Explaining US Army enlisted rank

[@christopherchaos]

BEFORE YOU COMMENT PLEASE UNDERSTAND THE FOLLOWING: (1) When i uploaded this video i only had about 200 ish subscribers and was only getting on average 10 views per video. So when i made this video and discovered the audio was too loud i just left it because I figured it would still only get a hand full of views and it was not worth fixing the mistake for about 10 people. Hell for about 2 months after I uploaded this video it only had around 20 views. Its now too late to take it down and re-upload a corrected version because that would break the link that KZbin has in suggesting this video to people and would cut the #1 way that many subscribers find out about this channel. (2) I made this video so that a few of my friends could understand rank in the Army and did not want to over complicate some of the info. Now that a lot more people are seeing the video some feel I did not explain some things enough and some feel I explained things too much. Over all I just wanted people to get an idea of how people move up in rank but did not intend to create a video that explains everything in detail. (3) I am aware of the names for the current schools that are required to get promoted. When i threw together this video I did so in like an hour. I did not look at the current names prior too because going back to #1, I did not want to spend a lot of time researching everything for the video to just get a few views. ****** So in the months that followed after the increase in activity on my channel it was due to this video that i decided to become an Army related channel and put more effort into the content, do more planning before i shoot a video and work on things from there. So be sure to also check out some of my newer videos to see how I have adapted from making this video just because, to creating videos about the Army or military because I now have many more viewers that want to know more info about a topic. Thanks.

[@TheMomanslm]

Peeratat R Think of the Sgt Major as a dog, a well trained, loyal, viscious dog. He answers to the commanding officer. Good luck telling your commander's dog what to do. Expect to get bit if you make him mad. (Met a Sgt Major who gave me this opinion.) Essentially he has a clearly defined role and duties which rarely, if ever, puts him in subordination to other officers as far as chain of command and especially not LTs.

[@TheMomanslm]

Peeratat R something like that but they each know their place and duties. If a disagreement happens the LT should realize that the Sgt Major has the confidence of the commanding officer. The Sgt Maj is almost always much older and then has greater experience than LTs and so his age may give him additional respect.

[@Nick7380]

Officers and NCOs have very defined roles in the US ARMY-officers plan, NCOs execute- when they both stay in their defined roles things are usually fine, when one tries to sway too much to the other side is when things can get out of hand, I would usually see this more with warrant officers than regular commissioned ones because most warrants were prior NCOs so alot of them would still have that mentality especially when it would come to dealing with soldiers directly. The fastest way to piss off a good NCO is to have an officer undermine his authority and deal with a soldier directly.

[@deadmilkman121]

Christopher Chaos congrats on the sudden growth. I found the video very informative and didn't mind the audio. Thank you.

[@camyt2702]

Christopher Chaos fast finger typing head ahh 😂

[@Ethan-hi3ti]

I thought rank was based on your xp

[@Ethan-hi3ti]

Andrew Jighunter no actually I’m almost max prestige and I have chrome camo, so they’re pretty proud.

[@jordanraslan9890]

Strive for that gold and diamond bro.. then your parents will be very proud ahaha

[@readmyname9533]

Lmao

[@EternalMars]

Andrew Jighunter do u not get a joke??

[@user-vx2fw7qe1n]

Gamers

[@TommyTombstone]

A friend of mine was at Airborne School and addressed a USMC SSG as "Sergeant," just as we do in the Army. As he was about to get riggedy riggedy rekt by this Devil Dog, our E-5 (SGT) Airborne Instructor heard the yelling and asked what happened. "He just addressed a Staff Sergeant as 'Sergeant'!!!" "Yeah, that's how we do shit in the Army and this is an Army school, now do pushups, Sergeant!" Instructor privileges 🤷‍♂️

[@terrimichaels3018]

😆

[@j.g9022]

Beat your boots!

[@Sancte_Benedicte]

😂😂

[@Mortlupo]

Which means the Marine didn't learn the customs of other branches.

[@abunchofiguanaswithinterne2186]

@@Mortlupo you accidentally put "marine" and "learn" in the same sentence

[@puckyou2603]

My grandpa was a Master Sergeant during the Korean Conflict. RIP Grandpa Dickie

[@hellogoodbye9980]

F

[@SilverGamingFI]

FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF

[@thatfish]

F

[@bishop2985]

F

[@dudeyeah665]

F

[@lightningbrigade257]

If you served in the US Military and your reading my comment....THANKYOU for your service. You are much appreciated....

[@Melaninkumi]

Lightning Brigade your welcome 🙏🏽

[@Kisukes_kane]

@@emirkurniawan2558 they call me price

[@Akumaa2000]

Thanks and your welcome. 😎

[@brianstrucks4159]

I was e4

[@omariangel1]

MOs?

[@roberthouston3144]

Brother I thank you for your service first, and also thank you for your continued service in helping others understand some of the machine that is the U.S. Military. God Bless you and yours.

[@blanco5471]

Yes

[@Longhorn77Gunner]

Excellent and informative video! I joined the army in January 1966 ($78/month base pay). I was shipped to Vietnam in June 1966 and assigned to the 1st Infantry as a rifleman (MOS 11B) - later, a machine gunner (M60). I extended my tour 6 months and was transferred to aviation to be a Huey chopper door gunner. About 6 months later I was the door gunner for MG John Hay's, the commanding general of the 1st Infantry. Shortly before I left Vietnam in January 1968 he pinned sergeant E-5 stripes on me. That was after 2 years in the army. Things were different in a war zone- plus, a general can do whatever he wants (within reason). Base pay for a sergeant E-5 was approx. $250/mo., combat pay $50/mo. and flight pay $50/mo. Oh, and mom would send me a few bucks every now and then, too. I had enough cash to go visit Suzie in Phu Loi every few weeks....

[@Yourprimofredo]

Longhorn77Gunner 1-1 ARB?

[@garysaccone7189]

Yes I remember that $ $78

[@Longhorn77Gunner]

At that time it was the 1st Aviation Battalion of the 1st Infantry Division. I believe it no longer exists (that was 50 years ago). The crest is the icon I use here. I read the crest was re-designated to the 1st Aviation Regiment of the 1st Infantry Division.

