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The Sergeant’s Book

This “Sergeant’s Book” was written in 1982 by CSM Robert L. Haga, then DCSM of the 3rd Armored Division. It was republished by my Regimental CSM when I was in the 12th Calvary Regt about 10-years later and it was issued to all the NCOs. I have kept this copy because though it is a bit dated, it seemed to make a lot of sense to me and I tried to follow CSM Haga’s guidance throughout my career. I didn’t know him and never served with him, but his words brought me inspiration.

The Sergeant's book cover

What’s In The Sergeant’s Book?

In the memo up front he stated “This Sergeant’s Book is not a rehash of anything you’ve read concerning the role of the noncommissioned officer or sergeant’s business. It is an expression of what sergeants ought to be and what sergeants ought to do. It is a written talk from me to you.” Command Sergeant Major (Ret.) Robert L. Haga of Cullman, AL died Monday, September 19, 2016 at Floyd E. ‘Tut’ Fann Veteran’s Home in Huntsville, Alabama.

So I must ask you almost 34-years later, are his thoughts and opinions valid for today’s NCO, or now just interesting history?

Click to access SergeantsBook.pdf

//topsarge
CSM (Ret.) Dan Elder, USA
@dandotelder

4 thoughts on “The Sergeant’s Book

  1. Robin

    Thank you CSM Elder (Ret.). I am CSM Haga (Ret.) daughter and I appreciate you honoring him my posting this in his honor. If he were alive today I am sure he would want to meet such a military proud ex-CSM such as yourself. Thank you again for this surprise. If I were a soldier, I would salute you sir. Thank you for your service as well sir.

    1. Robin, thank you for taking the time to respond, we were saddened by your family’s loss. Your father’s presence may have faded, but his legacy in and out of the Army lives on. Wishing you peace and comfort, regards. /dan

  2. Jeff Weatherbee

    I served under CSM Haga at Ft. Jackson as one of his Drill Sergeants when he was the CSM of the 4th BCT Battalion MI was fortunate enough to be under his command when he was the Division CSM in the 3rd Armored Division. He was a great soldier but a better person and I thoroughly enjoyed my time under him. He presented my platoon with the 3AD Distinguished Platoon Award. After inspecting my platoon we walked back to the front of the formation and he said to the CG, I’m not surprised because Weatherbee was one of my drill sergeants. I learned a lot from him.

    1. Great story, thank you for sharing. Our NCO has a legacy of great soldiers like CSM Haga, the fact that you share in his legacy adds to this story. Thanks for sharing.

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