applicant presents a completed packet with documentation to their immediate commander.

Steps:

1. Ensure that you qualify and are prepared for OCS:

a. Minimum Time in Service Requirement: OCS applicants with a prior federal

service background are preferred to have served one year in the TXSG in enlisted

status, but the applicant's commander can request a waiver to a minimum of 3

months TXSG time in service. Non-prior federal service OCS applicants are

preferred to have served two years in the TXSG in enlisted status, but the applicant's

commander can request a waiver to a minimum of 6 months TXSG time in service.

b. Minimum Education Requirement: OCS applicants must have a baccalaureate

degree. For those actively pursuing a degree, an applicant's commander can request

a waiver to a minimum of 60 accredited semester hours. An applicant's commander

can also request a waiver to a minimum of 90 hours, where an accredited institution

has awarded college credit for prior technical training or life experiences.

c. Minimum Age Requirement: OCS applicants must be a minimum of 18 years old,

and not older than 44 years and 364 days at the time of commissioning, however an

applicant's commander can request an age waiver.

d. Minimum Physical Requirement: OCS applicants must pass The Army Physical

Fitness Test inclusive of 2 Minute Push-Up, 2 Minute Sit-Up, and 2 Mile Run on the

first drill day of OCS. Additionally, OCS Candidates must comply with height/weight

standards throughout the course.

e. Commander’s Support: Upon acceptance into OCS, you will be transferred out of

your home unit and into OCS. You will no longer drill with, or have responsibilities to,

your home unit.

f. Family’s Support: OCS requires a significant amount of study and dedication

between drills; without devoting this time, your chances of success will decrease.

Your success will require your family's support, encouragement, understanding, and

patience.

g. Employer’s Support: OCS takes 4 weeks total to accomplish, with travel days on

Thursday, and class days Friday through Sunday. Before enrolling, it is

recommended that you discuss your consideration of OCS with your employer, and

confirm their support of your participation.

2. Receive approval to attend OCS through your Chain of Command.

3. Review the final signed and completed application package with your Commander.

4. Submit the signed and completed application package within open enrollment period.

Incomplete applications will be rejected.

5. Email the PDF package with all signatures, photo, and supporting documentation to

[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


Notification: Each application will be submitted to the Officer Candidate Review Board for

evaluation. Upon acceptance to the course, each officer candidate and their respective

commander will be notified directly via email which will include an orientation package and

orders.

The board review consists of:

1. A review of the applicant’s medical history by a Texas State Guard physician.

2. A review of the applicant’s education both civilian and PME.

3. A complete document review and potential follow up with your commander.

4. Assessment of the applicant’s work/life balance.

5. Your career in the guard and federal service; if applicable.

Assignment of Officer Candidates (OC): Officer Candidates will be appointed to the rank of E-6,

and will be transferred into OCS for the duration of the course, or until such time as they are no

longer a part of OCS. Once transferred into OCS, candidates will cease drilling with their home

units, and are likewise relieved of any positions and responsibilities they held in their home units.

Upon commissioning, all newly appointed officers will be reassigned back into their MSC based on

FORM 35 assignment request.

Use of Waiver: All waivers are reviewed by the OCS Commander and Officer Candidate Review

Board. Waivers will not be considered for:

1. Physical fitness;

2. Medical conditions that would jeopardize the health or safety of the candidate,

classmates, or the OCS Cadre;

3. Below the minimum education level as outlined in this package.


OCS APPLICATION CHECKLIST

CHECKLIST FOR OCS ENROLLMENT AND COMMISSIONING CLASS # 15

The purpose of this checklist it to prepare the soldier for OCS attendance. All items on the list must be checked in order for

an applicant to be considered for OCS. If you have any questions, contact your Personnel Officer.

Last Name First Name MI DOB Gender – M/F

SSN Grade (E4-E7) Component and Unit UMD Position

Personnel Officer/NCO Name Contact Number

Confirm the following are included in this packet:

Applicant has completed BOT or an equivalent federal military program.

Applicant has had a medical physical examination with a satisfactory result.

Medical form DD-2807 is attached to this application and signed by your physician.

