AR 600-20 Explained: A Practical Guide to Army Command Policy

Last updated on August 13th, 2026 at 05:25 pm

If you’re serving as a commander, First Sergeant, platoon leader, platoon sergeant, or senior NCO in the Active Army, Army National Guard, or Army Reserve, one regulation should always be within arm’s reach: AR 600-20, Army Command Policy.

In my opinion, this is one of the most important regulations every leader should read because it establishes the policies, responsibilities, and expectations for command throughout the Army. Whether you’re preparing to assume company command or you’ve been leading Soldiers for years, understanding AR 600-20 will make you a better, more informed leader.

Many leaders make the mistake of only opening this regulation when a problem arises. Instead, I recommend studying it before you need it. The regulation is lengthy—well over 100 pages—but it’s organized into logical chapters that make it easy to digest. Rather than trying to read it cover to cover in one sitting, work through one chapter each week.

As you read, make notes, identify areas where your unit could improve, and create an action plan. You’ll quickly discover that this regulation isn’t just about rules; it’s about building disciplined, professional, and effective organizations.

What is AR 600-20?

AR 600-20 is the Army’s primary regulation governing command policy. It explains the authority and responsibilities of commanders while establishing policies that promote good order, discipline, readiness, accountability, and the welfare of Soldiers and Families.

Although it’s written primarily for commanders, every Army leader can benefit from understanding what’s inside. Many of the issues you’ll encounter throughout your career—discipline, counseling, equal opportunity, family care plans, command climate, and professional relationships—are addressed in this regulation.

If you’re responsible for leading Soldiers, there’s a good chance you’ll reference AR 600-20 many times during your career.

AR 600-20: Army Command Policy is organized into several chapters that cover the Army’s policies on leadership, command, Soldier welfare, and unit climate. While the regulation is updated periodically, the major sections generally include the following:

Chapter 1 – Introduction

• Purpose
• References
• Explanation of abbreviations
• Responsibilities
• Policy overview

Chapter 2 – Command Policies

This is one of the most important chapters in the regulation. It covers topics such as:

• Command authority
• Command responsibility
• Assumption of command
• Succession of command
• Command inspections
• Command climate
• Open-door policy
• Command accountability
• Equal treatment of Soldiers

Chapter 3 – Army Well-Being

Topics include:

• Soldier and Family readiness
• Quality of life
• Family readiness groups
• Resilience
• Programs that support Soldiers and their Families

Chapter 4 – Military Discipline and Conduct

Covers standards of conduct, including:

• Military courtesy
• Professional relationships
• Hazing
• Bullying
• Prohibited relationships (fraternization)
• Standards of behavior
• Extremist activities and organizations

Chapter 5 – Equal Opportunity (EO)

Discusses:

• Equal Opportunity Program
• Prevention of discrimination
• Complaint procedures
• Commander responsibilities
• Creating a positive command climate

Chapter 6 – Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP)

Includes:

• SHARP Program policies
• Commander responsibilities
• Reporting procedures
• Victim advocacy
• Prevention and training requirements

Chapter 7 – Army Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)

Focuses primarily on:

• Civilian employees
• Equal employment policies
• Workplace discrimination
• Complaint process

Appendices

Depending on the current version of the regulation, you’ll also find appendices covering topics such as:

• Army Values
• Command authority references
• Sample policies
• Complaint procedures
• Additional guidance and forms

The Most Important Sections for Company Commanders

If you’re a company commander, platoon leader, first sergeant, XO, or readiness NCO, I recommend paying particular attention to these areas:

• Chapter 2: Command Policies
• Open Door Policy
• Command Climate
• Assumption and Succession of Command
• Army Equal Opportunity (EO)
• SHARP Responsibilities
• Hazing and Bullying Prevention
• Professional Relationships
• Commander Responsibilities for Soldier and Family Readiness
• Military Discipline and Standards

These sections affect the day-to-day leadership and management of virtually every Army unit.

Why Every Company Commander Should Know AR 600-20

When I was a company commander, I quickly learned that almost everything you do as a commander connects to Army policy in one way or another. You might not think about regulations when things are going well, but the moment you have a Soldier issue, disciplinary problem, complaint, leadership challenge, or unusual situation, knowing where to find the right guidance becomes extremely important.

That’s one reason I believe AR 600-20 is one of the most important Army regulations for company commanders to understand. It covers many of the issues commanders deal with every day, especially those involving command authority, responsibilities, leadership, good order and discipline, and command climate.

During my time in command, I dealt with all kinds of situations involving Soldiers. Some were simple and could be handled with a quick conversation or counseling session. Others were much more complicated and required input from the First Sergeant, battalion leadership, S1, the Chaplain, JAG, or another subject-matter expert.

One lesson I learned early on was this: don’t make important decisions based solely on what you’ve heard, what another commander did, or how things have always been done. Check the regulation. Know what Army policy actually says. When necessary, get advice from the appropriate subject-matter expert before making your decision.

