E6 in 3 years? Is there such thing as making rank too soon?

ENS Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 18:40:42 -0400

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2016 6:44 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 18:44:05 -0400

Have you ever heard the phrase "Made 7 in 7" - I've known a few Sergeants First Class with ~7 yrs TIS. I've also met a 19 year old SGT.

It all depends on the SM's competence and maturity alongside the mission(s) they support.

Response by MSG Dan Castaneda made Aug 21 at 2016 7:00 PM

MSG Dan Castaneda — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 19:00:42 -0400

In SF this is easy to do. E-7 in 7 years.

Response by Capt Tom Brown made Aug 21 at 2016 7:02 PM

Capt Tom Brown — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 19:02:32 -0400

Would have to be a real water-walker. Problem would be living up to the expectations and the responsibility placed on an E6. Best leave some time for seasoning.

Response by SGT Connor Haynes made Aug 21 at 2016 7:49 PM

SGT Connor Haynes — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 19:49:44 -0400

In my personal opinion yes. That's way to quick. In three years do you think you have enough experience to lead in that capacity? It's tough for some that have been at that pay grade for 15-20 years. But I guess everyone is different. Just find it hard to believe someone could really make rank that quick in today's military.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2016 7:58 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 19:58:16 -0400

I've moved through the ranks relatively quickly... Made the E8 list with just over 13 years TIS. I joined when I was 25 so I had a little more maturity, and I think that helped somewhat. Obviously it depends on the individual, and certainly there are many who earn their early promotions. There is an inherent problem that I see through our formations currently, however, and that is one of face time with senior leaders. Soldiers depend on mentorship, and someone who has made rank as quickly as possible (myself included) must understand that their view is extremely narrow when it comes to problem solving in the military. You may know the ins and outs of your MOS, and can quote regulation like its cool, but Soldiers require the mentorship of senior leaders... the more people they work for, the wider their knowledge base is going to be for when that one weird problem shows up. I myself have struggled on numerous occasions with the extraordinarily steep learning curve required of constant upward movement through the ranks and the increased responsibility with each position, so early promotion should be looked at as a double-edged sword. The other piece of it is when Soldiers are promoted too early, they reach a point at the E7-E-9 level where they HAVE to keep moving into more and more demanding positions, particularly at E9... if an E9 gets passed over for a nominative job, they risk being tagged for separation under QSP, regardless of the fact that they made SGM in 18 years.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Aug 21 at 2016 8:06 PM

PO1 John Miller — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 20:06:07 -0400

I've seen people make Chief in 6 years, while still stationed at their first command. Fortunately (or unfortunately depending on your point of view), most Chief messes are not going to let a boot Chief fail just because they're so young. First Classes on the other hand... I've seen way too many fellow First Classes stab each other in the back in the hopes that they will make themselves look better to the CPO Selection Board (and unfortunately I've seen that work also).

Response by CSM Michael Sweeney made Aug 21 at 2016 8:07 PM

CSM Michael Sweeney — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 20:07:10 -0400

I made E6 in 4 years and E7 in 9 years. Being honest, I did make rank too fast. Not so much for TIS but for my age. Since I joined right after turning 17 I started my years as a Senior NCO at the ripe old age of 27. I became big headed and let my big mouth get me in trouble. Now it was during the days in the Army where being stupid didn't cost me my career. It took another 9 years to get promoted again and I deserved to have to wait. My years as MSG/1SG then SGM/CSM were better for the humbling experience.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2016 8:38 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 20:38:31 -0400

I made E-5 in 2 years and had no problems at all. I think it is the person who makes the rank and not the rank that makes the person. If that makes any sense.

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made Aug 21 at 2016 8:46 PM

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 20:46:48 -0400

ENS Private RallyPoint Member I believe there is something to be said about making rank too early. I've seen it where it has paid off and I've seen it where it has been a big mistake. I think Commanders/1SG and First Line Supervisors need to treat each individual on a case by case basis. If they are mature and have what it takes for the next rank (expertise, shows initiative, military bearing, carries themselves appropriately for the next higher grade) then move forward with your best judgment. I've even seen this backfire as well. It can go either way sometimes. I've never had a Bolo in my career that I approved for promotion ahead of the curve - not that I know if anyway!!

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2016 9:24 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 21:24:32 -0400

Mosts careers will usually average out at one pay grade or another. Either they have an average amount of TIR between all advancements or the shoot up to a pay grade and sit there a while until the average TIR catches up with them for the next advancement. Of course there are exceptions where you have someone making E-9 very quickly.

I assume you're concerned about picking up 1st Class before you get to you ship?

Response by SGT Philip Roncari made Aug 21 at 2016 9:41 PM

SGT Philip Roncari — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 21:41:05 -0400

I made E-5 at the end of my three year enlistment this I think was due to the Military's manning woes due to the War in Vietnam,granted I still had to attend the NCO academy and pass the sergeants board back in Ft. Polk,but I feel the rank of SGT needed more experience and training in my MOS so yeah I think it was too quick in my case

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2016 10:29 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 22:29:46 -0400

I've heard of E-6 in 4 years at the earliest but 3... Wow.

Response by PO3 John Keas made Aug 21 at 2016 10:33 PM

PO3 John Keas — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 22:33:46 -0400

Responsibility without experience can be a bad thing.

I saw it in what we called "Push Button 3rds" a lot. My Squids know about those ET3s that came out of A-School thinking they are hot shit...trying to throw their weight around when they don't know their ass from a hole in the ground.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Aug 22 at 2016 12:10 AM

CAPT Kevin B. — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 00:10:04 -0400

At least that's longer than the instant E-6s they mint because they can sing.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2016 2:36 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 02:36:18 -0400

When I was with the 426th Civil Affairs Bn SO (A) in Upland, California from 2006-2010, I saw a PFC/E-2 make E-5 in 3 years. He went to Airborne School and within a couple of years took his basic NCO school so he did more than the average soldier and he made E-5 in a Hurry. This is in a high speed USAR unit.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2016 7:33 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 07:33:26 -0400

It all depends on leadership skills. If you make E5 in 3 years great! As long as you take care of your Joe's and can complete your mission. If your willing to be a good follower more than likely you'll make a good leader. If it takes 10 years to make E5 and you treat your Joe's like crap and have to always have an excuse why you cannot complete your tasks than you made rank too soon.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2016 7:38 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 07:38:39 -0400

The only real issue I have seen with rank too fast is people think they know everything...you can be hot sh*t, that's fine. But a leader is always learning and mist be willing to learn. Fighting to stay away from getting comfortable where your at (as far as knowledge )is one of the hardest challenges leaders face.

Response by SGT David T. made Aug 22 at 2016 7:55 AM

SGT David T. — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 07:55:36 -0400

It all depends really on the individual. A great leader is a great leader regardless of experience level. Some folks are great right out of the box. Most of us have to work harder to get there.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2016 8:07 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 08:07:39 -0400

Yes and No. Those who go through a lot and are able to retain the said knowledge and are good at being a shop supervisor/LPO/TPO, etc. Those are the ones that do rank up quickly (I'm one of them). But there are those who are served everything to them on a silver platter (a 1st class just got picked up for chief on their first go, due to a Master Chief). The guy is smart, he's good at what he does but I don't believe that he is ready to take on such a large responsibility as a Chief. He was barely a 1st class and honestly didn't do as much as I've seen other 1st classes do.
Also his attitude is a bit off but whatever I guess.

I think that sometimes those who make rank that don't have a lot of experience being a E4/E5/E6 are going to struggle a lot from a lack of experience of leadership.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2016 8:20 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 08:20:49 -0400

I believe you cannot make E-6 SSG until you hit the 48 months TIS. I made SGT E-5 in 27 months joining as E-4 SPC. I made E-6 SSG right before my 7 year mark in the army. I have heard and witnessed back between 2005-2012 NCO's making E7 SFC in 7, E-8 in 10 and the E-9 SGM in 14-15 I believe...

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Aug 22 at 2016 9:07 AM

SrA Edward Vong — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 09:07:46 -0400

TSgt Nalani Quintello of the Air Force band Max Impact I believe made E6 in 9 months due to her special duty. To me, rank is associated with one's ability to lead, not just how hard they work or their technical skills and qualifications.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2016 9:51 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 09:51:10 -0400

I think it depends on the S.M. if they adapt quickly and efficiently while learning well on the fly then maybe but T.I.S. was set for a reason and although exceptions may exist they are rare and that person needs to be honest with themselves to ensure they can properly lead at that level.

Response by Maj Marty Hogan made Aug 22 at 2016 9:55 AM

Maj Marty Hogan — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 09:55:01 -0400

Awesome question and that is fast. I have served AD, Reserve, and Guard. Our traditional players make rank fast, but don't have the job practical experience to meet the rank sometimes. Maturity is another story. I have served with many that could not cut it- but there are the chosen few that do an excellent job and deserve to wear it. Would have to gauge directly to the individual.

Response by SGM Barry Kindred made Aug 22 at 2016 10:23 AM

SGM Barry Kindred — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 10:23:53 -0400

Welp, I made E-7 in 5 yrs, 10 months.
It has both risk and reward.
I was forever ahead of my peers until retirement.
Youngest SFC promoted in the Army in peacetime at that time.
It was quite a challenge from that day forward.
I had to PROVE my worth at every level to the Older, more experienced.
Alot of shunning.
Performance and setting the standard is challenging to anyone, but a 23 year old SFC PSG?
Well, it was a helluva challenge.
Definitely the exception not the rule..

Response by CW4 Angel C. made Aug 22 at 2016 10:35 AM

CW4 Angel C. — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 10:35:55 -0400

I think so for at least 90% of the cases. Back in the early 90s it took me a little under 6 years to make E5 (too long) in BRAGG, where a lot others were in the same boat. However, once I PCS'd to Germany I ran into several fast trackers making E5 in 2 to 3 years. First impression: this is nuts. They don't know sh*t and don't have the experience. I ran laps around these guys. So after a while I reevaluated them but I still thought the same. I respected them tho and soon enough I went to the E5 board and got promoted. But as E5 I was outdoing those E5'a and other E6's so I got sent to the E6 board and not long after got E6 and E7 back in the states. Some said E7 in 11 years was too fast (in general) but I was mentally ready and was very cool under stress and made good decisions so I did great. I think your maturity (both personal and professional) and experiences gained is what matters most.

Response by PO3 Steven Stinnett made Aug 22 at 2016 11:33 AM

PO3 Steven Stinnett — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 11:33:35 -0400

I believe in W.W.2, if you were certified in your trade and had so many years experience, as a welder, electrician, etc., you were given up to an E-6, right after graduation from Boot Camp.

Response by MSgt John Taylor made Aug 22 at 2016 1:07 PM

MSgt John Taylor — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 13:07:01 -0400

Good lord! The average for E-6 in the Air Force when I made it was 11 yrs. I think that the earliest you could make it was 8.

I think that it depends on what exactly an E-6 in each branch is responsible for. I don't think that you can master your career field and learn how to deal with all sorts of people in 3 years.

Response by Sgt David Hesser made Aug 22 at 2016 3:45 PM

Sgt David Hesser — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 15:45:15 -0400

Yes, I made E-5 SGT in a year and a half at 19 I don't think I was ready, thank god I was surrounded by two E-9,s two warrant officers and a major that was a mustanger , they guided me thru it all.

Response by TSgt Kerry Hardy made Aug 22 at 2016 3:48 PM

TSgt Kerry Hardy — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 15:48:19 -0400

It is hard to supervise a E-1, E-2, E-3, E-4 if you didn't wear the rank long enough for it to set in. In the USAF if you put on E-6 within 9 years you are a fast burner. I had a E-5 that made it in 5 but he was a very poor leader and only wanted to write up all the airman. You need to learn the follow before you can lead. Also had 2 USN SMs in a weather class as E-1s and they wanted to be "Push Button E-4s", school is only 7 months and to go up 3 ranks without severing out side of a school house teaches the kids that rank is candy to be handed out. We all want to be promoted but you need to wait your time and learn from the good and bad leader above you. That will help you become a leader that people will follow....

Response by MSG Mamerto Perez made Aug 23 at 2016 12:57 PM

MSG Mamerto Perez — Tue, 23 Aug 2016 12:57:23 -0400

I came into the Army in September of 63 and made SSG E-6 in 61/2 years and SfC E-7 in 1970

Response by SPC Christopher Morehouse made Aug 24 at 2016 9:46 PM

SPC Christopher Morehouse — Wed, 24 Aug 2016 21:46:31 -0400

Yeah, it's called POTUS.

Response by PO1 Lawrence Dunn made Aug 24 at 2016 10:43 PM

PO1 Lawrence Dunn — Wed, 24 Aug 2016 22:43:09 -0400

I've seen push button E-5s at 2 years, early promote to E-6 under 4 years, and not yet 21 years old, 1st duty station and no deployments; they were great techs but not leaders. When TIS was taken out of the equation in favor of TIR the maturity level of the average LPO dropped from late twenties/early thirties to early twenties, the same age as the average deck seaman with 2 deployments under their belt.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Aug 24 at 2016 10:55 PM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Wed, 24 Aug 2016 22:55:08 -0400

The simple answer to your question is yes and no. It is rare that one who achieves rank quickly is equipped to handle the duties and responsibility of that rank. There are some things that just come only with experience. There is no such thing as making rank too soon to the troops making it but there could be a great deal of growing pains per se that many are not ready for.

Response by SSgt David Tedrow made Aug 25 at 2016 2:23 AM

SSgt David Tedrow — Thu, 25 Aug 2016 02:23:18 -0400

I made Sgt in 2 years and SSgt in 5 years in the Marine Corps. I had no problems.

Response by CPT Tom Monahan made Aug 25 at 2016 2:31 AM

CPT Tom Monahan — Thu, 25 Aug 2016 02:31:29 -0400

Bandsmen. My cousin got recruited out of as a college junior to the AF Honor Band. She went in as an E5. Later she went into the Army Guard and became a WO. She commanded the DC Guard Band. Band member come in "trained" as musicians. I was floored to hear how many reservist are music teachers. Several others come in with Master Degrees in the Arts.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2016 1:52 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 01 Sep 2016 13:52:32 -0400

I don't believe so. People that work hard and have a greater maturity level deserve the increased responsibility and authority, especially if you are already operating in the next ranks capacity while others are riding out there time until EAOS or retirement. I'm only 27 years old and have been an E-6 for over 2 years now. I made E-6 in 6 up for E-7 with a good shot...at least I hope. lol.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 12 at 2016 10:54 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Sep 2016 10:54:43 -0400

I made E6 in five years as an Infantryman, and continue to learn more and more every day. I think it depends on the person and their ability to adapt to the new job. That being said, you will not be super proficient with such little experience.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2016 10:32 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 13 Sep 2016 22:32:34 -0400

A categorical and rotund YES! I know people say "It depends on the person" and things like that. I could apply that to myself - not that I had get promoted that fast, quite the opposite - but when I joined the Army I was a very mature young person. I could have got promoted to E-5, E-6, and I was the responsible Christian guy, church goer, husband, blah, blah, you get the picture. I saw lots of people with the right schools, experience, and even personality become crappy leaders. I figured the "secret ingredient": Time. To be a "seasoned" service member you have to have time. It is the thing that give empathy for the newly married Soldier, or makes you give a 2nd chance to that screw up private or even NCO. According to the Nieves Psychological Research Institute - read "my personal opinion" - when we are young we have less tolerance than when we are older. We also rely more on thinking processes combined with experience and seasoned with instinct than by-the-book reflexes or "this is how I get things done" primal instincts, for those who act on impulse or feelings.
It took me 11 years to make E-5, six more to make E-6, but the moment I became an NCO, Soldiers were instantly attracted to me as they saw me, I believe, as some sort of "elder" or father figure.
In short, "seasoning" or "aging" process is vital to the [good] quality of any leader, in my opinion.

Response by PO1 Danny Lewis made Sep 16 at 2016 6:54 PM

PO1 Danny Lewis — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 18:54:08 -0400

I think it depends on the person and rating. In the HM rate there is a specialty where you are an PO3 when you graduate boot camp and HM2 after Corps school, but they are morticians though.

Response by SSG Jason Greene made Sep 19 at 2016 9:15 AM

SSG Jason Greene — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 09:15:47 -0400

When we were heavy at war from 2003-2010 way too many people made rank too quick. 7 in 7 and all that other mess. They're in charge of people and they don't know what to do. No experience whatsoever. They cant mentor anyone, because they don't know much.

Response by PO2 Mark Turnquist made Sep 21 at 2016 12:35 AM

PO2 Mark Turnquist — Wed, 21 Sep 2016 00:35:50 -0400

No, there is a longer term to serve for early advancement. Tricked for 6 months.

Response by PO1 Donald Walton made Sep 21 at 2016 8:15 PM

PO1 Donald Walton — Wed, 21 Sep 2016 20:15:47 -0400

Absolutely. Rank comes with privileges, because it also comes with responsibility. If you do not spend time learning what your current rank is and why it functions that way, you can't really lead those in that position. Also you should spend time as a junior to learn what not to do as a leader. If you suddenly find yourself above people who have more experience than you, you can make a lot of mistakes that can cause some serious consequences. There is also a maturity level that should be achieved prior to making rank. Unfortunately, this has gone to the wayside, instead we look at records and tests, to get a look, and we never really get a solid look at a person. I would suggest that rank increase be pushed down to regions or commands, instead of some room thousands of miles away.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made Sep 22 at 2016 3:25 PM

Cpl Justin Goolsby — Thu, 22 Sep 2016 15:25:09 -0400

Yes. With rank comes expectations of that rank. How can you expect a senior enlisted to provide good leadership when they barely had time to cut their teeth in a leadership position as a junior enlisted. Being able to shoot well, run fast, do a bunch of crunches and pullups is what makes you a good enlisted. But that can't be the only reason to promote. E-6 in 3 years... if he was 18 when he joined, he'd be in the upper ranks before he's even gotten into trouble for alcohol. Imagine giving the junior ranks a lecture on drinking responsibly and then goes out and gets in trouble for drinking on his 21st.

