task assignment in servicenow

• Stack Overflow for Teams Where developers & technologists share private knowledge with coworkers
• Advertising & Talent Reach devs & technologists worldwide about your product, service or employer brand
• OverflowAI GenAI features for Teams
• OverflowAPI Train & fine-tune LLMs
• Labs The future of collective knowledge sharing
• About the company Visit the blog

Collectives™ on Stack Overflow

Find centralized, trusted content and collaborate around the technologies you use most.

Q&A for work

Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search.

Get early access and see previews of new features.

Assigning the fulfillment group based on user's location using assignment lookup rules in catalog task advance script

I created a script in catalog task in workflow to find the location of the current user and find which assignment lookup rule should be use base on the location. But it's not working.

Appreciate all the help. Thank you.

2 Answers 2

Judging by the table name that looks like a data lookup table. Is there any reason why you are not trying to implement this requirement using the Data Lookup Definitions rather than Assignment Rules?

If you are insistent on taking this route, then the last line should read

as that would be a Sys ID and not the display value of the location. The script would be running on the current task record, so it's accessed using current . Also, take steps to verify that the field name is indeed task_fulfillment_group .

Adding on to the given answer, please add the following at the last line of your code, provided that task is also a GlideRecord.

Your Answer

Reminder: Answers generated by artificial intelligence tools are not allowed on Stack Overflow. Learn more

Sign up or log in

Post as a guest.

Required, but never shown

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy .

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged servicenow or ask your own question .

• The Overflow Blog
• This developer tool is 40 years old: can it be improved?
• Unpacking the 2024 Developer Survey results
• Featured on Meta
• We've made changes to our Terms of Service & Privacy Policy - July 2024
• Introducing an accessibility dashboard and some upcoming changes to display...
• Tag hover experiment wrap-up and next steps

Hot Network Questions

• AttributeError: DescribeData: Method spatialReference does not exist when iterating listLayers()
• How does Chakotay know about the mirror universe?
• How can I pass a constructed image path to \lettrine?
• What type of concept is "mad scientist"?
• What purpose did the lower-right "Enter" key serve on the original Mac 128k keyboard?
• cd 'old' 'new' with multiple "whole directory-name" substitutions
• Who‘s to say that beliefs held because of rational reasons are indeed more justified than beliefs held because of emotional ones
• What is the English word for "tableau" in the context of the theatre?
• Have King Shark and Killer Croc fought before?
• An English equivalent of the Japanese idiom "be tied with a red string (of destiny)"
• Find positions of unique elements in a nested list
• When/why did software only engines overtake custom hardware?
• Challenges to complete apple ID account to download Apps when in an unsupported country
• Word/phrase for avoiding a task because it has a lot of unknowns
• How to interpret the "As much as" in "As much as I like her, I can't agree with her on this."
• Do academic researchers generally not worry about their work infringing on patents? Have there been cases where they wish they had?
• Is there any knowledge such that a realist mindset is necessary to grasp it? (As apposed to an anti-realist mindset)
• Low current continuity checker
• Can a train/elevator be feasible for scaling huge mountains (modern technology)?
• High-precision solution for the area of a region
• Is there a Morse function that does not arise from a minimal-dimensional height function?
• Four Year Old Pushing and Positive Discipline Techniques
• Can right shift by n-bits operation be implemented using hardware multiplier just like left shift?
• Adjust circle radius by spline parameter

Try Process AI free

How to create a change task in servicenow.

Ready to take the plunge into ServiceNow ? One of the main tasks is creating change tasks. Whether you’re a new user or a pro, it’s important to know how to do this efficiently.

Creating a change task in ServiceNow involves some steps. These are like milestones, making sure every aspect of the change is done properly.

When making a change task, think about its purpose and outcome. Each task should be clear and help the change be successful. Setting goals for each task gives clarity and focus.

Also, assign someone to each task. This makes sure progress continues and everyone involved can communicate.

Automation tools in ServiceNow can make change management easier. Use templates and workflows for consistency and efficiency. Automation reduces errors and saves time.

Understanding ServiceNow and Change Task Creation

Understanding the Creation of Change Tasks in ServiceNow

ServiceNow provides a comprehensive platform for managing and organizing various IT processes, including change management. Change tasks, an integral part of this system, play a crucial role in efficiently implementing and tracking changes within an organization.

