NCO Journal February 2026 Articles
The official magazine of noncommissioned officer professional development
Sustaining Readiness Through Recovery
By Sgt. Maj. William H. Powers, Jr. and Sgt. Maj. Zachary D. Wriston
This article highlights how NCOs sustain combat readiness through a disciplined, leader-driven post‑operations recovery process. By using a “system of systems” approach and active involvement at every echelon, units preserve lethality and stay prepared for LSCO.
Article published on: February 27, 2026
Objective Apollo
By Staff Sgt. Morgan G. Moscoso
Set in 2037, this story follows a U.S. Army division using advanced AI-driven intel, holographic mapping, and drone networks to seize a nuclear facility. As jamming, hidden threats, and rival tech emerge, Soldiers race to stay one step ahead on a rapidly evolving battlefield.
Article published on: February 23, 2026
Forged in Identity
By Retired Sgt. Maj. David L. Stewart
A visit to Parris Island reveals how the Marine Corps forges powerful identity, belonging, and pride through intentional rituals and role modeling. The article challenges other services to build their own identity-driven systems that strengthen cohesion and professionalism.
Article published on: February 20, 2026
Anchors in the Storm of Change
By Sgt. 1st Class Jerae P. Perez
Change in the Army isn’t just structural — it impacts identity. NCOs play a crucial role in guiding Soldiers through uncertainty with trust, presence, and empathy. Transformation succeeds when leaders connect people to purpose and carry them through change.
Article published on: February 17, 2026
Sponsorship, Integration Counseling, and Mentorship: We Have To Do It Better
By Sgt. 1st Class Michael R. Holguin
The Army must shift its approach to sponsorship, integration counseling, and mentorship from bureaucratic “checklists” to deliberate and meaningful encounters. If a shift isn't made, Soldiers will be left unprepared, disconnected, undervalued and will lack motivation and purpose.
Article published on: February 13, 2026
Battlefield Now Part 2
By Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Dr. Robert Nelson, Sgt. Maj. Danny Del Castillo, Sgt. Maj. Jorge Rivera, Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Adams, Sgt. Maj. Antonio Pires, Brazilian Army, Sgt. Maj. Daniel Shealy, Sgt. Maj. Lisa Walker
In Part 2, SGM-A instructors explore a battle of information and perception, from the rise of non-state actors leveraging deepfakes and additive manufacturing to the contested frontiers of space and cyberspace, and the complex ethical questions arising from high-casualty attrition warfare.
Article published on: February 10, 2026
Nothing Else to Consider
By Sgt. 1st Class Justin Malzac
A high‑stakes jungle raid unravels when a SEAL sniper, relying on a focus‑enhancing helmet, makes a fatal mistake. As the mission spirals into chaos, one wrong shot shatters the operation—and his confidence—leaving him to face the devastating cost.
Article published on: February 10, 2026
Battlefield Now Part 1
By Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Dr. Robert Nelson, Retired Sgt. Maj. Robert Shawlinski, Retired Sgt. Maj. James Perdue, Sgt. Maj. Benjamin Pingel, Retired Sgt. Maj. Cregg Cannon, Sgt. Maj. Fabio Lusiani, Italian Army, & Retired Sgt. Maj. Vernon Yates
The multi-domain battlefield is a complex and dynamic operational environment undergoing a profound transformation driven by rapid advancements in technology, pervasive surveillance, and escalating ethical challenges.
Article published on: February 6, 2026
The Army Tells You What to Do
By Command Sgt. Maj. Dennis R. Kirk
Struggling with promotions? The Army already gives the roadmap. Meaningful professional growth counseling, knowing DA PAM 600‑25, pursuing key schools, staying ready, and owning your development are the keys to standing out and moving up.
Article published on: February 2, 2026