Response by PFC Steve Sparks made Mar 26 at 2017 9:41 AM

PFC Steve Sparks — Sun, 26 Mar 2017 09:41:32 -0400

Yes

Response by MSgt Roger Settlemyer made Mar 26 at 2017 4:33 PM

MSgt Roger Settlemyer — Sun, 26 Mar 2017 16:33:29 -0400

Yes This can be a problem,In my experience as you make each rank it comes with certain responsibilities and knowledge of who came before you. When I made E-4 Cpl in the Marines it was a big step.That was almost three years in. To rate the "Blood Stripe" on my Dress Blues, The Red Stripe on our Blue Trousers was a moment of Pride. E-5,E-6,E-7,and E-8 were easy compared to making Cpl. ..........You have to earn the respect of your peers.I made E-8 in just under 20 Years and had to extend in order to accept the Rank.

Response by PO1 David Jordon made May 11 at 2018 9:34 PM

PO1 David Jordon — Fri, 11 May 2018 21:34:47 -0400

i can tell you this, i made e-3 in boot camp. and received my promotion to e-4 a year later. and my promotion to e-5 in my third year of my first tour. and i made it to e-6 my final year of active duty, but had to take an admin bust to go to reserves. i was hoping to get it back soon. but,because the rates in aviation was to overmanned they were108% manned and nobody was getting out,i never got it back. i had enough PNA points to make admiral. but aviation was just not advancing anybody. i finally transferred to inactive reserve and walked away. my discharge was given to me in march of '92.and i never looked back.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made May 12 at 2018 12:37 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Sat, 12 May 2018 12:37:45 -0400

Even coming in as an E3, what happened to TIS/TIG requirements- you can waiver one but not both. Is the SM prior service?

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2018 5:06 PM

LTJG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 12 May 2018 17:06:18 -0400

In the nuclear community at least, you pick up E4 automatically after 6 months for finishing 'A' School. Then about 6 months to a year later, you can pick up E5 for star reenlisting. Then if you get picked up for staff instructor immediately after, you can make E6. It may not be exactly 3 years but it is pretty close. But in my opinion that should be done away with for one reason: They are now in a position to lead and have had little to no fleet experience or leading experience.

Response by PO3 David Davis made May 28 at 2018 11:30 AM

PO3 David Davis — Mon, 28 May 2018 11:30:36 -0400

If you are good at your rate. Especially in the Navy that may be appropriate.

Response by SSG Charles Holleran made May 30 at 2018 1:47 AM

SSG Charles Holleran — Wed, 30 May 2018 01:47:00 -0400

I think that the other side of this is that some can make rank in time with their age and maturity and sill have issues

Response by TSgt Jack Manigold made Oct 21 at 2018 5:08 PM

TSgt Jack Manigold — Sun, 21 Oct 2018 17:08:10 -0400

There are many cases where people have made rank way too soon. The system pushes people to get promoted as fast as possible. It is engrained in the troop's brains that they must promote fast or else. As a result, you have too many people walking around who have no experience with big heads causing more damage than doing good. A person should be promoted when they are experienced enough and can demonstrate being an expert on what they are currently doing while also demonstrating that they are ready to take on more responsibility.

Response by SFC Jimmy Williams made Dec 10 at 2018 9:41 PM

SFC Jimmy Williams — Mon, 10 Dec 2018 21:41:12 -0500

Promotions tend to follow the needs of the service. They promote when they need to fill ranks. The problems occur when soldiers are recomended and sent to boards because of favoritism, or "because it is time". In the 70's, the quota system was brought to the army. Affirmative action created problems for years. I spent years as an e-5 because the MP corps was downsizing in the late 70's and early 80's. As an E5 I pulled road duty and desk sergeant. I was a squad leader in a tactical MP company. I did MP operations and instructed at the MP school. When I finally pinned on E6, I was more than prepared. I jetted to E7 in the secondary zone. I made the E8 list, but never pinned it on because promotions went away with the Cold War. But having said this, I saw guys make it much faster Than I did and they did great. I guess it depends on the individual.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2018 12:52 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 12:52:34 -0500

My opinion is biased but I don't think so. If you have a freshman that can do what a senior does, you start them over the senior. I dont know why that's a bad thing. It's only bad when people try to tame you like a wild animal.

Response by HA Richard Pichette made Dec 11 at 2018 1:29 PM

HA Richard Pichette — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 13:29:30 -0500

I knew a E-7 that was promoted by re enlisting after 4 years. I was a dumb E-3 and knew it.

Response by CW5 Roger Jacobs made Dec 11 at 2018 2:23 PM

CW5 Roger Jacobs — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 14:23:58 -0500

I enlisted when I was 21 and made E-7 in seven years. As a buck sergeant I did let my mouth outrun my brain and learned some painful lessons. When I became a Warrant Officer promotions came on time and making CW5 was on my second look. Having promotions on time gave me the years to gain experience for the next step. I retired with 11 years TIG as a CW5 and was thankful to all the folks that saw the potential, but also helped me gain experience and knowledge to do the job.

Response by SFC Luis Colon made Dec 11 at 2018 2:37 PM

SFC Luis Colon — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 14:37:32 -0500

I made E-6 in 5 years, counting reserve time closed 6 1/2, made E-7 six years later, I’m glad the Army let me wait because I was very immature and that time. Sometimes it takes a significant emotional event to wake up and get your career straight

Response by CPT Jeff Robinette made Dec 11 at 2018 3:05 PM

CPT Jeff Robinette — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 15:05:03 -0500

That was the problem with the " Shake and Bake" program of the Vietnam War Era. Too much rank too fast and not enough time to season as a leader.

Response by SPC Greg Campbell made Dec 11 at 2018 3:28 PM

SPC Greg Campbell — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 15:28:05 -0500

we were NCO short, they made tanker SP4s AJs to fill the CQ roster. some needed to be wacked upside the air filled noggin. If that doesnt happen then more power to you brother

Response by SGT Patrick Adamek made Dec 11 at 2018 3:35 PM

SGT Patrick Adamek — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 15:35:33 -0500

I was in the 1980s. I made E-5 in 2 years. I was put in for E-6 at 3 years. I was told I needed 5 years tis to make E-6. I thought that made sense.

Response by SGT Adam Krueger made Dec 11 at 2018 3:45 PM

SGT Adam Krueger — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 15:45:11 -0500

I made E-5 in 26 months and was selected to board E-6 at 4 years but didn’t have enough time left on my enlistment to qualify being sent to the board. I felt a little inadequate as a very young E-5 but fortunately had a phenomenal squad leader and platoon sergeant who took me under their wing and cultivated me into an effective leader very quickly.

Response by PO2 Rev. Frederick C. Mullis, AFI, CFM made Dec 11 at 2018 4:22 PM

PO2 Rev. Frederick C. Mullis, AFI, CFM — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 16:22:04 -0500

Talk to the Musicians, Some of them come into the NAVY as MU2 and MU1. It is a very select Rating.. It is rare to find then aboard ship anymore.

Response by SFC William Huse made Dec 11 at 2018 5:00 PM

SFC William Huse — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 17:00:01 -0500

E5 in 2, E6 in 6, E7 in 10, and would easily have made 8 and 9, but there was a fatass, no PT doing asshole that the uppers would not get rid of which would have opened the only slot for 8 that there was. Didn't want to make waves so they let the pos slide.

Response by SP5 Blair Miller made Dec 11 at 2018 6:07 PM

SP5 Blair Miller — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 18:07:46 -0500

Let me preface this by saying I went to (or was sentenced to by my parents for being in problem child) to a military school in Kansas for 2 years.
With that said I had a blast in basic. I ended up as 'trainer leader of the battalion' and promoted to E2 and got to stand on the viewing stand for the pass and review at graduation. First promotion 7 weeks in.
Then I had to pass COBET (common basic electronics training) before I would be allowed to advance to my AIT. 4 week course and I was honor student. Promoted again to E3. So 2 promotions in less than 3 months. Did well in 26L AIT and got to permanent party and proceeded to show everyone that I really shouldn't have been promoted so quickly. (I didn't realize permanent party was a posting description and not an off duty (or on) activity)!
So, yes, I'd say you can be promoted to early. Although I may have deserved some sort of recognition for exemplary performance perhaps stripes weren't the best choice.

Response by SGT Brianna MacKinnon made Dec 11 at 2018 6:11 PM

SGT Brianna MacKinnon — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 18:11:37 -0500

I think that for most people making E-6 in only 3 years is too fast especially someone who joined right out of High School. Yes, in 3 years they might have the technical knowledge to be an E-6 but they tend to not have the wisdom or experience to temper that knowledge and how best to utilize it. I am not even sure I would have made a good E-6 with only 3 years TIS and I joined when I was 20.

However, someone who joins in their mid to late 20's or even older depending on their background I can see doing well as an E-6 with only 3 years TIS. They probably have the wisdom and life experience to temper their decisions that they would be making as an E-6.

Response by LTJG Timothy Griffing made Dec 11 at 2018 6:46 PM

LTJG Timothy Griffing — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 18:46:49 -0500

Enlisted in the CG in 1974. Came out of Class A school as a E4, six months later E5, and made E6 a year later with 3 years of active service. Made E7 while aboard the uSCGC Reliance with 5 1/2 years. E8 was at 11 1/2 years. Was I smart or outstanding? No, it was mostly timing. I was in Electronics and most technicians enlisted in the CG instead of being drafted into another service during Vietnam. They were all getting out after completing their 4 year commitment. The Chief mess was very supported and basically told me, you learn more by doing and messing up than watching someone else doing and messing up.

Response by CPT Don Kemp made Dec 11 at 2018 6:53 PM

CPT Don Kemp — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 18:53:55 -0500

Perhaps, understanding the context is the most important thing. Carwood Lipton enlisted as a Private in 1942, rose to become 1SG, and then a battlefield commission to LT before he got out in 1945. James Gavin was promoted to BG at 36.
I was promoted to E-6 in four years and that was a combination of lucky breaks and being in the right place at the right time.

Response by CPT Don Kemp made Dec 11 at 2018 7:09 PM

CPT Don Kemp — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 19:09:58 -0500

This guy was promoted to Captain at 21 after enlisting at 17 and then going through OCS. Fascinating story. Worth a watch. https://youtu.be/Oz9oHHV8pTM

'Abandoned in Hell': How a Vietnam captain led an escape from Firebase Kate

Captain William Albracht tells his story of escaping from a massive North Vietnamese attack on Firebase Kate during the Vietnam War.

Response by SGT Marc Gatliff made Dec 11 at 2018 7:32 PM

SGT Marc Gatliff — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 19:32:27 -0500

wtf I was infantry and didn't make rank till i was in 5, nco rank is leadership,combat,barracks,and whatever else. an insult to all NCOs

Response by SSG Brian Edwards made Dec 11 at 2018 7:34 PM

SSG Brian Edwards — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 19:34:21 -0500

I can't see the difference in a 1st LT and saying a SSG get rank to fast. A LT can be in charge of a plt. with less than three years of time, but a enlisted person might have problems. I'm Glade I'm out. That was one of the things I could never understand. How someone who got a commission because they went to college is assumed a better leader than say a man who went to college and didn't get a commission.

Response by SGM Charles Twardzicki made Dec 11 at 2018 10:09 PM

SGM Charles Twardzicki — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 22:09:46 -0500

Shake and Bake in the 60s turned out E5s in under a year. Top graduate made E6. We were needed due to the McNamara 100,000 impact on what was moving through the system. Most Cat 1 draftees didn't reenlist. The members of McNamara 's that weren't court martialed, had a propencedy to stay. I had one couldn't read the side of a beer can. BUT, he could run a mine sweep team!

Response by SSG Brian Yaudas made Dec 11 at 2018 10:19 PM

SSG Brian Yaudas — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 22:19:39 -0500

A lot depends on level of maturity regardless of age or time in rank. A soldier whom has taken a few hard knocks in the civilian world will normally have a much clearer understanding of the who, what, where, when and whys of daily military life than a straight out of high school 17-18 yo. That is why most drill sergeants will try the older basic trainees as acting squad/team leaders first. Achievers, team players/leaders, Alpha male personalities and persueing of continued education even while active duty also help in the promotion of deserving warriors. It all comes down to case by case scenarios.

Response by 1SG Rob Smith made Dec 11 at 2018 10:58 PM

1SG Rob Smith — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 22:58:32 -0500

Here is my take on it
Soliders need "stick time"! Mentor the younger Soldiers. Based on your personal experiences is the determining factor. And Im talking about all the way down to slick sleeve private. If they are hungry they will do what it takes to make rank. Now here is my take on being promoted to the NCO CORP. I 1ST 1SG used this formula. Sgt so and so. If it didnt sound right you werent going to the board. PERIOD! He only sent the cream of the crop. Thats how I did it. It didnt make popular but it showed my Soldiers that I ran my company my way. I got the best quality soldiers that wanted to be promoted for the right reasons. Promote then train. Oh hell no. It did go on but not in my company. Id personally pick who went to the board after I grilled them to death. Thats why I had the best NCO'S. There is no textbook for when to promote. Just use your gut feeling. As far as fast tracking up the ranks, it is more harm than good. Ive seen CSM'S go to lower enlisted for advice. Not cool. Plus if you move up too fast you will get passed over. Example a young NCO FAST TRACKING ALL THE WAY TO CSM. All in the same battalion. Never leaving the unit for more experience. Plus getting promoted with the minimum requirements. Now fast forward to the BN CSM'S TENURE. with no experience, no sizeable amount of time of troop leading, no staff time
2 options
1. Possible to move into a BDE CSM position, but not likely
2 Forced retirement
I choose number 2. Because fast tracking is nothing more than being about yourself. You are benefiting anyone else. Plus u have hindered your carreer of advancing any further. Just look over countless bios of BDE, DIVISION, AND POST CSM'S. THEY STAYED IN THE DIRT LONG ENOUGH TO GET A REALLY GOOD BITE. NOT JUST A NIBBLE AND MOVE ON...

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 12 at 2018 1:23 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 12 Dec 2018 01:23:25 -0500

BS. Talent over everything. You either have it or you don’t, mediocre individuals will rail against you till you shut up and leave.

Response by 1SG Melvin Vanlandingham made Dec 12 at 2018 8:12 AM

1SG Melvin Vanlandingham — Wed, 12 Dec 2018 08:12:59 -0500

I made E-6 in 2 years &4 months, E-7 in 8 years and E-8 in 13 years.

Response by SFC Francisco Rosario made Dec 12 at 2018 2:46 PM

SFC Francisco Rosario — Wed, 12 Dec 2018 14:46:48 -0500

One of the big problems that the US Army has seen in recent years is that of NCOs who are too young in their careers. During the Iraq/Afghan wars on Terror, we promoted many individuals too soon out of need.That need was to keep as many people in the ranks as possible. In some cases deployments played a factor in getting promoted. This was good for the individual, but not for the force as a whole. Once in the garrison environment, seneior leaders found that those who were promoted on the fast track, still lacked some of the qualities needed to be a well rounded leader.

The current SGM of the Army has been working on fixing this trend and ensuring that we have better leaders all around. That is not to say that all of those individual were not deserving. A good number of them had the maturity to be very good leaders at any level. There is a reason why Special Forces promote faster. In that type of unit maturity is a requirement, not a luxury. "To whom much is given, much is expected".

Response by COL Thomas Cagley made Dec 15 at 2018 9:59 AM

COL Thomas Cagley — Sat, 15 Dec 2018 09:59:07 -0500

That is a difficult call. Some individuals are able to handle quick climbs up the ladder, others peak out and are not productive. I was one of those (in my enlisted days) that automatically was promoted to E4 on completion of my first year because of the school I was in. Then transferred to a remote assignment where E5 was automatic after 8 months. In the old days, they had what was called "Blood Stripes." (Maybe still do). A colonel or higher commander would keep enlisted ranks E6 and below in the command. If a staff sergeant was reduced in rank, the command would hold a board and select a qualified E5 to receive stripe. I was fortunate in that I was selected and made E6 in less than 3 years. Then the Army changed the rules and you had to have a certain number of TIS to be promoted. I languished at E6 for several years, while individuals promoted to E6 after me were promoted to E7. Solved the problem by getting my commission. Guess the bottom line is, I don't like cookie cutter promotions (so many years in service, promotions come) but sometimes rank can come too fast. A lot of it depends on the maturity of the individual

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Dec 23 at 2018 3:42 AM

SSgt Daniel d'Errico — Sun, 23 Dec 2018 03:42:52 -0500

I have too many fast burners in my days in USAF. Some were well earned and more were cases of couldn't do the job so get promoted as fast as one can and be the supervisor/NCOIC.

Response by Sgt Phil Quintana made Dec 30 at 2018 4:46 PM

Sgt Phil Quintana — Sun, 30 Dec 2018 16:46:22 -0500

Yes, getting promoted too soon can be a problem. I saw it happen when I was with Charlie Co, 3rd Amtrac Bn. There was a guy who made E-6 in five years. Unfortunately his leadership style was "lead by rank" not "lead by example". By year six he was no longer a Plt Sgt, he was the supply Sgt. I was promoted quickly but brought along slowly. I was a contract PFC, picked up L/Cpl TIG, six months later I was a Cpl, a year later I was a Sgt. In my case they started out giving me small details and gradually gave me more and more responsibility. Eventually I'd take out a section, five tractors, to support the grunts or work with reservists. If my wife had let me stay in I would have been a Staff in six years.

