NCIS didn’t earn its reputation for authenticity by chance. Behind the cameras, real-life veterans and former NCIS agents quietly shape every salute, uniform, and funeral scene to reflect true military culture.
In an exclusive roundtable, longtime advisors Leon Carroll, Alan Burghard, Michael Smith, and R.J. Cline revealed how they correct scripts, guide actors, and prevent small mistakes that could break trust with veterans watching at home. From flag protocol at sunset to the precise choreography of military honors, their work ensures respect comes before drama.
These consultants don’t just keep procedures accurate — they protect boundaries, avoiding real-world tactics that shouldn’t be shared, while still grounding the show in reality. Many scenes, especially funerals and honors, are performed by real service members, bringing a weight no performance alone could match.
As NCIS approaches its 500th episode in March 2026, its true superpower isn’t just longevity — it’s the quiet presence of those who’ve lived the life the show portrays.
