I've seen a lot of posts about soldiers wanting multiple specialist ranks to return. I've also seen comments from multiple soldiers who served when we had the specialist ranks, and how it wasn't what people think. I think I have a solution.

We need to form a corps of technical specialists. For the purposes of this thought experiment, we'll call them KCOs - kinda commissioned officers.

Anyways, these KCOs will be selected from amongst the enlisted population. We need a selection process though, so we ensure we get actual technical experts, and not just a Joe who seriously overestimates their technical prowess. Requirements could include a GT of 110 or above, a letter(s) of recommendation, and maybe a sort of short selection, like OCS but for KCOs.

Once these candidates become KCOs, they could then fulfill their role as technical experts, while not needing to lead soldiers like an officer or an NCO. Of course, they would get a pay raise as well.

What do you think? I'm not sure the Army would go for it.

I'll have a Whataburger #2 with large fries and a large Dr Pepper malt.