Combat Leader’s Knife Formally Handed-over to Deserving NCOs of 7ID

FORT RAMON MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija – The 7^th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division headed by MGEN HERNANDO DCA IRIBERRI AFP formally bestowed the Combat Leaders Knife (CLK) to deserving Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) of 7ID during the Monday flag raising, today (February 03, 2014).

            Being the backbone of the Philippine Army, capacitating and empowering the NCOs to handle the daily grind of their respective units of offices administrative and operational functions has been among the ARMYs top priorities.   The Combat Leader’s Knife (CLK) is an emblematic symbol of an NCO carrying exemplary leadership qualities with attitude to seek, absorb and accept responsibility to make his/her unit in the frontline more effective and more efficient.

            The NCO Empowerment System is the process by which the organization enhances the capacity of the individual soldier or unit in decision-making and transforming these decision-making outputs into desired actions or outcomes. Its primary objectives are to empower and encourage NCOs to take a more proactive role in running their unit’s affairs and to develop their job competences by making them understand and internalize their leadership roles, especially in the Philippine Army major units.

            Recipients of the much coveted Combat Leader’s Knife were Chief Master Sergeant Elpidio V. Calugay, Command Sergeant Major; and other Sergeant Major on line units namely; Master Sergeant Antonio F. Cura of 3^rd Infantry Battalion; Master Sergeant Dionisio C Cameros of 24^th IB; Master Sergeant Usodan M. Benasing of 48IB; Master Sergeant Joselito S Sotomil of 56^th IB; Master Sergeant Rolando L. Cortez of 70IB; and Master Sergent Henry G. Claudio of 81IB.

           

            Besides the handing-over of CLKs, the Command also honored Master Sergeants Nilo A Trucilla of 70^th IB, who is retiring compulsory on February 16, 2014 after almost 35 years of active service. He was given a Command Plaque in recognition of his utmost dedication and invaluable service rendered to the Armed Forces of the Philippines since April 1, 1979.

            “To the awardees of Combat Leaders Knife, you should wear it with pride; because not all NCOs have the chance to wear it. That Combat Leader’s Knife is not only an accessory in your uniform, but a symbol of your exemplary performance. May you continue to excel and seek perfection in your chosen field and continue to bring pride to your respective units and the AFP.” The Commander said.

“To the retiring Enlisted Personnel, Master Sergeant Nilo A. Triculla who had served the country for almost 35 years, I am wishing you good luck in facing another chapter of your life. I admire you, for despite of the hardships and challenges of being a soldier, you still able to effectively perform your role as a responsible husband and father to your wife and children.  May you continue to bring inspiration to others as you’ve been an inspiration to all of us present here today. Thank you for your utmost dedication, patriotism and services rendered to Army, to the AFP and to our country,” the Commander ended in his remarks.