A non-commissioned officer In charge (NCOIC) occupies a position of responsibility and respect in the military chain of command. A NCOIC is tasked with tactical and organizational assignments critical to day-to-day operations and special operations. The rank gives a soldier the authority to make decisions and to direct personnel actions. Each NCO rank takes charge of specific areas of military organization.

Corporal

Corporals are responsible for a team, squad, or unit. They see that everyone under their command is trained and in proper uniform at all times. They are responsible for the men and women in their unit, their equipment, appearance and personal conduct.

Sergeant

Sergeants are among the field leaders of military units. The privates and corporals that make up the bulk of a field force report directly to them. They must be able to lead troops in accomplishing mission assignments. Their principal task is see that their unit is well-trained and disciplined to achieve unit goals.

Staff Sergeant

Staff sergeants attain their rank because they have experience and have demonstrated an ability to successfully complete missions and assignments. Staff sergeants usually direct one or more sergeants of lower rank. Technical units assign staff sergeants to maintain and operate specialized equipment.

Sergeant First Class

Platoon sergeants carry the rank of sergeant first class. If the platoon leader, usually a lieutenant, is not present the platoon sergeant commands the platoon. Wartime operations often force the sergeant first class to lead a platoon when the officer in charge is killed or wounded.

Frist Sergeant and Master Sergeant

First sergeants are key players at the company level of military organization. They direct platoon sergeants, call formations, train enlisted personnel, and assist officers in command. They oversee the administrative functions of the company.

Sergeant Major

Sergeant majors reside at the top of the NCO ladder. They work directly with an officer in command to train, organize, and direct all aspects of a military unit. Sergeant majors are experienced in troop leadership and command. They provide administrative support to units under their command. This is a rank that is achieved by career men and women in the military with 10 or more years of line experience.