Definition

Noun: 1. A military duty assignment: A specific duty role, typically held by an enlisted service member, who is responsible for handling a unit's administrative and security matters during non-duty hours (such as nights, weekends, or holidays). This person acts as a point of contact and representative for the unit commander during those periods.

Usage

• The term is used exclusively within a military context to refer to a specific duty position and the person performing it.
• It is often abbreviated as CQ.
• It describes both the duty role itself and the individual assigned to that role.

Examples

• As a duty role:
  • Private Davis has the charge of quarters tonight.
  • Sergeant Miller pulled charge of quarters duty over the holiday weekend.
• Referring to the person:
  • The charge of quarters took the message for the commanding officer.
  • Report any incidents after 1700 to the charge of quarters.

Advanced Usage

• "CQ Runner": Sometimes used informally to refer to a junior enlisted service member assigned to assist the Charge of Quarters with tasks.
• The duty typically involves manning a specific desk or office, answering phones, logging events, receiving reports, and ensuring the security and order of the barracks or unit area.

Variants and Related Words

• CQ: The standard abbreviation for "Charge of Quarters."
• Staff Duty Officer (SDO) / Officer of the Day (OOD): A similar duty position held by a commissioned officer, usually with broader responsibility.
• Barracks Duty: A related term for duties focused on a residential building for enlisted personnel.

Synonyms

• Duty NCO (Non-Commissioned Officer): A similar role, though "Charge of Quarters" is the specific formal title.
• Watchstander: A more general term for someone assigned to a duty watch.

Related Phrases

• "To have CQ" / "To pull CQ": Informal phrases meaning to be assigned as or to perform the duty of the Charge of Quarters.
  • I have CQ all night, so I can't go out.
• "CQ Desk": The physical location where the Charge of Quarters performs their duty.
  • You'll find the lost key at the CQ desk.

Noun

1. an enlisted man who handles his unit's administrative matters after hours