Duties of Detachment Officers
Commandant
The first and foremost job of the Commandant is to LEAD. In doing so, he/she sets an example for the other Officers and Detachment members. The Commandant should be reasonable well versed in Robert's Rules of Order and the Ritual of the Marine Corps League for conducting a meeting. The Commandant is also called on to Chair the Officer Meetings in addition to general membership meetings.
Sr. Vice Commandant
The Senior Vice Commandant will be called upon to perform on behalf of the Commandant when the Commandant is unable to preside at meetings or attend events. Additional duties may include: training of the Officers and project committee chairpersons, assimilating Detachment reports on operations, finances, and project results for presentation to other Officers and members.
Jr. Vice Commandant
The Junior Vice Commandant is primarily responsible for the recruiting and retention of members. The JVC is the Chairperson of Membership (Recruiting and Retention) Program. The Commandant may utilize the JVC to prepare monthly general meeting programs (other than the business meeting) that involve members and bring interesting speakers/topics to the membership. In conjunction with the Adjutant, the JVC develops and maintains records on membership and participation. The JVC also develops budget projections and goals for membership, and programs reaching those goals.
Judge Advocate
The JA must be a regular member in good standing. The JA should have a working knowledge of the bylaws and he/she will advise, construe, counsel and render opinions on questions of the MCL bylaws and Administrative Procedures. The JA is the "watchdog" and "policeman" for assuring that the strict adherence to the Detachment, Department and National Bylaws are followed.
Adjutant
The Detachment Adjutant is the recording secretary for meetings and affairs. In addition, the Adjutant provides support to Detachment Officers and project leaders through correspondence, documentation, written communication, media releases, and other staff assistance. The Adjutant is also responsible for the official notifications to the members. He/She keeps accurate minutes of meetings and distributes these to the Detachment.
Paymaster
The Paymaster serves as treasurer, records the business, and receives and deposits all monies in federally insured accounts maintained in the name of the unit only, assists in an annual audit, and surrenders all records to the appointed successor. The Paymaster is responsible for dues transmittals and works with the Adjutant in keeping the Detachment membership roster.
Sergant At Arms
The SA is responsible for the setting up and maintaining Order at Business meetings. He/She also participates in the presentation and honoring of Colors at meetings and ceremonies. At meetings, the SA should make sure the physical facilities for the meeting are set up properly. Prior to the meeting, the SA should meet the guest or visitors, introduce them to other members of the Detachment and provide applications to potential members. He/She needs to determine that those present for the meetings are authorized. During the meeting, the SA is to assure order during the meeting, taking action when required to restore order, and to follow any directions given by the Presiding Officer.
Chaplain
The Chaplain tends to the needs of the members and members families, particularly during periods of distress, illness, and/or death. It is every member's responsibility to keep the Chaplain informed of situations and issues of need within the Detachment. In addition, the Chaplain is called upon to offer invocations and prayer for the meetings, initiations, installations, and for ceremonies. The Chaplain may be called upon to participate in funeral services, and make visitation to members/families that are sick, or who have lost a loved one. The "Death Notice" should be completed by the Chaplain and forwarded to the Department Chaplain, and National Chaplain, for deceased members of the Detachment. As part of the opening and closing ceremonies at business meetings, the RITUAL provides for the opening and closing of the Bible, and for an invocation and benediction.