[@MrChickennugget360]

now every division has an Aviation Brigade attached. Light units normally have transportation Aviation while Heavy Units have attack aviation

[@MrChickennugget360]

now every division has an Aviation Brigade attached. Light units normally have transportation Aviation while Heavy Units have attack aviation

[@christopherchaos]

Important thing to note about this video: it is intended to give a Civilian that might be curious about enlisted rank in the Army a basic understanding with a little in depth explanation. There are several more factors that can effect promotion but I wanted to keep it somewhat basic. Also yes, E-1 is a pay grade and Sergeant is a rank. Again, I did not want to make this too complicated than it need to be to give a basic understanding of enlisted rank in the Army.

[@danielzaba9913]

My father was a First Sargeant (E8), I remember him telling me about his days in the academy, he was born in 1966......and after he finished high-school, including graduating, he left straight for the military academy.......I didn´t spend much time with my father in my childhood.....but I feel honoured he made it to First Sargeant.....now he´s retired, and fat. He also was a radiocommunications officer, morse codes, telegraphs...ETC. Not sure how that works. (Hoping you could help me with that). After that he was titled to being an enginner, (electrical engineer,) a mechanic too, and an electronist, afterwards he was slected as suitable for use of heavy machinery during a special course. I don´t really know if he got any medals, suppose he must have, since he was promoted rather quickly :/. But I haven´t seen them, they´re probably rusting off in some old chest, typicall of him. He had a small store, too, didn´t go well, the state demolished it to build more houses.....and he never got the money back :(

[@joedimaggio8076]

troop, company and battery for artillery. great video. army 1997-2000

[@madlysk1129]

in the UK ar wo1 and 2 can be a Sgt maj and staff Sgt can be a c Sgt to find out more go to the British army website

[@davidd7940]

Sergeants generally run the day to day business of the army.

[@williamparks867]

David Redington no they don't they drink and drive they do drugs they show up late they sexual assault other soldiers and set their own kids on fire. the rank that does the day to day work is the specialist the sergeant is always a worthless piece of garbage that got moved up to move them out. Because they are terrible

[@garyodle5663]

I really appreciated this. I spent twenty-seven years in the Air Force so I knew some of the basics of Army rank but not nearly as much as this video gave. Thanks.

[@christopherchaos]

Gary Odle glad you found it helpful. Thanks for watching it and thank you for your service!!

[@Specops-vy5tm]

I agree

[@FirstLast-zv5od]

Gary Odle Airforce rank is confusing as fuck.

[@DigitalApex]

First Last, E-1: Airman Basic (AB) E-2: Airman (Amn) E-3: Airman First Class (A1C) E-4: Senior Airman (SrA) ____________________ NCO: E-5: Staff Sergeant (SSgt) E-6: Technical Sgt (TSgt) ____________________ SNCO: E-7: Master Sergeant (MSgt) E-8: Senior Master Sgt (SMSgt) E-9: Chief Master Sergeant (CMSgt) Currently an E-3 right now and I still have like a year before I sew on for that E-4 mafia life. Planning on making Staff and getting out though. Definitely doable in 6 years. If I’m gonna do 20, definitely want to retire as a Master at least. Chief is really hard to make because just getting past Staff Sergeant is hard enough. Got to be crazy good at your job and have loads of education. Technical Sergeant is the hardest one to get though.

[@FirstLast-zv5od]

Digital Apex I was talking more about the insignia.

[@FrippFrepp]

More accurate representation 1. Silver 1 2. Silver 2 3. Silver 3 4. Silver 4 5. Silver Elite 6. Silver Elite Master 7. Gold Nova 1 8. Gold Nova 2 9. Gold Nova 3 10. Gold Nova Master 11. Master Guardian 1 12. Master Guardian 2 13. Master Guardian Elite 14. Distinguished Master Guardian 15. Legendary Eagle 16. Legendary Eagle Master 17. Supreme Master First Class 18. The Global Elite

[@russellhoward9504]

Thanks for all who. Served. Thank. My. Father. Ww2 owkanowa. 1943. 45

[@jakewes6642]

CSGO?

[@metlyze7124]

TrezzY im a gold nova 2

[@donnie6313]

Russell Howard hacksaw ridge?

[@roryvernon2555]

I'm gold Nova master.

[@TheGoatMumbler]

My nephew has been climbing the ranks and plans to retire from the Army. This helped me understand WTF is going on with the rankings. Subbed. Oh, and your transition vids will help me with my vids too. :) Thanks man!

[@christopherchaos]

awesome!! Glad my videos could help. Thanks for watching!!!

[@2h4]

I have 3 Brothers in the military

[@abelramirez7320]

My great uncle Ralph was a command sergeant major. He's retired. Now I'm joining and I'm shipping to basic in a month.

[@vlugovsky]

@Abel Ramirez - God Speed!

[@jimbeam7248]

How was it?

[@heathjones7002]

Abel Ramirez how’s it going bro?

[@henryhank4325]

Did you pass?

[@laide3596]

I think he died

[@awesomeaustin2348]

Thanks for your service and explaining these ranks, my dad was a E5 in the Vietnam era and I wasn't sure what that was, he passed away and all I had was some old Army photo's. Thanks again...

[@aidenhall8593]

Specialist: "Butttt, at least youre not a private."

[@bandit5747]

Specialist = Private +more pay

[@aaronmichelson5510]

Been treating vets for the past 12 years, so I know most of this stuff. But, some details I didn't know! Thanks! It gets even more complicated when looking at past eras or wars (e.g, Vietnam)...

