Empowering Non-Commissioned Officers in Modern Warfare

The world is experiencing a rise in terrorist attacks, which are frequently reported by newspapers, TV channels, and journals. These attacks include suicide bombings, hijackings, and extremism occurring in various parts of the world. There is also an increasing number of conflicts between nations and concerns about nuclear proliferation that could potentially lead to wars between countries.

To address these challenges, nations must ensure that their military forces have superior knowledge and skills compared to their adversaries. In response to this need, America has placed emphasis on empowering its non-commissioned officers (NCOs).

NCOs are military officers who hold lower ranks and have not received commissions from higher authorities. They are typically promoted from ranks such as corporal, sergeant, and warrant officer.

The NCO corps plays a crucial role in military missions as they are responsible for training personnel and preparing them to successfully execute mission plans. They also serve as leaders during military missions with main responsibilities including training soldiers on morals and discipline while ensuring their safety.

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American military officers were involved in the Vietnam War for eight years in Southeast Asia.

During a challenging period for American soldiers, the War required various technical specialists, trainers, and tactical leaders (Rush, 2006, p.24). Consequently, the American government devised a training program for Non-commissioned officers with the goal of equipping them with essential technical and leadership skills to enhance their performance in the war. Surprisingly, this educational initiative yielded success, as exemplified by the outstanding performance of American soldiers during the Grenada liberation in 1982, Panama in 1989, and Kuwait in 1992 (p.

24). Currently, American non-commissioned officers are dutifully serving in numerous battlegrounds and peacekeeping missions across numerous countries worldwide. Notably, their unwavering dedication to providing security to individuals regardless of their origins is evident in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Southern Sudan.

The growth of American non-commissioned officers' empowerment is continuously increasing due to various fundamental factors. The American soldier faces a society that is constantly changing and dynamic, which requires the acquisition of new knowledge and skills. Consequently, non-commissioned officers are responsible for imparting technical and leadership skills to their fellow soldiers, necessitating their empowerment to effectively carry out their duties. According to Rush (2006), today's American sergeant officer possesses more experience, leadership abilities, and technical skills than ever before (p.24). It is widely believed that the non-commissioned education system has played a significant role in enhancing the performance, professionalism, and overall improvement of these officers. Reimer (1996) emphasizes the importance of leaders having creative leadership skills and a positive attitude in creating an environment where all soldiers can fully exploit their potential. He further notes that the Army consists not just of a group of people but individuals who willingly offer their services as volunteers.

Furthermore, it is important for good commanders to have a deep understanding of their soldiers and know them personally. Governments have a responsibility to guide and support non-commissioned and young officers by providing feedback on their performance, in order to prepare them for future challenges. Non-commissioned officers must be well-educated and prepared for success; they should possess the ability to fight and defeat any enemies they may face. As a result, Reimer (1996) suggests the development of training programs and the establishment of National Training Centers for army officers, in order to maximize their potential. The Iraq and Afghanistan wars presented significant challenges for American soldiers, highlighting the importance of better preparation. It was observed that American soldiers were not adequately trained or equipped with the necessary skills to combat insurgency effectively. Petraeus (2006), a Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, asserts that American soldiers must persist in learning from their experiences in these countries (p.1). Additionally, American soldiers should make it a habit to document their observations and lessons learned on the battlefield, and share this knowledge with other officers.

The American government has effectively supported the development of a custom by establishing a center for Army Lessons Learned. This center collects, evaluates, and disseminates information to enable Non-commissioned officers (NCOs) in fulfilling their roles as trainers and leaders effectively. NCOs are considered the backbone of the army as they maintain discipline and order. Previously, officer training was responsible for soldier training; however, new regulations have assigned this responsibility to senior non-commissioned officers. American NCOs have excelled in their duties worldwide, ensuring every soldier receives professional training from experienced and qualified experts. Additionally, NCOs identify soldiers who demonstrate effective performance in small units and possess leadership potential. Therefore, equipping NCOs with knowledge and techniques is crucial for them to carry out these duties effectively. According to Reimer (1996), exceptional leaders comprehend their soldiers' strengths and weaknesses.

The main responsibility of the NCO is to use their knowledge and skills to contribute to the planning and decision-making process in the Army (Department of the Army, Information Management Support Center, 1997, p.20). The US government is making efforts to empower non-commissioned officers with the necessary competencies to assist war-torn nations in rebuilding their military systems. Currently, American non-commissioned officers are helping enhance and establish military forces in devastated countries like Iraq and Afghanistan. Additionally, American NCOs have successfully reestablished Iraq's military colleges and schools by utilizing their expertise and leadership determination abilities to identify suitable Iraqi leaders for these institutions. The hierarchical structure holds great importance within the military system.

