NCOs and Petty Officers: Who They Are and What They Do

Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) and petty officers are enlisted servicemembers who have been promoted to leadership positions based on their skills, experience, and performance. A vital component of military structure, they serve as the backbone of the U.S. Armed Forces. NCOs bridge the gap between enlisted personnel and commissioned officers, playing crucial roles in leadership, training, and operational effectiveness. By motivating and sustaining the enlisted force, NCOs and petty officers are part of the leadership cadre that ensures the organization's mission is accomplished.  

The role of NCOs and petty officers extends beyond functional responsibilities; they embody the military’s values and traditions. Their experience and perspective are invaluable in shaping future leaders and fostering a sense of camaraderie among troops. NCOs and petty officers often play a key role in maintaining the ethos and culture of the military, instilling pride and a sense of duty in those they lead. 

Each military branch, including the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force and Coast Guard, has its own specific roles, titles, and guides for NCOs, but their core responsibilities remain largely consistent.  

The key responsibilities of an NCO or petty officer are as follows: 

1. Leadership and Supervision: NCOs are responsible for leading and supervising junior enlisted personnel. They ensure that their teams understand their tasks and execute them effectively, fostering an environment of accountability and discipline.  
2. Training and Development: One of the primary roles of an NCO is to train troops. They conduct drills, instruction, and mentorship, helping to develop both technical skills and leadership qualities in junior soldiers. This training is essential for maintaining military readiness.  
3. Discipline and Morale: NCOs are pivotal in upholding military standards and discipline. They enforce rules, set expectations, and provide guidance to maintain morale within their units. Strong NCO leadership often translates to higher unit cohesion and effectiveness.  
4. Communication: Acting as a conduit between enlisted personnel and commissioned officers, NCOs facilitate communication within the ranks. They convey orders, feedback, and concerns to ensure all levels of the chain of command are aligned. 
5. Operational Planning and Execution: NCOs often participate in planning and executing missions and operations, providing critical insights based on their experience.  
6. Resource Management: NCOs manage equipment, supplies, and logistical needs for their units. They ensure that their troops have the necessary tools to perform their duties effectively and efficiently. 

For more information about NCOs, refer to The Noncommissioned Officer Guide or to learn how Membership with AAFMAA can benefit your military life, contact an AAFMAA Member Benefits Coordinator at 800-522-5221 or [email protected]. 

The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.  Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Aril Pulsifer. Members sailing aboard U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Gerczak (WPC 1126) pose for a picture with Petty Officer 2nd Class Joseph Dube and Petty Officer 2nd Class Nicholas O’Daniels following their advancement ceremony held at sea on April 1, 2023.