[@chancebernhardt4815]

I got a huge one for you, I was Black Opps Shadow Company Airborne Ranger 2nd Battalion 101st, I made 1st Sargent in 26 weeks of my Ranger training myself and 220 other soldiers were chose for this position, mine was for my high powered shooting skills shot Expert on anything I picked up, Then We were sent to Demo school so after 52 weeks of some serious training I was 1st Sargent for 20 years on one of our missions to Bosnia, I received my 10-11-12 Purple Heart in one day, then I also Received my 5th Bronze Star from my non coms and my 6th Silver Star from my Officers then to top that off 16 of us 1st Sargents got a field Promotion to Majors, I waited until I was healed up from being blown up and shot twice once in each shoulder while I was taking the fight to get my troops uncover ,I was in a fire fight with Serbs according to CID and the officers I personally Killed 368 with my M60 in the fire fight, and no one knew about it because we were Black Opps we dont exist non of us, I gave up my Commission and retired the 15 other Majors did the samething as I did, then 30 of the other Officers Retired also, long in short they had to retire everyone in the company and disband the unit. The bad thing about being a Ranger in Black Opps is we get no VA Benefits Period , you ask yourself why does this happen, its easy how do you give Benefits to someone that doesn't exist.

[@davidterry3288]

Nothing as funny as an aviation warrant officer telling the infantry division CSM he should not be smoking in a combat zone. Pilot goes to Division commander complaining that the CSM said he would kick the pilot's ass. Division Commander says, I would be careful because he can kick my ass too.

[@hlynnkeith9334]

Now THAT's funny!

[@TheMarkb45]

I served in the us army from '86 - '90 and I did see the respect shown to a SM from a full bird colonel during a barracks inspection in AIT, something i'll never forget.

[@hlynnkeith9334]

When I was a captain in the Air Force, the CO tasked our unit Chief (E-9) with collecting and editing quarterly reports from every division. I made sure that I delivered the reports for my division. First quarterly report I delivered, the Chief asked, "Is this from (name of division)?" I replied, "Yes, sir." Chief. "Captain, you don't call me 'sir'. I call you 'sir'." Me. "Chief, you got more time in the Air Force than I have on the planet. When you speak, the colonel and the general listen. I know the protocol, and outside your office, we will follow it. But I also know who's who and what's real, and in your office, I call you 'sir'." Chief said nothing, but after that, I got what I asked for.

[@jimmiejenkins8]

Yup. The unwritten rule is that officers, especially junior officers, ask their sergeants for recommendations and then they turn those recommendations into orders.

[@mybumbrash]

I have a family friend who was a radio technician for the Australian army in Vietnam. This was his story. He was sent to an American base to fix one of radio towers, turns out it was ww2 equipment that he's never seen because the Australian army likes to keep up with the times. So he had to spend 2 days reading how to fix it. The American SM came to him to complain. My family friend was E1. Told him too bad your country keeps old shit it'll take a while to fix. He got grumpy went to my friends O1 who got mad at the SM for questioning someone who's doing a specialist task. Told him to keep his mouth shut and respect all ranks. Haha good ol nam

[@shamrafyfe830]

If you enlist as an Eagle Scout, you enter as an e2, that's what I did

[@keandle]

If you achieve the rank of cadet officer (I think Cadet/1Lt) in the Civil Air Patrol, you can graduate from USAF boot camp as an E3 (Airman First Class.) This is a good reason to join a cadet corps of some kind while in school. The CAP, Sea Cadets or JROTC will all give you a great start as an enlisted recruit in any of the branches of the service, except perhaps the Marine Corps. Better still, do really well in any of those cadet corps (say making Cadet/Colonel), and it will help you get to a military academy like West Point (Army), Annapolis (Navy) or Colorado Springs (Air Force).

[@thomaswilliamson625]

Lindsay Edwards, I graduated from my ARmy JROTC program as our Cadet Battalion Commander. The most memorable years of my life were leading our drill team to 1st overall in the Army Nationals. Ahhh memories

[@liamwelty1028]

It depends how good you do at basic and if you went to collage rotc

[@WhiteBloggerBlackSpecs]

Oh yeah, Eagle Scouts have a huge leg up

[@williambuckman8359]

@@thomaswilliamson625 I reached captain I was company commander I led our company to being disbanded from fucking all my female subs! Very memorable for me also!

[@steve_jackson9933]

there is a good deal of talk about how little money the lower enlisted ranks make, but one has to remember the following: you will be living on post/base, medical/dental are all covered, same with food (if one so chooses). So, for those who want to continue to complain about pay look at your current pay check and look at how much you pay for rent/mortgage, and then how much you are deducting for medical/dental, and how much for groceries. Even a lower enlisted can still take home some decent money each month. One does not have spend it all on clubbing/booze and eating out all the time.

[@vlugovsky]

@Lou Pyzik - still difficult for a family

[@austinrousee6729]

vlugovsky I’m an e5 on my 6th year of service. I had one kid when I enlisted and a second well still in my first contract. Personally I have never had a problem financially. When you consider as a civilian I would be paying 1500 a for a 3 bedroom house plus utility’s, 300 a month for health insurance with a 2000 deductible. And then food for myself ( I eat breakfast and lunch in the chow hall) so for me it isn’t bad. And the fact that they give you more then enough to earn your bachelors. But everyone is used to different living styles.

[@richardacevedo280]

@@austinrousee6729 Austin, Fringe benefits come always handy. If I were in you guys' situation, I would keep my sight on that BS degree. It is a nice freebie to take advantage of...good for you and family short and long term. God bless.

[@austinrousee6729]

richard acevedo I actually received my B.S sociology (criminology). I’m now commissioned, and working on my Masters in Homeland security. With that being said if I could go back I likely would have stayed enlisted.

[@rogerkomula8057]

PFC is the best because you're the top of the bottom. More and they expect things from you. By PFC, you've learned to avoid work.

[@darkdonovan]

FACTS

[@MrSirwolf2001]

Specialist! E-4 mafia.

[@nightswing23]

Your videos bring back memories of when I was in for a little bit. I only made it to e-2 . And got an honorable discharge by failing my pt test. I guess because I didn't do anything wrong or get in trouble they still have me an honorable discharge. But nice videos man. Hooah!

[@larrywelser4306]

E4 isn't a rank its a mafia lol

[@davidroberts5601]

aaaahahahaahah

[@Joemama13479]

Larry Welser 🤔🤔🤔 not necessarily I wasn't E7 rank I don't know what you're talking about brother

[@ottomattiks3644]

Pay grade ...E-4 is a pay grade the rank is called specialist or Corporal

[@TFossett]

larry, we don't talk about the mafia.......

