Photo By Spc. Charlene Apatang Mendiola | Command Sgt. Maj. Joseph R. Allen, United States Forces-Iraq command sergeant major...... read more read more
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BAGHDAD - Quality professional development is a key component of a successful organization. The ability to learn and enhance oneself is a process that can be achieved through focused effort within the organization.
Non-commissioned officers in the military are charged with upholding that responsibility. This self-improvement is the basis of strengthening the NCO corps.
Professional growth is the key to building an elite military force. To show the importance of that requirement, Command Sgt. Maj. Joseph R. Allen, United States Forces – Iraq command sergeant major, hosted a conference to meet with senior NCOs at Camp Victory, March 14.
Hosting this conference is an opportunity to meet and interact with NCOs, said Allen. His primary focus is to ensure and verify that NCOs have a clear understanding of current operations and the changes the military is implementing.
The conference also served as a reminder that non-commissioned officers have a critical responsibility to develop and mentor future leaders.
“I expect you to take the points I give to you and share them with your soldiers,” Allen said to the attendees. “It is your responsibility to keep them informed as it will help them accomplish their mission and end all rumors.”
“It is important that soldiers are informed of the mission and current changes,” said Sgt. 1st Class Avery Fergerstron, first sergeant with Company B, 86th Combat Support Hospital, Task Force 86. “The more your soldiers know, the better well-rounded they will be which will ensure their dedication to the mission.”
Throughout the conference, Allen pointed out issues that he has recognized throughout his deployment. They ranged from promotions, physical fitness, and awards to equality, suicide, and other service member concerns.
“I agree with Command Sgt. Maj. Allen about being focused on the mission and trying to get things done,” said Master Sgt. Rondall E. Burt, a human resources non-commissioned officer-in- charge with USF-I command group, “But we tend to forget about our soldiers and their needs.”
“You are an elite group of people,” Allen said. “Develop yourself to the level that your soldiers expect you to be.” “NCOs are encouraged to meet frequently,” said Sgt. 1st Class Rhonda Shortsbrinkerhoff, an assistant joint inspector general with USF-I. “When NCOs come together, a distinct wealth of knowledge and information is shared which will benefit other soldiers and the unit itself.”
“This business is all about experience,” Allen said. “If you learn from the right person, then you will get the best training you can get.”
Towards the end of the conference, Allen opened the floor to answer questions and address concerns. He encouraged the service members to speak out on what they expected of him.
“I work for you. It is my job in the Army to do what you want me to do,” he said. “If you don’t talk to me then I can’t help you.”
“It is not every day that we have this opportunity to talk with our senior enlisted officer,” Shortsbrinkerhoff said. “He wasn’t there to just give a lecture but to also listen to soldiers.”
| Date Taken: | 03.14.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 03.20.2011 05:47 |
| Story ID: | 67390 |
| Location: | BAGHDAD, IQ |
| Web Views: | 57 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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