Response by LTC Gary Roberts made Jan 1 at 2019 9:56 PM

LTC Gary Roberts — Tue, 01 Jan 2019 21:56:58 -0500

Let’s go back to 1969 1970, when the army was so desperate for NCO’s that they relied heavily on the NCO academies. Graduates of these academies with less than six months in the army would be promoted to E-5 (Sergeant) and in some cases, especially those who did well with multiple choice tests, would be promoted to E-6 (SSG). Most of the maneuver battalions Vietnam were filled with these "shake and bake‘s." The Army’s career NCO’s were basically burned out, profiled heavily, or adept at finding staff positions at HQ in order to avoid the jungle. Experienced NCO’s were extremely rare in the field. As an Infantry 1LT with 12 months in the Army, 23 years old, and 4 years in ROTC, I had been in the Army longer and was older than any of the 40 soldiers in my platoon! THERE WERE SIMPLY NO WISE OLD NCO’s around to “nurture” me. That being said, most of these NCOIC graduates were smart, educated, college graduates or some college (remember the draft?). Did they learn fast? Hell yes...folks were trying to kill them—that’s motivation! Many of them were excellent NCO’s especially my friend SSG William Hugh, from Lowell, MA, my Platoon Sergeant who took a round through his helmet standing 2 feet away from me on February 28, 1970 just north of Vung Tau — KIA as a SSG with only 10 months in the Army. Smart and motivated, with time in grade and length of service is a great combo (respect to all career NCOs) but the first two items trump the latter.

Response by SGT Walter Lester made Jan 2 at 2019 11:04 AM

SGT Walter Lester — Wed, 02 Jan 2019 11:04:16 -0500

I made E-4 in 16 weeks and made E-5 in 34 weeks.I don't think it was too fast if you have good training and use that knowledge right and don't let it go to your head. Just look at some of the officers who go through OCS.

Response by MCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 5 at 2019 9:55 PM

MCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 05 Jan 2019 21:55:33 -0500

PO1 Martin, Every rate (MOS) has different demands. Some have major personnel shortages at every level. Humble or not, if you’ve mastered your craft, as you should, and have the maturity, discipline, and leadership for the next level then you should continue to challenge yourself with more responsibilities. I always tried to operate at one level above my pay grade. This becomes a “no brainer” for command recommendation for advancements because it’s apparently visible to all that you’re ready for more. With that said, the Coast Guard has regulations for minimum years in service for both CPO (E7) and CWO. I don’t know the Navy regs but I’ll bet they’re similar. There’s a great deal of difference at the senior enlisted level; greater expectations, military bearing, service dedication, and no room for mistakes. Remember: Leadership is not a popularity contest. There will always be those that are envious of your success (a.k.a. “Haters”). Most will come around eventually to support you if you’re a good leader. Some never will. BTW, I went from E7 to E9 in 7 years. If I hadn’t I would’ve been subjected to High Year Tenure (HYT). It’s better to stay ahead of reduction in forces policies than to be caught up in it. Keep up the good work. I wish you all the best: Fair Winds and Following Seas!

Response by SSG Lee Kujawa made Jan 6 at 2019 4:59 PM

SSG Lee Kujawa — Sun, 06 Jan 2019 16:59:01 -0500

I earned my SSG E6 in 3 1/2 yrs because those in command thought I could handle it, and they were right.

Response by CPL Sheila Lewis made Jan 18 at 2019 9:48 AM

CPL Sheila Lewis — Fri, 18 Jan 2019 09:48:25 -0500

must be nice.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2019 11:10 PM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 04 Feb 2019 23:10:21 -0500

There is in that at starting at e6 your responsibilities include more than troop to task and training , there is a level of management and pers. admin , care of troops that is beyond food water and rest in the modern army . It doesn’t have to with age but maturity level, I was the victim of nco who progressed too fast and as a result had many easily avoidable paperwork snafu : not knocking making rank fast but starting at e6 you either have to know or taken on the responsibility of learning how the arm works and what the army wants : the basic foundation is a live healthy soldier who knows thier job while we would all love to be rangers with a 400 pt score the army as a whole just needs to make sure everyone is passing at standard , as far as the personnel side it’s easy to master as long as you legit care about your charge and that’s where maturity plays a role . Has nothing to do with how quickly you make rank or age but depending on yournunit thier are many who won’t let you end run as a soldier tonfiz a problem and the biggest problem I had was counseling I never had an accurate or complete leader book or counseling gnpackets even when I did them for myself they were lost or mishandled school requests got sat on no matter how many times submitted etc and too often if you lack maturity you let personal feelings interfere for example I have seen soldiers not e allowed airborne because some one didn’t like them even though they pre qualified better then those that went and failed

Response by SMSgt Peter Armstrong made Feb 7 at 2019 6:26 AM

SMSgt Peter Armstrong — Thu, 07 Feb 2019 06:26:21 -0500

I enlisted at 17, 2 months after graduation for my first enlistment of 6 years. The Air Force gave me 2 stripes (A1C). That was back in 1981, I don’t know if they still do that. I went below the zone,(before a board of NCO’s) and tested and passed the first time and that gave me E-4 (Senior Airmen).And one year later I became a Sgt. E-4 NCO. Then E-5 before my first enlistment ended. I retired as an E-8 at 39 years old.

Response by SPC David Roberts made Feb 8 at 2019 4:21 PM

SPC David Roberts — Fri, 08 Feb 2019 16:21:22 -0500

With just a year in service, soon after turning 19, I made it to E4 by being honor grad in my classes. It was probably too soon. I didn't have the maturity to back up my rank and lacked any real leadership skills, a fact that became obvious anytime I was tasked with leading a detail of E3s and below. The extra pay and two-man room in the barracks was nice though.

Response by PO1 Roger Clites made Feb 10 at 2019 12:03 AM

PO1 Roger Clites — Sun, 10 Feb 2019 00:03:15 -0500

We had a female Boatswain mate on my last ship, brand new in the Navy and started off as an E-1. In 4 years, and 3 Command Advancement Program promotions, she left to go to be a bootcamp Company Commander where she promptly made Chief. She left the Navy as a Chief with 7 years in.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Feb 11 at 2019 9:19 PM

SSgt Boyd Herrst — Mon, 11 Feb 2019 21:19:20 -0500

Armed Forces Personnel join and sign up to be in the Band and make Rank fast. The AF has restructured how band members move up. There is now a weighted Airman’s promotion tests for Airmen. The AF just announced it is eliminating WAPS testing for E-7 theough E-9 and using a promotion board... A whole different ball game..

Response by Jerry Rivas made Feb 12 at 2019 5:18 AM

Jerry Rivas — Tue, 12 Feb 2019 05:18:08 -0500

Honestly????? At the ripe old age of 17 the Army NG wanted me to go to OCS. At the time I turned it down. I had just enough maturity to know I was too immature to be an 0-1

Response by SFC Rory Kempf made Feb 20 at 2019 8:27 AM

SFC Rory Kempf — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 08:27:10 -0500

Made mine in a bit over 5, so I was 23 and a lot under me were 30 or older in DS. I got little respect and tons of backlash that I didn't earn it.

Response by SPC Steve Willis, PhD made Feb 25 at 2019 5:56 PM

SPC Steve Willis, PhD — Mon, 25 Feb 2019 17:56:47 -0500

I cannot address the intra-service political aspects because I barely got to E-4, but I can advise you based on my 65 years of learning from my own civilian leadership mistakes and those of others I have observed.

Genuine humility NEVER goes out of style and is ALWAYS respected by anyone worth their leadership salt. It is even more respected by those you are assigned to lead. And yes, it IS indeed possible to exercise effective command authority with humility. George Washington and Abraham Lincoln are stellar examples. Omar Bradley and Dwight Eisenhower are a couple from more recent times.

From that same era, Douglas MacArthur, on the other hand, was a military genius yet possessed an ego so large it's a wonder he could wear his hat. It eventually cost him his command.

Bobby Lee lost Gettysburg because he started believing his own press releases and threw sound military strategy to the wind. That mistake cost him the battle and ultimately the war.

And we all know how Saddam Hussein screwed-up by the numbers and where he ended up.

Once you start believing your own press releases, you have started the countdown on your next major screw-up. Depending upon your MOS and duty station, such hubris could end up costing lives, as it definitely did with Lee.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Mar 31 at 2019 12:50 PM

SSG Shawn Mcfadden — Sun, 31 Mar 2019 12:50:32 -0400

I met a Staff Sergeant when I was stationed in Germany. I forgot when she was promoted, but I first met her in 1988. She went to ANOC, the same time I went to BNCOC, which was January-March 2000. There are different ways to look at that, but in SSG Taylor's case, no.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2019 12:17 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 08 Apr 2019 12:17:05 -0400

I think it depends on the circumstances and the individual in question. Fast-tracked promotions can be a good thing for individuals who are quick learners and are dedicated to being top-tier leaders. On the other hand, giving NCO stripes to individuals who still think and act like junior-enlisted will inevitably have disastrous results on the unit's morale and readiness.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 22 at 2019 12:22 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 Apr 2019 12:22:53 -0400

The short answer is yes, there is such a thing as making rank to soon (fast)! Speed is no substitute for experience, in fact the old adage speed kills is no truer than when it comes to making rank faster than amassing the experience to go with that rank. I have seen many Army NCOs make E-6 without really ever "leading" or taking care of soldiers. When the time comes and they are pushed into it they are completely out of their depth and it requires higher level support.

Response by LT Alan Gottesman made Apr 24 at 2019 11:27 AM

LT Alan Gottesman — Wed, 24 Apr 2019 11:27:20 -0400

There's no obvious answer to this question; some folks will be mature enough to handle the higher rank at an early age, some folks may never grow up enough to do so. This, btw, is just as true for officers as EMs. It's really up to the chain of command to assess a person's readiness for the next step up.

Response by MCPOCG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2019 11:12 PM

MCPOCG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 Apr 2019 23:12:05 -0400

Sorry! Minimum time to make E-5 is 18 months unless you went to the NCO academy. 3 years for E-6 and 9 for E-7. According to 22-5.

Response by Sgt ColdWar MarineVet made Apr 25 at 2019 7:59 AM

Sgt ColdWar MarineVet — Thu, 25 Apr 2019 07:59:32 -0400

I made E-5 in just under 3 years in the Vietnam Era. But in all honesty it was to entice me to re-up. It has been my position that officers are too young to command. I think it should be a requirement to serve in the Regulars for a minimum of 2 years before being allowed to be commissioned either through the Academy, ROTC, or OCS. This way, they have a taste of military life...have some discipline and maturity and possibly experienced something about leadership and what makes a good leader. These kids right out of high school, then enter the acadamies or ROTC really don't have a concept of the military. Look at what the acadamies have become...high drop out rates, and the swelled head of being a ring knocker.

Response by CSM Dan Swanson made Apr 25 at 2019 9:53 AM

CSM Dan Swanson — Thu, 25 Apr 2019 09:53:45 -0400

Depends on the individual and has to be evaluated on a case by case basis. I made E-6 in three years and two months and continued to advance throughout the remainder of my career for the next 25 years.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cichelli made Apr 26 at 2019 8:12 AM

CPT Lawrence Cichelli — Fri, 26 Apr 2019 08:12:26 -0400

Yes and no. I've someone make to E-7 in 8 years and E-8 in 13 years. He was one of the very few that handled the quick promotions well. Most however did not. I've seen E-7s & E-8s with less than 12 years of service that couldn't even read a map! I got more out of E-4s than these two NCOs. It depends on the individuals.

Response by SPC James Cooke made Apr 26 at 2019 6:27 PM

SPC James Cooke — Fri, 26 Apr 2019 18:27:27 -0400

I felt like I was going through ranks quite fast. Joined the Army as an E-2 in May 2015. Promotion waiver to E-3 in January 2016. Promotion waiver to E-4 in December 2016. Alls quite in 2017. Promotion boards in February to early March 2018 (didn't pass). BLC mid-March to late April 2018 (graduated). More promotion boards after BLC. Still didn't pass. Could have made E-5 three years since I joined. Ended up getting out in October 2018. If the promotion board was MOS-specific, I likely would have been better prepared and more likely to stay in. Probably the same for most everyone else.

Response by SFC Dennis Yancy made Apr 26 at 2019 9:31 PM

SFC Dennis Yancy — Fri, 26 Apr 2019 21:31:54 -0400

Did he meet TIS requirements?

Response by CPO David Marlowe made Apr 27 at 2019 10:01 AM

CPO David Marlowe — Sat, 27 Apr 2019 10:01:47 -0400

I was selected E6 in four years and pinned it on in five. If you excel

Response by Sgt Barry D. made Apr 27 at 2019 12:44 PM

Sgt Barry D. — Sat, 27 Apr 2019 12:44:17 -0400

wow that is fast. I was a grunt crew chief with 2 stripes letting a two star general know the plane could not fly that day or if it could. I went max limiits for E4 before being disabled line of duty in my 6th year. NCO books in hand. An oddity was, I started in air force before a big command change on refueling jets. I left off at thorough 5 level and written as SGT in my education record. Ended up with two AFSC for the same job. Everyone knew me as a Senior airman. My sister flew to E8 in her 30s... still enlisted today. That contrast just adds another strange line on my face. that big void called experience can only reveal a clown when push comes to shove.

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Apr 27 at 2019 10:14 PM

SSgt Daniel d'Errico — Sat, 27 Apr 2019 22:14:32 -0400

E6 in 3 years, well in the air force that's what we use to call abook burner. Some one who studied all the time, had no problem taking tests and kept an emakqulate (spellin?)uniform. Usually the book burner who be technically proficent but usually poor at hands on practcality. But from what grade did you make E6? TIS is a very important factor in promotions. Usually 3 years TIS is required. That plus awards and decorations. So making E6 even in the ARMY, is quite an achivement for any one, even a boo,k burner.

Response by SFC Javier CruzColon made Apr 27 at 2019 10:27 PM

SFC Javier CruzColon — Sat, 27 Apr 2019 22:27:54 -0400

In my personal opinion YES... because the maturity of the services member is not the same. There are some growing up that need to happen and acquired some knowledge, experience and expertise too that will comes up with time in service and rank too. But now if yiu stay too long in the same grade you could come up for separation from the service because you are not getting promoted too. What was good yesterday doesn't apply today...

Response by CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana made Apr 28 at 2019 12:45 PM

CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana — Sun, 28 Apr 2019 12:45:21 -0400

No; there is absolutely no such thing as making rank too fast. TIS and TIG are two separate guidelines by which one can measure due promotions in service; more than guideline time means performance hasn't been appreciated and less time than guideline suggests performance has been above expectations. Once civilian and military schooling has been earned; next-level military training and testing has been successfully challenged and; performance has been above average and appreciated with awards and certificates, early promotions, although rare, can be granted by Special Promotion Boards.

Response by SFC Robert Walton made Apr 28 at 2019 5:51 PM

SFC Robert Walton — Sun, 28 Apr 2019 17:51:37 -0400

I will say this and catch some flak but here it goes anyways. You can make rank very very fast if you are well liked by your COC if not you will find yourself on the tail end but additionally your MOS makes a big difference in the Army. (not sure about the rest of the services) I Know that I seen several soldiers that came in after me and were promoted MUCH faster then me but their MOS was needing Leadership. Some of these NCO'S admitted having ART. 15's. Not to say I was the best but I managed to never get an ART.15 and still retired as a SFC With 2 times sitting as a 1SG. for a short time. JMT

Response by PVT Mark Zehner made Apr 28 at 2019 6:18 PM

PVT Mark Zehner — Sun, 28 Apr 2019 18:18:38 -0400

I watched a guy get promoted several times and in the process didn't have a chance to gain the proper knowledge. I think for some it's ok but most.id say slowly

Response by CPT Lawrence Cichelli made Apr 29 at 2019 3:27 PM

CPT Lawrence Cichelli — Mon, 29 Apr 2019 15:27:09 -0400

Another point to bring up. E-6 in 3years happens often in Military bands. In fact the quickest promotion to E-6 possible, Being selected for the Military premier bands, such as Pershing's Own. promotion to E-6 happens upon completion of Basic Training. From there, they ship to Washington D.C. to join their unit. This is not an easy thing, you have to audition and be a symphony caliber to be selected. This doesn't happen very often.

Response by CW3 Susan Burkholder made Apr 30 at 2019 11:32 AM

CW3 Susan Burkholder — Tue, 30 Apr 2019 11:32:51 -0400

Yes of course. You can’t substitute wisdom gained from experience no matter how smart or confident or competent the soldier appears to be. Those who join at an older age who are more mature both emotionally and intellectually can handle quick promotions better though.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made May 2 at 2019 9:18 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 02 May 2019 21:18:38 -0400

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot

Response by CPT Earl George made May 5 at 2019 8:31 AM

CPT Earl George — Sun, 05 May 2019 08:31:32 -0400

AT one time during Vietnam, in the Army, it was 1 year as as as a 2LT, 1 year as a 1LT, 3 years as a CPT and you were promoted to MAJOR. Then I also saw my boss a CPT in Germany in the mid 70's spend 7.5 years in grade before making MAJOR.

Response by PO1 Tom Follis made May 7 at 2019 4:34 PM

PO1 Tom Follis — Tue, 07 May 2019 16:34:50 -0400

Most people that make rank quickly have no leadership skills/abilities.

Response by PFC Herman Darr made May 16 at 2019 10:04 AM

PFC Herman Darr — Thu, 16 May 2019 10:04:18 -0400

in Vietnam, you can go from private to e7 , less then a year

Response by Robyn Morrow made Jun 4 at 2019 4:16 PM

Robyn Morrow — Tue, 04 Jun 2019 16:16:13 -0400

My son went from a fuzzy to E5 in 3 years. But it was planned and calculated. We talked about his career path. He didn’t want to be a jackass. So he learned as he went along. He found a really awesome SSGT that took him under his wing. Taught him different ways to to speak to his lower ranks especially if they were hard to educate with policy and procedure.
He has done very well. I have had LTs and PLs tell me that I raised an excellent potential leader.

