CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA, Iraq – The newest members of the Army’s Corps of Noncommissioned Officers currently serving at Contingency Operating Base Basra crossed the threshold from Soldier to leader in an NCO induction ceremony Sept. 11.
The fire-lit ceremony, hosted by the 34th Infantry Division Special Troops Battalion, was a rite of passage for 36 recently-promoted sergeants as they affirmed their commitment to the time-honored traditions and professionalism of the NCO corps.
“These Soldiers deserve the respect an NCO receives because of the rank they wear,” remarked Command Sgt. Maj. Douglas J. Wortham, senior enlisted leader, DSTB. “However, NCOs earn respect through their actions.”
Addressing the corps’ most recent inductees, the Elko, Minn. resident reminded them, as well as the enlisted-only attendees, that leadership is not a privilege, it’s a responsibility. He stressed the tenets of purpose, direction and motivation.
“Leadership isn’t easy. It’s something that is developed and refined on a continuous basis,” said Wortham. “You must own the desire, fortitude and courage to do what is right, regardless of the consequences.”
The inductees proclaimed their commitment to enter the ranks of the NCO corps and symbolically passed through a tunnel of ascension. Upon arrival on the other side, each sergeant affirmed commitment to the values of the corps by signing the NCO Creed.
Under a moonlit Basra sky, the inductees recited both the Creed and Charge of the noncommissioned officers, confirming their status as leaders.
Wortham challenged all to know their mission, equipment and job, but emphasized to “know yourself and your Soldiers.”
“As an NCO, you must be a person of character,” said Wortham. “You must have the inner strength to know the difference between right and wrong and then be able to do the right thing.”
