What does non-commissioned mean? Do these officers go through officer academy like ordinary officers? And why do some analysts say that having a strong NCO class is essential to a well-functioning army (i.e. what can they do that a normal officer can’t?)
Thanks in advance!
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While it’s possible to have a “green to gold” or former enlisted officer, most officers are put in leadership positions straight out of service academy or OCS.
NCOs have the hands on experience, they are senior enlisted. They also have the respect of the junior enlisted soldiers. Many NCOs have fought on several tours and earned their respect the hard way.
Officers lean on the NCO for advice but also to carry out their orders. They have a symbiotic relationship and always act as one voice in front of the junior enlisted. An officer that loses the confidence of their NCOs has lost control of his unit. While the officer technically outranks all enlisted, the junior enlisted which makes up the bulk of the military typically respect the NCOs above all and will follow them over any officer.
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