APFT "failure"

One of the forcing mechanisms Army commanders have is the "suspension of favorable action," or flag. In fact, according to Army Regulation 600-8-2, §2-b you can be flagged for "failing to take the APFT [the physical fitness test] within the time prescribed by regulations, or when directed by the commanding officer."

That particular clause can really trip up an HHC commander, though. True, you can "order" a higher ranking officer in the headquarters to take an APFT, and flag him if he doesn't, but you'd better be ready for the consequences.

I recently could have easily gotten myself into trouble over this, but by asking some good questions instead of forcing the issue, I found out that the problem was not the individual refusing to take the APFT. It my subordinates' fault for not realizing the person was exempt because of health issues.

It's a good thing I had a conversation with the person before I made any threats -- the only failure in this particular situation was in my screening systems, not the individual.