This podcast is part of The Quill & Sword series of podcasts created and hosted by The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School (TJAGLCS). The Backbone is the official podcast of the TJAGLCS Noncommissioned Officer Academy (NCOA). Join us as we explore the evolving role of the Army Paralegal through conversations on leadership, training, doctrine, talent management, professional development, and the future of the profession. Each episode features insightful discussions with senior enlisted leaders, commanders, legal professionals, and subject matter experts, providing practical perspectives, sharing lessons learned, and highlighting innovative ideas that strengthen the Corps and prepare Army paralegals for the demands of the future operational environment.

Whether you’re a new paralegal beginning your career, a seasoned legal professional, or a leader responsible for developing the next generation, The Backbone is your resource for meaningful conversations that connect strategy to practice. Join us as we share experiences, explore emerging challenges, highlight innovative ideas, and reinforce the standards of excellence that defines the Army Paralegal. Follow The Backbone and be part of the conversations shaping the future of our profession.

The Backbone Episode 1: Honoring Our Legacy, Advancing Our Profession
6 August 2026
In the premiere episode of The Backbone, host 1SG Green brings together leaders from across the Judge Advocate General’s Corps for a special National Paralegal Appreciation Day discussion focused on the evolution of Army legal practice, professional development, and the future of the Army’s Paralegal. Joined by CSM Bostic, the 14th Regimental Command Sergeant Major of the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps; 1SG Washington, Project Lead for the 27D Paralegal Handbook; SFC Grell, Project Lead for the Legal Technician Standard Training Package (STP); and LTC Wilson, providing the operational Judge Advocate perspective, the panel explores how leadership, doctrine, operational experience, and innovation are transforming the way Army legal professionals support commanders and Soldiers. Together, they discuss the modernization of the 27D Paralegal Handbook, the development of the Legal Technician Standard Training Package (STP), the importance of professional development, and the leadership required to prepare the next generation of Army paralegals. The conversation highlights how doctrine, operational experience, education, and innovation work together to strengthen the Corps and ensure legal professionals remain ready to meet the demands of an evolving operational environment.