Photo By Sgt. James Larimer | Newly inducted noncommissioned officers raise their right hands while reciting the NCO...... read more read more
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Świętoszów, Poland – The sound of applause echoed through the ceremony hall as newly promoted sergeants crossed through ceremonial arches, officially joining the ranks of the Army's noncommissioned officer corps during an NCO induction ceremony hosted by the 110th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, Georgia National Guard (Task Force Liberty), at Forward Operating Site Świętoszów, Poland, June 18, 2025.
The time-honored tradition welcomed newly promoted NCOs from multiple units across TF Liberty as they transitioned from junior enlisted Soldiers to the backbone of the Army – its NCOs.
"It was an honor, especially being in the position as the senior enlisted advisor in the company," said Sgt. 1st Class Michael Davis, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 110th CSSB. "It was like watching the birth of a child – it was a proud moment."
The ceremony marked a significant milestone in each Soldier's military career. For many participants, the formal induction provided a deeper understanding of their new responsibilities and connection to the NCO Corps.
"The ceremony made it real," said Sgt. Cheyenne Higgs, HHC, 110th CSSB. "Hearing the NCO Creed, being formally recognized by senior NCOs, and participating in that rite of passage made me feel the weight of this new chapter. It reinforced that I'm no longer just part of the formation – I'm leading it."
The transition from junior enlisted to NCO represents more than a promotion in rank – it signifies a fundamental shift in responsibility and leadership expectations. The newly inducted NCOs expressed their understanding of this transformation.
"Becoming an NCO means becoming part of something that's bigger than just myself," said Sgt. Brandon Richards, an Ammunition Specialist with 2nd Platoon, 962nd Ordnance Company. "I now have Soldiers come to me for help, expecting me to have an answer and the experience to help them."
Sgt. Angela Aguilera, a Motor Transport Operator with the 725th Transportation Company, described her realization during the ceremony: "I looked around and I saw senior leadership, I saw the pride and the way they carried themselves. The ceremony made it feel like it's your turn, like I had some big shoes to fill."
Sgt. Tymeshia Monroe, HHC, 110th CSSB, stated that the ceremony's most meaningful moment came from peer recognition. "Having my peers in the audience clapping for me as my name was called was the most meaningful. It showed the connection we have formed during this deployment."
Behind each newly inducted NCO stands a network of mentors who shaped their development and prepared them for leadership responsibilities. The ceremony highlighted the critical role senior NCOs play in developing the next generation of leaders.
"Senior NCOs serve as examples of the Army's values and attributes, modeling the behavior and professionalism expected of leaders," said Staff Sgt. Austin Haney, 2/962 OD CO, Standard Army Ammunition System NCOIC. "They demonstrate discipline, ethics, and a commitment to the Army profession, inspiring trust and confidence in junior leaders."
Many of the new NCOs credited specific mentors with preparing them for their new roles. Sgt. Jordan Lipscomb, HHC, 110th CSSB, praised his mentor's leadership style: "Sgt. 1st Class Davis has always looked out for his Soldiers and taken care of us no matter what, and treated us as one of his own. He is a leader that I would want to be in the future."
1st Sgt. Eric Daggett, 725th TC, emphasized the ongoing nature of NCO development: "The role of senior NCOs in mentoring new leaders is not merely supportive; it is foundational. Their wisdom, experience, and unwavering dedication ensure a continuous flow of capable, confident, and value-driven individuals ready to lead."
Senior leaders stressed the importance of adaptability and continuous learning for new NCOs operating in today's complex environment.
"Due to today's constantly evolving operational environment, there is always something new to learn," advised Staff Sgt. Stephan Herrmann, the 110th CSSB residue NCOIC. "Don't base every leadership decision on one prior experience."
The ceremony also served as a reminder to junior Soldiers about the value and expectations of NCO leadership. As 1st Sgt. Mark Herman, 724th Transportation Company, noted, “The message is clear: Lead by example always, for someone is always watching."
1st Sgt. Audria Bunton, Charlie Company, 553rd Division Sustainment Support Battalion, further stressed the importance of leading in today's operational environment by stating, "The Operational environment is complex. Critical thinking, confidence, commitment, and continual training are required. NCOs must be committed to training and remain agile and flexible. Staying committed to the Corps for enhanced mentorship, to help you learn, grow, and thrive, through mistakes you may make in the future.”
The newly inducted NCOs also outlined their immediate goals and long-term career aspirations, demonstrating their commitment to professional growth and the development of their Soldiers.
"My immediate goals as an NCO are to make sure my appearance is unquestionably that of an NCO and portray myself as someone that you can feel trusted to go to with any questions," said Richards.
Sgt. Aguilera, focus remains on continuous improvement: "I want to have the mentality that I'm constantly learning and not become complacent, and if I do ever become complacent, to acknowledge it and do something about it."
The induction ceremony underscored the importance of the NCO Corps within the Army's structure and its role in upholding standards and discipline.
Staff Sgt. Adriana Nunez, 2/962 OD CO, Operations NCOIC, highlighted the long-term impact of NCO development: "As a senior leader, our most important role is to ensure we are passing the torch properly. The mentorship we provide junior leaders shapes the organization for years to come."
The NCO induction ceremony served not only as formal recognition of promotion but as a bridge connecting the Army's rich traditions with its future leadership. These newly inducted NCOs now carry the responsibility of maintaining the standards, discipline, and professionalism that define the NCO corps.
| Date Taken: | 06.18.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 07.26.2025 01:49 |
| Story ID: | 543587 |
| Location: | PL |
| Web Views: | 34 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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