When I was a Cadet at Texas A&M, we were told in no uncertain terms that the NCOs ran the military. We did our best with the training we received, but we learned early on that we really didn't know shit compared with any decent NCO with even just a little experience.
NCO retention is more important than officer retention. Shit, 2nds can be had by the bus load at the drop of a hat. It takes intelligence, dedication, and experience to make a good NCO.
Now that I have been in business for nearly 25 years, I have learned that the best executive or salesman isn't worth anything if the warehouse manager, the office manager, and the shipping manager aren't good and experienced. They are the civilian version of the NCO.
BTW, my Dad was a career NCO.