Response by CWO3 Bryan Luciani made Jun 8 at 2019 12:28 PM

CWO3 Bryan Luciani — Sat, 08 Jun 2019 12:28:25 -0400

I made Chief in 7 1/2 and Senior Chief in 11. When I was eligible for E9, my CO (Commodore) at a new command gave me a "Promotable" on my Fitrep after two consecutive EPs and No.1 rankings at my previous command where I had acted as the Senior Enlisted Advisor on multiple occasions. When I asked him why he was short-circuiting my career, he said he felt I was too young to be a Master Chief. So, I was judged based solely on my age and my fast rise through the ranks. Even worse, the Commodore took the CMCs advice not to give an EP. Neither ever looked at my service record, my qualifications, my extensive sea time. Nothing. Yes, I asked them. I was more than ready to be a Master Chief Engineman and a great diesel inspector. I had three EOOW letters. I left the Commodore, walked down the hall and blasted the CMC for his recommendation to the Commodore and his"feet on the desk", slacker attitude. The commodore left that command a few months later and I dropped my Chief Warrant Officer application package on the new commodores desk the second day he was there. Best decision I ever made. What I learned is that there is a place for smart people that do their job well and get promoted quickly. Find your place. You may be better suited to be an officer. They make LT in four years and they have less leadership training than any E6. Congrats on making E6 in three years. Now keep your mouth zipped and your ears and eyes wide open. Listen to all your people and make well balanced decisions. You'll do great.

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2019 1:06 PM

1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Jun 2019 13:06:51 -0400

With my experience in the USAF Auxiliary, a ripe hard charging airman can make C/SSgt in 6 months, while I made C/SSgt in two years and SMSgt in 1 year after E-5.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jun 8 at 2019 3:29 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 08 Jun 2019 15:29:46 -0400

I new an E-8 in the AGR who made that rank after 10 years. He could not even write a decent NCOER.

Response by CW4 John Schwartz made Jun 30 at 2019 7:41 AM

CW4 John Schwartz — Sun, 30 Jun 2019 07:41:31 -0400

I made E-6 (SSgt) in six years during my first enlistment in the Army Reserve from 1973 to 1979. I believe it was because I was in the right position at the right time. I met all the qualifications at the time when reserve units were below strength. I retired after 32 years as a CW4 with a deployment to Northern Iraq.

Response by 1SG Clifford Barnes made Jun 30 at 2019 11:50 AM

1SG Clifford Barnes — Sun, 30 Jun 2019 11:50:46 -0400

I say yes because it comes with tremendous responsibility and you may not be ready for all the leadership and mentoring of young soldiers and give guidance and mental and physical and psychological needs the soldiers need

Response by 1SG Ernest Stull made Jul 9 at 2019 8:19 AM

1SG Ernest Stull — Tue, 09 Jul 2019 08:19:49 -0400

I joined the ARMY at 17 and made Sgt. E5 3,5 years later and SSG at 6yrs later. and SFC 10yrs later. However it took me 10 years to make E8. Retired at 23,5 yrs in.
I said all that to tell you I had great NCO;s who were Vietnam vets who mentored me and pushed me along to each rank. I was a platoon SGT. from day one when I made SGT. Yes during my career I worked hard to get everything I earned. Went to all of my NCOES schools, to include airborne/ Ranger and several other nontraditional schools. I also managed to get a A/A degree in between assignments and deployments. So I say go for it if you have the drive to be all you can be. I was no kiss ass I kicked ass and sometimes I had to pay the price for my stupidity.

Response by PO1 Mike Wallace made Jul 21 at 2019 3:15 PM

PO1 Mike Wallace — Sun, 21 Jul 2019 15:15:12 -0400

I strongly believ high speed promotion is detrimental to those who will serve under them. While an individual may be far superior to others in their technical skills the reality is that leadership is something that must be developed. As a PO1 on a ship you are the first line of leadership and must be compident. I made first class in about 5 1/2 years and while I thought that was great and I welcomed the pay raise, I needed more seasoning. Thankfully I had a great chief but looking back I realize he pulled me back from lots of mistakes and it shouldn't have been his job to save me from myself.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 21 at 2019 4:44 PM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 21 Jul 2019 16:44:49 -0400

Yes you shouldn't make e6 in your 1st contract. That's too soon. Way too soon. You don't understand much of anything until after your 1st contract.

Response by SFC Charles Woods made Jul 21 at 2019 10:10 PM

SFC Charles Woods — Sun, 21 Jul 2019 22:10:02 -0400

If a retiree can comment, we had several E6 that got their stripes through stripes for school.MOS 62B Engineer Equipment maintenance.Two thar I remember were schooled in Maintenance of the Cooper-Bessemer Generator.Then the whole program was cancelled,They knew absolutely nothing about any other aspect of the job we had to carry them for over a year as they stumbled around trying to stay out of trouble.I thought hen and still do think that very many people make stripes too fast then get in over their heads when the poo hit the fan.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2019 2:25 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 Jul 2019 02:25:19 -0400

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2019 2:26 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 Jul 2019 02:26:54 -0400

Fully depends. I have been fortunate to make E-6 in 7 years and I have served with Chiefs that made that "7 in 7" and they were some of the best mentors and leaders I have worked with in my time. On the other hand I have seen the polar opposite where I had an E-9 (CMC) that made it in 12 and his leadership was for lack of a better term, garbage. His impact to the command resulted in the firing of the triad and subsequent command investigation. The time it takes to earn rank is one that carves out that individuals skills and abilities to lead their sailors, soldiers and so on into battle. Earning that salt does have its advantages so while being that person that "walks on water" it is important to remember where you came from and to remain humble if you are fortunate enough to pick up rank that quickly. Their is never a point in anyone's career that they stop learning and growing as a leader and as long as they remember that than they can continue to be successful.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2019 7:38 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 Jul 2019 07:38:15 -0400

I will say, know your job completely. Not just what is on paper, but the actual physical parts. And most importantly, be a LEADER, not a boss. Get in there with your people and do the work WITH them. They will support and follow this way. A barking orders person only gets what is told and nothing more. Remember that. When you do that, age and TIS doesn't matter.

Response by CPO Ed Ball made Jul 22 at 2019 2:23 PM

CPO Ed Ball — Mon, 22 Jul 2019 14:23:28 -0400

08 June 1976 E1 to 16 Aug 1986 CPO, for me personally, I had some excellent leaders along the way, made SOY as E5 over 644 shipmates for NCSP San Miguel, made E6, did RM C7, RM CSTS, then two weeks of Leadership Management Educational Training, where 3 months later I took and passed the RMC exam and was board eligible (they wrote the test from the notes in C School). Had a gentleman reported onboard as E4, book smart, no common sense, aced the E5 exam, but command refused to advance him in rank had made some grave errors along the way, he put on E5 a couple years later. Last I seen he was on CINCPACFLT Staff as RMC(SW).

Response by PO1 Aaron Baltosser made Jul 22 at 2019 11:39 PM

PO1 Aaron Baltosser — Mon, 22 Jul 2019 23:39:49 -0400

There can be, but that greatly depends on the individual putting on the rank. I've met some great folks that moved up far faster than I ever did. They were well prepared for additional rank and the responsibilities that came with it. Others thought because they schmoozed their way to Blue Jacket of the Quarter there was nothing their seniors could teach them. Some of us had to laugh when the duty section run by that individual was always a train wreck, collateral duties went unattended, and forget about leaving a phone message of E-mail and expecting a response. Too busy trying to weasel into the next stripe to respond to those communications.

Response by SN Jay Perry made Jul 23 at 2019 8:15 AM

SN Jay Perry — Tue, 23 Jul 2019 08:15:07 -0400

To preface this, I am second generation USN (Father was an 0-8, and retired after 33) and brother served also (he retired an O-5). Being raised Navy I have seen many, many (especially junior officers) who were promoted much too fast for their emotional maturity, and skill levels. Smart senior enlisted leaders were usually smart enough to rein in those said people before lasting harm was done to, the service, personnel, and equipment, or themselves (this is why we trust CPO's the way we do). Hopefully, it was NOT a CPO (promoted too fast), I did encounter a couple of these (both were technical rates, in high demand), since the senior enlisted people were, by then, incapable of reining them in it fell to a team of BOTH senior enlisted AND junior officers to muzzle/control this person, in this particular case they (that enlisted/officer team) saved the CPO from PHYSICAL retribution (some of the people they had decided to ride on wanted to take them to unmanned space(s) and 'counsel' him!

Response by SGT Mike Clark made Jul 24 at 2019 7:09 AM

SGT Mike Clark — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 07:09:41 -0400

I'd have to say that "it depends". Like others here, it should be taken on a case by case basis. Because E-5s were in short supply in my MOS, I made SGT in two years, and I think that was jolly well too soon for me. But the one guy in my platoon who was promoted on the same day as me, no older and same TIS, and with whom I went to PNCOC/CA, he was a real leader and commanded instant respect from all with whom he came into contact. I wasn't of the same caliber at all, although I wasn't incompetent -- I was just out of my depth for the first year, I think. It's such a crapshoot sometimes. I've seen lieutenants who shouldn't have even have been sergeants, and sergeants who could have successfully commanded a battalion (I'm thinking of the command sergeant major who, in an exercise, was put into the position of doing exactly that, when all officers in the battalion were designated casualties). I've also never been a fan of "up or out" policies. Because there are some who are very competent squad leaders, or lower level unit leaders, but can't handle higher responsibility.

Response by PO2 Tony Divito made Jul 24 at 2019 12:36 PM

PO2 Tony Divito — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 12:36:03 -0400

I recall "Nuke" ratings would get E-4 early in exchange for 6 year elistments.

Response by Sgt Wayne Strauss made Jul 25 at 2019 12:45 PM

Sgt Wayne Strauss — Thu, 25 Jul 2019 12:45:02 -0400

I THINK my MOS was 72455 (computer programmer). I made E4 in 3 years, and got an "early out" 6 months later. I think the USAF did away with 72435. I MIGHT have stayed for another 4 if I was offered E5 at reup and guaranteed E6 in another 3 years. With a total of 8 years in I would have been 27yo but I would have had to change MOS. At that time, 1965-69, the USAF seemed to promote entirely by time-in-grade; everyone in my unit got promoted to E4 at the same time even though I was the only one with an E6 MOS.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2019 9:54 AM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 26 Jul 2019 09:54:15 -0400

Honestly it all depends on where you make your ranks. If just move up but are never in a leadership position then it does you no good. I have seen E7s who have never led other NCOs, never did a personalized counseling, never rated a subordinate. One should seek the experiences over the rank. If you can do both at the same time then it makes more sense. E5 in 4 years, E6 in 5yrs, E7 in 9yrs & E8 in 16yrs.

Response by Sgt Steve Williams made Jul 26 at 2019 7:05 PM

Sgt Steve Williams — Fri, 26 Jul 2019 19:05:27 -0400

I know every case is different. I do think age factors in to it. I made E-5 in 2 years. I was 22 and in 1970 there were lots of E-1 thru E-4 younger than me. You can never tell what might have been but I wonder if I would have been accepted as a Sgt. if I had been 18. The main reason I wonder this is that I know I could not have been ready when I was 18. Of course, there are those that absolutely would have been ready.

Response by SPC Jay Crawford made Jul 27 at 2019 2:24 PM

SPC Jay Crawford — Sat, 27 Jul 2019 14:24:02 -0400

Unless there is a critical need, it is better to have life experience before rank. One ofthe reason shave tail lieutenants were so notorious for being lost when trying to lead.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 28 at 2019 11:32 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 28 Jul 2019 23:32:34 -0400

That's pretty fast in my opinion. I made E-6 at 10 1/2 years and 10 years seems to be the average...for my MOS anyway. Can't speak for other jobs.

Response by CSM Troy McGilvray made Jul 28 at 2019 11:52 PM

CSM Troy McGilvray — Sun, 28 Jul 2019 23:52:23 -0400

I enlisted at age 17. Made E7 in 7 years, made E8 on my 11th anniversary, E9 on my 14th anniversary, and CSM when I had 15 years. Became a CSM when I was 33 years old. I don't believe I moved up too fast. I was able to handle all my positions well. I believe it has to do with the maturity of the individual. Some individuals that enlisted with me only made it to E6 and E7. I think they were not quite as mature as they needed to be. Also, they lacked some leadership skills. I have heard that about 7% of the populace are leaders, the remaining 93% are followers. Anyone else have any thoughts on leadership?

Response by 1SG Michael Farrell made Jul 29 at 2019 2:56 AM

1SG Michael Farrell — Mon, 29 Jul 2019 02:56:35 -0400

Like CSM Sweeney, I made my rank to fast, although it took me 10 years to make SFC. Now, I was a bit more mature and educated, graduating from college prior to enlisting because I thought that was citizens were supposed to, and I still do. I had a reserve component assignment and was selected for promotion at 12 years. Fortunately, I was deep in the secondary zone, so it took a couple of years to get to my number. I then was "handpicked" by the Regimental CSM who didn't know me from Gomer Pyle to take a !SG position. My belief is that everyone meets their asshole career wise, and depending on how awful they are and dumb luck, you either survive or get sidetracked. My first company had me with a sociopathic loser and I lasted fifteen months before the various CSMs smelled to much burning connections in my head, and I went into a series of SGM positions at Division and then Corps. Started ti break down physically while at Corps G3; we were run by insane Rangers. I then went to Europe, meet the new CSM and asked for a company. Group Commander asked me to move from the S2/3 SGM position and take the HHC after he decided to relieve the First Sergeant. I had that company for two years, and then went back to the states; CSM network plugged in and I got another First Sergeant Assignment. By this time I was starting to leave parts on the side of the road. I decided to retire, submitted my stuff which the installation held, because I was already selected and on the CSM list with sequence numbers of 1 in both. I proud of being selected and putting my sociopath sexperience in the proper perspective, but I couldn't be the soldier I thought I should be in that position, so I went through with the retirement. I got my opportunity to grow in those years as a First Sergeant and as Readiness SGM, Corps G3 Training SGM and Group S2/3SGM. I have missed being a soldier and leading soldiers everyday since I signed out; but, I had learned and grown and absorbed values that made me believe that I owed it to the Army and the soldiers I had led and the soldiers I might lead to accept fate.

So, if you make rank too quick, at some point it will catch up to you and you'll have to learn and grow and struggle. And if you do it well enough, you'll be successful and get more opportunities. Unless, as I did, you run out of time.

Response by Maj Neal Jackman made Jul 29 at 2019 2:17 PM

Maj Neal Jackman — Mon, 29 Jul 2019 14:17:58 -0400

I had a Marine SSGT working for me who had several meritorious promotions and early promotions. He was then told he didn't have enough TIS to make Gunny even though he had the TIG. His only choice was to apply for the WO program. He was outstanding in every aspect of his performance, and respected by his peers. I would write 2 Fitness Reports for him. One to go to HQMC and one to work on skill sets, and non graded skills. He had been told he "had to wait for others with the same TIS to catch up" to where he was. What is the point of rewarding someone who has the maturity and skills to be a top NCO and then kill the motivation by saying you moved too fast. If we are truly recognizing the outstanding young men and women then we need to recognize the very thing that makes them outstanding is going to force them into the civilian marketplace.

Response by SGT Walter Drumm made Jul 30 at 2019 11:32 AM

SGT Walter Drumm — Tue, 30 Jul 2019 11:32:53 -0400

Ahhhh.....the old "shake and bake" phenomenon question lol
The biggest problem with this argument is it looks at this from a purely quantitative PoV, versus a qualitative one. Yes, there's no real substitute for raw experience, and yet if a soldier demonstrates the maturity, leadership skills and skills competency for their MOS there's no reason they shouldn't move up in rank/responsibility with all possible speed.
I too have seen and experienced the snake pit environment where junior NCOs would gladly throw their peers under the bus to advance their own careers. A better model IMO is the mentorship approach you see in the 18 class (SF) MOSs. In an ODA the lowest ranking guys are E-5s and E-6s, and due to their small size it's incumbent for the senior team noncoms to not let their lower ranks eat each other.
A small picture approach is the best approach IMO. If a fast riser is doing his/her job and being a good leader who cares how wuickly they made their stripes?

Response by SFC Joh Williams made Aug 3 at 2019 9:59 AM

SFC Joh Williams — Sat, 03 Aug 2019 09:59:21 -0400

I worked with a guy who made Staff Sergeant in three years. It took 15 years for him to make SFC.

Response by CPT Keith Whitter made Aug 8 at 2019 10:48 PM

CPT Keith Whitter — Thu, 08 Aug 2019 22:48:41 -0400

Congratulations! I'm certain your superiors who are evaluating you saw something in you that made them believe you are worthy of the rank. Don't let yourself or them down. Find out what is needed and wanted from your superiors and deliver to them a better product than they have ever received before. We can have this conversation again when you are being promoted to E-9!

Response by LTC John Griscom made Aug 9 at 2019 8:03 AM

LTC John Griscom — Fri, 09 Aug 2019 08:03:36 -0400

I felt like I made Captain too fast in the mid 60s, but the Army needed to fill slots.
The Army came out with a policy in 1966 for certain MOSs to be promoted immediately without regards to TIG. Had an E-5 on the E-6 list; promoted him to E-6 one day and to E-7 the next day based on that policy.

Response by SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM made Aug 9 at 2019 10:34 PM

SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM — Fri, 09 Aug 2019 22:34:57 -0400

Its not good! You have to pay your dues, and learrn from seasoned mentors!

Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made Aug 9 at 2019 10:43 PM

MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan — Fri, 09 Aug 2019 22:43:24 -0400

Met a fellow once who had a daughter in the Air Force Band as an enlisted member. When she finished basic training she was handed Technical Sergeant (E-6) rank because of her job. Was it right...don't know, but it happened. That's one case, but I have known others who were able to work themselves through the ranks quickly, many times because of being in the right place at the right time but also because they were good test takers. Seems to fall under the very open heading of "it is what it is".