To gain a deeper understanding of ServiceNow and the creation of change tasks, let’s break down the process and explore its key aspects.

In this table, we omit any specific mention of HTML tags or tables, focusing solely on conveying the information in a clear and concise manner.

Expanding on our previous discussion, it’s important to highlight some unique details about ServiceNow and its change task creation process. This platform simplifies change management by providing a user-friendly interface, automating key processes, and enabling effective collaboration among teams. By leveraging ServiceNow, organizations can ensure smooth transitions during the implementation of changes, minimize disruptions, and maximize efficiency.

Now, let’s delve into a true story that exemplifies the significance of ServiceNow and change task creation. In a large multinational company, the implementation of a critical software update led to countless system failures and disrupted business operations. After experiencing significant financial losses and reputation damage, the company decided to adopt ServiceNow for change management. By leveraging the platform’s robust capabilities and meticulously creating change tasks, the company successfully implemented subsequent updates without any major incidents. This resulted in improved efficiency and ensured a seamless transition for both internal teams and customers.

By following the proper flow and context, we have shed light on the concept of change task creation within the ServiceNow platform. It is evident that ServiceNow’s capabilities significantly contribute to efficient change management, streamlining processes, and avoiding unnecessary disruptions.

ServiceNow is like a virtual assistant that can handle all your IT tasks, so you can sit back, relax, and let the lazy robot do the work for you.

What is ServiceNow?

ServiceNow is a cloud-based platform that enables businesses to simplify their processes and increase effectiveness. It’s a hub for IT service management and automates activities such as incident management, change management, and problem solving.

Organizations can use ServiceNow to manage change requests and monitor the progress of related tasks. They can create change tasks that break down big changes into smaller parts. Assigning individuals or teams is then done to complete those tasks.

To get the most out of ServiceNow’s change task creation, certain guidelines should be followed. Firstly, set a clear scope for each task so everyone knows their job. This prevents misunderstandings and ensures tasks are completed in time.

Secondly, prioritize tasks by urgency and effect. Assigning priority levels helps allocate resources appropriately and take care of urgent issues first. This minimizes any disruptions and helps with the change implementation phase.

Additionally, communication is essential for successful change task creation. All stakeholders must be kept up to date on each task’s progress through ServiceNow’s communication features. This encourages transparency and coordination between teams.

Lastly, monitor and track the completion of change tasks with ServiceNow’s reporting features. This provides insights into the progress of the change process and helps find any potential issues. By analyzing the data, organizations can optimize their workflows and improve efficiency.

What is a Change Task?

A Change Task in ServiceNow is a job delegated to people or teams inside an organization. It’s a component of the bigger change management process, designed to carry out changes smoothly and efficiently. Change tasks are made to guarantee each factor of a change plan is properly tackled and executed.

When it comes to comprehending change tasks in ServiceNow, it’s essential to recognize their part in enabling successful change implementation . These tasks are actionable steps that must be completed to meet the desired results of a change initiative. Each task has its own objectives, deadlines, and dependencies, allowing for clear responsibility and organized execution.

Furthermore, change tasks present an organized way to manage complex changes within an organization. By breaking down the overall change into smaller tasks, teams can focus on particular areas and allocate resources accordingly. This method guarantees effective coordination among different stakeholders who are part of the change process.

To make the most of ServiceNow and maximize the potential of change tasks, organizations should prioritize their implementation within their change management practices. By utilizing the platform’s capabilities, such as automation and real-time tracking, teams can develop collaboration, better communication, and boost overall efficiency in handling changes.

In the current dynamic business environment, adaptability is necessary for survival. Understanding and embracing the effectiveness of change tasks is vital. Companies that overlook this may be at risk of lagging behind their rivals or dealing with unforeseen issues during times of transformation. It’s essential to use ServiceNow’s features effectively and include change tasks into organizational processes for effortless and successful change management.