[@mageIIan]

Larry Welser civi here; what do you mean by mafia?

[@mariandupuis7101]

Good job explaining current rank system ! I'm an old retired veteran now who served in ancient times of the eary 70s, from 71-75 active, 75-77 National Guard. In the late 60s there were specialist grades all the way up to SP/9 and a saw some of them in 1971. These were considered technical subject experts in their particular support MOS, but not in the military leadership chain of command. They didn't have the requirements of combat training and leadership as the so called " Hard ranks " with the chevrons. The Army gradually reduced those Specialist ranks down to SP/5 by the time I was eligible to advance, and that was the rank I held on Discharge in 1975, and two more years in National Guard. That Sp/5 rank was eliminated in 1989, leaving only the Sp/4 of today. The Sp ranks only had rockers above the small eagle on the shoulder patch, thus we were known as " Bird Corporal E-4 ", or " Bird Sgt. E-5 " and so on up the ranks.

[@MrPoorcharlie]

As I have been told there was never anyone promoted to Sp9. The only Sp9's were in some type of nuclear MOS. I knew a Sp 7 once. He was a general's secretary.

[@TheZeffan]

At age 17, I entered basic training (OSUT) and AIT for a 12B (Combat Engineer) as an E-3 because I convinced over two dozen of my high school class (1982) to join with me. “Stripes for Buddies” program.

[@gswovoka6286]

Great video! Very interesting for an old guy like me. MY E1 pay was $90 per month. The ranks above Sgt Maj were interesting as I had never herd of them, much less ever seen one.The only real change was that a PFC had a single stripe (no rocker) and the spec ranks went higher - spec 5 - spec 6 etc. Thanks again for the info.

[@tedparker640]

the problem with trying to compare the pay is the fact that most people don't realize that includes room and board, so $1400 a month is awesome when you don't have $1000 for rent and another $500 or so for food...

[@w.p8960]

Till 1958 only E1 to E-7. 2 ranks were added.

[@Snake-ms7sj]

When I joined the Army in the early 1980's they were just getting rid of the Spec 5 rank. Don't know why they didn't get rid of the Spec 4 rank also. They talked about doing it in the late 80's but didn't follow through.

[@sda6822]

Good job on your video you gave just enough detail to make it technical anicole and easy to understand but not so technical that a civilian could not understand hope this you more of your videos rock on

[@mrmanta6581]

this is really helpful. I wish other branches had your content

[@Syntheticbreed]

Well this is a nice little break down I could have used when I took my current job 2 1/2 years ago. Former Navy, currently working as an archaeologist on an army base. Learning the ranks of other branches was never a priority for me since I almost never had to interact with them. Only ranks I know are Specialist and Sergeant.

[@Hanshi64]

very well explained Im sure allot of young up comers will be assisted by this thank you Sgt.

[@travisswentosky]

60 college credits will also grant you PFC (E-3) upon joining. At least that's how it was for me when i joined in 2008.

[@Zooboo1]

Travis if you went to military high school you were a PFC(E2) as soon as you entered the services...Pres Trump had he chosen to go in to the service out of high school (NYMA) he would have been an E2...Notice our Commander in Chief is well to salute when required passing the colors or acknowledging a salute.

[@wartornsky90]

Travis still the same

[@juancena1117]

Travis does it have to be from a Military School? Or can it also be from Like Community or State College.

[@travisswentosky]

Any accredited college credits will do. Also a correction to my original post. 30-45 college credits got you PFC, then 60 credits (bachelor degree) got you SPC E-4

[@kingsalty4030]

Thank you for your service

[@justingohs4085]

When you're an E4 and an acting squad leader I failed my sham shield😔

[@treavy1]

Thank you for your service to our country and our nation I like you just the way you are you made this day a special day by just you being you and I thank you tirelessly for your dedication to our country I would risk my life to protect you after all you protected our freedom and liberty and I thank you so very much for giving up your freedom for our safety love thy veterans and love the veterans of the United States

[@cricketking8450]

When I was in basic at fort Jackson south Carolina in 1979. On tank hill A-3-1 our mess hall was a world war two mess hall they had all of the army ranks on the side of the mess hall and when we were waiting our turn to eat we would go over the army Ranks I still haven't forgotten them after 40 years.

[@marcuszarafonetis6544]

Thanks for the video. I was in the infantry for 17years. It really brings back memories, bro

[@Skipper2491]

Enlisted US Army in June 1961 as not a private but a Recruit E1 ($49/month pay), Private E2, PFC E3, Spec4/Corporal E4, Spec5/SGT, Spec6/SSG, Spec7/1stSgt, Spec8/MSG, Spec9/SGM. From E4 and up we could use the NCO club VS the EM Club. Yes, the higher ranks bot better pay, I got approx 250/month as an E5. I still remember my serial number, in those days RA #'s were enlistees, US #'s were draftees. The Specialist ranks were invented to allow soldiers to advance while doing jobs that didn't necessarily require leadership or command skills. I was a master paper pusher, I could get that stuff from my inbox to my outbox better than almost anyone. I also knew how to wrap things in red tape and then make my CO look good by knowing how to cut thru the red tape I created. Our services today are much more efficient.

[@KreationsOvMatt]

WLC is called BLC now (Basic Leader Course) and is a requirement to make SGT. Even if you make points before going, you won’t get picked up. I just graduated last Friday and they pinned me CPL. So... trying to make those points lol.

[@christopherchaos]

Thanks for the new info. The Army love to change the names of stuff. lol. Good to know its back to being required again. Thanks for watching the video.

