Purpose

Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers (BOSS) is a program that supports the overall quality of life for single and unaccompanied service members. The BOSS program supports the chain of command by identifying quality of life issues and concerns and recommending improvements. BOSS encourages and assists single service members in planning for recreational and leisure activities and provides opportunities for community participation and contribution. The core components of the BOSS program are (a) Well Being (b) Recreation and Leisure (c) Community Service.

History of BOSS

The BOSS program was established in 1989 to respond to the recreational needs of single soldiers who made up 37% of the Army. As the program was implemented throughout the Army, it became evident that Soldiers' well being was the primary concern of the single Soldiers. In 1991, the Chief of Staff of the Army officially expanded BOSS to include all aspects of Soldiers' lives. BOSS members later began to express an interest in participating in community service projects. Recreation and leisure, well being and community service are the three pillars of the BOSS program.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who can participate in BOSS?
Are you a.....

• Single Soldier

• Single Sailor

• Single Marine

• Single Airmen

• Single Parent

• Geographically Single Military member

• Foreign Service

BOSS is comprised of single and unaccompanied service members, including single parents. Although the intent of the BOSS program is for single service members, events are typically open to all authorized Family and MWR patrons.
How Does BOSS Work?
Installations establish a formal BOSS program, to include a BOSS council consisting of single Service Member representatives from installation units. Typically, the installation Command Sergeant Major serves as the senior military advisor to the council. An installation Family and MWR advisor is appointed to provide guidance in planning activities, financial accountability, and marketing. Motivated single Service Members with strong senior military and Family and MWR guidance are the backbone of the BOSS program.

Department of the Army Circular 608-06-1

What Happens to the Issues Raised by BOSS?
Issues addressed during a BOSS meeting will be formatted and submitted to the senior military advisor to seek resolution through the proper command channels or staff agency. Issues that cannot be resolved at the installation level are coordinated with the installation Army Family Action Plan (AFAP) coordinator and may be released by the installation commander to go forward to the major Army command (MACOM) AFAP. 

What is the Service Members' Role in BOSS?
BOSS councils are comprised of single Service Members from major subordinate commands and separate units on an installation. Single Service Members have and opportunity to become unit representatives, volunteer to assist in planning an event, or attend BOSS activities.

What is Well Being?

What is Recreation and Leisure?

What is Community Service?

The BOSS program participates in many community programs or projects, which make a difference in the lives of others in the community and gives the single service members a sense of self worth.