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NCO Journal June 2025 Articles

The official magazine of noncommissioned officer professional development

Fundamentals First

By Command Sgt. Maj. Bryan D. Barker

“A unit’s initial mission doesn’t define its value but its ability to learn, grow, and deliver,” Command Sgt. Maj. Bryan D. Barker writes. An approach from the NCO’s toolbox allowed his team to flourish in Afghanistan. Read how in his Muddy Boots article.

Article published on: June 24, 2025

One Team, One Fight

By Command Sgt. Maj. Errol H. Brooks

The rise of individualism threatens Army cohesion, writes Command Sgt. Maj. Errol H. Brooks. Emphasizing shared purpose can reform Soldiers who are more focused on social media status and hair color than on the training and proficiency combat requires.

Article published on: June 23, 2025

Leadership Matters

By Master Sgt. Matthew W. Rouse

From troubled youth to Sergeant Major Academy, Master Sgt. Matthew W. Rouse shows how supportive leadership can rebuild lives and unleash soldiers’ potential.

Article published on: June 20, 2025

Train for Your Worst Day

By Command Sgt. Maj. Jonathan E. Reffeor

Trust isn’t just valuable, writes Command Sgt. Maj. Jonathan E. Reffeor. It’s lifesaving. Learn how training for the worst transformed Soldiers into a cohesive team with faith in one another, and find out how that paid off during harsh combat in Iraq.

Article published on: June 16, 2025

Fostering a Culture of Respect and Recognition

By Sgt. D’Angelo Isaac

"People First" is a guiding philosophy that should be evident in every Soldier's daily actions and decisions. By valuing and respecting their contributions, the Army promotes a culture of respect, which is indispensable for its success.

Article published on: June 13, 2025

Find Your Village

By Master Sgt. Leonard D. Grimes

To unlock your full potential, writes Master Sgt. Leonard D. Grimes, identify and leverage your support system. Leaders who do — and who immerse themselves in the present — thrive in the face of challenges accompanying success.

Article published on: June 6, 2025

Standards and Discipline

By Command Sgt. Maj. Jerry L. Dodson Jr.

Why do Soldiers violate grooming standards, Command Sgt. Maj. Jerry Dodson asks, and why don’t others correct them? The answer reveals how to make on-the-spot corrections properly — and why. Read this Muddy Boots contribution on standards and discipline.

Article published on: June 2, 2025