[@AlphaWolf789]

hey its a start right lol

[@rodneyshields8035]

Before PLDC (Primary Leadership Development Course) the course was called PNOC (Primary Non-Commisioned Officer Course). When I was scheduled to attend the PNOC course, I was an E-3 at the time. While waiting for my class start date, the PNOC course was eliminated pending the institution of PLDC. The new course wasn't scheduling their first class for another six months. I was given a waiver and scheduled to attend BNOC (Basic Non-Commissioned Officer Course) as an E-3. When I showed-up for the class there were E-5 and E-6 personnel there and did I get the looks. The instructors were two E-8s and they reluctantly let me stay. I was administratively promoted to E-4 within a week. I never went to PLDC either. I was the Class Distinguished Graduate of that BNOC cycle as an E-4. Over time I went on to ANOC and retired as a MSG. I have no regrets about the Military. I spent time in both Iraq and Afghanistan both as a Military member and as a Government Contractor. I appreciate your video as it brought back a lot of memories being lower enlisted. Thanks.

[@andrewmurfield2950]

i was scrolling to say that thanks buddy lol my ets date was seven days before this was posted so his info was a little off but overall wasn't bad at all

[@patriottomyself]

Yeah, I went when it was still WLC in 2012, I never understood the need for name changes every couple years.

[@SpaceMotorist]

When you showed Staff Sergeant of the Army, I saw 1000 epic things in his gaze.

[@TheMonkySpanker]

I remember back in the mid-'80s when I was in; my MOS (16D) was so overcrowded that our promo points were 999 points. Max all your scores and you still had maybe 700 points, do all the extra training you could take and get max (maybe) another 100 points. We had probably 8 out of 10 people in my unit all spec 4's.

[@donfox6381]

I liked your break down of the promotion scale. In my day there were Spec 5,6,7 mostly in medical fields. I was promoted Spec 5 in 1983 after the E5 board. Then was given the rank of buck sergeant. Some E4 buddies were Reclassified to Corporal. Bottom line here is that the Gov. turned all of the Specialist Ranks into hard stripe people pushers.

[@hochwalze4485]

I have a friend who came in as a SPC/E-4 in 2015. He came in with a Bachelors Degree. He made SGT/E-5 within 2 years and was just promoted to SSG/E-6 2 months ago with a total of 4 years of service. He’s in a “unicorn” MOS (31K-Military Working Dog Handler) that is very undermanned so his civilian education combined with choosing an undermanned MOS along with being a squared Soldier/NCO has helped him immensely.

[@pschroeter1]

When he says years in the Army, does that include Basic Training and schools?

[@christopherchaos]

+pschroeter1 yes

[@JB-eq9nt]

from the time you are sworn in

[@patriottomyself]

Yep sure does

[@johngibeau5366]

Actually, it includes from the moment you are sworn in. For some, like enlisted men who join via the Delayed Entry Program, (not sure if this is still a thing.) like myself, I joined as an E1, but was promoted the day I arrived at Benning, and promoted again three months after arriving at my first duty station in Vicenza, Italy. So I made E3 technically in six months of active duty, but since they were counting from the time I swore in, a year before going to basic training, I received more pay, and quicker promotions. I made E5 in two years, E6 in 3, then stepped on my crank and was dropped back to E4, made E5 again six months later, E6 a year after that, and E7 at year 8. E8 at 12, and E9 at 17.

[@jimmymartin1370]

pschroeter1 no

[@carsongrover9924]

Having background in Boy Scouts and/or JROTC can earn you either PFC or SPC. So can enlisting with your friends. One reference can get you E-2, 2 for E-3 & 3 for E-4 (SPC). Having certain college education and credits and college hours can also help you getting enlisted as either a E-2, E-3 or E-4 (SPC), depending on your education. Having a 4 year Bachelor’s degree can help you enlist as an SPC. SPC (E-4) is the highest rank you can enlist as. Corporal and higher must be earned regardless

[@ernestbloor6058]

In 1959, pay for recruit E-1 was $68.50. After basic training, it was pushed up to $75.00 and that was monthly.

[@sdivine13]

A gallon of gas was a nickle too

[@hlynnkeith9334]

As a former Air Force officer, I never understood Army enlisted ranks and still don't. I think of corporal, sergeant, first sergeant, and such as line and of specialists in all their different flavors as staff. One thing I do know. The Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force (same as Sergeant Major of the Army) has his own executive jet assigned and wherever he goes the highest ranking officer on base and the base commander and the base senior enlisted advisor meet him on the tarmac. I once saw the CMSAF step off his jet to a line-up of a Major General, a Brigadier General, two Colonels, a Major, three Captains, and four Chiefs -- all there to greet him. The Major General acted as his driver. IIRC CMSAF answers to the Chief of Staff.

[@MrDevtun]

Each service senior enlisted advisor carries a 3 star equivalent protocol. Yes, the SEA reports to the service chief & service secretary. Nice general/admiral level perks to be the top enlisted guy in the service, but it's very long hours, little sleep & lots of traveling. They do very nicely after they retire from the service.

[@rvboyett]

Any High School grad that has attended a requisite amount of JROTC courses will go into Basic Training as a PFC. I was in the Army from 91-98. I couldn't get promoted to Sgt because I was a 67N (UH1 Crew Chief). The promotion points would never drop to the point where I could get promoted. Finally, I had to max the PT test to max out my promotion points to 798 which forced my promotion to Sgt. I swore to my 1st Sgt that I would never run that fast ever again. He then promised me a case of beer and I shaved 5 seconds off my 2mile time for the next PT test.

[@lewiscleveland4661]

PNCOC Primary Non Commissioned Officer's Course was what it was called in my day but also during that period the biggest detriment to being promoted was the lack of skin pigmentation or the right genitalia.

[@carlosochoa1633]

I went in as an E-2 coming from highschool

[@planetrandom5075]

My dad served in the German army as a staff seargent for 4 years then served in GSG9 special forces for 3 years as a commander as a paratrooper (forgot what it was really called)

[@steed9246]

One note on Specialists vs Corporals. You'll typically see CPLs more in Combat Arms units than in non-combat arms units. This is primarily due to the way that combat arms units deal with leadership at the squad/team level.

[@steed9246]

Right. I got out in 2013 and I hardly ever saw corporals. When I did though, they were typically in Infantry units.

