The 18th NATO and Partnership for Peace (PfP) Winter Camp brought together members of the Armed Forces from 23 NATO and PfP member countries, fostering international cooperation and exchange of professional experiences. On January 31, the Sergeant Major of the Army, Goran Kjirkovikj, was among the distinguished guest speakers at the NATO Mountain Warfare Centre of Excellence, and delivered a lecture on the topic “The Modern NCO Corps – its Duties and Responsibilities”.
Sergeant Major Kjirkovikj addressed the participants in the camp and the members of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Slovenia, emphasizing the evolving role of NCOs in modern military organizations. In his speech, the Sergeant Major pointed out the need to align the duties and responsibilities of the NCOs with modern times, new technologies, but also with the way of thinking. He stressed the critical responsibilities of the NCOs in leadership, training and operational readiness, as well as their role as a bridge between soldiers and officers. Besides Sergeant Major Kjirkovikj, the event was also attended by prominent guest speakers, including NATO HQ Sarajevo, CSM Slater, CSM of the Republic of Turkiye Army, Sergeant Major Celik, CSM of the Hungarian Army, Sergeant Major Kaszab, CSM of the Romanian Army, Sergeant Major Sas, Croatia, Sergeant Major Bolanca and Colorado JS NG CSM Crowe. Each speaker shared valuable insights and perspectives, contributing to the professional development of attendees and strengthening ties between NATO and PfP member countries.
The participation of the Sergeant Major of the Army at the event underscores the country’s commitment to active engagement within NATO and PfP, as well as the importance of fostering a well-trained and highly capable NCO corps. This joint event served as an opportunity to share best practices, improve interoperability, and strengthen the role of NCOs as pillars of modern armed forces.
