Stephen, I was one officer who didn't let my shoulder-boards go to my head. Non-commissioned officers are the heart and soul of the military. Commissioned officers get the credit for the work the NCOs do. I always treated my NCOs with respect, and they saved my butt more times than I care to mention.

They aren't in it for the glory or the money. They are mission-oriented and help an officer keep his eye on the ball, if that officer will listen to them.