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army

Col. Michael Shrout, 72nd Operations Brigade commander, passes the noncommissioned officers sword to Command Sergeant Maj. Berk Parsons, delegating authority and entrusting him with the responsibility and care of the brigade. The War Department adopted the unique noncommissioned officers sword, a completely functional weapon not intended for display, in 1840 but rather for hard and dedicated use. While no longer part of the Army's inventory, it remains a powerful symbol of the leadership and duty of the noncommissioned officer. Command sergeants major may come and go, but the sword remains razor sharp. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Nicole Dykstra/Released)

PHOTO BY: Staff Sgt. Nicole DykstraReleased
VIRIN: 120803-F-JZ010-930.JPG
FULL SIZE: 4.69 MB
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