The following is from Col Alexander's, "A Fellowship Of Valor" The Battle History Of The U.S. Marine Corps. This book is from the History Channel's presentation of the same title.

THE NCO WEAPON

The command responsibilities routinely given United States Marine NCOs would be entrusted to lieutenants or captains in the Soviet Army. Marine officers recognize the NCO's special abilities and accord them respect and room to operate on their own. New Marines principally learn Marine Corps values and traditions from their NCOs. It's why in the heat of battle, with officers dead and units fragmented, Marines have found formidable fighting leadership at any level.

That's why the legendary Colonel Lewis "Chesty" Puller reacted so calmly during the battle for Peleliu's Bloody Nose Ridge when an excited subordinate reported; "We've had such heavy losses General, we have nothing better than sergeants to lead our platoons!"

"Let me tell you something, son," replied Puller, "in the Marines, there is nothing better than a sergeant!"

Semper Fi,
Bob