Yes, I was arrowed to be the stand-in HQ CSM (without the KAH pay).
It was really admin shit - planning and discussing everyday with officers, specs, other CSMs, dealing with RSM, CO, S3, Bn2IC etc. Its also abt dealing with people...
Handling of men is another big problem. HQ people are diverse, split and usually can't be bothered (nua). Well, this is just a one dimension paradigm.
Taking on the role of CSM, I started to see things from other perspectives. I saw how the same HQ guys were different in terms of their mentality and maturity. I saw how the actions of specs and officers can really affect the morale and discipline of the soldiers. I learnt how simple first and last parades can help to bring people together. I learnt how hokkien and vulgarities can help to close up the gaps between men and commanders.
I learnt how to engage people with a common goal - to "serve and f**k off (out-pro)", how to delegate and entrust authority to people.
I started to get the kick out of it so much that I had the thought of asking my S3 to put me to PS course. (now that I've out-pro, I seriously think its pure stupidity to think in that way! haha) siao!!! I think I came to like it coz it was a new thing to me, and new responsibilities always excite me.
And yes, how to deal with imperfections of life (army).
Most importantly, making new friends with the other CSMs.
I was really quite touched yesterday, looking at the HQ peeps out-proing and shaking hands with them, talking cock for the last few minutes of the in-camp.
2SG Tan is going back to Mr Tan again. Ops Sgt/ stand-in HQ CSM is now back to his proper role as Manager, International Operations (South China).
Work work (at least I get paid for it hahaha)... ...