The History of the NCO, 1945-Present
Abstract
My research covers the end of WWII to present. This was a period of major transition for the US army. Throughout history, the army has always been accustomed to and adapted to change. During this timeframe some of the major changes were new NCO grades, technological advances in weapons and communications systems, standardization of NCOES, and all volunteer army. In the years immediately following WWII, the NCO corps was dramatically reduced. Reenlistment rates sank out of sight as many draftees shed their uniforms for civilian life. Most of the combat veterans that chose to stay opted for cushy non-combat arms positions. Approximately one half of the reenlisting NCOs did so for only two years and another quarter for only one. Roughly 92,000 joined the army air corps and only 39,000 joined infantry, armor, and artillery units. Of these three quarters of them were PVT's and PFC's. Many of which were former temporary senior NCO's. These were the ranks offered them when they reverted to permanent grades. Centrally controlled promotions and minimum time and grade restrictions froze E-4 to E-6 in place. E-7 was the highest grade at that time. E-4 Corporals were no longer considered NCOs after the technician ranks were removed. Corporals now became rifleman, gunners, and second cooks with no authority in the chain of command. (New Army) NCOs' were now family men how went home at night rather than living in the barracks. Earlier retirement was the goal of many and not the traditional free ride. The end of WWII also brought an end to the large invasions and assaults by division-sized elements. The NCO role as a combat leader became much more important in the Korean War. Due to the rugged nature of much of the terrain many units found themselves advancing at the squad level. During the Korean War the US Army fought for the first time with a totally integrated force.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- AD1127097
Entities
People
- David W. White
Organizations
- United States Army Sergeants Major Academy