JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-FORT SAM HOUSTON, Texas –
U.S. Army Medical Center of Excellence Cadre in the Noncommissioned Officer Academy, or NCOA, lent their expertise as stewards of the Soldier profession in support of Fort Hood’s NCOA.
Several local students attending Fort Hood’s Basic Leader Course – virtually due to COVID-19 constraints – were trained and evaluated at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston on critical tasks necessary for course completion and graduation.
MEDCoE Cadre helped the Fort Hood NCOA maintain their high standards of professionalism by evaluating those tasks that could not be effectively assessed in a virtual environment.
The students were evaluated using tactical dispersion mitigation measures on their ability to move a team or squad (drill and ceremony), lead Physical Readiness Training, conduct individual training /“hip pocket” to standard, and their ability to present a 10-minute military information brief to a small group (public speaking).
The coordination between the Fort Hood NCOA and MEDCoE NCOA ensured the successful completion of the course for these seven junior Soldiers.
Without this collaboration, these Soldiers would have had to wait until travel restrictions are lifted to complete BLC. BLC prepares them to advance to the rank of sergeant and strengthens key skills, which will be essential for leadership in the future.
MEDCoE Command Sgt. Maj. Clark Charpentier lauded the NCOA for their efforts.
“This is a great opportunity to assist the NCO Academy at Fort Hood while they conduct their PME courses virtually,” Charpentier said. “By providing local subject matter experts to validate hands-on skills, our team has reinforced the Army standard at this foundational NCO course.”
For information about the Army’s Basic Leader Course, visit https://www.goarmy.com/soldier-life/being-a-soldier/ongoing-training/leadership-training/warrior-leader-course.html.