How does the Unit CDR determine the recommended promotions list?

The Unit Commander (CDR) determines the recommended promotions list primarily through promotion boards that assess candidates by voting yes or no. This method ensures that a systematic and thorough evaluation process is applied to each member being considered for promotion. Promotion boards typically consist of senior leaders who evaluate the candidates' performance, potential, and other relevant criteria, leading to a fair and objective assessment.

The voting process allows for input from multiple leaders, reducing bias and encouraging a more rounded evaluation of a soldier's qualifications. Consequently, the approach emphasizes merit and the candidate's readiness for promotion, as opposed to arbitrary factors like random selection, which would not ensure that only the most qualified individuals are recommended for advancement.

Other methods, such as evaluating physical fitness scores, may contribute to the overall assessment of a soldier’s capabilities, but they do not constitute the primary mechanism for determining promotion recommendations. Similarly, a seniority system does not necessarily guarantee that the best candidates are promoted, as it may overlook performance and potential. Thus, the structured process of a promotion board is crucial for an equitable promotions system within the unit.