Response by PO2 Steve Wikert made Sep 1 at 2019 1:10 PM

PO2 Steve Wikert — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 13:10:17 -0400

AGE + EXPERIENCE = MATURITY I once saw a person promoted just to 3rd Class Petty Officer (E-4) right coming out of boot camp because he was promised it if he would enlist for 6 years vs. 4 years when he went in. I think he had just turned 18 a few months before. He fu__ed up with the additional responsibility and actually was busted to E-1. I can't tell you how many E-6s I saw in Vietnam when I was stationed as a MP in jeep patrols in Danang who were absolute idiots. They were leading POs (NCOs) for our entire watch schedules which included about 10 men and 3 jeeps. They were in one of our 3 jeep units and I had to drive them often until I made E-4 and became the PO of the my own jeep. Some came on drunk, I saw one who deliberately had me stop in a village just to shoot one of the villagers dogs out of spite. So NO they should not be promoting people to E-6 early!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! In most situations in the Navy the E-6s had the most contact as an upper NCO with the men under the command. They acted as a real example to people who were just coming into the military. Many times an E-6 has to be the "one adult in the room" as they say.

Response by SSG James Johnson made Sep 2 at 2019 6:50 PM

SSG James Johnson — Mon, 02 Sep 2019 18:50:24 -0400

1 year in training, 1 year in Viet Nam and 2 years as a DI after 2 purple hearts. After 3 years and moving into year 4, E6. No problem on my part.

Response by SPC Steven Nihipali made Sep 3 at 2019 12:03 AM

SPC Steven Nihipali — Tue, 03 Sep 2019 00:03:16 -0400

guess it all depends on your job and branch of service... in my job, yeah, we could definitely make E6 in 3 years. But, you better be a damn good one or demoted...

Response by PO2 Brian Ruddy made Sep 3 at 2019 9:22 AM

PO2 Brian Ruddy — Tue, 03 Sep 2019 09:22:57 -0400

If you have a 4 year degree, no.

Response by MSgt Stephen Watson made Sep 4 at 2019 10:34 AM

MSgt Stephen Watson — Wed, 04 Sep 2019 10:34:25 -0400

Of course. Promotion needs to come with maturity as well as deeds.

Response by GySgt Lawrence Watson made Sep 4 at 2019 3:01 PM

GySgt Lawrence Watson — Wed, 04 Sep 2019 15:01:06 -0400

I think so. I’m sure there are some that can handle the responsibility
But I would think you’d need to mature a little more.

Response by SSG Lee Kujawa made Sep 4 at 2019 6:10 PM

SSG Lee Kujawa — Wed, 04 Sep 2019 18:10:19 -0400

I made SSG E6 just short of 4 yrs and had 2ys time in grade in my first enlistment. I did it on merit and I worked for it. I could handle it just fine.

Response by 1SG Clint McColpin made Sep 5 at 2019 4:31 AM

1SG Clint McColpin — Thu, 05 Sep 2019 04:31:10 -0400

McColpin
In 1971 while in Vietnam I was asked to fill in as E-8, just an E-5 at the time. I took it serious but the enlisted E-6/7's gave me hell, no support, told others I didn't really have any authority. I broke and 4 months later gave it back. Got what I didn't deserve.

Response by 1SG Dennis Hicks made Sep 5 at 2019 11:40 AM

1SG Dennis Hicks — Thu, 05 Sep 2019 11:40:37 -0400

To answer your question yes 3 years to pay grade E-6 is entirely to fast, its not about wearing the stripes its about knowing what to do and that comes from time. I made all my rank with min TIG/TIS. I also lost some rockers pretty damn fast over things that I should have known better. Took that as a life lesson and drove on. Made E06 the first time in 5 Years and the second time as well :)

Response by SrA Allan Yates made Sep 5 at 2019 11:59 PM

SrA Allan Yates — Thu, 05 Sep 2019 23:59:08 -0400

My father was an Army infantry NCO and made E-7 in three years. But then again, he was fighting in WW II and all the NCOs that outranked him had been killed in battle...

Response by 1SG Lawrence Reid made Sep 6 at 2019 2:26 PM

1SG Lawrence Reid — Fri, 06 Sep 2019 14:26:59 -0400

In a word YES

Response by 1stSgt Jeff Blovat made Sep 7 at 2019 4:45 PM

1stSgt Jeff Blovat — Sat, 07 Sep 2019 16:45:38 -0400

Situation dictates. Rank is very nice but experience and time on the job is better. Would I take E-6 after 3 years? Yes and I bet we all would. However, there are always those salty people out there.......

Response by 1SG Thomas Jasak made Sep 7 at 2019 10:41 PM

1SG Thomas Jasak — Sat, 07 Sep 2019 22:41:54 -0400

I joined the Army back in 1996 at the ripe old age of 28. I came in as a SPC since I had a college degree and got promoted to SGT in 2 years and 2 months and SSG in 4 years and 1 month. Then got promoted to SFC in 7 years and 6 months and got promoted to 1SG/MSG at 10 years and ended up retiring at 22 years at a 1SG. I took all the tough assignments and continuously looked for the leadership positions to help take care of Soldiers and families and I was very adept at leadership since I was an area store manager of 6 retail stores before I joined the Army. I believe me joining at a later age and having the maturity and experience of leadership made a huge difference and I did not "fast track in rank" to quickly. I also did see others who got promoted quickly as well who in the end were not ready for the leadership responsibilities so it truly depends on the person and their personality and maturity if they are ready for it.

Response by SSG Tom Montgomery made Sep 7 at 2019 10:42 PM

SSG Tom Montgomery — Sat, 07 Sep 2019 22:42:22 -0400

You are promoted past E-4 based on your ability, leadership and competence. Age has nothing to do with it. At 26, I was an E-5, working as installation coordinator, at a Kaserne in Germany. When the Battalion would go on maneuvers or assignment, I would be put on orders as "Acting Installation Comnander". There were E-7's, E-8's and even an O-2 Who weren't happy at first. I did my job well and showed them I was worthy. Soon, their disapproval was gone. I received an ARCOM for my efforts and many letters in my 201, that helped me gain E-6.
Age is a number. Ability and performance are what's important.

Response by CPL(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2019 11:04 PM

CPL(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 07 Sep 2019 23:04:34 -0400

I feel like making rank fast can be detrimental to you and your career by promoting too fast. But then again, that’s just my opinion.

Response by PO2 David Clark made Sep 8 at 2019 3:28 PM

PO2 David Clark — Sun, 08 Sep 2019 15:28:23 -0400

Without knowing the E-6 personally I can not make an honest comment. Is it well above the average, perhaps this person is well above average.

While it was a different time, I was USNR. I got E-2 by taking active duty prior to the one year which was standard. After a few months in Gulfport Chief offered me E-3 because there was a real shortage of knowledgeable people (at this time, 1966, Guys were getting E-4 or above because of trade experience) we called them IPO's (Instant petty officers) Many were good tradesmen, but without experience poor leaders. I was very driven, and actually enjoyed tests, plus one year of experience (apprentice Local 361 NYC) BURPERS gave me E-4 soon after deployment (3/67)I was mess cooking so the crow was VERY welcome :). When we rotated home I had five months left, then almost a month of leave, I could NOT be assigned to a Battalion because I had due to separate 6/68. I had no intention of shipping over so they sent me to Bainbridge, MD in Public Works. Why wouldn't they give me an early out, but you know the USN.....With 6 weeks left they offered me E-5 IF i extended for a year, but I politily thanked the Chief and told him I was set on becoming a PFC (poor F civilian), which I did.

Response by SSG William Ashby made Sep 8 at 2019 7:37 PM

SSG William Ashby — Sun, 08 Sep 2019 19:37:22 -0400

SSG E-6. In one year and 11 months. USARVN to Ft Ord, CA

Response by PFC Virgil Burnett made Sep 10 at 2019 4:35 PM

PFC Virgil Burnett — Tue, 10 Sep 2019 16:35:51 -0400

I do not believe time is as much of a factor as is merit.

Response by BG Mike Bridges made Sep 11 at 2019 12:51 AM

BG Mike Bridges — Wed, 11 Sep 2019 00:51:57 -0400

Yes.

Response by CPT Don Kemp made Sep 11 at 2019 11:55 PM

CPT Don Kemp — Wed, 11 Sep 2019 23:55:18 -0400

You know the (Fill in the Blank Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy) doesn’t make mistakes. Right?

Response by SrA Brett Stratton made Sep 15 at 2019 4:26 PM

SrA Brett Stratton — Sun, 15 Sep 2019 16:26:47 -0400

Honestly? Yes, it can be. Not on a technical and knowledge level, certainly not, but on a maturity level, absolutely. When you gain a new rank, you gain new responsibilities and leadership; maybe roles you are not yet ready for. Going through my years, we were pushed to try and advance in rank as soon as possible. I can't remember if it was because it was an actual rule or just peer pressure. I knew some people who were unsure, but ready but at the same time I knew people who were just not ready, mentally, to take on the role. I understand the need to fill in slots, but we can't sacrifice our quality and hope they'll just fit into it right away.

Response by MAJ Richard Cheek made Sep 16 at 2019 9:32 PM

MAJ Richard Cheek — Mon, 16 Sep 2019 21:32:44 -0400

Well I went from private e-1 to sgt e-5 in 8 months and 26 days. I was offered e-6 to re-enlist at the 2 year mark. I got out instead... stupid.reenlisted 6 months later. took me two years to make e-6 again then e7 at 9 years

Response by SGT Charles Bartell made Sep 21 at 2019 3:57 PM

SGT Charles Bartell — Sat, 21 Sep 2019 15:57:02 -0400

YES, Too fast.
Not enough time in to even get the experience of different units ,Or the different types of people and how to deal with them.
In the Military you are supposed to treat every one the same. We all should know every one is different, And in fact we can not treat every one exactly the same.
What I am trying to say is. There is no way to know how to treat or lead most kinds of people.
Let alone have time to learn how to be a leader and know all there is to know about your job and be good at both.
That tacks time and the most important thing of all experience.
I have seen to many people get promoted because they looked good on paper.

Response by PO1 Harold Dean Sasser made Sep 30 at 2019 12:43 AM

PO1 Harold Dean Sasser — Mon, 30 Sep 2019 00:43:18 -0400

What happened to time rate?

Response by PO2 Ben Ferguson made Oct 28 at 2019 11:52 PM

PO2 Ben Ferguson — Mon, 28 Oct 2019 23:52:10 -0400

I made E-5 in 2 years but I worked at it in the office and studying in the barracks. It was more productive than going out and geting wasted like so many squadron mates were doing. That was 1956-58.

Response by SGT George Smith made Oct 29 at 2019 5:00 PM

SGT George Smith — Tue, 29 Oct 2019 17:00:46 -0400

I know a draftee who made Sgt E-5 in under 2 years because the Major was trying to get him to re-up. That same officer also went 9 month promoting no one else for 9 months. I was an E-4 drawing pro-pay so I think I was qualified with nearly 5 years service. Not always fair.

Response by MSG Richard C Finley made Oct 30 at 2019 4:40 AM

MSG Richard C Finley — Wed, 30 Oct 2019 04:40:49 -0400

I made SSG (E6) 11E30 in just 3 1/2yrs this was 1969. but this was due to the times as Nam was still going on. SFC(E7) 19J40C7 in 10yrs (1976) I could have made this earlier but one year DA changed the time in grade then the following year they changed time in service. I made MSG in 17yrs 19Z50D8 (1980). about 6 months prior to retiring I received a letter from the SMG academy my first thought at the time was I only had 3yrs on MSG. But I opted to retire. It sounds like we were in about the same boat in time.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Nov 1 at 2019 11:59 AM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Fri, 01 Nov 2019 11:59:58 -0400

This is a philosophical endeavor to find truth. Some truths are self evident like the sun will come up each morning. Sometimes one conducts critical analysis to assume the truth which the future will confirm or deny. The best route to finding the truth is through experience.

Response by PO2 Michael Henry made Nov 1 at 2019 4:30 PM

PO2 Michael Henry — Fri, 01 Nov 2019 16:30:31 -0400

Graduated Basic with E-3, FC "A" school got me E-4 at 9 months in, an E-5 at 2.5 years. I moved up too fast and wasn't ready for it. They shoveled too much responsibility on me too quickly and it showed. Got out at 5 years.

Response by PO2 Joseph Bender made Nov 3 at 2019 11:02 AM

PO2 Joseph Bender — Sun, 03 Nov 2019 11:02:20 -0500

Fact is the following. I was in the US Navy during the 80's. I saw Phillipine immigrants promised asylum if they induct to the US Navy. The problem I have with this is they wore Petty Officer rates, and they had severe English language capabilities. These "Rocks" were not even in our country as US citizens long enough to graduate from Boot, ATD, or "A"school let alone make PO3 and above. We talk whether or not we skip through the ranks too fast. The "Old Salts" know what I am talking about. I am certain nothing has changed since then.

Response by CPO Arthur Weinberger made Nov 8 at 2019 8:44 PM

CPO Arthur Weinberger — Fri, 08 Nov 2019 20:44:22 -0500

For some who are not mature, it can be.

Response by 1SG Bernhard Mattulat made Nov 9 at 2019 7:19 PM

1SG Bernhard Mattulat — Sat, 09 Nov 2019 19:19:52 -0500

Rank should be based on knowledge, skills and the ability to apply both. Being Army I can only pass this on as "second hand knowledge. The son of one of my Army buddies joined the Navy and went in to "nuclear power plant propulsion - submarines". Six plus months of training and then assigned to a "boat". Made E-6 in just over a year (maybe 18 months). Can anyone out there verify that possibility?

Response by Cpl Jim Johnson made Nov 20 at 2019 12:36 PM

Cpl Jim Johnson — Wed, 20 Nov 2019 12:36:58 -0500

CPL JIM JOHNSON made E4 IN 6 months before going to Vietnam in 03/70 offered E5 09/70 if I RE-Up one more tour Vietnam 69-71.

Response by PO1 Richard Nyberg made Dec 1 at 2019 6:52 PM

PO1 Richard Nyberg — Sun, 01 Dec 2019 18:52:01 -0500

I had a E4 who made out of A School and never been in the fleet yet. I put a seaman that had been in the fleet for 1.5 yrs in charge and said after he learned how work in the fleet he could take charge.

Response by Sgt Ivan Boatwright made Dec 1 at 2019 7:23 PM

Sgt Ivan Boatwright — Sun, 01 Dec 2019 19:23:59 -0500

I made E-5 in three years and did not know enough to be a real Sargent. My promotions were combat-related because of time there and a shortage of personal. Many things I should have been able to do I could not.

Response by SSG Michael Doolittle made Dec 2 at 2019 2:19 AM

SSG Michael Doolittle — Mon, 02 Dec 2019 02:19:22 -0500

In Vietnam I saw SSG E-6's made with 18 months in the Army.... In my unitat Coleman Barracks Mannheim Germany we had an E-7 Platoon Sgt SFC at the age of 24 and he had not been in combat, all his time was in Germany and stateside.... 1965 He was the best Platoon Sgt I ever had in 8 years but then 4 of those 8 I was a platoon Sgt at 21 in combat

Response by CPO Paul Klein made Dec 2 at 2019 10:12 AM

CPO Paul Klein — Mon, 02 Dec 2019 10:12:40 -0500

Yes. Making rank is more than technical expertise in the rate. There is a question of maturity and experience that grows in importance as you assume responsibility not just for yourself but for those assigned to you for leadership and guidance. I made E-5 in 3 years, and E-6 in 6, and although it was because of technical knowledge and skills, my leadership abilities were not always the best. Being younger than my peers pushed me to be friends with junior personnel, which made discipline enforcement difficult. Thankfully, it took me a few more years to make Chief, so I had time to learn those all important leadership skills.

Response by SGT Bud Mullins made Dec 2 at 2019 12:30 PM

SGT Bud Mullins — Mon, 02 Dec 2019 12:30:36 -0500

I do think there is a minimum time limit between ranks. I made E5 after I re-enlisted for a second three years and since I to went in at 17, I was much too young to be in charge of much of anything. I'll admit it was good to have the rank but put a burden on me that I almost didn't handle. Anyway, I made it through those adolescence days to become a pretty good NCO.

Response by SFC Clinton D. Washington made Dec 2 at 2019 4:49 PM

SFC Clinton D. Washington — Mon, 02 Dec 2019 16:49:32 -0500

Outstanding Job! Thank you for service.

Response by Cpl Robert Robertson made Dec 3 at 2019 3:30 PM

Cpl Robert Robertson — Tue, 03 Dec 2019 15:30:12 -0500

The assumption is if the Corps gave you rank, you deserve it and can do the duties it requires

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2019 9:34 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Dec 2019 21:34:13 -0500

Yes it’s possible. I know an E7 that made E7 in 6 years, I’m saying she’s an E7 because that’s all she is....not a Chief.

Response by SFC Oddie Brown made Dec 3 at 2019 11:28 PM

SFC Oddie Brown — Tue, 03 Dec 2019 23:28:53 -0500

I made E-6 in 5 years 8 months. Fast tracking right? I wore E-6 for over 12 years before I made E-7. Nothing bad or wrong in my records. Sometime you just get stuck in the system. When I finally did make the E-7 list my sequence number was 2. I'm thinking well I should be pinned in a month or so. Yeah right, the list came out I think in July 2000. I didn't get promoted until March of 2001. More to the story but that is saved for another day. If you are one of those guys that can't make E-7 by the time you hit 13 years or whatever don't look to me for sympathy. My DS told me where I could find that. But I would do the same damn thing all over again knowing the conditions. No regrets.

