Strength in Unity: NCOA serves as community for NCOs

Often referred to as the backbone of the U.S. military, noncommissioned officers (NCOs) play a pivotal role in the daily workings and mechanics of military life.

The Noncommissioned Officers Association (NCOA) was established in 1960 to enhance and maintain the quality of life for noncommissioned and petty officers in all branches of the Armed Forces, National Guard and Reserves.

The NCOA boasts more than 100 chapters worldwide, with groups existing almost any place where American service members are stationed.

Pendleton-based Marines established a new NCOA chapter here last year to cultivate...