Inspector General (IG)

For more than 200 years, Army Inspector General's have inspected, audited, investigated, trained and performed those duties necessary to support the Army's mission. During that time, the purpose and organization of the Army Inspector General system have changed considerably. The modern Inspector General system mission is to serve as an extension of the eyes, ears, voice and conscience of The Adjutant General, providing a continuing assessment on the state of the economy, efficiency, discipline, training, morale, esprit de corps and readiness throughout the Vermont National Guard.

The Inspector General system is designed to be a full-service assessment of the operational, administrative and logistical effectiveness of Vermont National Guard commands under applicable statutes and regulations.

The Inspector General (IG) conducts unit and organization inspections to determine training, administrative, operational and logistical readiness for mobilization.

In addition to inspections the Inspector General office conducts individual assistance requests and investigations. Assistance can be requested by commanders, Soldiers, family members, civilian employees, retirees and anyone who seeks help with problems related to the Vermont National Guard.

Other than inspection policy, the Inspectors General does not formulate policy, nor do they have inherent command authority. The Inspector General will not provide assistance if there are other means of redress or appeal available (unless that system is in question). Confidentiality is of utmost concern, but it cannot be guaranteed.

• To complain without fear of reprisal is the right of any Soldier, civilian, or family member seeking IG assistance. Problem solving is one the IG's primary missions. We take every complaint seriously; every case is given due diligence.
• Give your chain of command/concern a chance to solve the problem/itself. Many problems must be addressed to the chain of command for resolution anyway.
• If IG assistance is needed, contact your local IG first. IGs at higher commands will normally refer the case to the local IG for action.
• Be honest- don't provide misleading information. Non-truths only serve as obstacles, as they hamper the resolution process. IGs will discover the truth. There can be penalties for knowingly providing false information.
• Keep in mind IGs are not policy makers. Only commanders can give orders. The role of the IG is to advise the commander, and to help resolve issues.
• IGs can only resolve a case on the basis of fact. A complaint or allegation must be supported with evidence.
• Don't expect instant action on your request. Assistance cases, investigative inquiries, and investigations can take time.
• Be prepared to take "No" for the answer. Regardless of how a case turns out, the IG will give an explanation, plus suggestions on how to resolve the issue(s).
• What the IG can do for you.