Having a working knowledge of AR 600-20 can help you:

• Make better leadership decisions. Instead of guessing, you can base important decisions on established Army policy.
• Stay within your authority. Commanders have significant authority, but that authority also comes with responsibilities and limitations.
• Protect your Soldiers. Knowing Army policy helps ensure Soldiers are treated fairly, consistently, and professionally.
• Protect yourself as the commander. Some leadership mistakes happen because commanders simply don’t know the applicable policy. Ignorance of the regulation won’t necessarily protect you when something goes wrong.
• Build a positive command climate. Soldiers pay attention to how leaders treat people, enforce standards, and handle difficult situations. Consistency matters.
• Maintain good order and discipline. Standards mean very little if leaders don’t understand them or enforce them appropriately.
• Reduce unnecessary mistakes. Taking a few minutes to check the regulation can sometimes prevent a problem that takes weeks or months to fix.
• Improve unit readiness. Personnel problems, poor morale, leadership issues, and disciplinary problems can quickly distract a unit from its mission.
• Lead with greater confidence. You don’t need to have every answer memorized. You simply need to know where to look and who to ask.

You Don’t Need to Memorize AR 600-20

Here’s the good news: you don’t need to memorize AR 600-20 from cover to cover. I certainly didn’t.

What you should do is become familiar with the regulation. Know its major sections. Understand which subjects it covers. Keep a current copy accessible and know how to quickly locate the information you need.

I also recommend that new company commanders spend some time reading through AR 600-20 shortly before taking command and then revisit it periodically while in command. Highlight important sections, take notes, and bookmark the areas you believe you’ll reference most often.

Remember, regulations aren’t a substitute for leadership or common sense. They provide the framework you operate within. Your job as the commander is to understand that framework, apply sound judgment, seek advice when necessary, and take care of your Soldiers while accomplishing the mission.

That’s what good command is all about.

Command Policies

One of the most important sections of AR 600-20 is the chapter covering command policies. This chapter establishes many of the day-to-day responsibilities of commanders and senior leaders.

Topics include:

• Chain of command
• Open door policy
• Noncommissioned Officer Support Channel
• Command authority
• Relief for cause
• Performance counseling
• Restrictions on command
• Date of rank
• Responsibility and accountability
• Command climate
• Leadership responsibilities

If you’re assuming company command, this is probably the first chapter I would recommend reading.

Army Well-Being

One of the themes you’ll see throughout AR 600-20 is the Army’s commitment to taking care of its people. Mission accomplishment will always be important, but successful commanders understand that taking care of Soldiers is essential to accomplishing the mission.

This chapter discusses leader responsibilities related to Soldier welfare, quality of life, morale, resiliency, and family readiness. It reminds leaders that readiness isn’t just about equipment and training—it’s also about people.

Strong leaders invest time in developing their Soldiers, supporting Army Families, and creating an environment where people can succeed both personally and professionally.

Military Discipline and Conduct

Good order and discipline are the foundation of every successful military organization. AR 600-20 provides extensive guidance on maintaining professional standards and enforcing Army policies fairly and consistently.

Some of the topics covered include:

• Military discipline
• Obedience to lawful orders
• Military courtesy
• Exercising military authority
• Responsibilities of commanders
• Hazing
• Bullying
• Prohibited relationships
• Extremist activities
• Domestic violence
• Misuse of government resources
• Army language policy

Many of these issues can have significant legal and administrative consequences, which is why commanders must understand the regulation before problems arise.

Other Responsibilities of Command

One thing I appreciate about AR 600-20 is how comprehensive it is. Beyond discipline and leadership, it covers dozens of additional command responsibilities that many new commanders don’t initially consider.

Examples include:

• Family Care Plans
• Medical readiness
• Religious accommodation
• Whistleblower Protection
• Unit memorial policies
• Army Family programs
• Prohibition on labor unions
• Distribution of printed materials
• Family readiness

The section on Family Care Plans deserves special attention. If you command National Guard or Army Reserve Soldiers, you’ll likely encounter these situations regularly, and it’s important to understand both your responsibilities and the applicable policies.

Equal Opportunity Program

Creating and maintaining a professional command climate is one of a commander’s most important responsibilities.

AR 600-20 explains the Army’s Equal Opportunity (EO) Program, including:

• Leader responsibilities
• Complaint procedures
• Required training
• Prevention efforts
• Command climate assessments
• Responsibilities of Equal Opportunity Leaders and Advisors

Every Soldier deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Understanding the EO program helps commanders build stronger teams and resolve issues quickly and professionally.

Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault Prevention

Another critical section addresses the Army’s efforts to prevent sexual harassment and sexual assault. The regulation outlines commander responsibilities for training, education, reporting procedures, victim support, and creating a culture where inappropriate behavior is never tolerated.

As a commander, these responsibilities aren’t optional. They’re essential to maintaining trust, protecting Soldiers, and preserving good order and discipline within the organization.

How to Study AR 600-20

Trying to sit down and read AR 600-20 from beginning to end in one weekend probably isn’t the best use of your time. Yes, you could do it, but chances are you won’t remember much of what you read. Army regulations aren’t exactly page-turners, and AR 600-20 contains a lot of information.

I believe a better approach is to study the regulation in small chunks and focus on understanding how it applies to you, your Soldiers, and your unit. Your goal isn’t to memorize the regulation. Your goal is to become familiar enough with it that you know what it covers, where to find important information, and when you need to reference it.

