NCO Induction Ceremony Speech

Below is a starting point for your speech, this one is fr an NCO Induction Ceremony, you can tailor it for your needs.

Distinguished guests, and soldiers and civilians of the Western Command, thank you for allowing me to come out this afternoon and share a few words with your newest noncommissioned officers.

The history of the United States Army and of the noncommissioned officer began in 1775, with the birth of the Continental Army. The American noncommissioned officer is unique, like the American Army itself, and blended traditions of the French, British, and Prussian armies into a uniquely American institution. As the years progressed, the American political system, disdain for class, social attitudes, and the vast westward expanses, further removed the US Army noncommissioned officer from his European counterparts, and created a truly American noncommissioned officer.

Sergeants and Corporals were expected to instruct recruits in all matters of military training, including the order of their behavior and in regard to neatness and sanitation. Outbreaks of disturbances were to be punished and listings of sick were to be forwarded to the First Sergeant.  In battle NCOs were to close the gaps caused by casualties and to encourage men to fire rapidly and true.

In today’s era, the duties of the modern noncommissioned officer are not much different than they were 228 years ago. NCOs still train, inspect and develop soldiers.  But today, new challenges will face these newly inducted noncommissioned officer in ways that could never had been envisioned when our Army was formed.

Today we are transforming our Army while we are at War. For the soldiers and civilians of the Operational Test Command, you are well-known for being at the cutting edge of this transformation. Meanwhile, we have over 300,000 soldiers deployed to more than 120 different countries. The terrible events of September 11 have given our nation and its military a new purpose, one that we must be ready to implement on a moments notice.

To the newest sergeants here I challenge you to keep yourselves and if appropriate, your teams, sections or squads, ready. Take every opportunity to develop yourselves both technically and tactically. Remember that “Good” is the enemy of “Best.” Take advantage of those around you and learn from others who may have experience and wisdom and always be ready to listen. The good Lord gave us two ears and one mouth, use them at that ratio.

Hopefully soon, if not already, you will have soldiers of your own. Always make the time to talk with your soldiers. Notice I say “talk with,” not talk to. For this is the way we carry out one of our two greatest responsibilities, taking care of the welfare of our soldiers. Do that, and they will always be there to assist you in accomplishing your mission.

Another challenge I share is to repeat the adage that when in charge, take charge. The stripes on your collar are a flashing beacon that unless someone of more senior rank is present, you are now the first leader in the chain of command. The mark of a professional soldier, the BEST soldier, is one who does what is right in the absence of orders. Each of these newly inducted NCOs have obviously demonstrated these types of traits, and that is why they have achieved this noteworthy achievement in moving from the enlisted ranks to the time honored corps, the Backbone of The Army, the Noncommissioned Officer.

Again, my thanks to Command Sergeant Major DePriest in inviting me down to take part in this ceremony and sharing a few words during this important day. Thank you.