In a simple and time-honored tradition that stretches back to the Roman Empire's legions, Command Sgt. Maj. Miguel Guante-Rojas assumed Madigan command sergeant major responsibilities last Friday.

"Today, the NCO is of greater importance than ever before," said Col. Jerome Penner, commander, Madigan Healthcare System, the second largest medical center in the Army.

"They are the backbone of the Army."

During his remarks, Penner made it very clear that Command Sgt. Maj. David Rogers - who stepped in at a difficult time for the Madigan community - is a "true professional" who is the "single most talented NCO I've ever worked with."

Rogers, who served as the medical facility's top enlisted soldier for five-and-half months, will return to his former position as sergeant major of troop command.

"Quality leadership is interchangeable, and we have a wealth of knowledge here in what I call the flagship of the Army medical department," concluded Penner as he welcomed Guante-Rojas to his new position.

Guante-Rojas, who most recently served as the command sergeant major for the 65th Medical Brigade in Korea, brings almost three decades of experience to the position.

The experience of relating to soldiers was very clear.

Prior to the assumption ceremony, Guante-Rojas was out working with and talking to the soldiers assembled on the Madigan Parade Field.

As Madigan's command sergeant major, his responsibilities are to care for and provide direction to the enlisted soldiers, and offer advice to the commander.

"I am a people person," said Guante-Rojas before assuming his new responsibilities.

"I will continue to build on what has been started here, to take to the next level this great medical facility."