Enlisted grade of E4-E7.

Letter of recommendation from your commander for your attendance in OCS.

Commander’s Confirmation Letter has been completed and signed.

No permanent physical disabilities and have full use of extremities.

Applicant is of sound mind and free of any mental and/or emotional disorders.

Emergency contact information.

Current digital photograph in duty uniform.

• From the top of the candidates head (w/o) cover to below the knees.

• Standing at a 45 degree angle with left shoulder closest to the camera.

• Solid white or light-colored background (clean, solid wall or photographer's backgrounds

are both acceptable).

• Glasses are not worn in the picture.

Check the applicable boxes:

Meets minimum TIS requirements as stated on Page 3 of this application.

Does not meet minimum TIS requirements as stated on Page 3 of this application; a waiver is requested.

Meets minimum education requirements as stated on Page 3 of this application.

Does not meet minimum education requirements as stated on Page 3 of this application; a waiver is

…requested.

Meets minimum age requirements as stated on Page 3 of this application.

Does not meet minimum age requirements as stated on Page 3 of this application; a waiver is requested.

Has not had a criminal background check within the past 90 days; the applicant has applied for a criminal

...background check on ________/________/_______.

Applicant requires does not require vision correction (glasses or contact lenses).

Army Physical Fitness Test card signed by administering SrNCO or Officer.


OFFICER CANDIDATE PERSONAL PROFILE CLASS # 15

Information on this form is voluntary and is subject to the US Privacy Act. The OCS Cadre and Application Board will use this

information to better understand the candidate's background, family history, and lifestyle. All information is confidential and will

remain in the candidate's 201 file.



Personal Summary

Birth Place US Citizen Y/N Naturalized Citizen - Date Resident Alien - Date

HOR Address City State Zip Phone

Married Y/N Spouse’s Name Spouse’s Phone Number Children Y/N and #

Home Work or Cell

Civilian College/University Degree Field of Study Year Graduated or Graduating

Emergency Contact #1 – Relation:

Name H-Phone M-Phone

Emergency Contact #2 – Relation:

Name H-Phone M-Phone

Religion Hobbies

Additional Comments for the OCS Review Board

Additional thoughts or comments for the OCS Review Board you want considered when reviewing your application.


OFFICER CANDIDATE SCHOOL APPLICATION CLASS # 15



Your Unit Commander

Name Rank

M-Phone #

H-Phone #

Professional Summary

Employer Location Position No. Years

Professional Certifications/Licenses

Prior Federal Military Summary – If none put NA

Branch Years of Service Unit Last Duty Station

Your last MOS/AFSC/Duty assignment:

Highest Level of Military Education

Awards/Citations/Medals

Have you ever been rejected for military service or appointment as an officer or court martialed?

Waivers Requested

Age Education Medical Time in Service

IN SIGNING THIS APPLICATION THE APPLICANT UNDERSTANDS THEY ARE NO LONGER ELIGIBLE FOR A DIRECT COMMISSION UPON IN-PROCESSING AT PHASE I OF OCS. THE UNDERSIGNED UNIT COMMANDER HAS THOROUGHLY REVIEWED THIS APPLICATION, AND THE ENTIRE PACKET, FOR COMPLETION AND QUALITY. THIS IS A COMPLETE APPLICATION PACKET: NO WAIVERS ARE PENDING; ONLY APPROVED WAIVERS ARE SUBMITTED TO THE TXSG OCS SELECTION BOARD. AN ORIGINAL CHAPTER 2 COMMISSIONING PHYSICAL AND CONFIRMATION OF A FAVORABLE BACKGROUND CHECK MUST BE INCLUDED IN THE PACKET.

Candidates Signature

Electronically Sign – Click here by checking this box and typing my name below, I am electronically signing this document.

Candidates Name Printed: _______________________________________________________ Date: __________________

Commanding Officer Signature


Commanders Name Printed: _____________________________________________________ Date: __________________


OFFICER CANDIDATE WAVIER REQUEST CLASS # 15

The Officer Candidate is requesting the board consider the following waiver(s). A Commanders certification letter must be

included with the application in order for the wavier(s) to be considered.

