71 new NCOs inducted into NCO Corps

Photo By Spc. Howard Ketter | A new non-commissioned officer steps through the traditional archway symbolizing the transition to a NCO during an NCO induction ceremony, Aug. 2, 2008,at Camp Arifjan.  

KUWAIT

08.02.2008

Story by Spc. Howard Ketter 

20th Public Affairs Detachment

By Pfc. Howard Ketter
20th Public Affairs Detachment

Kuwait - Seventy-one new non-commissioned officers were inducted into the NCO Corps at the Training Activity Center on Camp Arifjan, Aug. 2, 2008.

The traditional ceremony marks the passage of newly promoted NCOs into the time honored corps, which is known as the backbone of the Army.

"Being an NCO means being a leader and taking care of Soldiers while accomplishing the mission," said 1st Sgt. Michael L. Mayes, a Dobson, N.C. native, with the 546th Transportation Company.

The ceremony began with an invocation, the singing of the National Anthem and the Soldier's Creed.

The new NCOs were introduced by a sponsor from their unit.

Command Sgt. Maj. Scarlett I. Stabel, Logistic Task Force, told the new NCOs that they are responsible for training, mentoring and leading junior Soldiers.

The NCOs recited the Creed of the Non-commissioned Officer, agreeing to uphold their duties and responsibilities as non-commissioned officers.

Afterwards, the NCOs walked through the traditional archway, symbolizing their transition into the NCO corps.

"I want to be looked to for leadership by younger Soldiers and pass on my standards to them," said Sgt. Jason Rusbuldt, a Brocton, N.Y. native, 2nd Transportation Company.

The NCOs concluded the ceremony by singing the Army song and having the youngest NCO and the command sergeant major, cut the ceremonial cake.

• Date Taken: 08.02.2008
• Date Posted: 08.12.2008 06:29
• Story ID: 22384
• Location: KW