charge of quarters

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charge of quarters

The sergeant serves as the charge of quarters at the desk tonight.

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.
charge of quarters

The sergeant serves as the charge of quarters at the desk tonight.

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