NCOs must lead change and ensure safety

As the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School continues to transform, we must remember that the most powerful weapons we have are the NCOs assigned to the center. They will lead transformation and enforce changes that will ensure that our Soldiers are prepared to meet, engage and destroy the enemy.

Throughout all phases of our world-class training, our NCOs will continue to find areas that need improvements related to the changing battlefield. Our training will remain relevant, enforce core skills for unconventional warfare and place a greater emphasis on foreign-language training.

Understanding the plan and vision of the SWCS Pipeline Transformation is easy. There are two basic principles: (1) Never lose the focus on rigorous training standards; and (2) None of the innovative changes will harm the current success of the SF Pipeline. Our training must continue to provide our Soldiers with the confidence and the broad range of capabilities needed to continue to win in the Global War of Terrorism and across the entire spectrum of conflict.

With the high pace of transformation, I would ask that all NCOs and leaders pay special attention to safety and to risk-management. All leaders must work extra hard to educate all of our Soldiers, civilians, staff and family members about potential hazards. The Army's strategic message is clear: The involvement of leadership at every level is our primary weapon against accidents. I urge all leaders to be involved and committed to safety, so that we can protect our most valuable resource: "the SWCS family."

Veritas et Libertas!

Command Sergeant Major Dave M. Bruner is the command sergeant major for the JFK Special Warfare Center and School.

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