The article “On the Need for a State Defense Force Noncommissioned Officer Council” by First Sergeant (MD) Ronald Scott and Colonel (MD) Martin Hershkowitz presents a detailed argument for establishing a formal Noncommissioned Officer (NCO) Council within State Defense Forces to strengthen professionalism, leadership, and discipline. It outlines how NCOs form the backbone of military organizations—responsible for training, mentorship, and maintaining standards—and emphasizes the importance of a structured NCO support channel that parallels the chain of command. The authors trace the history and leadership role of NCOs from von Steuben’s “Blue Book” to the modern Army Field Manuals, noting how their influence ensures unit readiness and morale. They propose a council composed of senior NCOs from each element, tasked with standardizing training, enforcing military customs, and advising command staff on enlisted matters. The article also advocates for the development of NCO education programs, including Basic and Advanced Noncommissioned Officer Courses, a First Sergeant Course, and a Sergeant Major Development Program, to professionalize the SDF. It concludes that an NCO Council would unify leadership, enhance soldier development, improve recruitment and retention, and help transform State Defense Forces into modern, professional military support organizations fully integrated with their state’s National Guard.
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