Last Name First Name MI DOB SSN

Maximum Age Waiver

In consideration of my application to OCS, I am requesting the board consider waiving the maximum age requirement.

I am _____________ years old.




Time in Service Waiver

Prior Federal Service applicants:

In consideration of my application to OCS, I am requesting the board consider waiving to 3 months the prior federal service

background of one year in the TXSG in enlisted status.

Non Prior Federal Service applicants:

In consideration of my application to OCS, I am requesting the board consider waiving to 6 months the TXSG time in service

requirement of two years.




Minimum College Credit Hours

In consideration of my application to OCS, I am requesting the board consider waiving the minimum college credit hours

requirement. I am currently enrolled at ______________________ University and have a total of __________________ college

credit hours.




Medical / Health Waiver

In consideration of my application to OCS, I am requesting the board consider waiving the following medical condition

______________________________________________________. This condition will not affect my performance during OCS

nor will it jeopardize the health or safety of the OCS candidates or the OCS Cadre.




OCS Cadre Physician


Physician Name Printed: ________________________________________________________ Date: __________________


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS BY OCS APPLICANTS CLASS # 15

Q) What will my rank be while attending the Officer Candidate School?

A) You will be promoted to the rank of Officer Candidate, E-6. While enrolled in OCS, you will wear OCS insignia in place of your enlisted rank and will be referred to as “Officer Candidate.” (Note: All guardsmen enrolled in OCS, regardless of prior rank and duty status, will be administratively promoted to the rank and MOS of “Officer Candidate”).

Q) What are the requirements for age?

A) You may not be less than 18 years old in order to apply for a commission, and not older than 44 years and 364 days at the time of commissioning.

Q) Do I have to attend monthly training assemblies (“Drill” or “IDTs”) with my home unit?

A) No, you will only attend OCS Drills (IDT); Once transferred into OCS, candidates will cease drilling with their home units, and are likewise relieved of any positions and responsibilities they held in their home units.

Q) What type of commission will I receive?

A) You will be commissioned into the Texas State Guard as the rank of O-1 (2LT/Ensign).

Q) What happens to me if I fail or drop out of OCS?

A) You will return to your original status and rank within your home unit. You will be counseled by several members of the chain of command, expected to return all items issued by OCS, and your home unit chain of command will be contacted. Simultaneously, OCS will initiate a memorandum for record from the OCS Commander to your Component Command's General Officer, which after review will be sent to your home unit Commander.

Q) What happens if I fail or drop out of OCS and want to reapply?

A) Reapplying for subsequent OCS classes will be handled on a case by case basis and a new application packet must be submitted for board review.

Q) What happens if I miss training?

A) OCS requires that you attend all training assemblies, but allows for a total of twelve missed hours. If an officer candidate misses more than twelve hours, they will be failed out of the course for lack of participation. If you have concerns about attending training events on time, or in their entirety, you should reconsider applying for OCS.

Q) How much time is required for preparation?

A) At minimum, one-half hour for every hour of training is recommended, however, this is a starting guideline, and you must plan to study for the amount of time you will require to be successful. In addition to studying, you are expected to prepare yourself and your equipment for drill, and frequently communicate with your candidate chain of command and project teams in a timely manner between drills.

Q) Why is OCS demanding and stressful?

A) The purpose of OCS is to develop and assess potential future commissioned officers. The OCS staff must assess the leadership potential of the candidates in a stressful yet professional environment. This includes physical and mental stress in garrison and field situations. Experience has shown that the vast majority of the candidates who do not complete the program withdraw voluntarily due to personal


reasons that are not related to the OCS curriculum.

Q) What are the general demographics of an OCS class?

A) A class is typically made up of a mixture of prior-service and non-prior-service TXSG members, 18-44 year-old, males and females.

Q) What is my service obligation after commissioning?

A) Although the TXSG is a volunteer organization, it is requested that each candidate, upon commissioning remain in the TXSG for three years.

Q) What are the training dates for OCS?