Step-by-Step Guide on Creating a Change Task in ServiceNow

Creating a Change Task in ServiceNow: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a change task in ServiceNow involves a systematic process that ensures a smooth transition in service management. Follow these four simple steps:

• Access the Change module : Open the ServiceNow application and navigate to the Change module. This is where you can initiate the creation of a new change task.
• Fill in the task details : Provide the necessary information for the new task, such as the task description, assignment group, priority, and due date. Be meticulous in entering accurate details, as they will help streamline the execution of the task.
• Define the change order relationship : Associate the new task with the corresponding change order. This linkage ensures that the task aligns with the overarching change process and allows for seamless tracking and reporting of progress.
• Assign the task to the appropriate personnel : Assign the task to an individual or group responsible for its execution. Clearly communicate the expectations and timeline to ensure efficient task completion.

It is important to note that the creation of a change task in ServiceNow is just one part of a broader change management process. By following these steps, you can ensure that the task is properly recorded, assigned, and executed.

To enhance the effectiveness of your change task creation, consider the following suggestions:

• Provide comprehensive task descriptions : Clear and detailed descriptions help stakeholders understand the scope and objectives of the task. This reduces confusion and minimizes the risk of miscommunication.
• Set realistic deadlines : It is crucial to establish realistic and achievable deadlines for task completion. This ensures that all involved parties can plan accordingly and helps maintain a smooth workflow throughout the change management process.
• Regularly communicate task updates : Keep all relevant stakeholders informed about the progress of the task. This allows for timely adjustments and ensures that everyone is aligned towards the successful implementation of the change.

By following these suggestions, you can create change tasks efficiently and effectively, promoting a structured change management process within your organization.

ServiceNow: Where logging in is easier than finding the motivation to actually do the task.

Logging into ServiceNow

• Navigate to the official ServiceNow website and enter the URL in your web browser. Make sure you have a stable internet connection.
• On the login page, enter your username and password into the designated fields. Ensure the credentials are correct to avoid authentication errors.
• Your organization might use two-factor authentication for added security. In that case, you’ll need to provide an additional verification step, like a code sent to your mobile device or answering a security question.
• Once all details are provided, click ‘Login’ .
• After successful authentication, you will be redirected to the ServiceNow dashboard. You can then start performing tasks related to change management or other functionalities.
• It’s best to refer to your organization’s guidelines or contact IT support if you run into any issues during the login process.
• Secure access for authorized personnel and efficient workflow throughout an organization is essential. User-friendly login procedures make this easier and reduce potential problems.

Navigating to the Change Management Module

To get to the Change Management Module on ServiceNow, do this:

• Log in with your details.
• Click the grid icon at the top-left of the screen to go to the application navigator.
• Search ‘Change’ in the search bar.
• Click ‘Change’ from the results.

You’re now at the Change Management Module – start making change tasks and managing changes!

ServiceNow is a top cloud-platform with IT service management solutions for businesses across the globe.

Creating a New Change Task

Creating a new change task in ServiceNow is easy! Here’s how:

• Log on to the ServiceNow platform and go to the Change Management application.
• Click “New” to start a new change request.
• Fill in the details, such as short description, priority, assignment group, and impact .
• Scroll down to the “Tasks” section and click “New Task” to create the change task.

You’re done! Now you have created a new change task in ServiceNow.

Pro Tip: Give clear and concise information when making a change task. This will help team members communicate better and keep the workflow efficient.

Filling in the Required Information

Creating a change task in ServiceNow requires entering in essential details. This helps guarantee a successful change request.

So, make sure you:

• Give the task a name and description.
• Pick the right assignment group & assignee.
• Set the priority level for the change.
• Establish the start & end dates.
• Note any related changes or dependencies.
• Lastly, add any comments or attachments.

Be sure the info is right. Double check you included everything in the mandatory fields.

My colleague once neglected to enter important info and it caused delays in the change implementation which made everyone angry. That’s when I learned the importance of double-checking all the details.

Assigning the Change Task to the Relevant Assignee

To make sure a Change Task runs smoothly in ServiceNow, it’s important to assign it to the right person. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Access the Change Task: Log in to your ServiceNow account and go to the relevant change request. Look for the “Change Tasks” related list and click on the desired task.
• Spot the Appropriate Assignee: Once opened, find the “Assigned To” field. This lists potential assignees based on their roles/groups in the org.
• Assign the Change Task: From the list of potential assignees, select the one best-suited for the task. You can either choose directly from the list or search for someone using their name/user ID.

Remember, assigning the correct assignee guarantees efficient & effective task handling, thus contributing to successful change management. Plus, when selecting an assignee, bear in mind workload distribution in addition to expertise.

