What is the difference between a Non-Comissioned Officer (NCO) and a Commissioned Officer (CO) in the military rank structure?

Question

I’ve read several explanations but they all go over my head. I can’t seem to find an actually decent explanation as to what a “commission” is in a military setting.

In: 1343

Answer 1

This is essentially a very outdated structure that will never change. Historically, enlisted were uneducated and unskilled. The military taught them skill for manual labor type jobs. Officers were educated (wealthy) so took on leadership roles.

In the modern military, enlisted members often have degrees, are educated and come from all different wealth classes.

Also, unique to the Coast Guard, enlisted Boatswain Mates can be Officers in Charge (equivalent to a Commanding Officer) and Executive Petty Officers (equivalent to Executive Officers).