When shortages are found after a training event, who determines if they are legitimate?

In the context of determining the legitimacy of ammunition shortages after a training event, the range ammunition NCO plays a crucial role. This individual is specifically trained and tasked with overseeing the management and accountability of ammunition at training sites. They have the expertise to assess the circumstances surrounding the reported shortages, including reviewing logs, conducting physical counts, and confirming whether all ammunition was properly issued and accounted for before and after training exercises.

The responsibility of the range ammunition NCO encompasses coordinating with other personnel involved, such as unit commanders, supply sergeants, and ammunition officers, but it is the NCO who typically has immediate access to the logistics and practices specific to the range operations that enable them to make informed determinations about the legitimacy of any shortages reported. Having this specialized knowledge allows the NCO to effectively investigate and address these issues, ensuring accountability and proper reporting procedures are followed.