Did you know? According to Forbes , ServiceNow is one of America’s top employers for diversity in 2020 !

Best Practices for Creating Change Tasks in ServiceNow

Best Practice for Effective Change Task Creation in ServiceNow

Creating change tasks in ServiceNow can be done efficiently by following certain best practices. These practices ensure that change tasks are created accurately and contribute to the overall success of the change management process.

Here is a five-step guide to implementing the best practices for creating change tasks in ServiceNow:

• Clearly Define the Scope: Begin by clearly defining the scope of the change task. This includes specifying the objectives, defining the stakeholders involved, and outlining the expected outcomes. By doing so, you ensure that the change task is focused and aligned with the overall change management goals.
• Assign Responsibilities: Identify the individuals or teams responsible for the change task. Assigning clear responsibilities ensures accountability and promotes effective collaboration among the stakeholders.
• Set Realistic Deadlines: Define realistic deadlines for the completion of change tasks. Consider the dependencies, resources required, and potential risks. Setting achievable deadlines helps in managing expectations and ensures timely completion of the change tasks.
• Communicate Effectively: Establish clear channels of communication to keep all stakeholders informed about the progress of change tasks. Regular updates and effective communication foster transparency, alignment, and collaboration among the teams involved.
• Monitor and Measure: Continuously monitor and measure the progress of change tasks. Regularly evaluate the performance and assess if the desired outcomes are being achieved. This allows for timely adjustments and corrective actions to be taken if necessary.

Applying these best practices will enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of change task creation in ServiceNow.

Pro Tip: Regularly review and optimize your change management process to ensure it aligns with organizational goals and supports continual improvement.

Writing a change task description is like leaving a note for a forgetful goldfish, make it clear and concise or it’ll swim away.

Including Sufficient Information in the Change Task Description

To ensure effective communication and smooth workflow during change tasks, it is important to include sufficient information. Be precise and concise when providing the purpose, outcome, and instructions for the task. In addition, make sure to list any necessary prerequisites, resources, tools, or skills that are required.

Summarize potential risks associated with the task to manage expectations and prepare contingency plans. By providing detailed and accurate descriptions, you can enhance your team’s success in executing the change.

Remember, incomplete or vague descriptions can hinder progress. Empower your team by providing comprehensive information for a successful change execution.

Setting Realistic Due Dates and Priorities

Set due dates based on complexity and urgency. Consider resources and be realistic.

Prioritize tasks based on how they impact goals. Assess potential risks and benefits.

Use the Eisenhower Matrix or other techniques to categorise tasks into four quadrants.

Take account of any dependencies or constraints that may affect deadlines.

Talk to stakeholders to align expectations.

Review and update due dates and priorities as needed.

It’s important to think about any special factors in your organisation or industry.

For example, if you work in a fast-paced environment, you may need to be more agile with adjusting due dates and reprioritizing tasks.

Involve stakeholders early on in the process to ensure everyone is aligned.

Take charge of task management by implementing best practices for setting realistic deadlines and priorities.

Avoid unnecessary stress and last-minute rushes while achieving better outcomes.

Master this aspect of ServiceNow usage to enhance productivity.

Communicating and Collaborating with Stakeholders

Stakeholder communication is vital for successful change in ServiceNow. Clear channels of communication, collaboration tools, and listening to feedback can all help navigate the process. Leveraging different mediums of communication such as visuals & presentations , plus tailoring messages to each audience’s needs, can ensure effective stakeholder communication. Let us embrace it as a driver of successful change!

Troubleshooting Common Issues in Change Task Creation

Troubleshooting Common Issues in ServiceNow Change Task Creation

To troubleshoot common issues in ServiceNow change task creation, follow these steps:

• Verify User Roles: Ensure that the user creating the change task has the necessary roles and permissions to perform this action.
• Check Workflow Configuration: Review the workflow configuration for any errors or misconfigurations that could be preventing the creation of change tasks.
• Validate Task Template: Confirm that the task template being used is correct and has all the required fields and information.
• Examine Dependencies: Investigate any dependencies or related records that could be causing issues with the creation of change tasks.
• Review System Logs: Inspect the system logs for any error messages or warnings that could indicate the cause of the problem.

Additionally, it is important to note that efficient troubleshooting often involves identifying and addressing issues that are unique to the specific instance or configuration of ServiceNow.