The effectiveness of a military institution relies on how information is passed down from higher-ranked to lower-ranked individuals. According to Rush (2006), the chain of command is defined as "the succession of commanders from a superior to a subordinate through which command is exercised" (p.32). The American military system follows a single chain of command that runs parallel to the NCO (non-commissioned officer) structure. However, the NCO support channels complement this chain. For effective communication between senior and junior staff in the Army, it is crucial for these NCO support channels to be operational (p.32). The non-commissioned officer support channels encompass the command sergeant major and the junior cadre of NCO. This support channel functions through direct oral communication, facilitated by the command sergeant major or first sergeant (Rush, 2006, p.33). Furthermore, this channel plays a vital role in issuing orders and ensuring that all tasks are completed.

Basically, this approach provides the commander with the freedom to plan, make decisions, and create future education programs for the force (p.33). Additionally, the NCO support channel assists the chain of command in planning and executing daily unit activities. They also train army soldiers in both unit operations and individual tasks. The NCO support channel is responsible for ensuring the well-being of soldiers and their families both during work and outside of work. Non-commissioned officers and other officers collaborate and complement each other as a cohesive unit. However, research conducted by the Army Research Institute indicates that there have been conflicts between officers and non-commissioned officers (Reimer, 2003, p.2). There are disagreements between NCOs and officers regarding their respective responsibilities, with some officers shouldering all the duties while leaving the NCOs with nothing to do.

According to Reimer (1996), these officers desire to both conduct training and micromanage, as well as for lower rank soldiers and civilians to report directly to them (p.2). These actions result in NCOs having titles and responsibilities, but lacking power. Interestingly, the research also identifies that some battalion commanders do not meet ethical standards. These commanders compromise their ethics while performing their duties, thus affecting the moral behavior of junior officers. Despite the inadequate preparation of American soldiers for the Iraq war, they still hold the title of being the world's best soldiers. Reimer (2003) asserts that no military worldwide can match the quality of Non-commissioned officers from the United States of America (p.2). The establishment of the Centre for Army Lessons Learned allows American soldiers to learn from past experiences on the battlefield and enhance their tactics for the future.

Petraeus (2006) states that the American military's overwhelming superiority renders their enemies powerless and incapable of future attacks (p.2). The empowerment of non-commissioned officers (NCOs) in the American military has been a significant development, allowing soldiers to effectively fulfill their duties in all deployed countries. NCO training and empowering them to lead and mentor junior soldiers have instilled discipline and integrity within the military, while also equipping soldiers with essential skills and confidence to face future enemies. This empowerment of NCOs contributes to the high-quality work performed by American soldiers, explaining why they are regarded as the best globally. As battlefields evolve and military needs adapt, the United States will continue enhancing its military strength for future preparedness. Disrespect is defined as a lack of respect, discourtesy, or rudeness.

In the United States Military, there are rules and regulations that must be followed, including showing respect to a non commissioned officer. It is forbidden to argue, physically retaliate, or question their decisions regardless of the situation or personal beliefs. Violations of these rules result in consequences and penalties according to the Uniformed Code of Military Justice. Such actions can lead to separation from the military, either honorably or dishonorably. Individuals may also receive an article fifteen which involves financial penalties, loss of free time, and restrictions on travel.

The importance of maintaining proper conduct and professionalism at all times is crucial as any disrespect towards non commissioned officers can have a negative impact on how civilians perceive the military. It is necessary to avoid displaying disrespect towards any leaders, from team leaders to the highest-ranking officials like the President of the United States. Such behavior can harm both junior and senior personnel's morale and welfare. If a junior soldier witnesses inappropriate behavior from a superior like myself, they may wrongly assume that it is acceptable because I hold a higher rank as a Specialist.

This soldier and I have the same behavior because he believes it is achievable, resulting in leaders facing more challenges in managing their soldiers. It is crucial to avoid bringing personal issues into the workplace as they can disrupt my duties as a soldier, especially when they involve conflicts with other soldiers or non-commissioned officers (NCOs). Respect is a comprehensive concept that often refers to showing regard or admiration for someone or something. From my point of view, respect is a universal quality that involves demonstrating deep regard and admiration for others. It is an essential aspect of life since being respected boosts one's self-esteem and encourages reciprocal respect. Respecting NCOs holds significant importance in the army's ethos.

NCO's feel empowered and respected when their fellow soldiers show them respect, leading to less disrespect among soldiers. The army's strength lies in its people, which is emphasized by the saying "Take care of your people, and they will take care of you." According to a former Chief of Staff of the army, soldiers' feelings towards themselves, their comrades, and their unit are most likely to determine the outcome of a battle.

Consider a situation that occurred today: I was stationed at a guard post during noon and violated an order by using an electronic device while on duty. A Sergeant who was also on duty observed my disobedience and approached the tower where I was stationed. There were two possible outcomes in this situation. I could have cooperated and accepted the immediate punishment; however, in my frustration at being caught, I felt anger towards the NCO and consequently displayed disrespect through both my words and body language.