Do you believe that, in order to be an effective officer, you must go through the enlisted ranks and then OCS or CWOCS?

Correct!

I met a few prior enlisted officers that were jerks but I suspect they were just jerks to begin with

That's true sir.But indudably,an OCS or USMA graduate is much more sharper and practical,than an ROTC or Direct Commision officer.

SSG Walter Corretjer - As a USNA grad I appreciate your belief, but I also recognize that there are some short comings in an academy education that many ROTC, PLC and OCS grads have covered.

I don't know if it still is true, but particularly the first two years Midshipman and Cadets are very sheltered. There are good habits I developed because I didn't have a choice. There are good aspects to that and some not so good aspects to that. ROTC, PLC, and OCS had to develop those habits and develop their military persona in a civilian world. That's not always easy. Especially when they could have neglected those habits to indulge in temptations we were not allowed. Other than business transactions, or quick pleasantries we weren't even allowed the distraction of civilian contact during plebe year. It not fun, it helps you focus, but it has its minor developmental disadvantages. I have nothing but respect for those other commissioning sources.

yup

Thank you sir

I concur. I've worked for and with mostly decently good officers. The manner in which these gentlemen earned their Commissions did not matter to me. Being a great listener of his NonComs greatly aided them in becoming really good officers. They mostly were fair and compassionate leaders and earned the respect of those the commanded. That said, there were the fee that were on a power trip and quickly lost the respected they so badly needed. In Vietnam they had a month Command duty and a 6 month Staff assignment. I think I supported that, in that if the commander was weak the troops in the field only suffered for half their tour hoping the incoming commander would have his crap together an be a strong leader. Still I am proud to have served with all.

SFC John Allesch - My apologies for failing to do a proof read for typos before posting. It was meant to read a 6month Command position, not a month, and the word fee should be few.