CONTINGENCY OPERATING SITE MAREZ, Iraq "As leaders in the United States Army, noncommissioned officers have a responsibility to provide outstanding leadership to the troops they lead.
Nine Soldiers assigned to 5th Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, joined the corps of noncommissioned officers, acknowledging that responsibility, during an NCO induction ceremony on Contingency Operating Site Marez, Iraq, Aug. 5.
“These Soldiers will be walking proudly across this stage to become part of one of the world’s most prestigious and time honored organizations, the United States Army’s Noncommissioned Officer Corps " the backbone of our Army and the envy of every other,” said Command Sgt. Major Daniel Dailey, senior enlisted Soldier, 4th Infantry Division and U.S. Division " North.
During the ceremony, newly inducted Soldiers reflected on what it means to be a noncommissioned officer.
“Black Dragon” Soldiers of 5th Bn., 82nd FA Regt., reenacted the “Four Watches” of an NCO, representing the method of entering their ranks, and symbolizing the induction of their fellow junior noncommissioned officers.
“The NCO induction represents the great heritage of a noncommissioned officer,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Calvin Coler, senior enlisted Soldier assigned to 5th Bn., 82nd FA Regt., and a native of New Orleans. “The epitome of being enlisted is over into the NCO ranks. This is the rite of passage, a visible sign that everyone is aware of them becoming noncommissioned officers.”
As an NCO, Soldiers train and lead other Soldiers, making them better and preparing them to become leaders in the U.S. Army.
“I believe a major aspect of being an NCO is that you are a leader,” said Sgt. Oriola Owokoya, a medic assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, and native of Houston. “This is another step forward in my Army career. It is a great opportunity to take part in this, and I’m very proud to be inducted into the Corps of Noncommissioned Officers.”
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