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U.S. Army Inspector General

Monday, December 13, 2021

What is it?

U.S. Army Inspectors General serve to provide impartial, objective and unbiased advice and oversight to the Army through relevant, timely and thorough inspection, assistance, investigations and training. There are four functions of the Army Inspector General:

  • Assistance
  • Inspections
  • Investigations
  • Teaching and Training

Inspectors general are appointed from the officer (captain and above), warrant officer (chief warrant officer 2 and above), and NCO (staff sergeant (promotable) and above) ranks. All candidates undergo a rigorous background check to ensure they uphold the highest standards of Army service. Inspectors General:

  • Conduct inspections of systemic issues relating to the smooth operation and overall readiness of a unit or the wider Army.
  • Assist division-level and higher commanders and directors with conducting their own organizational inspection program.
  • Inquire into allegations of misconduct, and often investigate such allegations.
  • Teach and train their commanders and staff members on the right way of doing things, as well as on updates on Army policies.

Inspectors General is the only special duty in the Army that is governed by the Secretary of the Army.

What are the current and past efforts of the Army?

Army Inspectors General wore various identifying uniform items throughout the 19th century and into the early 20th century. After 1903, the only item identifying an IG was the IG branch insignia on officers’ dress uniforms.

The Army created the Inspector General Identification Badge (IGIB) to honor the work of IGs, who have been assisting the force since Dec. 13, 1777. To commemorate the 244th anniversary, the 67th IG and the IG Sergeant Major, unveiled the IGIB on Dec. 13, 2021. The new IGIB provides a visual indicator of a Soldier’s current or former service as an IG.

All current and former IG in good standing across all components of the Army, who have completed the Inspector General School basic course, are eligible to wear the IGIB for the remainder of their Army career.

What continued efforts does the Army have planned?

Inspectors General are crucial to the Army’s continual efforts to stay prepared for any contingency, as well as helping the Army navigate new challenges as they come up. IGs will continue with its focus on People and to assist commanders and the wider Army with improving readiness.

Why is this important to the Army?

The Inspectors General are the eyes, ears, voice and conscience of the Army. They represent the very best of the Army Profession. An IG’s primary mission is assisting the Army’s greatest asset — its People.

Resources:

Related Documents:

Related Articles:

Hotlines:

  • Army Inspector General: 1-800-424-9098
    • Commercial: 703-604-8799
    • DSN: 664-8799
  • Army National Guard Inspector General: 703-607-2539
  • Army Reserve Inspector General: 855-560-3805

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Focus Quote for the Day

“Inspectors General are impartial fact-finders and problem solvers who use policy and guidance to render assistance or provide answers.”

Lt. Gen. Donna W. Martin, Inspector General of the Army