Viterbo, Italy – The Allied Joint Force Command Naples (JFC Naples) Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) delegation conducted a familiarization tour of the NCO School of the Italian Army in Viterbo, Italy, on January 30, 2024.
The Deputy Commander of the NCO School of the Italian Army, Colonel Fabrizio Barone, welcomed the JFC Naples delegation on behalf of Brigadier General Roberto Vergori, Commander of the School.
The NCO School of the Italian Army is responsible for the basic and advanced education of all Sergeants and Warrant Officers of the Italian Army.
The JFC Naples delegation received presentations about the basic education of the Warrant Officers, in a wide range of combat skills, leadership development, military planning skills, problem-solving, and decision-making. The NCO School's rigorous three-year program provides the cadets bachelor's degree in "Organizational and Management Sciences," with a focus on International Relations, awarded by Tuscia University – a testament to its commitment to excellence within the Atlantic Alliance.
Additionally, the School provides education for Warrant Officers of “Health specialization” and for “musicians” (Orchestral) of the Army Band.
The tour also provided the delegation with insights into cutting-edge training methods, including the Fire Army Training System, a virtual shooting range, and the Virtual Battle Space (VBS), designed to simulate operational scenarios for small units. The emphasis on English language proficiency was evident, highlighting the importance of international cooperation and integration into NATO operations.
“We have received several briefings and overviews about the different courses here on training and education” Sergeant Major Andree Tschense, Command Senior Enlisted Leader, said “NCOs are the heart of every organization, the soul of every organization” he concluded.
The main task assigned to the NCO School of the Italian Army by the General Staff of the Army is the education of the Warrant Officers as platoon Commanders and as Professional Nurses, with adequate technical-professional preparation and cultural knowledge.
The role of the NCO is very important in NATO because we are the advisors to the commander, we are the backbone of the military and NATO, [and] we are the strength
“We came here today to see and experience what the Italian NCOs have to go through during their first, second, and third year of school,” said U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Lisa Owens. “The role of the NCO is very important in NATO because we are the advisors to the commander, we are the backbone of the military and NATO, [and] we are the strength,” she concluded.
The visit not only offered the JFC Naples delegation valuable insights into the training of Italian Warrant Officers, who play a pivotal role in the Italian Army within the Alliance but also sought to cultivate robust cultural and social bonds with the host nation's military community. Additionally, it aimed to strengthen ties with national and regional military institutions.
“It would be an honor for me to join NATO Command in the future,” said Italian Army Cadet Warrant Officer Vincenzo Figliomeni. “This opportunity will allow me to challenge myself in an international environment and have an exchange with my fellow NCOs.”
A delegation of NCOs from JFC Naples receives a presentation on the comprehensive training curriculum at the Italian Army’s NCO School in Viterbo, Italy, on January 30, 2024.
A delegation of NCOs from JFC Naples watch as Italian Army cadets perform rehearsal of concept drills during a visit to the Italian Army’s NCO School, January 30, 2024.