The Mustang Lariat

This issue highlights key updates on promotions, accession planning, mentorship, and leadership within the LDO/CWO community. Officers are encouraged to stay engaged, maintain readiness, and mentor future Mustangs.

1. Promotion Planning & Career Progression – FY-25 promotion planning is complete, ensuring a balanced LDO/CWO community. Critical selection board requirements will change in FY-26.

2. Accession Planning – Demand for new LDOs/CWOs remains steady, with applicant numbers around 1,500 annually.

3. Road Shows & Outreach – The OCM team completed extensive fleet visits and is planning more for 2024.

4. Mentorship & Leadership – Officers must actively mentor future leaders, participate in selection boards, and engage in community development.

5. Readiness & Assignability – Officers must maintain physical and mental readiness, as detailers report issues with worldwide assignability.

6. Silver Eagle & SWON Messages – New Silver Eagle CAPT Matt Arnold stresses record accuracy and mentorship, while SWON CWO5 Brian Baker emphasizes technical proficiency and leadership.

7. Mustang Academy & History – New leadership at the Mustang Academy; recognition of outstanding students and Warrant Officer history dating to 1775.

8. Aviation Discrete Requirements – Selection boards are refining how they assess technical qualifications to ensure fairness.

This issue underscores the need for professional development, mentorship, and technical excellence to sustain the Mustang community’s strength.