MONS, Belgium – Command Sergeant Major (CSM) Siim Saliste, Allied Command Operations Command Senior Enlisted Leader (CSEL), hosted a virtual call between NATO CSELs from various commands on June 17, 2020.
The CSELs have met virtually since the outbreak of COVID-19 earlier this year, allowing the senior enlisted leaders an outlet to update each other on current matters within the NATO military commands. The call helps formulate an understanding on the footprint of personnel and operations within Allied Command Operations, enabling the leaders to care for the non-commissioned officers and junior officers, ensuring a ready, responsive and interoperable force.
The recent COVID-19 pandemic proves the value of NATO’s diverse and broad range of specialties, especially within the NCO corps
The Allied Maritime Command CSEL, Warrant Officer First Class Lee Carr, and the Allied Land Command CSEL, Chief Warrant Officer Kevin Mathers, participated in the call, discussing professional military education, process enhancement, resiliency, readiness, and current and future challenges. Other ACO CSELs were on the call from sub-commands including: Joint Force Command Naples, NATO Communication and Information Systems Group, SHAPE’s Base Support Group, Allied Command Counterintelligence Unit, NATO Intelligence Fusion Centre, and SHAPE’s Partnership Directorate.
Command Sergeant Major (CSM) Siim Saliste, Allied Command Operations Command Senior Enlisted Leader (CSEL), hosts a virtual call between NATO CSELs on June 17, 2020. The CSELs have met virtually since the outbreak of corona earlier this year, allowing the leaders an outlet to update each other on current matters within the single service commands.
A major task for the CSELs is to capitalize on strengths of their multinational NCOs to optimise the operational and transformational success of the Alliance. The virtual call also allows for sharing of best practices to support the well-being and quality of life for troops.
“The recent COVID-19 pandemic proves the value of NATO’s diverse and broad range of specialties, especially within the NCO corps,” said CSM Saliste. “Empowered NCOs are essential to each nation’s fight against an invisible enemy. As we prepare for the potential of a second wave, we continue to coordinate between our military headquarters to increase the potential of enabling and utilising intelligence on the ground at each location for the betterment of the Alliance.”
The CSEL position, a key senior leader position, is the pinnacle of the NCO ranks. The positions serve as senior advisors to commanders and staff element leadership within their respective headquarters. They also ensure compliance with policies, adherence to standards and performance, conduct effective training and maintenance of discipline within their organisation.