USMC NCO SWORD

USMC NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICER

HUMANITIES

Studying humanities brings to attention the wide variety of opinions and experiences of the same thing to perspective. It allows you to understand the world in which we live but also gives insight into everything and brings clarity to our future. You learn to think creatively and critically. The humanities provides you with a number of intellectual and emotional skills that we need to have in order to operate in our society. Being a great leader is based off listening and taking the time to understand different perspectives in any given situation.

OVERVIEW

Personal Experience

Similarities and Differences

The Marine Non-Commissioned Officer's (NCO's) Sword was introduced by Commandant of the Marine Corps, Colonel John Harris in 1859 to recognize the leadership of NCO's and Staff NCO's in combat. The Marine Non-Commissioned Officer's Creed is a set of principles used to guide, educate, and remind leaders of their responsibility, authority, and code of conduct. Upon promotion to the rank of Corporal, Marines are expected to memorize, understand, and be able to recite the NCO Creed and are authorized to wear the "blood stripe" on their trousers and the NCO Sword as part of their uniform to commemorate history, tradition, and leadership.

Everyone come from different background with different experiences and opportunities. Humanities helps us understand others through their history and cultures. It teaches us to logically deal with complex and imperfect information. It brings forth the different sides to every problem or question. You are encouraged to think about every aspect to being a human and to foster justice and equality.

I chose the theme of leadership because it is a trait that is meaningful to me on a personal level. Serving in the Marine Corps and being placed into a leadership role provided me the opportunity to develop and grow as a leader. It also developed me as a person and prepared me for a better lifestyle as I transitioned back into the civilian lifestyle. That moment when many lives are dependent upon you to make the right decisions. When I was first promoted to the rank Corporal and earned the title of NCO, I was read the NCO Creed and made a promise to all those who witnessed my promotion to uphold that promise. I was awarded my first NCO Sword for outstanding achievement and performance by my peers. That moment meant more than anyone could imagine. It showed how much that they believed in my leadership ability. I would receive compliments from juniors from different sections and ask "why couldn't their leadership be like me?". I became a face of leadership and eventually became an instructor and mentor for junior Marines entering the NCO ranks.

LEADERSHIP

Leadership is important for both professional and personal development. Personal leadership helps us to determine our desires, strengths and abilities. Its knowing what our goals are and how to achieve those goals. Professional leadership stresses on decision making skills. The implementation and the process of making a decision is the most import leadership role.