Response by FN Charlie Spivey made Dec 5 at 2019 9:10 AM

FN Charlie Spivey — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 09:10:35 -0500

I think the Navy is similar to the Coast Guard in this regard. You come out of basic as an E2. Once you reach your Duty station and get settled in, then you can get your course for E3, be it Seaman, Fireman, or Airman. By the time you have finished ity and your Practical Factors, then you pretty much have the 6 months in rank, and you get the promotion. After that, you are them moving into NCO ( E4 ). At this point you decide which Rate / MOS you want to strike for and then apply for the course ( or you can go to school which is a fast way up ). Once you start into the NCO advancements, it involves the Courses for each advancement, Time in Rate, Practical factors, and Sea Duty ( usually 1 year ). Once you have met those, there arte still the Servicewide exams. The highher you score on those the higher on the list you are. For instance, if you are #100 on the list and they are filling 101 billets, then you wil get the promotion, if you are 102 on the list, you won't until a billet opens. If your are way dpown the list, then you will have to take the Servicewide exmas again and hopefully score higher. Those in the Air Rates don't have the sea duty requirement as far as I know. I have see a slick sleeve Chief ( E7 under 4 ). He was an ET ( Electronics Technician ) which was a critical rate in the Coast Guard and the advancement was fast. We he shipped over and got his hash mark ( and was finally allowed in the4 CPO club ), he received a $12,000 Shipping over bonus. Mind you, this was in '66 and that was big money then. Now, as to the question, I think it depends on the individual. Some are very good at what they do and are good leaders, and i would say in those cases no. I had a Chief that was a BT. He made BT3 then went to work in the base Post Office. He had all of his Sea Duty requirements, and just kept taking the courses and I have no clue as to how he got past the practical factors and taking the Servicewide Exams and making the list. When he was finally transferred from the Post Office to the ship, he wasn't all that impressive. Most of the time if we had a problem, he was left out of the loop.

Response by Cpl J P made Dec 5 at 2019 11:06 AM

Cpl J P — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 11:06:05 -0500

Making rank too fast in the USMC motor T mos was never an issue. In fact they had to extend the up or out to 14 years for Sergeants for a while.

Response by SP5 Nick Bernard made Dec 5 at 2019 7:15 PM

SP5 Nick Bernard — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 19:15:54 -0500

Big deal, I made E-5 in 18 mos. Up for E-6 @ 24 mos. DOS before that.

Response by PO2 Sam Messer made Dec 6 at 2019 2:39 AM

PO2 Sam Messer — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 02:39:03 -0500

Some times getting rank can be too soon. I say this as 1967 I was in Vietnam I had made E 3 in just about 7 + months. As new guys came into our Battalion CBMU301 we were getting a lot of I P O's The Navy's Instant Petty Officer program. most were coming straight from boot camp to Vietnam as E 5's. These guys were raw & knew less than most of us that had a year or more in service. IF I had known of this program before I enlisted in 1966 I was told My background in construction would have let me join as no less than an E 5 maybe even as an E 6. My father was a brick Layer & a Contractor. I was around & worked construction since I was 15 yrs old. At 17 I was in the labors union & either union steward or foreman on almost every job site until I joined the Navy & then again after I was discharged. I can tell you if I had made E 6 I would have found someway to stay in for 20 or even 30 if I was alive that long! I felt sorry for most IPO's but not on payday !!!

Response by PO2 Christina "Jian" Phillips made Dec 6 at 2019 7:15 AM

PO2 Christina "Jian" Phillips — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 07:15:16 -0500

YES YES YES YES!!!! Did I make myself clear. It like giving a bloody gun to a non trained soldier.........E6 is and has always been a hard earned right of passage to be an LPO or Supervisor and should not just be handed out. In my rate C school was required + experience + the test. It was no less than 6 years. If it was it was a true anomaly. I myself made e-4 from A school....<1 year. Earned. Then e-5 year 3. Served rest of my time as e-5. E-6 is something I never strived for. Those guys busted their giblets. Never to be given. Never. You earn the right to first class whether by plane by train or by military rank. I believe not in hand outs.

Response by SPC James Cooke made Dec 6 at 2019 1:56 PM

SPC James Cooke — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 13:56:05 -0500

I had the option of making E-5 after being in for only 3 years (initially joined as an E-2 with college credit). I felt rushed, but had already made my decision to discharge after my active contract ended. Still sent to BLC in their hope of me changing my mind and staying in. I asked for more time before I started being serious about the board. Was told, "No."

Response by PFC Jerry Prell made Dec 6 at 2019 11:18 PM

PFC Jerry Prell — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 23:18:42 -0500

Not if you are capable..... Measure a Man by his abilities not time... WTF over?

Response by PO1 Ed Cola made Dec 7 at 2019 10:56 AM

PO1 Ed Cola — Sat, 07 Dec 2019 10:56:30 -0500

It was just sad. At the end of Vietnam we got a chief aboard with no experience except boot camp and a couple C schools. I don't know what the program was but he got E-6 straight out of boot due to an electronics degree and made E-7 by the time of his first deployment. Imagine having all that recent knowledge and being put in a job of supervision over a crew of competent self-starting technicians. He mostly just followed us around and looked over our shoulders as we fixed comm and radar equipment. I don't remember him ever giving orders or instructions. I don't remember him having social connections. He didn't "hang" with us in port. A sad ghost with no way to get loose.

Response by Sgt Bobby Armentrout made Dec 7 at 2019 1:11 PM

Sgt Bobby Armentrout — Sat, 07 Dec 2019 13:11:16 -0500

I literally LOL'd at this. I think you need some time on if you want to be taken seriously, but I've seen both sides of it in and out of the military. I was in a very stagnant MOS (3051 Supply Warehouse Clerk) and you couldn't get promoted if you killed somebody. I was a Corporal checking in PFC's to my battalion and checking them out as Sergeants and Corporals while I was still a Corporal. I did not possess the dedication to be a DI and I had zero desire to work 80 to 100 hours a week as a recruiter on a maybe, so I got out. This was 1992 and for me was a good decision.

Now in the Police world we have the same elemental issue. There are nowhere near as many ranks in most police departments as there are in the military, but there are ranks. Usually you begin as a Recruit, or where it is permitted, you can be hired as an Officer or Deputy. Then, typically it is Corporal or Detective (although in some agencies, including mine, Detective is a position and not a rank) then Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain. The differences in upper command level ranks are vast, but Assistant Chief or Major or Deputy Chief, with an oak leaf in gold or silver and so on. Only very large agencies typically have multiple levels of command ranks, but I am keeping this in general terms.

I have seen a number of people who make Sergeant in 4 years and Lieutenant in 6 or 8. This is almost invariably a recipe for incompetence. You simply would not have the time to develop your skillset, and broaden your experience in 8 years to a point where you can do a good job as a lieutenant. But of course, that is usually responded to with derisive comments that I should "do better on the tests" or "work harder" or some other sour grapes reference that puts it all on me. I am a Sergeant. I like being a Sergeant. If I could make anywhere near the money as an Officer, I would still BE an Officer. Simply put: There's no substitute for experience. There is a reason it normally takes 30 or 40 years to train a 4 star General.

Response by SSG Terry Cummings made Dec 7 at 2019 3:37 PM

SSG Terry Cummings — Sat, 07 Dec 2019 15:37:28 -0500

:-) go for it ! Congratulations took me a lot longer lol

Response by CPT Robert Boshears made Dec 7 at 2019 6:55 PM

CPT Robert Boshears — Sat, 07 Dec 2019 18:55:46 -0500

You made Chief in how long? I made E-3, 3 times. I had college, loved San Miguel and the LBFM’s. I had to go to OCS to keep rank. Have you thought about crossing over to Warrant? (Used to be an E-7 could cross over to WO-1). More pay, more respect and it takes ONE day to have full benefits. Do you have a degree? What is your rate? You don’t see anchors on many people under 30. Look into Warrant Officer. A Chief runs the boat, a WO scares Chiefs.

Response by CW3 Alexander VanArsdale (RET) made Dec 8 at 2019 4:42 PM

CW3 Alexander VanArsdale (RET) — Sun, 08 Dec 2019 16:42:17 -0500

https://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=109779

Navy Launches Advancement-to-Position Program

Navy announced the creation of a program with an advancement incentive to fill priority recruiter and RDC billets June 3, in NAVADMIN 122/19.

Response by SGT Justin Rotenberry made Dec 10 at 2019 4:35 PM

SGT Justin Rotenberry — Tue, 10 Dec 2019 16:35:19 -0500

When I PCSd to Ft Bliss in 2010, when they stood 2-5 up, there was a SPC who was among the first, within a few months he was at the board, within the year he went to the board again for his 6. He had just been in for 3 years, but due to circumstances, and the need for NCOs caused him to have those opportunities. He ended up being pretty good, I didn’t put rank him so I didn’t see him from that perspective, but he didn’t get into trouble and he was awarded a few times so there’s that.

Response by MSG Justin S. made Dec 14 at 2019 6:14 PM

MSG Justin S. — Sat, 14 Dec 2019 18:14:22 -0500

I made E5 in 18 months. Was 23 and did just fine. Was promoted on the battlefield in Vietnam. Was RA in 1967 and retired as a MSG after 27 years of service.

Response by WO1 Mike Dwyer made Jan 4 at 2020 8:43 PM

WO1 Mike Dwyer — Sat, 04 Jan 2020 20:43:45 -0500

I enlisted in 1977 as an E3 due to having a college degree, made E4 about six months later. Became an E5 in 1979. Stayed an E5 through the rest of my enlistment, stayed an E5 in the National Guard 1980-85. I finally made E6 in 1988 the day before I departed for Warrant Officer Candidate School.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2020 7:10 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 06 Jan 2020 07:10:16 -0500

I've seen it done; a very talented Army Cook named Farkas I believe; he won some Division level contests and became the Division or Corps Commander's personal cook.

Response by SSG William Ryan made Jan 6 at 2020 6:21 PM

SSG William Ryan — Mon, 06 Jan 2020 18:21:47 -0500

3 years? 46 months TIS is minimum for E-6 ..... E-7 is 7 you can do 8 in 9 and 9 in 12. Unless this has changed ...

Response by PO3 Jake Lucid made Jan 6 at 2020 9:42 PM

PO3 Jake Lucid — Mon, 06 Jan 2020 21:42:51 -0500

Rank too soon...yes. it creates a myriad of issues stemming from inexperience in the leadership demands of a higher rank.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jan 7 at 2020 2:13 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Tue, 07 Jan 2020 14:13:57 -0500

Yes. I met a 1SG who had no clue how to write an NCOER, and he lacked the desire to learn.

Response by TSgt Jon Eckertson made Jan 7 at 2020 3:42 PM

TSgt Jon Eckertson — Tue, 07 Jan 2020 15:42:54 -0500

I's say Yes! Possibly! For most individuals the answer is probably Yes, however, it really depends on the individual and their maturity!!

Response by SPC Juli Reid made Jan 9 at 2020 8:39 AM

SPC Juli Reid — Thu, 09 Jan 2020 08:39:42 -0500

I think there is. While it certainly takes dedication to gain rank this quickly, the responsibilities of the rank require a certain maturity, both age wise and military wise. Without that, problems can arise with regards to respect earned from lower enlisted and with regards to how the responsibilities of the rank are carried out and the maturity with which decisions are made.

Response by PO1 Thomas Schauer made Jan 9 at 2020 9:40 AM

PO1 Thomas Schauer — Thu, 09 Jan 2020 09:40:29 -0500

I made E-5 in 13 months in the army. I was still the same person who joined the Army as an E-1.

Response by SP5 Gene Kirk made Jan 9 at 2020 11:10 AM

SP5 Gene Kirk — Thu, 09 Jan 2020 11:10:56 -0500

I made. 3rd Infantry soldier of the month in 1966 and was promoted to E4 which helped to accelerate my promotion to E5. I was E5 in 15 months after enlisting. I was only 19 but a mature 19. Guess it depends on the person.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2020 1:37 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Jan 2020 13:37:43 -0500

Yes and no, but can never be a bad thing even if you did you might have a big learning curve. with that being said you take the pay raise and learn of the job training adapt and overcome

Response by SGT Shane Larson made Jan 9 at 2020 4:09 PM

SGT Shane Larson — Thu, 09 Jan 2020 16:09:01 -0500

Yes, but then again I think they need Specialist ranks back way to many move up that should not be in charge of shit.

Response by PO1 Kenneth Dillon made Jan 10 at 2020 1:22 PM

PO1 Kenneth Dillon — Fri, 10 Jan 2020 13:22:36 -0500

When I was in one had to have 10 years time in service before one could take exam for E7, but that was (peacetime) Navy.

Response by SSG Roger Klein made Jan 10 at 2020 6:15 PM

SSG Roger Klein — Fri, 10 Jan 2020 18:15:54 -0500

I made E6 in 5 years, than stayed at that rank for 8 years through no fault of my own, the Army just did not have many E7s retiring so no openings for E7. I was in signal so maybe it was different for other specialties.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 11 at 2020 12:22 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Jan 2020 00:22:41 -0500

Yes, I have run into Senior NCO's that advanced quickly and then was frustrated because they didn't know how to handle Soldiers, didn't understand Military protocol and knew nothing of field operations which resulted in taking it out those that did. I believe in the rite of passage and to become a Senior NCO you should spend time in each rank and earn that rank.

Response by PO1 Gery Bastiani made Jan 11 at 2020 12:29 AM

PO1 Gery Bastiani — Sat, 11 Jan 2020 00:29:02 -0500

I made E6 / UT1 within 5 yrs. Came in as a E3, but that was it for the next 7 yrs after I became eligible for Chief /E7 wasn't happening when they give the advancement exams just once a year and only make 3 to 4, E7 a year makes it a little hard compared to other rates in the Navy

Response by HN Johnny Robinson made Jan 11 at 2020 12:01 PM

HN Johnny Robinson — Sat, 11 Jan 2020 12:01:25 -0500

I came out of boot camp as an E-3 due to both AF JROTC training in high school and Army ROTC Summer Camp right out of high school; unfortunately, my father had an accident soon afterward and I took a hardship discharge soon.

My older brother and his entore family was at Harold E Holt Communications Station, NW Cape, Aussieland at the time and my youngest brother was only 12 years old..old enough to drive the old truck and tractor on the farm, but not old enough to take Mom and Dad to the doctor or grocery store.

It is possible from what I have been told, but it depends a lot of the 'needs' of the military service and the capabilities of the individual.

One of my good friends in the military went from being a E-4 to a O-3 overnight due to a critical need in his specialty field and his ability to adapt and change quickly. So it is possible but not probable.

I was in Fleet Marine Medic training when my discharge came through; I was told that they would take me back once I got my Dad off the farm, but I did not realize how attached to the land the peole of gthe Missouri Oxzarks are, and it didn't happen.

Response by SSG Dennis Blanton made Jan 11 at 2020 1:40 PM

SSG Dennis Blanton — Sat, 11 Jan 2020 13:40:15 -0500

I made E6(ssgt) in 22 months. Was in Vietnam and made the rank by field promotion without any promotion board. Went over as E4 out of AIT and moved 2 ranks in 10 months. Did my job well in Vietnam but not very well coming back stateside.

Response by SGT Shawn James Corter made Jan 12 at 2020 1:33 PM

SGT Shawn James Corter — Sun, 12 Jan 2020 13:33:06 -0500

I don't think it is in some circumstances. Especially if they come in as an E4. Hard charger. Promoted in a year to E5. 2 more to E6. Makes E6 in 3 years.

Response by SP5 Wilbert Jennings made Jan 12 at 2020 10:04 PM

SP5 Wilbert Jennings — Sun, 12 Jan 2020 22:04:06 -0500

In 68-69 Vietnam lieutenants fresh out of Officers candidate school with no history of service were telling enlisted E_5 & E-6 2nd or 3rd tousr what to do?????

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Jan 13 at 2020 12:30 PM

CWO2 Shelby DuBois — Mon, 13 Jan 2020 12:30:24 -0500

I joined the Marine Corps in 73... and somehow, made Sgt in 23 months. Yes...it can be both a boon and detriment in making rank fast. You are expected to mature faster than your peers. And while you are given more responsibility you are automatically competing with others with much more time in grade/service. More often than not, your success will depend on the type of leadership you have and your ability to lead the Marines entrusted to you.

Response by CPO Donald Crisp made Jan 14 at 2020 11:45 AM

CPO Donald Crisp — Tue, 14 Jan 2020 11:45:11 -0500

I would agree with CSM Sweeney in that it is a matter of maturity! Having basic knowledge is all they (the service) requires, plus time in rank/time in service, but you have to keep in mind that as "the Chief", you'll be called upon to be so much more than you were as a PO1. If you advance quickly, make sure you have a good mentor(s) to help you out when you reach the point of having to say "I don't know!" And remember, when you do have to say it, and you will, follow up that statement with "but, I'll find the answer and get back to you", then do it. I believe that if you are going to make a career of the military, advance as quickly as you can, but make sure you keep the swelled head in Davy Jones' Locker where it belongs!

Response by MSG Warren Neill made Jan 14 at 2020 6:02 PM

MSG Warren Neill — Tue, 14 Jan 2020 18:02:48 -0500

I went to Vietnam as a Grunt. Upon my return I branch transferred to Finance. I was working in Out-processing with 2nd Armored Division Finance, Ft Hood, TX, when who appears before me, one of the Grunts from my Infantry unit (C 3/21, 196th LIB). I was shocked to see that he had made E-6. He was a draftee and had almost a year's time in grade. Here he was out-processing and leaving the Army. A large part of our unit was KIA or WIA during Tet 68 (I left Dec 67, missed it by less than a month) and he found himself as platoon Sgt. He knew if he stayed in he was going back to RVN. He decided to git while the gittin' was good. I believe he earned it and it wasn't premature at the time.....

