On Oct. 13, the 62nd Medical Brigade on Joint Base Lewis-McChord hosted an induction ceremony for 31 new non-commissioned officers.

The ceremony, which has been a cornerstone of the Army's enlisted for years, was part of the brigade's ‘Day of the NCO', which also included professional development sessions and a dinner for senior NCOs.

After being called up the stage, the newly promoted corporals and sergeants signed a copy of the Creed of the Non-commissioned Officer. Command Sgt. Maj. Howard McBean, the brigade's command sergeant major, led the soldiers reciting the creed.

McBean then introduced the keynote speaker, Command Sergeant Major of the Army Medical Department Center and School, James E. Diggs.

"Everyone always wants to be at the table," said Diggs, addressing the newly inducted NCOs. "But make sure you bring something to that table when you get there. You need to stand proudly as an NCO and always put your best foot forward by setting conditions for success for your soldiers."

Diggs also spoke of the importance of family and remembering that leading soldiers is not a 9 to 5 mission, but rather one that is 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

"I applaud the 62nd for having this ceremony and for taking the time to honor these soldiers who deserve it," said Diggs, who is proud to have attended hundreds of inductions over the course of his 28-year career. "Less than one percent of the population in our country serve (in the military) - yet you've all stepped up to the challenge. For that alone you deserve this honor."