What does FM 7-1 state about the importance of continual training evaluations?

The importance of continual training evaluations, as articulated in FM 7-1, lies in their essential role in aligning training initiatives with mission goals. Ongoing assessments provide critical feedback that enables units to adjust their training according to the evolving demands of specific missions. This process ensures that soldiers acquire and retain the skills necessary for effective performance in various operational environments. By regularly evaluating training, leaders can determine what is effective, what needs improvement, and how training can be tailored to better serve the unit's objectives, thereby enhancing overall operational readiness. This ongoing cycle of evaluation and adjustment is vital for maintaining focus on mission readiness and achieving the desired training outcomes.

In contrast, avoiding evaluations might seem beneficial in reducing pressure, but it ultimately leads to misalignments between training outcomes and mission requirements. Simplifying evaluations could compromise the depth of insights gained, and limiting evaluations solely to leadership development ignores the broader necessity for all soldiers to be continuously trained and assessed to ensure success across all levels within the organization.