A) Training Dates for Class 14 are: Phase I: SEP 2014 (online classes); Phase II: 10-12OCT2014, 07-09NOV2014, 12-14DEC2014, 09-11JAN2015 (mandatory in-person drill attendance).


PREPARING THE OCS STUDENT AUTOBIOGRAPHY

SUBJECT AREA: Written Communication.

ASSIGNMENT: Write an OCS Student autobiography of 4-5 pages (1000

words max.)

ASSIGNMENT INFORMATION:

1. Substance: Generally speaking, a writer reflects upon and describes their life, or part of it, in an

autobiography. For your first assignment, we ask that you write an OCS Student Autobiography,

focusing on that part of your life which has led you to consider becoming a TXSG Officer. Here

are some suggestions for proceeding with this assignment:

a. Present vital statistics: date, place of birth, places of residence, schools you have

attended, family background, and prior military service or experiences.

b. Describe special events in your life; relate circumstances and happenings that make you

different, that help make you what you are, and that you expect your audience to find

memorable.

c. Tell what you expect to contribute to society through gaining this education, and what you

may contribute by completing OCS requirements and gaining a commission.

NOTE: One of your principle writing tasks is to develop a fluid, readable narrative of your life, so do not merely list responses to these suggested questions. Instead, weave your responses into a narrative story of your life, and your expectations in life, and how this relates to your goal of earning a commission in the military.

d. Format: Final paper will computer-printed on one side only. Number each page (except

the first page-cover sheet) on the center bottom of the page. The cover sheet format is

provided. Your autobiography will start on the second page and be numbered "1" in the

numbering sequence of all the remaining pages.

e. Evaluation: The OCS Selection Board and Cadre will evaluate your autobiography to

formulate initial opinions about you. Your autobiography will be judged on four criteria:

content, organization, readability, and presentation. Evaluators will consider the following

questions as they make their evaluation:

f. Substance. How much specific detail have you used? (Generally, the more detail the

better) How appropriate is the detail? How well does the reader get to "know" you, solely

on the bases of your autobiography?

g. Organization. Does your paper develop smoothly? Does each part relate well with the

rest of your paper? Do you relate your earlier life to your present situation in college? Do

your expectations regarding the future emerge clearly from what you reveal of your past

and present?


h. Style. Have you used effective transitions? Have you written directly? Have you chosen

familiar, unpretentious vocabulary? Have you avoided long, cumbersome sentences? On

the other hand, have you also avoided an extended series of very simply structured

sentences? Has your punctuation assisted, rather than hindering or confusing, your

reader? Overall, have you observed the conventions of standard written English?

i. Correctness. Is your text carefully proofread, and free of typographical errors? Have you

used the proper format? Is your text neat, with pages free of smudges and wrinkles?

j. Acknowledgements: Most writers benefit from various kinds of assistance. Most texts are

read in draft form by trusted readers who offer suggestions for improvement.

k. Also, many writers use proofreaders and typists. Many colleges have tutorial services or

writing centers where students can get individual assistance in writing. All writers have an

ethical obligation to acknowledge all such forms of assistance. If you need or want

assistance in writing your autobiography, do not hesitate in obtaining it. However, you

must understand that the substance and content of your autobiography must be your own

work. If you receive help in preparing your autobiography, then you must acknowledge it

on your cover sheet as such:


(Name/Title) read an early draft of my autobiography and offered recommendations.

(Name/Title) proofread my final draft and/or the final text.

(Name/Title)_ typed or word-processed my final text.

If you received no assistance, simply write "none" below the acknowledgements entry on the cover sheet.

Cover Sheet Format

OCS Student Autobiography

by

NAME: (Last, First, Middle)

OCS Program (State)

OCS Class Number

Date Prepared

Acknowledgements:

By


Include the signed Army Physical Fitness Test Scorecard after this page.

Documents

TEXAS STATE GUARD OFFICER CANDIDATE …€œSTANDARDS, HONOR, AND INTEGRITY – NO COMPROMISE” TEXAS STATE GUARD OFFICER CANDIDATE SCHOOL CANDIDATE APPLICATION AND SUPPORT PACKET