Here’s what I recommend:

• Read one chapter at a time. Depending on your schedule, that might mean one chapter each week or every few days. Give yourself enough time to actually understand what you’re reading rather than simply checking the block.
• Highlight the important passages. Pay special attention to anything dealing with command responsibilities, leadership, discipline, Soldier conduct, command climate, and other subjects you are likely to encounter.
• Take notes as you read. Write down anything that surprises you, anything you didn’t already know, and anything you believe you should discuss with your leadership team.
• Create an action-item list. When you find something your unit should be doing differently, write it down. Don’t just read the regulation and forget about it. Turn what you learn into action.
• Discuss important topics with your First Sergeant and other key leaders. Your 1SG, XO, platoon leaders, and platoon sergeants should understand the policies that directly affect their Soldiers. Use what you learn to start productive conversations.
• Incorporate selected topics into OPD and NCOPD. You don’t have to teach the entire regulation. Pick one relevant subject and spend 15 or 20 minutes discussing it during a leadership development session. You could even assign different leaders to teach different sections.
• Review the regulation when unusual situations arise. This is probably when you’ll learn the most. When you’re dealing with a real Soldier or leadership issue, look up the applicable section and read it carefully.
• Keep a current copy readily available. Regulations change. Make sure you’re referencing the current version rather than an old copy saved on someone’s computer from several years ago.
• Bookmark the sections you reference frequently. Over time, you’ll discover there are certain parts of AR 600-20 you return to again and again. Make those sections easy to find.

Turn What You Read Into Action

This is the part I believe many leaders miss. Reading a regulation doesn’t accomplish much if you never apply what you learn.

As you work through AR 600-20, constantly ask yourself questions such as: Are we doing this correctly in my unit? Do my subordinate leaders understand this policy? Is there something we need to change? Should we train our Soldiers on this?

If you discover an area where your unit could improve, take action. Maybe that means updating a policy, conducting leader training, talking with your First Sergeant, getting clarification from battalion, or simply educating your Soldiers.

I would much rather spend 20 or 30 minutes each week studying one part of AR 600-20 than try to cram the entire regulation into one weekend and forget most of it a few days later. Small, consistent study sessions add up.

Over time, you’ll develop a solid working knowledge of the regulation. More importantly, when an unusual leadership situation lands on your desk—and eventually one will—you’ll have a much better idea of where to look, what questions to ask, and who to contact for additional guidance.

That’s the real objective. You don’t need to know everything. You need to know where to find the answer.

Why This Regulation Matters

The best commanders aren’t the ones who have every regulation memorized. They’re the ones who know where to find answers and who consistently apply Army policies fairly and professionally.

AR 600-20 serves as the foundation for many aspects of Army leadership. It explains not only what commanders are responsible for, but also why those responsibilities matter. Whether you’re leading a platoon, company, battalion, or brigade, the principles found in this regulation will help you create a disciplined, ethical, and mission-focused organization.

Final Thoughts

If you’re serious about becoming a better Army leader, make AR 600-20 part of your professional reading program. In my opinion, it’s one of the most valuable regulations every company commander, First Sergeant, platoon leader, and senior NCO should know. The time you invest studying it today can save you countless hours—and potentially significant problems—later in your career.

Download the latest version, keep a copy on your computer or tablet, and refer to it often. You’ll become a more confident leader, make better decisions, and be better prepared to handle the challenges that come with command.

Recommended Resources

If you want to better understand AR 600-20 and become a more effective Army leader, don’t stop with just this article. The regulation provides the framework, but great leadership comes from continually studying Army doctrine, learning from experienced leaders, and applying those lessons every day.

Army Regulations and Doctrine

These are some of the most valuable Army publications to study alongside AR 600-20:

• ADP 6-22 – Army Leadership and the Profession – The Army’s foundational doctrine on leadership, character, and developing Soldiers.
• FM 6-22 – Developing Leaders – Practical guidance on counseling, coaching, mentoring, and building effective organizations.
• AR 623-3 – Evaluation Reporting System – Learn how the Army evaluates officers and NCOs through OERs and NCOERs.
• ATP 6-22.1 – The Counseling Process – Excellent guidance for conducting effective developmental counseling.

Recommended Books

• The Politics of Command
• The Part-Time Army Company Commander Training Course
• Small Unit Leadership
• Once an Eagle

Recommended Articles on Part-Time-Commander.com

If you found this guide helpful, you might also enjoy these articles:

• FM 6-22 Explained: Army Leadership and the Profession
• AR 623-3 Explained: Army Evaluation Reporting System
• How to Build Trust in Your Army Unit
• Army Counseling Best Practices
• How to Improve Your Army Unit

Final Recommendation

No Army regulation can cover every situation you’ll face as a leader. Regulations like AR 600-20 provide the standards and establish expectations, but leadership is learned through experience, continuous education, and mentorship.

Study the regulations. Read leadership books. Learn from experienced NCOs and officers. Most importantly, apply what you learn every time you interact with your Soldiers. That’s how good leaders become great ones.