Write, Inspire, Lead

Why Professional Military Writing is a Mission for NCOs

While serving as a student at the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy, I became actively engaged with the Harding Project, an initiative dedicated to fostering professional military writing and leadership. During this time, I connected with Sergeant First Class Leyton Summerlin, the former deputy director of the Harding Project, who shared a profound piece of history with me: General Carl E. Vuono’s 1987 address titled “The Year of the NCO.”

In this address, General Vuono emphasized the enduring value of NCO leadership, highlighting the historical evolution of the Corps, the importance of tactical and technical competence, and the foundational role of education in preparing NCOs for modern battlefield challenges. He spoke passionately about the necessity of investing in NCO development, stressing that this commitment underpins Army readiness, trust, and excellence.

This document remains as insightful and empowering today as it was 37 years ago. I revisit it often and share it with my NCOs whenever the opportunity arises. It speaks to the timeless importance of NCOs as standard-bearers and, importantly, underscores the role of writing in preserving our legacy. Writing, as General Vuono’s words demonstrate, is not just a means of communication—it’s a tool of leadership and a bridge to the future.

Big Red One Year of the NCO. Photo courtesy of SGM Noel DeJesus.

The Noncommissioned Officer Corps is more than the backbone of the Army—it is the driving force behind its standards, traditions, and evolution. To ensure the enduring influence of NCOs, our contributions must not only be lived but also written. Professional military writing is a timeless tool to preserve these contributions and pass them forward to future leaders.

History remembers what is recorded. From the Revolutionary War to modern conflicts, NCOs have adapted to evolving battlefields, taking on greater responsibilities and showcasing unmatched leadership. But how much of our story remains unwritten? Writing bridges the gap between the accomplishments of today and the inspiration of tomorrow’s leaders.

Writing is not just a task; it is a mission. It empowers NCOs to document lessons learned, share tactical innovations, and reinforce the values that define Army leadership. By putting pen to paper—or fingers to a keyboard—we’re not only capturing a moment in time but shaping the professional development of generations to come. Writing transforms an individual’s experience into a collective resource.

For NCOs, writing is leadership in action. It’s teaching through words, mentoring from afar, and building trust with readers who might one day find themselves leading in the most challenging conditions. It’s a way to inspire young leaders to embrace initiative, courage, and professionalism. Writing makes the invisible visible, ensuring the impact of NCOs extends beyond their immediate environment.

Professional military writing doesn’t have to be perfect—it has to be purposeful. Every after-action review, article, and reflection is a steppingstone for another leader. The power lies not in writing like a novelist but in writing like an NCO—clear, direct, and committed to the mission of improving others.

Now is the time to step forward. Write with purpose, share your knowledge and experience, and lead by example. Start small—document a lesson learned, reflect on an experience, or pen an article for your branch journal. Your words hold the power to shape the Army’s future. Make them count. Write. Inspire. Lead.