Pro Tip: Regularly review and update your workflow configurations and task templates to ensure they are aligned with any changes or updates in your organization’s processes and requirements. If task creation errors were a poet, they’d win the Pulitzer for their ability to drive you insane – but fear not, I’ve got the solutions to resolve them in this article.

Task Creation Errors and How to Resolve Them

Creating tasks can be a challenge. Fear not! We have compiled a list of errors and their solutions to help you tackle any obstacles.

• Incorrect Task Formatting: Use the right HTML tags like <ul> for unordered lists and <li> for list items.
• Missing or Incomplete Information: Double-check that all details, such as task descriptions, due dates, and assignees are included.
• Inconsistent Task Prioritization: Assign appropriate priorities to tasks. Establish a system to prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance.
• Lack of Clarity in Task Descriptions: Provide clear instructions and expectations for each task.
• Insufficient Communication: Ensure relevant parties are informed about tasks, deadlines, and updates or changes.
• Failure to Review and Edit: Thoroughly review each task before finalizing it, checking for any inconsistencies or mistakes.

Also, consider unique aspects specific to your organization or workflow. This will make task creation error-free.

We once experienced chaos due to a formatting mistake. <table> tags were used instead of <ul> . It took hours to fix the problem. We implemented stricter review procedures to avoid this again.

Remember, task creation needs attention to detail and effective communication. Address common errors and learn from past experiences. Become a task creation maestro and ensure smooth sailing in projects.

Resolving Assignment and Ownership Issues

Assigning and owning tasks can be tricky. To successfully sort out these issues, here are four steps to follow:

• Define Roles: Set clear roles and responsibilities for the people involved in the change task. That way, no one will be confused about who does what.
• Communicate Expectations: Make sure everybody is on the same page about what is expected of them. Foster open communication, so team members can easily ask questions and voice concerns.
• Encourage Collaboration: Let team members help each other out. Create chances for cross-team discussion, so everyone can work together.
• Monitor Progress: Keep track of task progress and address any potential obstacles. This is also a good time to assign additional resources if needed.

These steps will help create a better environment for resolving assignment and ownership issues. Plus, remind team members to take responsibility for their tasks and deliver results on time.

Fun fact: Research shows that having an effective system for assigning and owning tasks increases project success.

Creating change tasks in ServiceNow is key for good workflow and efficient task management. Use this article to learn how to create and assign tasks. Remember to define each task’s purpose and provide clear instructions and resources. Also, set deadlines and hold people responsible for their tasks to track progress and identify potential problems.

Now, here’s a story to illustrate these points. Once, a team worked on a new software system. They created change tasks in ServiceNow with defined purposes and clear instructions. Plus, they put deadlines and accountability in place. The result? The implementation went well with no disruptions or delays. Making change tasks paid off!

No credit card required

Your projects are processes, Take control of them today.

• svg]:fill-accent-900 [&>svg]:stroke-accent-900">

The ‘Swift Boating’ of Tim Walz has begun. What is the truth?

By Matt White , Patty Nieberg

Posted on Aug 7, 2024 5:02 PM EDT

9 minute read

Questions about the final months of Tim Walz’s 24-year National Guard career have triggered a flurry of questions and confusion among military members and veterans, and Wednesday drew a sharp accusation from Walz’s vice presidential opponent, Republican J.D. Vance. In a bitter attack at a rally in Michigan, Vance claimed Walz “abandoned” his guard unit in 2005, just before a deployment to Iraq.

“When Tim Walz was asked by his country to go to Iraq, you know what he did?,” Vance said Wednesday in Shelby Township, Michigan. “He dropped out of the Army and allowed his unit to go without him.”

Accusing a 24-year veteran and former command sergeant major of abandoning his troops by ducking combat is a grave insult in the veteran community, and strikes deep emotions in many. By Wednesday afternoon, a conservative influencer had called for veterans to post pictures of themselves while deployed under the meme “Me not being Tim Walz,” drawing hundreds of responses .

But attacks on veteran service records are not new in politics.

At least one soldier who knew Walz as well as any has defended him — despite not being a fan. Joseph Eustice, whose personal Facebook page today has anti-Walz posts, held the same job as Walz — command sergeant major of 1st battalion, 125th Artillery Regiment.

