Scaparrotti: The Role of NCOs is Increasingly Important

In his lecture, General Curtis Scaparrotti emphasized that the role of the NCOs is becoming increasingly important in NATO, and they, too, need to adapt to the challenges of our age. He pointed out that he visited this course in Hungary because only few such international courses are held in Europe, and the Hungarian NCO Corps is doing an excellent job. As he said, his father had served as a NCO too, and took great pride in it.

In reviewing the role of NCOs, the general noted that they are not only responsible for the training and readiness of enlisted personnel, but also – and this important role of theirs rarely gets mentioned – for resolving disagreements. He added that it is essential that they always set a good example. The above, therefore, shows how crucial is their selection and proper training. The general closed his lecture by noting that the present course is a great example of strategic cooperation among nations.

In his speech, Chief of Defence Gen. Dr. Tibor Benkő said that although the training of NCOs has been going on for some years in Hungary, our achievements are already acknowledged in NATO. He pointed out that the NCOs’ role is very complex, because they form a strong piece of chain between officers and enlisted soldiers. It is of key importance that we should place great emphasis on providing NCOs with adequate training and education.

In answer to our question, he said that 52 Hungarian NCOs have already completed the CSEL Course. He also pointed out that communication through the NCO support channel is quite important for the officers – and also personally for the chief of defence –, because it is the NCOs who can see what happens in the military units on a daily basis.

At the end of the high-ranking military leaders’ visit, CSM István Kriston, the Command Sergeant Major of the Hungarian Defence Forces presented a copy of the NCO Creed to General Curtis Scaparrotti.

Photo: László Tóth