NCOs Take On Multiple Roles To Ensure Success In Panama

Ncos Take On Multiple Roles To Ensure Success In Panamanovember 3 201

NCOs in Panama serve multiple critical roles to ensure the success of security and training operations, often extending beyond their traditional responsibilities. Selected for their experience, maturity, and Spanish-language skills, these NCOs are primarily tasked with training Panamanian security forces, maintaining equipment, and developing tactical procedures. However, they frequently take on additional roles, including cross-training with other team members, assisting with logistical needs, vetting personnel for human rights compliance, and supporting tactical operations.

One prominent example is Sgt. 1st Class Leobardo Nuno, the maintenance NCO for the Technical Assistance Field Team (TAFT) in Panama. His core duty involves assisting Panamanian forces with maintenance and technical support, especially for donated equipment like Jeeps and night vision goggles. His work with the Jeep J8’s air conditioning system exemplifies the on-the-spot technical problem-solving that NCOs undertake. Nuno has to learn new equipment, such as the Jeep J8, which is not part of the regular U.S. Army inventory, and develop solutions tailored to the unique issues faced by Panamanian forces.

Beyond technical maintenance, Nuno also engages in cross-training activities, supporting tactical training, and providing basic soldier skills instruction. His role demonstrates the versatility expected of NCOs working in international security assistance scenarios. They often balance multiple responsibilities — technical, tactical, and training — to maximize their effectiveness and foster stronger partnerships with local forces.

Another significant role undertaken by NCOs like Nuno in Panama is human rights vetting, mandated by the Leahy Law. This regulation prohibits U.S. assistance to entities or personnel with human rights violations. Nuno, along with Sgt. 1st Class Rafael Faria Rodriguez, manages the vetting process for trainees. Their responsibilities include collecting and verifying personal data, running background checks through embassy systems, and tracking vetting statuses. Since taking over the vetting task, nearly 1,000 individuals have been screened, with only a few flagged for possible violations, primarily related to criminal links to drug trafficking organizations.

Logistical support is another vital aspect of NCO roles in Panama. Sgt. 1st Class Freddy Matostoro, the senior logistics advisor, manages the training budget and ensures the procurement and distribution of supplies, equipment, and transportation resources. His work involves overcoming challenges such as changes in procurement policies and resource allocation. Despite setbacks, his efforts are essential in maintaining the operational readiness of the team and enabling ongoing missions in remote areas like Darien.

These diverse roles demonstrate that NCOs in Panama are integral to the success of U.S. military assistance programs. Their ability to adapt and undertake multiple responsibilities enhances the effectiveness of training, logistics, and strategic partnerships. Their contributions foster a collaborative environment, improve security capacities, and support broader U.S. foreign policy objectives in the region. The example of Nuno’s work epitomizes how flexibility and comprehensive skill sets are crucial in international security cooperation.

In conclusion, NCOs in Panama exemplify the multifaceted nature of military roles outside traditional combat or classroom training. Their adaptability, technical proficiency, cross-training, and commitment to human rights vetting collectively contribute to building strong, capable security forces in Panama. The success of these efforts underscores the importance of well-trained, versatile NCOs in advancing U.S. military and diplomatic goals abroad, especially in complex environments requiring a broad range of skills and cultural competencies.

References

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• U.S. Army Security Assistance Training Management Organization. (2019). Annual Report.
• U.S. Department of State. (2018). Leahy Law and Human Rights Vetting Procedures. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
• U.S. Southern Command. (2020). Regional Security Cooperation in Central America. USSOUTHCOM Publications.
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• U.S. Department of Defense. (2017). Foreign Military Training and Education Program. DOD Publication Series.