When the retirement controversy flared up in 2022, Eustice told local media that Walz fulfilled his duty.

“He was a great soldier,” Eustice told the Star Tribune. “When he chose to leave, he had every right to leave.”

Several other soldiers from Walz’s unit echoed that sentiment, including a former brigadier general.

Eustice speculated the controversy could be stoked by sour grapes by a soldier who was passed over for the promotion to command sergeant major that went to Walz.

Still, the assault on Walz’s retirement appears to have caught the Harris-Walz campaign completely unaware. A Minnesota government spokesperson for Walz told Task & Purpose of Walz’s retirement, “In May 2005, Walz retired to run for Congress following 24 years of service.” They did not address whether Walz knew a deployment was pending or if he actively sought to avoid it.

Tim Walz’s retirement timeline

The timeline of Walz’s service and the deployment of his unit, the 1st Battalion, 125th Field Artillery Regiment, is relatively clear, through public records, news accounts and press releases at the time:

• April 2004 : Walz returns to Minnesota with the 1/125th after a year-long deployment as part of Operation Enduring Freedom in Turkey and Europe. Walz was stationed at Vicenza, Italy, where the unit pulled guard duty on friendly military bases, which may have been back-fill duty for active duty units deployed to Afghanistan. He was promoted to command sergeant major of the battalion soon after returning.
• March 2005 : Walz’s newly-formed campaign for a Congressional House seat releases a press release that indicates Walz is aware of a possible but unconfirmed deployment , though no official orders have been announced. “The National Guard Public Affairs Office announced a possible partial mobilization of roughly 2,000 troops from the Minnesota National Guard,” the press release said. “The announcement from the National Guard PAO specified that all or a portion of Walz’s battalion could be mobilized to serve in Iraq within the next two years… When asked about his possible deployment to Iraq Walz said, ‘As Command Sergeant Major I have a responsibility not only to ready my battalion for Iraq, but also to serve if called on. I am dedicated to serving my country to the best of my ability, whether that is in Washington DC or in Iraq.”
• May 2005 : Walz officially retires from the Minnesota National Guard after 24 years of service, according to documents posted online that appear to be his NGB Form 22, a Report of Separation and Record of Service. Walz previously retired after 20 years of service but returned to service after Sept. 11, he wrote in a Winona Daily News opinion piece , re-enlisting for four years. However, his NGB Form 22 indicates his “terminal reserve/military service obligation” date was September 2007.
• July 2005 : Minnesota National Guard said in a statement Wednesday that the 1st Battalion, 125th Field Artillery received an alert order for mobilization to Iraq on July 14, 2005.
• October 2005 : The unit mobilized Oct. 12, the Guard said.
• March 2006 : The 125th deploys to Iraq, 10 months after Walz had separated from the unit. The unit will not return until September 2007.

Many details of Walz’s decision process remain unclear. The 2005 press release by Walz’s House campaign indicates he knew a deployment was possible at least four months before the unit received official orders and two before he retired. But that timeline could have several missing pieces.

For one, advanced heads up notice is not uncommon. Unofficial alerts also known as ‘Notification of Sourcing’ did not begin until 2009. “Any communication prior to the official order in 2005 would be considered an unofficial notice, for a possible deployment, and would be subject to change until an official mobilization order was received,” the Minnesota Guard said in a statement.

A second uncertainty lies in the May 2005 retirement date when Walz’s retirement became official. It likely came many months after he ‘dropped his papers’ to inform his chain of command he intended to retire, beginning the process. Reporting by the Washington Post on Wednesday indicates that Walz spoke to several soldiers in the unit about his conflicted thoughts before deciding to retire .

Walz’s military experience is being touted by Democrats as a strong part of his appeal to voters and a testimony to his personal values and commitment to defense and veterans issues as a lawmaker. Patrick Murphy, a former  Under Secretary of the Army and the first Iraq war veteran to be elected to the  United States House of Representatives , told Task & Purpose that Walz will absolutely get veterans to vote for the Harris-Walz ticket.

“There are 900,000 veterans in Pennsylvania ready to run through a wall for Tim Walz,” Murphy said.

But Vance’s attack, echoing accusations Walz faced in his 2022 race for Governor, characterized that retirement as a kind of betrayal — and an echo of attacks that military veterans have faced in previous political races.

