CAMP JACKSON SOUTH KOREA - Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Winzenried, United Nations Command/Combined Forces Command/US Forces Korea/ 8th United States Army Command Sgt. Maj., visited Camp Jackson June 23 to congratulate new Warrior leaders. More than 50 non-commissioned officers who had graduated from a Warrior Leadership Course gathered in Wightman Hall to listen to his address. The purpose of his visit was to encourage the freshman NCOs, give advice based on his experience, and deliver well-wishing remarks.
"It's tough to become an NCO after being a Soldier," Winzenried said. "This will be the toughest transition of your entire career."
Winzenried advised the new leaders how leadership works. He explained what corporals and sergeants should do as junior leaders. He said the most important thing to a Soldier is time, and they should take time to look for a way to promote their careers.
"Our goal is not sergeant," Winzenried said. "Somebody here can replace me some day. You've got to plan your career right now. Which one do you want' Retirement as a command sergeant major or just sergeant' I don't want you to settle back as you are now."
Winzenried discussed his career as a noncommissioned officer in his speech. He said the difference between NCOs and officers is availability; sergeants are always with their Soldiers. This was one reason he chose to become an NCO. NCOs should be role models, he said. Speak to others in a knowledgeable and comfortable manner because "you are mentors leading junior privates."
In the same context, he also denied a comment one Soldier made saying officers have more power to make change. He said each leader has his own role in making change and NCOs influence change all the time.
Most questions were about command sponsorship or curfew hours. Soldiers were concerned about whether it provides more job openings for military spouses.
"That's the toughest part, and according to SOFA rules, if Korean employees occupy some positions, it's their jobs. It is not easy for spouses to get jobs unless they have professional skills, like engineers or teachers," Winzenried answered. "About curfew hours, Gen. Sharp still thinks shortened curfew hours are reasonable. There will be no change for some time to come."
He ended his speech by emphasizing the importance of time again.
"The most important thing to a Soldier is time," Winzenried said. "There is no off-time in the Army, so do what you should do now."
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