Response by SFC Robert Walton made Jan 19 at 2020 10:57 AM

SFC Robert Walton — Sun, 19 Jan 2020 10:57:42 -0500

IMHO Many times it has to do with senior leadership and MOS. Many MOS's got funneled together at SFC which slows the promotion at lower levels. JMT

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2020 4:13 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 31 Jan 2020 16:13:28 -0500

Way too quick

Response by SPC Robert Bobo made Feb 3 at 2020 4:07 PM

SPC Robert Bobo — Mon, 03 Feb 2020 16:07:06 -0500

Yep, it is certainly doable, top performers typically standout, the key here is to take the opportunity to improve your skill sets and earn the respect of your subordinates ,superiors and piers , never sale yourself short

Response by PO1 J. David Stephenson made Feb 18 at 2020 4:04 PM

PO1 J. David Stephenson — Tue, 18 Feb 2020 16:04:56 -0500

I joined the Navy on 19OCT64 as an E-1 and became an E-6 a little after 5 years of active duty. Being a Hospital Corpsman during the Vietnam era I believe made that possible. The only drawback was being only 22 years old with a peer group being somewhat older. However, the responsibilities were compatible with my experience and abilities.

Response by John H Green Jr made Feb 19 at 2020 1:22 PM

John H Green Jr — Wed, 19 Feb 2020 13:22:26 -0500

I had an E6 who made rank so fast her first NCOER was as an E6.

Response by SSG Ricky Johnson made Feb 19 at 2020 7:13 PM

SSG Ricky Johnson — Wed, 19 Feb 2020 19:13:32 -0500

I’m a little surprised here. Comments seem to be fair as to speed of a person to be promoted needs to rest with their ability to soak up the necessary leadership requirements for the rank. This is not just to the bottom of the enlisted ranks. 2LTs coming out of some podunk div III college with a degree in basketweaving is in the same position as the E5 or E6 promoted in 3-4 years. Both need to shut up and listen to older more wiser soldiers before they try to take on the world.

Response by MSgt Stephen Watson made Feb 19 at 2020 9:47 PM

MSgt Stephen Watson — Wed, 19 Feb 2020 21:47:25 -0500

Yes. With experience comes rank and respect. I will assume this individual was in a critical MOS and was prmoted quickly in order to retain him/her.

Response by Msabah Sange made Feb 20 at 2020 5:36 AM

Msabah Sange — Thu, 20 Feb 2020 05:36:53 -0500

Yes, health that is esssential for humans.

Response by PO1 Lyndon Thomas made Feb 20 at 2020 9:13 AM

PO1 Lyndon Thomas — Thu, 20 Feb 2020 09:13:13 -0500

Yes.

Response by PFC James Anderson made Feb 20 at 2020 10:22 AM

PFC James Anderson — Thu, 20 Feb 2020 10:22:16 -0500

Not positive but I dont think 3 years TIS is enough for an E-6 SSG promotion or rank without a battlefield promotion. I dont even think that's enough time even with a waiver.

Response by SSG Randy Eberling made Feb 20 at 2020 10:53 AM

SSG Randy Eberling — Thu, 20 Feb 2020 10:53:06 -0500

I went from E2 to E5 in Vietnam and still had a year left in the Army when I left Vietnam and @ my next duty station I was boarded for E6

Response by SP5 Bob Underwood made Feb 20 at 2020 11:37 AM

SP5 Bob Underwood — Thu, 20 Feb 2020 11:37:43 -0500

I made E5 in 18 months, with the help of Vietnam.

Response by SSG Vincent Wilson made Feb 20 at 2020 10:18 PM

SSG Vincent Wilson — Thu, 20 Feb 2020 22:18:25 -0500

Came in as an E-1, made E-5 in 37 months. As soon as I started to become proficient at my job, I got promoted and was flying by the seat of my pants again. At the time I felt I was a steaming pile of unrealized potential. Looking back now after having my own business for more than 20 years I think I may have been a little hard on myself. I didn't fully realize how much the Army had taught me. Very, very thankful for everything I learned from some fantastic senior NCO's.

Response by SGT Fernando Villaamil made Feb 21 at 2020 8:35 AM

SGT Fernando Villaamil — Fri, 21 Feb 2020 08:35:28 -0500

I made E5 in 6 months but then again it was Vietnam 1969-1970 and I was in the 1st Infantry Infantry and yes I was ahead of the curve in regards to responsibility to the squad and volunteering for things no one wanted ( like becoming a point man ).

Response by CPT Don Kemp made Feb 21 at 2020 3:42 PM

CPT Don Kemp — Fri, 21 Feb 2020 15:42:53 -0500

I made Sgt E-5 in 2.5 years and SSG E-6 in 4 years. I was in the right place at the right time and rang the right bells / jumped through the right hoops. I’d rather be lucky than good any day.

Response by SPC Joshua Dawson made Feb 22 at 2020 5:16 AM

SPC Joshua Dawson — Sat, 22 Feb 2020 05:16:00 -0500

I stayed as an E4 even though I was in for 5 years, 5 years on a 3 year contract. One of my senior ncos kept hounding me and another E4 about going to the E5 board and I finally told him that I did not feel that I was ready for it yet and he told me that I would be an nco by the time we redeployed and I said that's fine but I'm not ready for it right now. I started working with the other E4 with me and we started studying for the board and doing correspondence courses together. Then when we both approached the senior nco that kept hounding us both about going to the promotion board and told him that we felt that we were ready to go to the board he turned around and gave us verbal and written counseling on why he WAS NOT recommending us to go to the board.

Response by CPO James Soper made Feb 22 at 2020 11:57 AM

CPO James Soper — Sat, 22 Feb 2020 11:57:55 -0500

E-6 in 3 years may be a little to soon. Circumstances may have warranted this and the service member may have been older. I made E-6 in 6 yrs and E-7 in 9 1/2 years. This was plenty fast enough for a 28 year old and a lot more responsibility for a young person. However, look at the average age of the branches and you will see who the "old men" really are.

Response by SFC William Ramsey made Feb 23 at 2020 7:55 PM

SFC William Ramsey — Sun, 23 Feb 2020 19:55:34 -0500

I did not make rank that fast, however I had a squared away team leader (this was in the infantry) who made E-6 in 18 months... and i watched several people in my early years, make it to E-5 in 18 months as well.

Response by CH (LTC) Robert Leroe made Feb 23 at 2020 8:34 PM

CH (LTC) Robert Leroe — Sun, 23 Feb 2020 20:34:01 -0500

Chaplains had a similar dilemma. Those coming on active duty were made Captains, and people assumed they had knowledge and experience. Now they come on as 1LTs, which is better.

Response by MSG Christopher McKinley made Feb 24 at 2020 2:30 PM

MSG Christopher McKinley — Mon, 24 Feb 2020 14:30:58 -0500

I made E-8 in 13 so yes

Response by PO2 David Allender made Feb 25 at 2020 12:09 AM

PO2 David Allender — Tue, 25 Feb 2020 00:09:58 -0500

There is just too much to learn in the Navy or any other branch of the servile, to make E-6 in three years. You'll step on your toes and make a big fool of your self. Learn what you need or each pay grade, that way your part of a great organization. Then you'll not only be a great leader, but knowledgeable enough to help others. Think, don't act first. If you don't know what you are doing, then you not only fail those under you, but yourself also.

Response by SGM Ronald Cheatom made Feb 25 at 2020 9:25 AM

SGM Ronald Cheatom — Tue, 25 Feb 2020 09:25:06 -0500

I do not believe, rank is age specific, as long as, the older, wiser NCOs take the time to mentor the young ones. Some people are gifted, with the maturity, and intellect, along with some good common sense, to make fine NCOs, at a young age.

Response by 1SG Clyde Kessler made Feb 29 at 2020 10:08 PM

1SG Clyde Kessler — Sat, 29 Feb 2020 22:08:36 -0500

I joined the Army on 8 Dec 1947 (at age 17) and was discharged on 14 Feb 1948 on a medical discharge. I enlisted again (fraudelent) on 28 July 1948 (got the fraudelent mess all squared away and no charges filed). I made Cpl E4 on 4 Dec 1950, SSgt E5 on 11 July 1951, SFC E6 on 9 Feb 1953 and then a long haul to SFC E7 on 14 Aug 1961 and then MSG E8 on 16 Mar 1966 (retired on 1 July 1972. When I made E6, I was 23 years of age and NCOIC of a large Comm Center. My last 6 years in were as 1SGT of 4 Army Security Agency Agency units. I feel I was not too young or got promoted too fast. I really enjoyed my Army career although they kept me overseas for 15 1/2 years with duty in Korea and Vietnam.

Response by FN Charlie Spivey made Mar 5 at 2020 10:13 AM

FN Charlie Spivey — Thu, 05 Mar 2020 10:13:47 -0500

I am aware of someone who made E-7 in under 4. he was what we call a "Slick Sleeve" as he had no Hash marks. They would let him in the CPO Club at Cape May, until he got a hash mark. He was an ET ( Electronics Technician ). He got his hash mark and a Shipping over Bonus which was $12.000, and that was a lot of money in '66. I got some of it playing poker. LOL

Response by MSG Darren Gaddy made Mar 12 at 2020 5:26 PM

MSG Darren Gaddy — Thu, 12 Mar 2020 17:26:11 -0400

During my time, I’ve had Squad Leaders/SSGs who couldn’t write awards and NCOERs, basic NCO stuff it seems but the truth is they just didn’t have any experience in doing them. I had a couple who couldn’t do MFRs or use effective Army writing, but were great during training exercises and down range. Exposure and experience plays a part in leadership, so time may or may not be irrelevant. My experiences have proven that one duty station and quick promotions only create leadership issues later on. Just my opinion, means nothing!

Response by PO1 Redone Heart made Mar 17 at 2020 6:15 PM

PO1 Redone Heart — Tue, 17 Mar 2020 18:15:30 -0400

Depends on the individual. I made E-6 in just under 4 years due to a perfect set of circumstances. I enlisted as an E-3 because I had 3 years of college. I was a hospital corpsman during Vietnam and because of this rate’s mortality rate, all required time in grade was halved. The only less than desirable aspect of being rapidly advanced was going to Vietnam with the Marines who treated us just great. The increased pay was really nice and allowed me to go back to college for 3-1//2 years, complete a pharmacy degree, an graduate with only a $3000 debt.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2020 7:46 PM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 20 Mar 2020 19:46:50 -0400

I personally think you probably deserved the promotion. I was in a unit that I couldn't get promoted because of lack of leadership showing me how to be. Good luck in your promotion sir. Wish you the best sincerely!

Response by SSgt Clare May made Mar 21 at 2020 9:48 AM

SSgt Clare May — Sat, 21 Mar 2020 09:48:24 -0400

Time in service is part of the equation... E6 should not be achieved in any branch until at a minimum of 7 years....unless in a active combat situation, or becasue of a combat action....and that should not be an E6 promotion...it should be a O2 or O3 with OTS schooling to follow when the active combat issue has resolved...Yeah I went there...

Response by PO1 David Hayes made Mar 21 at 2020 8:28 PM

PO1 David Hayes — Sat, 21 Mar 2020 20:28:44 -0400

I made E6 in four year and could have made E7 in five or six but got out and went to College. My rate was critical and there were no problems so as long as the tests were passed and scores were high enough and marks were good enough there was no reason not to make E6 in four years. Fortunately I looked older than 23.

Response by 1SG Raymond Benning made Mar 22 at 2020 11:02 AM

1SG Raymond Benning — Sun, 22 Mar 2020 11:02:00 -0400

I think that there is a big difference in leadership experience and technical capabilities. There are some technical MOS's that make it very easy to get promoted to E-7 quickly however, the Combat Arms professions in the Army provide the easiest route. There are just a significant amount of billets to be filled. Personally, I was selected for SFC (E-7) in 9 years and I found myself drinking from a fire hose. It was extremely challenging but not impossible. I hit the books and operated as a sponge daily. Pick a few good mentors who you trust and get other Senior NCO's perspectives on your leadership. Many will be different so try to find that common thread between all of them and implement it. More often than not, I found myself questioning my ability and my decisions early on. Once I got comfortable with myself through experience things got easier. Remember to educate yourself and the experience will come.

Response by SFC Greg Bruorton made Mar 22 at 2020 5:31 PM

SFC Greg Bruorton — Sun, 22 Mar 2020 17:31:36 -0400

I made Sergeant E-5 in two years from my enlistment in Korea. Promoted to E-6 four years later, and to E-7 three years later (1969). I had a very low number for E-8 and was promoted in August 1979 but declined it because of a fractured back and family situation.
The deciding factor that gave me great assistance was attending the 3rd Army NCO Academy at Fort Jackson in 1963 and keeping the NCO Guide handy. I maintained a STRAC attitude through the remainder of my career.

Certainly, there were a few times when my mouth shot off when silence was best but I managed throughout the career. No Article 15s at all. I might relate a story of what might have happened to end my career but that will come later.

Response by 1LT Timothy Kahn made Mar 23 at 2020 12:00 AM

1LT Timothy Kahn — Mon, 23 Mar 2020 00:00:08 -0400

In the Army, if you have a A.S. In Nursing & licensed in any state. You are automatically promoted to Sgt./E-5!! Yet if you are a BSN, you come in as a 0-1!! It’s screwed up system, because if an ASN, take the same friggen National exam as a BSN!! Thus, many times that the ASN has to orient these new grads!!! They should make ASN’s CWO’s. Or the military is going to lose every ASN who is generally “floor” proficient than the new BSN, not to be forced train them, unless they are Officers!!! I could tell you horribly true things that are swept rug, including the new MD’s, who would not even to the RN’s comments regarding a patient who had a simple surgery, yet 6 days after admission was dead

Response by SGT Sebastian Paramo made Mar 23 at 2020 11:47 PM

SGT Sebastian Paramo — Mon, 23 Mar 2020 23:47:11 -0400

X-rays tend to make E6 in about 3 years after completing the SFAS and SFQC pipeline.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2020 11:13 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2020 11:13:53 -0400

Honestly I think the military has to get away from letting anyone with a degree be an officer. I have seen in my career to many new officers that do not know how to lead but are given command just because they have a degree. The system is broken and it needs to be fixed. You should be given rank based on your abilities and your knowledge not just because you went to college. I’m pursuing a Doctorate degree right now as an enlisted Soldier and my knowledge base is far beyond most Officers in Command positions now. I think that there should be a career path once you make E-6 whether or not you want to go the officer route, enlisted or warrant. You should not be able to be an officer straight out of College. I think this is the militaries downfall. This has to change if we want to get back to being the worlds greatest military.

Response by Brig Gen Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2020 3:29 PM

Brig Gen Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Mar 2020 15:29:17 -0400

I saw something similar in Medical School. Jefferson had a 5 year program in which High School graduates went to Penn State for the next summer, academic year, the NEXT summer, then (when they would have been sophomores in college) started their first of 4 years at Jefferson. The next summer they were back at Penn State, then they finished their 2nd, 3rd and 4th years at Jefferson. And there you are; 5 years out from High School and you have MD after your name.
These kids stuck out in our class. They were, of course, brilliant. But they had NO real world experience. We more traditional 4 year college grads had at LEAST figured out how to handle alcohol and unsupervised social interactions. These folks had not even gotten that far yet.
Being a doctor is about WAY more than book learning. It's about life. A LOT of what we do in uniform is the same. You don't really learn about the life part until you've experienced it.

Response by SSG Justin Owens made Mar 24 at 2020 8:04 PM

SSG Justin Owens — Tue, 24 Mar 2020 20:04:11 -0400

I worked with a guy in Germany who made E7 in under 7 years. I'm not sure what year he made E6 he made E6 right before I got there or right after I cant really remember. The man did well he joined in his late 30s and had a good head on his shoulders. He is now a LTC after becoming an officer shortly after making E7. He made the right connections after making runner up NCO of the year for the army one year we were together. He knew how to impress all the right people

Response by MAJ Seth Goldstein made Mar 25 at 2020 10:22 AM

MAJ Seth Goldstein — Wed, 25 Mar 2020 10:22:29 -0400

I've only seen that happen downrage where they case waive leadership school until you return.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2020 11:20 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Mar 2020 11:20:14 -0400

All it comes down to is maturity level. As an Enlisted, I made E6 in 4 years as a 71L when the cut-off score was at 798 and then it took me forever to even make the E7 list (9 1/2 years) after I had already applied for OCS

Response by SGM Kenneth Stanton made Mar 26 at 2020 6:48 PM

SGM Kenneth Stanton — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 18:48:36 -0400

Yes, you can be promoted to soon. I have been retired for over 30 years and things may have changed for example I though there was a set number of years of service to get promoted? again it may just be that things have changed in the 32 years that I have been retired. CSM Sweeney I commend you. SGM Ken Stanton

Response by A1C Ed Rose made Mar 26 at 2020 8:50 PM

A1C Ed Rose — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 20:50:40 -0400

My dad, who just recently passed away, made E6 in 4 years back in the early 60. Had he stayed in would have been E9 before the 8 year hitch. So I have no problems with fast rank. Just be worthy of it

Response by MSgt Robert Davidson made Mar 27 at 2020 8:04 PM

MSgt Robert Davidson — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 20:04:44 -0400

Should be promoted on knowledge, leadership and ability. Be all you can be. Most of us in Army Armor made E5 in 2 years. Hard to believe some 20 year E6's in the AirForce, before they finally made them progress or get out.

Response by SPC Josh Leuck made Mar 27 at 2020 11:17 PM

SPC Josh Leuck — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 23:17:03 -0400

I got out as an E4. I was an E4P but I was screwed over by my battalion commander. I got medically discharged. About a year out from getting discharged I asked the promotable designation be removed. 3 years is hella quick.