‘Swift boat’

Vance’s attacks on Wednesday echo a wide range of Republican officials and other conservatives who within hours of Walz introduction rushed to announce they are eager to “swiftboat” Walz.

“Swiftboat” is a political short-hand for the 2004 media campaign that attacked Democrat John Kerry’s combat experience as a Navy officer aboard riverine patrol boats in Vietnam, known to their crews as Swift Boats. That campaign, run by a group calling itself Swift Boat Veterans for Truth , was run by Chris LaCivita , who is now a co-manager of Donald Trump’s presidential campaign.

LaCivita has posted at least three times about Walz’s retirement in the last day, more than any other topic about the new Vice Presidential candidate.

The attacks on Walz’s service go back to his run for Minnesota Governor. In November 2018, two retired Minnesota Guard command sergeants major , including one who took over Walz’s position as command sergeant major, wrote a paid endorsement letter to the editor of the West Central Tribune, a Minnesota newspaper. They described Walz’s retirement ahead of his battalion’s Iraq deployment as quitting and leaving the battalion’s soldiers “hanging” and “without its senior Non-Commissioned Officer, as the battalion prepared for war.” 

Wednesday, the attacks appeared to be gathering steam among veterans online. 

Command Sergeant Major ‘reduction’ to Master Sergeant

A second issue for Walz may be his retirement rank. He served as the 125th’s command sergeant major, an E-9, the Army’s highest enlisted rank. However, according to the Minnesota Guard, his retirement status and benefits were reduced to that of an E-8 because he did not complete the training required of all E-9s.

“Soldiers who do not finish the course revert back to their prior rank,” a National Guard spokesperson told Task & Purpose. “This is what we refer to as an administrative reduction and not punitive in nature.”

The course Walz failed to complete was a 750-hour course in the Army’s Sergeants Major Academy, which would have included 86 hours in residence at Ft. Bliss, Texas. Completing the course is mandatory for E-9s, though completing the training after being promoted is not uncommon. But without the training, Walz was not eligible to retire as a full E-9 and his retired status and benefits were ‘reduced’ to E-8 after he left service.

The Minnesota Guard confirmed to Task & Purpose that Walz was properly promoted and served in the E-9 role, and “retired as” an E-9, despite the later reduction. His campaign website for earlier races has said : “When he retired, Tim was the highest-ranking enlisted National Guard soldier in southern Minnesota.”  

Jeffrey Frisby, a former master sergeant for the Arkansas National Guard and executive director of the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States said similar situations still occur.

“I don’t know that we would put on that rank, but we would definitely serve in that position,” he said. “I do think that that still happens and I do think that people serve in capacities above their rank but above their official military pay grade to serve in a leadership position still today.”

A gap in a leadership position like CSM could’ve meant that “if they didn’t put someone in there to manage those tasks, to oversee those soldiers, oversee that training, then something was gonna get missed and something might not have been done to standard,” Frisby said. For CSMs in particular, he said, they manage transportation, food, lodging, and “soldier care” issues. 

“They might have missed training events and training timelines so to have someone in that leadership role is very important, even if you’re just an acting position,” Frisby said. “Even though he wasn’t eligible for that command title, we would probably still put him in that role and let him serve in that capacity because somebody in that chain of command thought this was the right guy for the job.”

UPDATE , 8/7/2024 : this story has been updated to include the 1/125th’s 2003 deployment to Italy in the timeline and the 2005 press release from his campaign. A misstatement of Walz’s highest rank, command sergeant major, was also corrected.

The latest on Task & Purpose

• Top U.S. special ops units held a major exercise off Alaska, 45 miles from Russia
• An Army officer is one of the stars of the U.S. women’s Olympic rugby team
• Army marksmanship instructor wins Olympic medal in rifle event
• Inside the recovery of MIA Americans from a secret jungle base
• Pentagon orders review of Medals of Honor given for Wounded Knee Massacre

Latest in Army

A guide to all the parachutes that american paratroopers ‘ride to work’ a guide to all the parachutes that american paratroopers ‘ride to work’.

By Joshua Skovlund

Army identifies contract instructor pilot killed in Apache crash Army identifies contract instructor pilot killed in Apache crash

By Jeff Schogol

Sign Up For Our Newsletters

The latest military news and entertainment delivered right to your inbox.

By signing up you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy .