17th Fires Brigade

Story by Spc. Maurice Galloway

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA, Iraq – Twenty of the Army's newest non-commissioned officers were inducted into the time-honored NCO Corps during an induction ceremony conducted by 17th Fires Brigade at Contingency Operating Base Basra, Oct. 25.

"Being a part of this ceremony was a proud experience for me," said Sgt. Christopher P. Phillippi, Headquarters & Headquarters Battery, 17th Fires Brigade, Basrah Operations Center liaison.

The Lacey, Wash. native said the ceremony was more meaningful because of the presence of the 14th Iraqi Army Division.

"I felt a sense of pride to be a part of a ceremony that gave the Iraqi army's NCOs a firsthand view at the pride, honor and tradition that we uphold as NCOs," Phillippi said. "This is exactly what our purpose in Basrah is, to help them instill those same ideals and develop their legacy that their Soldiers will be very proud of for years to come."

Guest speaker Command Sgt. Maj. Wendell Jordan, 308th Brigade Support Battalion, provided a speech designed to inspire, motivate and encourage each of these new members to strive to exceed all expectations as the newest leaders of America's Army.

"If there is one thing I want you to take away from this speech here today, it's that respect is something each of you must earn," Jordan said. "Treat your Soldiers with respect and carry yourselves in a respectful and professional manner and your Soldiers will follow you where ever you lead them,"

Each inductee was handed a copy of the Army Non-commissioned Officer Guide and a framed copy of the Charge of the NCO by the senior NCOs responsible for providing rites of passage to the inductees.

The ceremony was held on the Morale, Welfare and Recreation stage in front of a crowd of friends, mentors and coworkers in attendance to show support for the inductees.

"I want to thank all of those who came out to support these young NCOs," said Command Sgt. Maj. Joseph E. Santos, 17th FB. "It's because of your support that they have come thus far and it will be by your guidance that they'll develop in to strong and creditable leaders.

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