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The Quill & Sword

News & Politics Podcasts

The Quill & Sword series of podcasts is created and hosted by The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School (TJAGLCS). There are multiple shows in the series, with The Quill & Sword show serving as the umbrella show. "The Quill & Sword" show contains all episodes from the "Criminal Law Department Presents," "NSL Unscripted," "Mentorship Matters" and "Fred Talks" shows, plus featured episodes from other TJAGLCS departments, and all prior episodes from the discontinued “Battlefield Next” show. "Criminal Law Department Presents" features TJAGLCS Criminal Law professors discussing published CAAF opinions. "NSL Unscripted" features discussions on hot topics related to NSL practice and insight from NSL practitioners and national security leaders. "Mentorship Matters" is hosted by the JAG Corps's Leadership Center and features interviews with leaders from across the Army JAG Corps, Retired JALS Personnel, Academic Leaders, and Army Senior Leaders. "Fred Talks" presents a more informal look at the history of the JAG Corps by the Regimental Historian. The Quill & Sword podcast replaced the TJAGLCS Battlefield Next podcast, which served as the original TJAGLCS podcast series. Each episode in The Quill & Sword series of podcasts is generally 10-20 minutes to enable listening to and from work and to get to the point without hours of investment. Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Location:

United States

Description:

The Quill & Sword series of podcasts is created and hosted by The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School (TJAGLCS). There are multiple shows in the series, with The Quill & Sword show serving as the umbrella show. "The Quill & Sword" show contains all episodes from the "Criminal Law Department Presents," "NSL Unscripted," "Mentorship Matters" and "Fred Talks" shows, plus featured episodes from other TJAGLCS departments, and all prior episodes from the discontinued “Battlefield Next” show. "Criminal Law Department Presents" features TJAGLCS Criminal Law professors discussing published CAAF opinions. "NSL Unscripted" features discussions on hot topics related to NSL practice and insight from NSL practitioners and national security leaders. "Mentorship Matters" is hosted by the JAG Corps's Leadership Center and features interviews with leaders from across the Army JAG Corps, Retired JALS Personnel, Academic Leaders, and Army Senior Leaders. "Fred Talks" presents a more informal look at the history of the JAG Corps by the Regimental Historian. The Quill & Sword podcast replaced the TJAGLCS Battlefield Next podcast, which served as the original TJAGLCS podcast series. Each episode in The Quill & Sword series of podcasts is generally 10-20 minutes to enable listening to and from work and to get to the point without hours of investment. Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Language:

English

Contact:

678-421-6612


Episodes
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The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 63: United States v. Davis (C.A.A.F. 2025)

11/19/2025
In this episode, we discuss changes in the detailed military judge and distinctions between reassignment, removal, disqualification, and recusal. We examine how these distinctions affect the applicable prejudice test for alleged errors during appellate review. We also welcome ROTC Cadets Reagan Aylor and Taos Dye, interns at TJAGLCS. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond” (Contract & Fiscal Law Department) and “Hold My Reg” (Administrative & Civil Law Department). Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:26:16

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The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Episode 13: Deep Dive into the Buy American Act

11/19/2025
On this Episode, we will dive into the Buy American Act. We talk about the history of the BAA and all the changes that have happened throughout its history. We then discuss the current state of the law now. Note: This episode was recorded before 1 Oct 2025. The new SAT is $350k and the MPT is $15k. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond” (Contract & Fiscal Law Department) and “Hold My Reg” (Administrative & Civil Law Department). Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:17:28

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The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Ep 12: The New GAO Enhanced Pleading Standard

11/12/2025
In this episode we discuss the Government Accountability Office’s response to Section 885 of the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act and new Enhanced Pleading Standard. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond” (Contract & Fiscal Law Department) and “Hold My Reg” (Administrative & Civil Law Department). Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:26:36

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The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Special Episode: How were Service Members Paid During the Shutdown

11/7/2025
On this Special Episode, LTC Matthew Firing joins us to talk about how Service Members of the Armed Forces were paid during the Government Shutdown. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond” (Contract & Fiscal Law Department) and “Hold My Reg” (Administrative & Civil Law Department). Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:13:15

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The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 62: United States v. Johnson (C.A.A.F. 2025)

