FORT HOOD, Texas—Twenty of Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center’s newest non-commissioned officers crossed the “Time-Honored Line,” stepping through an arch and under crossed sabers signifying their entry into the NCO Corps during a formal induction ceremony here March 29.
Induction into the corps is a milestone of every noncommissioned officers’ career. The ceremony, steeped in history and tradition, showcases the pride and expectations that come with the promotion.
In his remarks, guest speaker Command Sgt. Maj. Ronald Law, senior enlisted advisor for CRDAMC’s Warrior Transition Unit, stressed to the 20 inductees that to become a successful NCO, they needed to learn how to improvise, adapt, and overcome.
“Change is part of any successful organization and adapting to change is critical to your development as an NCO. As a leader now, how you handle change can help you in your career, or hurt if you don’t deal with it correctly,” Law said. “Adapting to a new environment or unit is also critical to your development as an NCO. If you see issues, don’t just accept that this is how it’s always been done. You, as an intelligent NCO, need to stand up and show the correct way.”
Being able to overcome obstacles and challenges is what will make them successful at the next level, Law added. “Overcoming shortfalls is our job as NCO s. Recognize how to overcome your fears and failures. Know that you will be supported and better for the experience.”
As part of tradition, three candles were lit during the ceremony--red for valor of the NCO and the blood that has been shed in defense of the nation; white for purity, honesty and integrity of the NCO and blue for the field of honor.
The ceremony concluded with CRDAMC Command Sgt. Maj. Gary Williams issuing the Charge of the NCO to the newly promoted inductees. The new NCOs also sign the “charge” certificate, cementing their contract with the corps promising to live by and uphold the standards of the Army.