NCO Journal January 2024 Articles

The official magazine of noncommissioned officer professional development

Changing the “Liker-ship” Mindset

By Sgt. Maj. Joseph W. Frost

Liked leaders attain more substantial influence, gain more commitment, and create more positive working environments, resulting in passionate and thriving teams.

Article published on: January 26, 2024

What if Soldiers Acted Their “Wage?”

By 1st Sgt. Anthony J. Burroughs

We volunteered to join a force that stands in the gap to stop chaos and ruin. We may not always be appreciated or even paid for the time, families, or lives lost, but someone must do it. If not us, then who? “Quiet quitting” is leaving the gap unfilled and failing our mission.

Article published on: January 22, 2024

Exposure Leads to Resiliency

By Sgt. Maj. Thomas J. “TJ” Trent

The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is the current physical fitness test that assesses Soldiers’ performance using a scoring scale system based on their age and gender (U.S. Army, n.d.). While the ACFT serves as a valuable tool to measure Soldiers’ physical performance, there is a growing recognition that the scoring system raises ethical concerns.

Article published on: January 19, 2024

The ACFT: Soldiers Over Scores

By Master Sgt. Jason G. Pickett

The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is the current physical fitness test that assesses Soldiers’ performance using a scoring scale system based on their age and gender (U.S. Army, n.d.). While the ACFT serves as a valuable tool to measure Soldiers’ physical performance, there is a growing recognition that the scoring system raises ethical concerns.

Article published on: January 16, 2024

Approachable, Authentic, and Accessible

By Sgt. Maj. Michael J. Perry III

Thirty years of service in the Army is an accomplishment I’m proud of. I want to share some insight into what I learned becoming a mentee, mentor, and eventual leader. This article explains the ideas and systems I used to become the leader I am today.

Article published on: January 12, 2024

Breaking the Cycle

By Master Sgt. Robert Mb. Flak

Addressing toxic leadership requires cultural shifts within the Army to promote more open, respectful, and supportive environments, which can be lengthy and complex. Acknowledging these challenges is the first step toward developing more effective strategies to identify and eliminate toxic leadership within the Army.

Article published on: January 8, 2024