11/5/2025
In this episode we discuss the jurisdiction and authority of the Courts of Criminal Appeals and the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces to address alleged errors in post-trial actions that indicate firearms restrictions under 18 U.S.C. § 922. We cover distinctions from the CAAF’s Williams opinion from last term, timing for when the judgment is entered into the record, and the specific authority of the Courts of Criminal Appeals to provide appropriate relief for errors after the judgment is entered. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond” (Contract & Fiscal Law Department) and “Hold My Reg” (Administrative & Civil Law Department). Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:22:22

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The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Ep 11: Deep Dive into the Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act (FASCA)

11/5/2025
In this episode we are continuing the theme of cybersecurity to talk about the Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act, or FASCSA. After years of framework development, the government has finally dropped its first FASCSA order. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond” (Contract & Fiscal Law Department) and “Hold My Reg” (Administrative & Civil Law Department). Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:16:14

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The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Ep 10: The New Math of Simplified Acquisitions

10/29/2025
In this episode we take a look at the new Simplified Acquisitions and the MicroPurchase thresholds. We discuss the changes and impacts this may have on the Department of War and Federal Government. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond” (Contract & Fiscal Law Department) and “Hold My Reg” (Administrative & Civil Law Department). Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:17:29

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The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 61: United States v. Greene-Watson (C.A.A.F. 2025)

10/23/2025
In this episode we examine the admission of uncharged acts occurring months after the alleged offenses for the purpose of common plan or scheme under Military Rule of Evidence 404(b). We discuss application of the Reynolds test, the decision in Hyppolite on common plan or scheme, the Wet Bandits from the 1990 American Christmas comedy film Home Alone, prejudice in appellate review, and distinctions in legal precedent in a fractured opinion. We also say thank you and farewell to Major Dustin Morgan on his last podcast. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond” (Contract & Fiscal Law Department) and “Hold My Reg” (Administrative & Civil Law Department). Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:22:44

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The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Ep 9: Deep Dive into the Impoundment Control Act

10/22/2025
In this episode LTC Matt Firing sits down with us to talk about the Impoundment Control. We discuss what it is, how it works and why its been in the news. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond” (Contract & Fiscal Law Department) and “Hold My Reg” (Administrative & Civil Law Department). Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:16:02

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The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Ep 8: All About AI: Part 1

10/15/2025
In this episode we take a look at the new policy surrounding AI in the Federal Government including the OMB Memorandums. We discuss GSA’s new AI agreements for AI platforms and the subsequent protests. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond” (Contract & Fiscal Law Department) and “Hold My Reg” (Administrative & Civil Law Department). Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:27:08

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The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Ep 7: Deep Dive into the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification

10/8/2025
In this episode we take a Deep Dive into the DOW’s new and newly finalized Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification rule. We discuss the new challenges and responsibilities of government counsel concerning the new CMMC rule. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond” (Contract & Fiscal Law Department) and “Hold My Reg” (Administrative & Civil Law Department). Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:16:56

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The Quill & Sword | The FAR & Beyond Ep 6: FY2025 NDAA Rundown

10/1/2025
In this episode we take a look at the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). We discuss some of the sections, changes, and updates that have come from the 2025 NDAA. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond” (Contract & Fiscal Law Department) and “Hold My Reg” (Administrative & Civil Law Department). Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:17:56

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The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 60: United States v. Casillas (C.A.A.F. 2025)

9/24/2025
In this episode we discuss the constitutionality of Article 120 and distinctions from CAAF’s recent Mendoza opinion. We also cover the other granted issues addressing questions of legal sufficiency, panel member bias, special instructions on intoxication and consent, and collateral consequences under 18 U.S.C. § 922. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond” (Contract & Fiscal Law Department) and “Hold My Reg” (Administrative & Civil Law Department). Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:23:45

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The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 59: United States v. George (C.A.A.F. 2025)

9/10/2025
In this episode, we discuss the legal sufficiency and notice requirements for attempt offenses under Article 80. We additionally talk about plain error review and interpretation of a charge and specification based on the conduct of the parties at trial. We also welcome Macy Peele, a summer intern at TJAGLCS. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond” (Contract & Fiscal Law Department) and “Hold My Reg” (Administrative & Civil Law Department). Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:14:58

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The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 58: United States v. Patterson (C.A.A.F. 2025)