[@MortemFalbare]

You forgot a major faucet of the enlisted, the drill sergeant. If i remember correctly a drill sergeant is an e-6 and becomes one through recommendations from higher ups. When they go to rank up they are essentially told they are moving up but into being a drill sergeant. They then go through basic training multiple times until they can memorize the training enough to do it themselves. They are accompanied by another e-6 drill sergeant and they are both under an e-7 drill sergeant. They are all co-responsible for a platoon and it's training for 4 weeks and then move onto the next platoon while handing the recruits to whomever is in charge of the individual recruits, it often being various different fields of jobs due to lumping recruits together for basic being easier for training since they can be sent where there will be available spots then sent to the base they will train at for their hired in job.

[@Murderface666]

Specialist is not a junior NCO. They are just seasoned privates. And the Corporal rank is more like an NCO intern (which is why a lot of people don't want it, but those that do typically are on a power trip).

[@foxrocks28]

Well done and thanks for your service!

[@haroldvoss5886]

1984, I joined as a PFC, (4 years high school ROTC), Did Basic, then Air Borne, graduation day, I was promoted to E-4 ''SPC 4'', Then after AIT at Ft Gordon I was assigned to Ft Hood. I shoulda listened to my Dad, he told me to make rank fast, go Combat Arms, because typically the cutoff scores where lower, And in the 80's and 90's, cutoff scores in Signal MOS's where through the roof with most maxed at around 999

[@Dcvillnz]

Made it to Staff Sergeant back in the day and respected the company and its teachings. I feel that the little things did matter , like the pride of the uniform . & ( ropes & brass) I Enjoyed your video , thanks for the upload.

[@E5mma_combat]

Where are all my E-5's at

[@jmozeyFB]

Thanks Chris you videos have been very helpful for me I’m trying to ship out this month if I can or early march. Thanks for your service man.

[@eddieesparza553]

Joining the army for 88m, have experience as a civilian as a truck driver of 2 year's, can't wait 😃

[@chipblock2854]

In 1973 I went in under the delayed entry program. So while I was 17 and a senior in high school I signed up as an E1. Then two weeks into basic training I became an E2. I was the only E2 out of a company of 160 guys. I became a platoon leader. Once I was done with my advance schooling (AIT) I became a Private First Class (PFC) E3. Then around one year later I became a Spec 4 - E4. Then I got out. I was promised an E5 if I stayed but my civilian life was calling! I only went in to get the old-style GI bill. By signing up early I also got a guarantee first duty station. I picked Germany.

[@rickbooth3071]

dude, god fucking bless u for serving. you're doing gods work my friend

[@RRWOrtiga1]

Thanks for your service and sharing your experience, I'm a trained Marksman in the Army for 2 years and left with honorable discharge as a Staff Sergeant. I still help out with training and field evaluation, once in a while I part my skills to the select few and what to expect (including some funny moments.🤪) 👩‍💻🙇🔰

[@jordaneasley7046]

Smells a lot like bullshit ....

[@londontoad]

An E-1 in 1966 got less than $100 before taxes plus 3 hots and a cot. When I ETS in 1969, E-5, something like $480 a month before taxes. Oh, how times have changed. The Army got me my career in the Department of State.

[@JrgenFoged]

A rather complicated nos and ways of NCOs - ranks of the US Army. Could be simplified - ehh??

[@jerryhall3890]

Love the videos bro and thank you for your service.

[@apuntes8883]

Hypothetically a Private is basically one single person which is in allegiance to lets say his "own interests". In explicit terms it could be a renegade, a rebel, a political insurgent in contradiction to the adverse winds of his personal environment , whatever. He could be a militant anywhere. A FIrearm is technically a Recruit but still in the interests of being a freelancer. Lets say One Firearm unit is made of just 2 persons as recruits which have in common a basic agreement, by force or by own choice, which is to be recruits. Lets say one of the recruits is in contact or is under the influence and guidelines of a greater or outter influence which is using resources for its own interests (In order to validly agreed they must to follow the rules of the not told). A Squad is made of 2 Firearm units plus a single Leader. Now look that the Leader is formerly and technically belonging to the interests of an outter structure and the Firearms agrees to fulfill partially or totally with those interests or objectives by accepting and carrying on orders. This is the core philosophy for the organizational structure of military units and the conceptual base for developing military leaders. A Sargeant from that point of view is therefore the basic Leader for military units. From there each new formation has to make to fit in the preceding formations and ranks into those same shapes of 2 , and 2 plus a leadnig unit. Lets say a Platoon has 2 squads and 2 firearms led by a single leader, suppose that they make 15 men. Also hypotetically a Company having 2 pairs of Platoons which are led by another Platoon which is Led by one Squad. Lets say they are 80 men. Notice that single leaders are still within. From there the same shape of 2 and 2 plus a leader reapeats making to fit the preceding formations into the nexts always keeping those same patterns. The whole things goes about agreement, fulfilling with the requisites of the wider ranks and sharing with the culturistic model of interests of the wider (up to the nation) which relies on the acceptance and agreement of its ranks to carry on with the "currency of orders".

[@BigStank]

When I was an E-2 in the army my paychecks were $666

[@victortoland3800]

Good job explaining army ranks. I enlisted for 2 years from 2-11-75 to 2-11-77. Got as far as Spac.4 maybe last 2 months of my enlistment. Served most of my time in Neu-Ulm Germany. Almost year and a half. Got out like 3 weeks short of my 2 year enlistment cause I didn't use up my vacation days. And I was sooow glad I didn't enlist for 3 years. I didnt have any leadership responsibilities as E-4. Thank God they had that 2 year enlistment back then. Do they now? Maybe I'll enlist again. I was dreaming I enlisted again now and was scared shitless as to how the hell am I going to do the basic training. Thinking how embarrassing it will be as an old man in with these 18 year olds. My MOS was track and wheel vehicle mechanic. I didn't cut it to be that so at my duty station with the Engineer's company motor pool they put me on as a fual truck driver. We were out in field training a lot. 1 to 2 weeks at a time. Those were the good old days when there were no stupid wars for domination and profit like now. Afghanistan, Iraq, Libia , Syria. Of course this Vietnam war was unnecessary and a great sorrowful tragedy that all these young boys had to die for the fucking Rothschilds Bankers and the military war corporations for the US shaddow, globalist government war mongers for world domination. This is what's going on now. It's a shame that our proud military is ruled by US government of psychopath war mongers.

