Change of Command Inventory

Before a new captain can assume command of a unit, they have to complete a full inventory of all equipment. Due to budgetary concerns, the Army is reemphasizing supply discipline, so it's critical that the incoming commander inventories everything, including all tools and component items.

The most time consuming items are the tool kits, which can take up entire rooms. There are dozens of components, some with dozen of their own subcomponents, and each one has to be properly accounted for. Here's one half of what the "Common Number 1" tool room looks like: The other half is cabinets with labeled drawers, with each drawer filled with individual items. One of those items is a set of flints, which look like this: You can imagine how easy it would be to lose something this small, which only underscores the importance of properly labeling each item with what it is and where it's supposed to go.

Equally important is maintaining the binder that lists everything you're supposed to have and which drawer it should be in. Though the depreciated dollar value of this punch set is probably zero (when was the last time you saw a tool kit packaged with wood?), it would still be a pain in the neck to replace. Even soldiers have equipment that has to be inventoried and accounted for. Though sergeants and above can simply sign off on their clothing records, all junior enlisted soldiers (E1 to E4) have to lay their stuff out.

As an headquarters company commander, I have it easy. Most of my property is office automation -- computers, printers, etc. Still, at over $8 million, there's very little room for error.