TMD State Ombudsman

Mission


To provide continuing assessment and recommending resolutions relating to efficiency, morale, welfare, and readiness of State Active-Duty matters through a process of receiving, inquiring into, and responding to complaints and request for information. 

About


Who We Are

  • We are neutral, unbiased fact finders who execute our duties based on two functions: teach/ train and assistance. 
  • We provide advice on matters concerning the well-being and readiness of Service Members.

Our Goals

  • Keep the leadership fully appraised of State Active-Duty significant issues and concerns affecting the TMD. 
  • Work with commands, units, wings, and other agencies, as appropriate, to help resolve concerns brought to the State Ombudsman's attention. 
  • When noncompliance with requisite standards is found, help commanders identify the root cause. 

It is important to understand the State Ombudsman and Commander relationship

  • The State Ombudsman must be a “problem solver”; however, they cannot “fix” things by themselves. State Ombudsman must work by, with, and through commanders, staff sections, and the NCO support channel.
  • The State Ombudsman can recommend courses of action but cannot “direct” any course of action.

Confidentiality

Confidentiality and discretion are central to the State Ombudsman. Information is shared strictly on a need-to-know basis. Though not legally privileged, confidentiality stems from the State Ombudsman’s relationship with the command team and is key to effectiveness.Confidentiality and discretion are central to the State Ombudsman. Information is shared strictly on a need-to-know basis. Though not legally privileged, confidentiality stems from the State Ombudsman’s relationship with the command team and is key to effectiveness.

Address

Mailing Address:
Texas Military Department
ATTN: State Ombudsman
P.O. Box 5218
Austin, Texas 78763-5218

Location: Building 8, C135 
Office: 512-782-5834
Office Hours: 0800-1600 (M-F)
Mailbox/Distro: stateombudsman@military.texas.gov

Complaints

Download TMD Form 6-1 (Report of a Complaint) PDF

Before you tell the State Ombudsman

  • Give your chain of command a chance to solve the problem. Many problems must be addressed to the chain of command for resolution anyway.
  • Be sure you have a problem, not just a peeve.
  • Be honest and don’t provide misleading information. State Ombudsman will discover the truth quickly in most cases and there are penalties for knowingly providing false information.
  • Keep in mind that State Ombudsman are not policy makers.
  • Keep in mind that State Ombudsman can only recommend, not order a resolution. Only Commanders can order; the role of the State Ombudsman is to advise the Commander.
  • Remember State Ombudsman can only resolve a case on the basis of fact. Your claim that a supervisor has violated the rules doesn’t make it fact. A claim must be supported with evidence.
  • Don’t expect instant action on your request.  Be patient. Investigations take time, and State Ombudsman tend to have heavy workloads.
  • Be prepared to take “no” for the answer. In any case, “Yes” or “no,” the State Ombudsman will explain why.

Five Questions the State Ombudsman will Ask you

  1.  What exactly do you want/need the State Ombudsman to do for you?
  2.  Have you given your chain of command an opportunity to address the problem? (Be prepared to identify leaders to whom you spoke with and their response to your request for assistance.)
  3.  Do you have any supporting documentation?
  4.  Have you requested assistance from any other source or agency?
  5.  What is your status? (M-Day, AGR, Mil Tech, Civilian, Family Member, etc)

When you contact the State Ombudsman for assistance, the State Ombudsman team may require you to fill out the TMD Form 6-1. Coming to the State Ombudsman with this form pre-filled out will expedite the resolution process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: When is it appropriate to contact the TMD State Ombudsman?

A: While service members (SM) are encouraged to contact the State Ombudsman for information or assistance in State Active-Duty matters, the SM and chain of command should first attempt resolution before submitting a formal complaint.

Q2: Can I report a complaint on behalf of someone else, even if it doesn’t directly involve me?

A: Yes, you can report a complaint on behalf of someone else. The State Ombudsman can assist with third-party reports while maintaining safeguards of information. However, SMs experiencing unresolved issues are encouraged to submit complaints themselves.

Q3: What happens if I do not consent to release my information to a need-to-know party?

A: Consent is not mandatory. Depending on the issue, withholding consent may significantly limit the State Ombudsman’s ability to recommend resolutions to SM requesting assistance or information and the command team.