Photo By Spc. Christopher Grammer | NCOs take the oath of induction during the NCO induction ceremony held at Camp...... read more read more
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By Christopher Grammer
50th Public Affairs Detachment
KUWAIT - The non-commissioned officer corps welcomed these 15 new NCOs into its ranks during an NCO induction ceremony held May 29 at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait.
"It's a great experience," said New York native Sgt. Wayde Belfon, the operations and administration NCO for USARCENT G1. "Becoming a NCO is one of the best things that can happen to a Soldier."
The NCO induction ceremony, like many others, is steeped in tradition and history dating back to the Army of Frederick the Great. Before a Soldier could be recognized as a NCO he was required to stand four watches, one every four days.
At the first watch the privates appeared and claimed a gift of bread and brandy. The company NCOs came to the second watch for beer and tobacco. The first sergeant visited during the third watch and was presented with a glass of wine and a piece of tobacco on a tin plate.
Though this tradition is no longer followed in today's Army, certain traditions remain a vital part of marking the transition to a member of the time honored corps.
"This ceremony is based on tradition and knowing that I'm able to take part in something like this feels great." said Brooklyn native Sgt. Genevieve Daly, an information systems specialist for Operational Command and Control G6.
The basic duties of the NCO remain consistent throughout their enlisted career. From the rank of sergeant a NCO is responsible for the individual training, personal appearance and cleanliness of their Soldiers.
Described in the NCO Creed as the "backbone of the Army," the NCO is the leader of Soldiers and an example for future NCOs.
"If the command thinks that I'm ready for this rank and responsibility then I'm willing to take the challenge," said Sgt. Bradley M. Zurla, a human intelligence collector with the 513th Military Intelligence Detachment.
Each NCO being inducted was called by name and identified by their sponsor. After being called, the NCOs walked beneath crossed swords and were congratulated by their superiors.
After the ceremony had finished, the newly christened NCOs left having cemented their place in the ranks of the NCO corps.
| Date Taken: | 06.10.2008 |
| Date Posted: | 06.10.2008 07:05 |
| Story ID: | 20298 |
| Location: | KW |
| Web Views: | 409 |
| Downloads: | 372 |
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