18th Engineer Brigade holds junior leader development program

SCHWETZINGEN, Germany — Every Soldier remembers the first noncommissioned officer that made a difference in their career — the first NCO that inspired them and taught them how to be the best.

For many Soldiers, that NCO is a newly-promoted sergeant working as their supervisor. During a junior leader development program July 13 to 15, 26 recently promoted corporals and sergeants from 18th Engineer Brigade gained knowledge on how to be that NCO who makes a difference.

Col. Paul M. Paolozzi, 18th Eng. Bde. Commander, quoted John F. Kennedy during his opening remarks, by stating “physical excellence is the basis of all other excellence.”

The physical excellence of the NCOs was tested during the course of the program by including a six-mile motivational run, multiple sets of pull-ups and a 10-kilometer ruck march.

Command Sgt. Maj. David M. Clark, the 18th Eng. Bde. command sergeant major, led the NCOs on the 10-kilometer ruck march around Schwetzingen on day three of the program.

“It was challenging and gave us a chance to bond together, to push ourselves and our peers so we could finish together,” said Sgt. Micah Morris, personnel actions NCO for 18th Eng. Bde.

Along with the rigorous physical fitness and team building exercises, emphasis was placed on military education and leadership development. Briefings were given on the Army Equal Opportunity Program and Comprehensive Soldier Fitness. Personal experiences were also shared in order to further enhance the NCOs’ leadership skills and prepare them for a successful career.

“We were all sergeants once and all of you have the potential to be sergeants major…no one can buy that rank, it is earned,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Roger Blackwood, V Corps Command Sergeant Major.

“I’m a better leader now,” said Sergeant Morris, referring to the knowledge he gained on the effectiveness of counseling Soldiers. “I’m informed now of what an NCO can do and how they can better take care of Soldiers.”

Following the three-day program on July 15, all 26 NCOs were welcomed into the noncommissioned officers corps in an induction ceremony at Tompkins Barracks Parade Field, here.