[@Chu3505]

I joined the army reserve in the late 80s to earn some money for college.I made it to the rank of Sergeant.My 4 years contracts commitment was over.I was very lucky the Golf War started right afterward my commitment contract was over.

[@alexanaya6820]

"CALVARY" unit eh🤔....😂 Come on Sarn't...wtf...

[@confettiRedPill]

Rip drip 46 who died for all our army KZbin sins

[@asmith7876]

In the mid-80’s I joined the Army as an E-3, I had it pointed out to me that I outranked a lot of those permanent party people around me but I was a trainee…I was like, uh, OK! Made E-4 in 10 months, then they froze everything, and some point I became the only Corporal in the unit and eventually Sergeant at 3.5 years. I can’t remember now if PLDC was before or after I got promoted. ETS’d when the 4 years was up and got the F out.

[@JonFrumTheFirst]

My dad enlisted right after Pearl Harbor, and went to Louisiana for training. While he was there, he was offered the chance to go into engineer training. Because he had received one promotion and needed to send home the money, he couldnt take advantage of it, and ended up serving in the Signal Corps in England at an air base. When he was sent by rail to the coast to go overseas, they saw the engineers - they were in college, and walking around with girls. Anyway, my dad was never sent to the front, and came home safe and sound. And those 'engineers?' They needed cannon fodder, so they pulled them out of school, gave them rifles, and fed them into the Battle of the Bulge, where their unit was wiped out. Some things work out.

[@napsiuslebelche5846]

Daamn you're ranking up really fast in the US ! In Belgium from "Soldat" (OR-1 in NATO ranks) to "Premier Caporal Chef" (OR-4) you need to spend 20 years ! But you can join the army starting as a OR-5 if you have the CESS (when you finish high school). And you can also be directly an officer if you have a "master" or a "bachelier" (3 to 5 years in university/college). And to be a OR-1 you just need the CEB (at the end of your 6th grade) and, for every soldier from OR-1 to OF-9, to be over eighteen

[@sfranger50]

i was in the navy and in the navy becoming an E7 is a super big deal. A Navy E7 is a Cheif Petty Officer and at that rank they wear officer uniforms vs. enlisted. At the time that meant wearing kakhis vs. dungarees as a working uniform and the double breasted jacket with black buttons and a combination cover with a black chinstrap vs. crackerjacks with a dixie cup as a dress uniform. I don't know how the uniform thing is today with whatever cammo type working uniforms are being worn in the Navy. I do wonder weather the jump to E7 in the Army is as big of a deal as it is in the Navy. Btw, the senior NCO ranks in the navy are Chief Petty Officer, who you address as "Chief", Senior Chief Petty Officer (E8), "Senior Chief", and Master Chief Petty Officer (E9), "Master Chief". Junior enlisted and experienced officers won't make the mistake of calling a senior chief or master chief, "chief", but sometimes a junior officer might, which is somewhat of a major breech of etiquette and will be corrected quickly, much to the Ensign's embarassment. ( I never made that mistake as an Ensign, but rest assured I had my share of embarassing moments, it is part of the joy of being an O1 in the Navy ) Great video, BTW. I liked how you addressed the issue of some enlisted making rank very quickly. The same think happens in the Navy for sailors in highly skilled job areas, mostly based on completing a technical school. Those who are promoted upon graduation to Petty Officer third class (E4), the first level of non-commisioned officer, are sometimes called "push button petty officers" because of the automatic promotion.

[@keandle]

You could have added that the Senior NCOs are the "Backbone" of the Army. They are a special group of highly experienced leaders within the Army who provide the "glue" which gives army units their cohesiveness. Its the same with the "Chiefs" of the USN and USAF. May God bless them all!

[@clonescope2433]

Yeah I'm shipping to boot on 21st of September (13J Fort sill) and due to my 3+ years of JROTC I got E-3 (PFC), so happy to not be going in at the bottom of the totem pole.

[@terryrogerepling8290]

I was drafted on 72 and was a E4 in two years, actually in about 18 months. I don't remember the requirements but I know one thing they draw much more pay now than them..

[@christopherlue9096]

Thank you for your service

[@outdoorfreedom9778]

Things were a bit different in the 60s, as a slick sleeve {{ no velcro}} we made $68.00 a month then progressed up the pay scale. I topped out at E-4 and came home after taxes, yes, we paid taxes, with $186.00 in your pocket. We were paind once a month. I got out in 1970 and things didn't change a lot for a lot of years. No, everything wasn't free or given to us. The first issue of clothing was provided in Basic but after that you bought any replacement gear. Our food was one jump from uneatable but it was free. Food tended to run out at about mid serving and there was never much milk available? We were forced to eat a lot off base or the NCO club depending on rank.

[@hypoluxa]

Did 3 yrs in the Army, and was lucky enough to come in as an E2. (Eagle Scout award) made that possible. Also, when I was in, to come in as a Spec E4, you needed a 4yr college degree. These days that is still required, but I think that if you have a unique civ job skill set with good amount experience you can get waived to an E4 as well. If it is in high demand in the Army. Cyber / IT is a big one these days from what I hear. Also, to come in as an E3, two yrs of college is required or other type of training, JROTC etc.

[@ColonelMarcellus]

The pointed stripes are called "chevrons" and the curved ones were called "arcs". I remember when privates and non-coms had to sew their insignia on their sleeves on all their uniforms. Getting promoted meant removing and sewing on another insignia. Sergeants First Class (E7) used to be called "Technical Sergeants" until the latter part of the 1940s when the rank was re-named.

[@ramdodgetruck]

I made E-5 Sgt in a year and a half. What was I doing wrong? Offered E-6 to Re-Up and 10 grand. That was back in 72' I passed. Wish I stayed for the twenty in hindsight. No regrets though. Life's been pretty good so far.

[@RFKFANTS67]

Thanks for sharing this. And thank-You for your service man.

