FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- A long-time Aviation noncommissioned officer and Alabama native returned "home" July 23, stepping in as the new NCO Academy commandant.
Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Mitchell, of Rogersville, comes here after serving three years at the 16th Combat Aviation Brigade in Fort Wainwright, Alaska. He replaces Command Sgt. Maj. Marlin Smith, who retired in June.
This is not Mitchell's first time at Fort Rucker. Along with Smith, he attended an academy sergeant's major course in 2004. He never expected one day he would fill Smith's shoes.
"It's funny how the stars aligned. (Smith and I) remained friends after we were students here," Mitchell said.
He said he plans to continue his peer's successful legacy, and feels his experience with the 16th CAB, which deployed to the Middle East in 2007, prepared him to lead the institution.
"Having the opportunity to see what the (unit) was doing down range gave me a good idea of the training our young NCOs need. I will incorporate that into lesson plans," Mitchell said. "I'm excited to be back at the home of Army Aviation and hopefully be able to bring some current (tactics, techniques and procedures) learned downrange and implement them, and also have some impact on our mid-level NCOs who will one day run Aviation."
The academy, which trains NCOs through advanced and senior leader courses, will undergo several transformations within the next two years, which he said he is excited to spearhead.
The 15W unmanned aircraft systems military occupation specialty advanced leader course will include operator instructor qualifications by 2012, Mitchell said. Soldiers in that MOS previously had to attend training elsewhere to gain certification.
"It saves time (and) money, and gives commanders quality NCOs to run the UAS program," he said.
A 15E UAS maintainer's course will be hosted at the NCO academy here, also by 2012, Mitchell noted. Providing this training will continue to develop and expand the UAS field.
The Army will eventually combine the Fort Eustis, Va., and Fort Rucker NCO Academies so both can be overseen by leadership here, he said. The Fort Eustis academy also trains in Aviation-related MOSs.
"I look forward to upcoming challenges," Mitchell said. "It's an exciting time to be in Aviation."
Academy cadre said they've noticed Mitchell's passion for striving for excellence since his arrival here.
"He's all about improvement and giving it back better than how he received it," said 1st Sgt. Michael McGee, NCO Academy deputy commandant. "With the Echo (course), it's a brand new MOS, and for us to be able to teach it here will give more of our (Soldiers) more education and experience for when they go back to the field."
Staff also appreciates Mitchell's new perspective.
"He brings a new set of eyes to the academy and a different outlook," McGee said. "He just got back from the fight, so with (the) experience and tactical knowledge he brings to the table, (he) will hopefully help improve the training here and make it more relevant to the NCOs who attend (here)."
"He's engaged with the students and cadre," said Sgt. 1st Class Paul Pascual, maintenance branch chief. "When it comes to the education we're trying to teach the students, he is bringing standards and discipline to the NCO corps on a higher level."
Improving standards is something Mitchell had done since enlisting in the Army in November 1985 as a turbine engine mechanic.
"I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself. I always looked up to those who served before," he said.
Mitchell continues to impart the knowledge he's learned over the past nearly 25 years on his troops. He encourages them to complete the tasks they are given and take care of their fellow Soldiers.
"I enjoy getting up every day, going to work and being around Soldiers (who are) true professionals who love what they do," Mitchell said.
Family is also important to a successful military career. He said he appreciates the support given by his wife, Bernadette, and their three grown children.
"Without one, you don't have the other. You have to learn how to balance both (Family and work) and always know that (they are) why you're doing what you're doing," he said.
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