CAMP SCHWAB, Okinawa, Japan—U.S. Marine Corps non-commissioned officers from the 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, spent a day filling key leadership billets on Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan, on February 19, 2026. The experience provided them with firsthand knowledge of senior leader roles and taught them how to lead more effectively.
Non-commissioned officer day is an exchange between NCOs and regimental leadership, during which small unit leaders take charge of regimental leadership positions for the day. The NCOs shadowed and learned about the regimental level leadership roles, responsibilities and expectations the Marine Corps has for its senior leaders.
“NCO day incorporates the frontline leaders to observe the higher-level, day-to-day functions of regimental and company leadership,” said Col. Richard Barclay, commanding officer of 4th Marine Regiment.“ It increases communication and gives all Marines the opportunity to learn from each other.”
During the NCO day, Marines assumed greater responsibilities by actively contributing to problem-solving and operational planning. The NCOs were able to approach challenges alongside mentors and leaders, empowering Marines to grow beyond their comfort zones.
NCOs gained a deeper awareness of the purpose and needs of Marines under regimental leadership. Company and regimental leadership also gained the opportunity to directly interact with and mentor the small unit leaders of the regiment.
“Teaching young leaders like NCOs in the Marine Corps a different way to approach complex leadership problems involves guiding them to analyze situations critically, develop strategic solutions, and demonstrate decisive action,” said Barclay.
This approach emphasizes leading through example, making informed decisions under pressure, and inspiring their teams to overcome challenges with confidence and resilience.
Marines developed a behind the curtains peak into the way regimental operations are performed on a company level. It provides an opportunity for NCOs to learn about the roles senior leaders have and the way those senior leaders support the Marines of 4th Regiment.