What is a Noncommissioned Officer and Why are They Important?
A noncommissioned officer (NCO) is a military rank that denotes a leader who is not a commissioned officer. NCOs are also known as enlisted leaders, sergeants, or petty officers. They are responsible for training, leading, and mentoring the junior enlisted personnel in their units.
NCOs are vital to the success of any military organization. They are the backbone of the armed forces, as they provide the link between the officers and the enlisted. They ensure that the mission is accomplished, the standards are upheld, and the welfare of the troops is taken care of.
Some of the duties and responsibilities of an NCO include:
- Planning and executing training exercises and operations
- Supervising and evaluating the performance of subordinates
- Enforcing discipline and maintaining order
- Providing guidance and counseling to junior enlisted members
- Communicating and coordinating with other NCOs and officers
- Developing and maintaining professional competence and expertise
To become an NCO, one must demonstrate leadership potential, technical proficiency, physical fitness, moral character, and loyalty to the service. NCOs are expected to uphold the core values of their branch of service, such as honor, courage, commitment, integrity, respect, and excellence.
NCOs are also expected to continue their education and professional development throughout their careers. They can attend various courses and programs that enhance their skills and knowledge, such as the Noncommissioned Officer Education System (NCOES), the Senior Enlisted Joint Professional Military Education (SEJPME), or the Sergeants Major Academy (SMA).
NCOs are a source of inspiration and motivation for their subordinates and peers. They set the example by living up to their creed, motto, and oath. They are loyal to their country, their service, their unit, their superiors, and their subordinates. They are proud of their heritage, their traditions, and their achievements.
NCOs are more than just rank holders. They are leaders of character, competence, and commitment. They are the noncommissioned officers of the United States Armed Forces.
How to Become a Noncommissioned Officer
Becoming an NCO is not an easy task. It requires dedication, hard work, and sacrifice. The process of becoming an NCO varies depending on the branch of service, but generally involves the following steps:
- Enlist in the military and complete basic training
- Choose a military occupational specialty (MOS) and complete advanced individual training (AIT)
- Serve as a junior enlisted member and gain experience and recognition
- Meet the promotion requirements for the rank of corporal or sergeant, such as time in service, time in grade, education, and performance
- Pass a promotion board that evaluates your knowledge, skills, and abilities
- Complete the appropriate level of NCOES, such as the Basic Leader Course (BLC), the Advanced Leader Course (ALC), or the Senior Leader Course (SLC)
- Take the oath of office and receive your NCO stripes
Becoming an NCO is a great honor and privilege, but also a great responsibility. You will be expected to lead by example, to take care of your soldiers, and to accomplish the mission. You will also be expected to continue your professional development and education, as well as to mentor and develop future NCOs.
The Benefits of Being a Noncommissioned Officer
Being an NCO has many benefits, both personal and professional. Some of the benefits of being an NCO include:
- Increased pay and allowances
- Increased opportunities for career advancement and specialization
- Increased respect and authority
- Increased recognition and awards
- Increased satisfaction and fulfillment
- Increased influence and impact
Being an NCO also has some challenges, such as increased workload, stress, and expectations. However, these challenges can be overcome with the help of your fellow NCOs, your officers, and your family. Being an NCO is not just a job, it is a way of life.
The History of Noncommissioned Officers
The history of NCOs dates back to the origins of organized warfare. The first NCOs were likely the warriors who distinguished themselves in battle and earned the trust and respect of their comrades. They were given the authority to lead small groups of fighters in combat and to train new recruits.
The term “noncommissioned officer” was first used in the British Army in the 18th century. It referred to the officers who were not commissioned by the king or parliament, but by their regimental commanders. These officers were usually sergeants or corporals who had risen from the ranks of the enlisted men.
The American Revolution was a turning point for the development of NCOs in the United States. The Continental Army adopted the British system of NCOs, but also added some innovations. For example, they created the rank of sergeant major, who was the senior NCO of a regiment or battalion. They also created the rank of quartermaster sergeant, who was responsible for the logistics and supply of a unit.
The Civil War saw the expansion and diversification of NCOs in both the Union and Confederate armies. They played a crucial role in training, leading, and motivating the large numbers of volunteers who joined the war effort. They also specialized in various fields such as artillery, cavalry, engineering, medical, signal, and intelligence.
The World Wars I and II further increased the importance and complexity of NCOs. They had to adapt to new technologies, tactics, and challenges in a global scale of warfare. They also had to deal with diverse cultures, languages, and environments. They were instrumental in winning both wars and securing peace.
The Cold War era saw the emergence of NCOs as professional soldiers who were experts in their fields. They underwent rigorous education and training programs that enhanced their skills and knowledge. They also participated in various conflicts and operations around the world such as Korea, Vietnam, Grenada, Panama, Somalia, Haiti, Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, Afghanistan, and many others.
Today, NCOs are recognized as leaders who are essential to the success of any military mission. They are respected by their superiors, peers, subordinates, allies, and enemies alike. They are proud of their history, their legacy,
and their future.