The Expanding Role of the Noncommissioned Officer
Abstract
Throughout history, Armies have used Noncommissioned Officers in critical roles. In some cases, the NCO role is limited, requiring the individual to enforce orders and carry out missions exactly as assigned with little encouragement or allowance for initiative. Unique among the Armies of the world, the NCOs of the U.S. Army have more training, authority, and responsibility. U.S. Army NCOs are expected and even required to act independently and decisively to accomplish missions and are empowered to do so. The evolution of this role can be traced back to the origins of our nation and its military, beginning with the formation of the Colonial Army and continuing through the present day. This paper will focus on how the experiences of the U.S. Army over time have contributed to the empowerment of the NCO and the decisive advantages it conveys, both past and present.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 15, 2009
- Accession Number
- AD1117812
Entities
People
- Keith Gwin
Organizations
- United States Army Sergeants Major Academy