[@jeffjones4654]

In Air Defense Artillery or Field Artillery, a company sized unit is called a battery.

[@talknight2]

In my county's army, the upper ranks of NCOs are only ever in charge of logistical and administrative departments (or whole bases). Only an officer can directly command a unit from the company level upwards. Corporal, Sergeant and First Sergeant aren't actually NCO ranks unless you complete a Sergeant's Course. Otherwise, everyone gets to First Sergeant just by veterancy (not that it really gives you anything practical other than having the stripes on your dress uniform and bragging rights). If you're in a combat unit, it's Corporal after 8 months, Sergeant after 20 months, then First Sergeant after 28 months if memory serves. You can have a whole squad of non-NCO First Sergeants commanded by a fresh-faced Sergeant who just finished basic training and Sergeant's Course. You can also proceed from Sergeant's Course straight on to Officer Course (if you're good enough) and be a Lieutenant after just 20 months (or 24 months in the infantry because they have longer training than other ground forces). The only way to join the military as anything other than private is to get a contract with the army where they pay for your degree and you work for them for a set number of years (then you start as a Specialist in some field, which is a lieutenant rank).

[@gunchief0811]

In the MARINES. Cpls and Sgt's are N.C.O.'s. and re expected to be leaders.When u pick up the rocker now your a STAFF N.C.O. and you are a platoon Sgt. Level leader...above the squad leader level of leadership...

[@TheStormWolf10]

so an E1 is what my dad calls a "Buck Private" while an E2 is simply Private?

[@mattfrmdachi]

If you get a high enough ASVAB score, you can have an E-2 rank. This applies to other branches as well. I have an 85 on my ASVAB and the recruiter for the Army said I would be a Private 2nd class

[@mattfrmdachi]

mac burger yeah I’ll probably join the navy. It will allow me to work with aircraft more and do intel work or cyber work

[@stevenm3823]

While at work one day me and another Army veteran talked about how your rank just disappears the day you complete your ETS and are out...you go back to the unit to say goodbye to everyone and suddenly all the E4 and below do not have to stand at Parade Rest for you, do not have to do a thing you say anymore, and can call you by your first name if they choose to.....and you yourself are not allowed to touch anything in the motorpool, the same place where you were signed for millions of dollars worth of vehicles and equipment just a few days before, you are just another civilian again, just another face in the crowd at the mall or the supermarket...all your power is gone.

[@brokenwings6146]

Thank you for your service to our country

[@smokeypuppy417]

SSG is the best rank in the army, they usually arent plt sergeants but mostly section sergeants, they get to bs around in the office with the SFC and they tell their e5's what to do for the day and then, they show up before lunch or at the end of the day and make sure the work was done. Best rank, also if they miss formation, the plt sergeant will cover for them and maybe they will just joke about it.

[@r0cketplumber]

My dad was in the Ohio national guard in December of '41, and on his way to the South Pacific by March of '42 as an E1. I think he rose to E6 before being sent to Ft Sill for OCS in January of '45, and then to England in about April or so. He was training soldiers from the European theater about the ugly details of island hopping warfare in preparation for Operation Olympic when the bombs let them go home on the Queen Mary in (I think) Nov '45. He made it to O6 before retiring in 1975. We never went camping when I was a kid, he'd spent seven years from '42 to '62 living in tents in the West Pacific region while people were trying to kill him. In later life, he did enjoy his Winnebago...

[@Mike-lh4wn]

The specialist is skilled and trusted to do their tasks without a lot of supervision. You are not given many crap jobs. You have more respect than the E3 and below. But you have no authority. You just do your MOS job. Corporal can have authority over other troops, and is considered a junior NCO.

[@NaYawkr]

I spent 19 months in the Army, was promoted to Sgt. E 5 after 14 months, and was E-5 when I received my Honorable Discharge. Why ? Because I was drafted into the Vietnam War, effective January 2nd, 1968, arrived Vietnam May 1968, discharged August 1969, and that was the end of my military career. ( 1/505th Infantry 3rd Brigade 82nd Airborne Division )

[@TheSkriby]

Interessting that u could be a Platoonleader as a SSgt or Company as an 1stSgt, in Germany NCO almost never be in carge of a unit, for example a Platoon would be lead by a Lt. and a Company from a Major, NCO normly only second in Comand of a Platoon or in the Staff of a Company, they will be leading a Group within a Platoon. And u start ur duty as Enlisted/NCO or CO ^^ most the time skipping ranks, until the final rank u should started mostly after basictraining, Leadshipcourse or after x years in Studying as an CO. So u go as an CO, u study at least 2-3 Years and "only" become CO of a Platoon of maybe 30-40 Men.

[@philliphampton5183]

I got out as an E5 but my best friend is such a legend, he's been an E5 and an E6 TWICE.

[@stephenwilliams5201]

Ncoes btms army educational for up grades (sort of booster shot) wead out the chaff then found my self before the board to vett my assignment(post) we were reserve and rank position were hard to get .I stayed a e5 for 18 years but I was OK as the company armor getting up grades on new weapons and changes even got put over the NBC room also never went for lack of work tks om good show

[@patricknissley3912]

04:15 I entered the Army as a PFC because I took JROTC in High school just FYI 04:30 I was a Spec4 but because I was track commander for my VTR = Vehicle Track Recovery I held the the Honorary rank of Corporal. which later about a year became an Official promotion just in time for me to ETS. interesting Dailey is still in that position today June 30, 2019

[@dagriffin9594]

Good video. Thx fo the explanation. I learned quite a bit. Thx for your service

[@ryanmaris1917]

You can come in as a PFC now if you pull enough people in, and a SPC if you have a degree, not sure if a 2 year vs 4 year matters. (this was true at least in 2016)

[@josephhudson3513]

I went in last training battalion to recieve od green uniform Ft.Sill gun bunny.Cpl is jr nco given by btry.I had to go to pldc first.buck sgt is e5 cpl and buck sgt were given in combat units. Btry commander would get on a cpl same as he would an e6. And combat units recieved rank faster than non combat units.That was my day