9/10/2025
In this episode, we discuss the authority of CAAF to review factual sufficiency determinations of Courts of Criminal Appeals. We further address variance involving dates of the charged offense and changes to the specifications under R.C.M. 603. We also welcome LTC Michael Scaletty, Chair, Criminal Law Department, and Jackson Trout, a summer intern at TJAGLCS. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond” (Contract & Fiscal Law Department) and “Hold My Reg” (Administrative & Civil Law Department). Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:13:34

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The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 57: United States v. Brinkman-Coronel (C.A.A.F. 2025)

8/20/2025
In this episode, we discuss the issue of recusal of the Military Judge for Appearance of Bias based on his prior role as the Special Victim Prosecutor in the same jurisdiction and during the timeframe of the alleged offenses. We further discuss the applicability of the Fourth Amendment in the context of apparent authority from third-party consent. We additionally say goodbye and thank you to MAJ ReAnne Wentz on her last podcast and welcome Jack Bracher, a summer intern at TJAGLCS. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond” (Contract & Fiscal Law Department) and “Hold My Reg” (Administrative & Civil Law Department). Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:22:55

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The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 56: United States v. Harborth (C.A.A.F. 2025)

8/6/2025
In this episode we discuss the applicability of the Fourth Amendment in the context where a private actor takes the property of another person and gives it to law enforcement. We address the particularity requirement under Military Rule of Evidence 311, requests for return of property from law enforcement, and the exclusionary rule. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond” (Contract & Fiscal Law Department) and “Hold My Reg” (Administrative & Civil Law Department). Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:24:03

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The Quill & Sword | CAAF Chats Ep 55: United States v. Shafran (C.A.A.F. 2025)

7/28/2025
In this episode we discuss unenumerated Article 134 offenses and whether a specification states an offense. We cover mens rea, wrongfulness, and the maximum liberality standard of review, as well as practical takeaways for charging decisions and timing trial objections. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond” (Contract & Fiscal Law Department) and “Hold My Reg” (Administrative & Civil Law Department). Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:18:46

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The Quill & Sword | Hold my Reg | Episode 5: The HEART Act, Educational Scholarships, and other Benefits for Surviving Spouses and Children with Ms. Traci Voelke

6/11/2025
In this episode, Major Ceara Riggs, Associate Professor in the Administrative and Civil Law Department (ADA) at The Judge Advocate General's Legal Center and School (TJAGLCS) interviews Ms. Traci Voelke, Legal Assistance Attorney at Fort Belvoir and Gold Star Spouse. Ms. Voelke discusses various benefits available to the surviving spouses and children of Service members who have died while serving. Ms. Voelke explains the importance of available benefits, the timelines and processes for electing such benefits, and how various benefits interact or offset each other so families can make informed decisions and Judge Advocates can appropriately advise commanders. Ms. Voelke’s husband, MAJ Paul Voelke, was killed in Afghanistan in 2012 while on his fifth deployment. Despite being the family care team coordinator for her husband’s unit, she was not prepared for the myriad of benefit complexities that ensued but has since learned about the benefits available and advocated for additional benefits for surviving family members. Outside of her military work, she also serves as a board member and Survivor Outreach Coordinator for the 98 Fund / the Alaska Project, advises the Chief of Staff of the Army and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs on issues affecting military survivors as part of the Survivor Advisory Working Group, and recently served on the DoD working group, “Making Your Final Wishes Known.”

Duration:00:25:02

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The Quill & Sword | Talent Management Office (TMO) and Plans, Programs, and Policies (P3) Discuss JAGC Promotion Selection Boards

5/30/2025
In this Podcast, the Talent Management Office (TMO) and Plans, Programs, and Policies (P3) teams provide an overview of JAG Corps Promotion Selection Boards. This session features MAJ Shaloe Green and MAJ Emily McElroy, Plans Officers from P3, and Mrs. Kelly Yandall, Administrative Specialist from TMO, and together they share information and updates on promotion selection boards, the new My Board File and Army Selection Board System (ASBS) 2.0, commons concerns, and how to address concerns or errors in your board records. For more promotion selection board information and resources, visit HRC Selection Boards at: https://www.hrc.army.mil/content/Selection%20Boards%20Frequently%20Asked%20Questions TMO “Promotion Boards” tab on JAGCNet – https://www.jagcnet2.army.mil/Sites/TMO.nsf Connect with The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School by visiting our website at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/ or on Facebook (tjaglcs), Instagram (tjaglcs), or LinkedIn (school/tjaglcs).

Duration:00:20:03