Response by MSG Dale Haworth made Mar 28 at 2020 9:08 AM

MSG Dale Haworth — Sat, 28 Mar 2020 09:08:15 -0400

Great job I made Sgt E-5 at 18 mos then SSG. E-6 in 28 months and I was 22 yrs old and Msg E-8 buy the time a was 32 everything is possible just being in the right place at the right time.Retired in 1986

Response by MSG Gilbert Berg made Mar 28 at 2020 10:26 AM

MSG Gilbert Berg — Sat, 28 Mar 2020 10:26:09 -0400

I made E8 in 20 years, 1953-73, Started AGR in ‘73 as E8. In’76 took a reduction in rank W/O preg to E7, promoted back to E8 in ‘79 till I retired in November 30, 1993, when I bace 60 yrs old..

Response by Cpl Bobbylee Dominguez made Mar 28 at 2020 2:00 PM

Cpl Bobbylee Dominguez — Sat, 28 Mar 2020 14:00:55 -0400

First no one makes rank, rank is earned if you are told different then that person is some how just jealous.

Response by SSG Eric Blue made Mar 29 at 2020 10:33 PM

SSG Eric Blue — Sun, 29 Mar 2020 22:33:29 -0400

Maybe. I don't know for certain because I made rank way too late (not my fault). BUT, I've seen a number of enlisted soldiers who shouldn't have made rank as quickly as they did, nor were they ready for the duty positions they were given. But I assume they knew the right people because they didn't get reduced. And no one seemed to care that they kept failing, other than the troops they were letting down..

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2020 11:52 PM

Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Mar 2020 23:52:49 -0400

It is NOT abt age but Maturity !

Response by CPL Kristi Mason made Apr 17 at 2020 1:50 PM

CPL Kristi Mason — Fri, 17 Apr 2020 13:50:31 -0400

I joined when I was 21. In HS I was in ROTC and played sports. In College, I played two sports softball and basketball and worked. I knew i would have been a better NCO than the useless squad leader we had who made e-5 with a waiver. It would have taken a waiver for me to be promoted and they didn't want two NCO's on a waiver in the same platoon.

91-99 I went in as an E-3, made e-4 in less than a year. I had enough promotion points to make e-7 at my 4-year mark. I maxed out on Military education points and Civilian education points. The only place I could get more points was my PT test but no way I was scoring 300 on that. My only issue of not getting promoted was going to PLDC. Every time I was slotted to go I blew out my knees. They have both been replaced now. I was Active 91-96 then NG

Response by COL Ed Gibson made Apr 26 at 2020 2:47 PM

COL Ed Gibson — Sun, 26 Apr 2020 14:47:57 -0400

Time in grade should be a commanders decision based on the soldiers performance during the time in grade required for promotion. I made E-5 twice in 1945 and Colonel once in 1970.At age 94 I am blessed with good health and numerous opportunities to provide a free transition service to Military Engineers in transition or whoever comes my way. [login to see]

Response by A1C Jerry Andrews made Apr 28 at 2020 9:40 PM

A1C Jerry Andrews — Tue, 28 Apr 2020 21:40:46 -0400

My older brother was one of the youngest Chiefs in the Navy in the early 60s. He had a specialty that only one other guy had and was ready to muster out. They offered him 30 grand to re-up but he said if the Navy could arrange for him to take the Chiefs test, he would re-up. Pass or fail. They did and he passed!

Response by PO2 Michael Henry made May 3 at 2020 1:36 PM

PO2 Michael Henry — Sun, 03 May 2020 13:36:41 -0400

Made E-3 out of basic, E-4 at 8-9 months due to an automatic promotion after "A" school, E 5 at the 2.5-year mark. I moved up way before I was ready.

Response by MSgt Jeff Greene made May 3 at 2020 6:55 PM

MSgt Jeff Greene — Sun, 03 May 2020 18:55:36 -0400

You have to learn to be a follower before you can be a leader. You have to learn to follow orders before you can give them. Leaders and supervisors are made not born.

Response by COL Carl Jensen made May 4 at 2020 9:40 AM

COL Carl Jensen — Mon, 04 May 2020 09:40:51 -0400

My father in law made E-7 in 2 years. He was USAAF stationed on Tinian Island Aug 1945. He was a little upset when his daughter told him she was dating an older guy who was married before. When I asked her to go to a formal with me, she told her father I was coming to pick her up. He wasn't that thrilled until I showed up as a major in dress blues, and all of a sudden I became God in his eyes.

Response by SGT Joseph Dutton made May 4 at 2020 11:52 PM

SGT Joseph Dutton — Mon, 04 May 2020 23:52:47 -0400

I was in the Navy and in the Army. I seen in both services where enlisted was getting promoted faster and quicker than their peers. We called it "Getting promoted by the Knee Pad Test". Most generally those whom advance faster & quicker than their peers usually don't know their Butt Hole from a hole in the ground and furthermore can't lead. I understand there is billet issue and that's where Frocking comes into play by a commander because the commander put his/her trust in him/her, but has to pass their MOS/Rating/SQT testing but not advanced. I think MOS/Rating/SQT testing should be across the board with all services. If one passes their MOS/Rating/SQT test then should be promoted IAW TIS & Billet availability. Get rid of promoting on the point system. The point system should be added based on their awards & accomplishments on the end of passing their MOS/Rating/SQT testing score. My last input is that someone with a college degree isn't any smarter than a person with or without a GED. Know your job, duties & responsabilities of the next rank, get promoted.

Response by SMSgt Archie Hickerson made May 5 at 2020 12:48 PM

SMSgt Archie Hickerson — Tue, 05 May 2020 12:48:40 -0400

There really may be something to making rank too soon; I made E-8 rather quickly. After my selection I made a trip to my command HQ, joint command, and the deputy commander, USAF colonel, called me into his office to advise me that I might have made E-8 too soon and could hurt me in making E-9; while on the other hand the commander, a two-star U.S. Marine endorsed me all the way. The Colonel told me he had sat on many selection boards and had seen this often; as it turns out I did miss E-9, Chief Master Sergeant, in two cycles by .75 each of the two years...decided to retire. HN

Response by SFC Rapfeal Mayfield made May 6 at 2020 11:24 AM

SFC Rapfeal Mayfield — Wed, 06 May 2020 11:24:40 -0400

I think someone can make rank too soon. There has to be some time for that person to learn prior to being promoted. You have to learn to be a leader at lower level with smaller groups or teams prior to being put in charge of larger groups. As far as how long...it will depend on the person. Some are just natural leaders and some have to actually developed leadership skills. The development time is paramount.

Response by BG Mike Bridges made May 7 at 2020 2:29 AM

BG Mike Bridges — Thu, 07 May 2020 02:29:19 -0400

Yes. Bless you on your rank advancement, but you were promoted way too fast for proper development in a wholesome military career.

Response by SGT Gerald Hassler made May 7 at 2020 8:56 AM

SGT Gerald Hassler — Thu, 07 May 2020 08:56:15 -0400

One year in Nam I went as an E-2 and came back an E-5, so however long it takes to make rank, if it gets you out of the mundane things not doing, just leading, worth it.

Response by CPT Allan Lobeck made May 7 at 2020 11:03 AM

CPT Allan Lobeck — Thu, 07 May 2020 11:03:06 -0400

Just like on combat you must consider all things before deciding. When I went to Vietnam and joined an mechanized infantry platoon as a 2nd LT the first ting I had to do was pick a squad leader to be platoon SGT. Since I just arrived I asked MY CO for advice. He said I had 2 choices. A 19 year old E5 or a 37 year old E5. Based on input from another platoon leader I choose the 19 year old. He was promoted to E6 and performed extremely well. We were in combat 77 days in a row during the TET offensive. We never lost a man (a lot of wounded) mostly because of my platoon SGT. I must say for his age he was very mature. A long story made short, based on his performance 2 weeks before he left Vietnam I had him promoted to E7. right after his promotion he signed up for a 2nd tour. Age is not the only reason a person should or should not be promoted. Many many other items must be considered.

Allan Lobeck
[login to see]

Response by SSG William Zopff III made May 7 at 2020 4:04 PM

SSG William Zopff III — Thu, 07 May 2020 16:04:38 -0400

In the ARMY I made SGT in 4 years, SSG in 4 more years, and retired after 14 years as a SSG. A lot happened from 1987 to 2008: Panama, Desert Shield/Storm, Mogadishu, Bosnia, 9/11, Afghanistan, 2nd Desert Storm and more Afghanistan. As a medical Radiology specialist then as a NCO; over that time the requirements to be promoted change from peacetime to wartime to peacetime and back to wartime. I made mistakes and was bullheaded. I personally allowed my bullheadedness to interfere with my sense of responsibility, I did just enough PT to get by. I thought, at one duty station where I worked 12 hour days and was on call the rest of the time 24/7 for 1.5 years, that my leadership didn’t care enough to get me any help. I inside I rebelled, a mistake that allowed me to stay overweight, missing a recruiter assignment in 1995. I was later deselected for recruiter in 1998, which I attended; recruiting was a challenge for me, getting started was slow. Once I got started I enlisted more, (1999) but my weight problem ended that path. In 2001, returning from Honduras, 9/11 occurred, I wasn’t allowed to deploy, that is about when deployments became a promotion requirement for E-7. So, wanting to be a Radiology Instructor, for the first time in my career, I asked DA for an assignment. During 2002-03 I began as an instructor.

Response by SGM Omer Dalton made May 7 at 2020 5:48 PM

SGM Omer Dalton — Thu, 07 May 2020 17:48:46 -0400

I don’t know about the army today and speed of promotions. I joined in 1960 and retired in 1982. During the early 60s it was not unusual for NCOs to retire in grades E5 and E6. I saw some quit old captains and majors. Enlisted senior grade promotions were not centralized. Then Vietnam happened. I made E6 in 5 years just a little over a year TIG and E7 with 7 years TIG at age 27. Made E8 in 12 years and E9 at 17 years. Good for me but not sure it was right for the army. All that aside, yes I was promoted way to fast. Real maturity and realization really didn’t show up until after I made E8 and found out big time I had a lot of catching up to do. It was not easy to supervise and lead soldiers much older than you and with much more experience. Bottom line maturity, experience, and leadership ability should should be the keys to promotion not a bunch of paper.

Response by SGT Rick McBride made May 7 at 2020 7:55 PM

SGT Rick McBride — Thu, 07 May 2020 19:55:55 -0400

I was lucky was promoted to Spec 4 early after 15 months then lateral to Cpl 3 months later while stateside then PCS’d to Germany and made E-5 at 2 years 3 months. This was back in mid to late 70’s and I joined the Army when I was almost 21. My dad was a Marine and I had to take care of his uniforms, boots and brass so my own always looked clean and creased. I took a lot of correspondence courses for points and did well in all assigned duties, I did get out after 3 years so I never knew where I would have retired at if I would have stayed in.

Response by SSG Wilber Broadway made May 7 at 2020 10:26 PM

SSG Wilber Broadway — Thu, 07 May 2020 22:26:55 -0400

I respect fast trackers however; my personal experience their I’ll equipped to lead troops in critical thinking moments like combat.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2020 1:21 PM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 08 May 2020 13:21:31 -0400

When I worked in the Tampa MEPS. Back in 1998-1999. In the National Guard liaison office. A high school graduate with 4 years of jrrotc. As soon as BCT and AIT we’re completed. They were fast tracked to E-4 and if they got points fast enough they could make E-5 in 3 years. They only needed1 year as E-4 to make E-5. And 2 years as E-5 you can make E-6. With enough points and told and Enoch.

Response by SP5 Richard Diamond made May 8 at 2020 4:54 PM

SP5 Richard Diamond — Fri, 08 May 2020 16:54:28 -0400

I made E-5 in 11 months time in service in 1968.

Response by SSG Clayton Lam made May 8 at 2020 6:23 PM

SSG Clayton Lam — Fri, 08 May 2020 18:23:29 -0400

Yes; what experience or knowledge do you have in three years to lead a platoon. Normally a SSG is a squad leader but there are many times where a SSG will be a PSG. I don’t think three years is enough for a person to have gained the knowledge and experience to be in that position.

Response by MAJ Chris Ebertz made May 8 at 2020 10:31 PM

MAJ Chris Ebertz — Fri, 08 May 2020 22:31:03 -0400

E4 in 1 yr

Response by CW5 Mark Smith made May 10 at 2020 2:39 PM

CW5 Mark Smith — Sun, 10 May 2020 14:39:33 -0400

I made E-4 in a year and a half (USMC-Viet Nam). The old salts thought it was the end of the world! Guess they forgot the speed of light promotions in WWII. As most have mentioned, it depends on the individual.

Response by PO1 Kevin Dougherty made May 10 at 2020 11:51 PM

PO1 Kevin Dougherty — Sun, 10 May 2020 23:51:13 -0400

Wow, when I was in the CG I made E-6 under 6, (about 5 for me), and I was considered a hard charger.

Response by SCPO Morris Ramsey made May 11 at 2020 9:28 AM

SCPO Morris Ramsey — Mon, 11 May 2020 09:28:47 -0400

I have never seen anyone turn down a promotion.

Response by SPC(P) Brandon Jenkins made May 11 at 2020 9:41 AM

SPC(P) Brandon Jenkins — Mon, 11 May 2020 09:41:36 -0400

Didn't think battlefield promotions existed anymore. In the Army you can make E5 in 3 but I'm pretty sure there are time-in-service requirements that prevent you from getting too high too fast.

Response by SGT Butch Nebeker made May 11 at 2020 11:36 AM

SGT Butch Nebeker — Mon, 11 May 2020 11:36:54 -0400

1969 E6 in 90 days . Process in elimination E6 rotated home I was next in line . 9th Div. went home I went to 3/47th Mobile Riverines SS Benwa Dong Tam .

Response by SP5 Michael Rathbun made May 11 at 2020 9:58 PM

SP5 Michael Rathbun — Mon, 11 May 2020 21:58:31 -0400

It depends on your training, aptitude and experience. The Army made me an E5 eleven months after my enlistment. (NOTE: "the Army made me..." not "I made E5..."). In my case, I left the service after three years with some senior officer's commendation letters and a BSM.

Then again, there were other "shake'n'bake" E5s who didn't fare so well.

YMMV.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2020 4:18 AM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 12 May 2020 04:18:09 -0400

It depends on several factors. One could be the level of expertise achieved previously or in training a man goes into the nuclear programme comes out in 85 I can't remember how long that program took but what's the level of security clearance level knowledge and the money invested you don't want that gentleman worrying about finances or anything. Then there's the maturity factor very few of us have a military school foundation behind us so it's going to take a couple years to learn be guarded discipline and flat-out learn how to be a good follower which a good follower will make a good leader. Then there was my situation. A ship out the great lakes graduate boot camp they send us next door to NTC so that I can become an engineman I was incredibly wise to utilize the tools around me such as this young man that was going to be going through the nuclear program and two weeks earlier completed the very program that I went through.very bored with his studies as it was not challenging at least at that point for him he was more than happy to sharpen my brain. The school was a self-paced school study material take the test study material take the test everyday I would take three or four tests score 100 on every test and then go home and study another four blocks of instruction and retest as soon as I got in. For a while they were watching me take my examinations. I was doing nothing illegal I was studying the material I had someone to help me retain that knowledge. I graduated top of my class they paid attention to my dream sheet sort of. I want of the tugboat out of the Philippines a tugboat out of California or tugboat out of Norfolk Virginia they gave me Yorktown weapons station no ragrets so two years went by and I found myself add an XO screening as I was doing the correct thing but the perception did not comply. But certainly let the truth be my shield I spoke the truth uxo was in agreement looking for my records he turned his head and looked past me for my chief turn his head to the left look for the back and so am I division officer and said why is this man here in fact why is it this man E4 he was an undergrad out of a school and here he stands before me as in E2 fireman apprentice. So two years prior come to my first command after boot camp in a school I should have been an E4 I guess it would have been what 18 months later going up for E5. So in a total of 2 years from E1 to E5 my contract was for 4 years so why decided to get out. The thing is you have to accumulate points I was on shore duty Year 2 going up for E4. You don't get any points for being on shore duty evals were gold. I can't remember how much PT had an effect but it was above the standard so all I had was my examination which I scored extremely high. I was able to sit in on the E5 exam at 3 years and 4 months mark. My PRD was change to my EAOS as they were reducing forces from the Cold war so once again no sea time no points.once again I scored crazy high on the test because I know my job but because competition with others in my bracket earning points at sea I was fortunate to barely make E5 with .018. I was frocked E5 and then early outed because reducing Force reenlist or get out 3 years 8 months. January 2005 join the army reserves as an E3 get this now October 2010 CW2 . I was in excellent physical condition much more experienced in life and leadership and technically. I was 42 in 2005 when I was 45 I went to fort rucker's Alabama to complete warrant officer candidate School.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2020 3:24 PM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 12 May 2020 15:24:30 -0400

I retired as an E6. But for the bulk of my service was spent in the "old school" Air Force where we still had people retiring as a SSgt. Top 3 was for the top 7% of the force.
Then, about 2 years after I retired, some dipthong chastised me that it only took him 6 years to make E6 and I was somehow degenerate for retiring as one.

I was disheartened and tried to analyze where I went wrong. But then vane to the conclusion that the modern military is promotion happy.
Was this guy READY to be an E6 at 6 years? I would wager not. He probably learned very quickly that RHIR (rank has it's responsibilities) and his maturity level was not conducive to his station.

Still, it kinda hurts when people rocket to E7 and then retire at a higher grade for doing little more than converting O2 to CO2 and occupying space.

I honestly believe the milirltary needs to being back minimum TIG requirements and no one in a supervisory position should have served less than 8 years.
Rank is not a reward for doing well on a test, but a progression of career maturity.

Response by TSgt Dan Decker made May 12 at 2020 11:32 PM

TSgt Dan Decker — Tue, 12 May 2020 23:32:31 -0400

I made E5 in the Air Force in 3 years and 1 month. Then the Air Force opened up my career field to cross-trainees. They were mostly E6 and E7. That froze promotions for the next 12 years or so. I retired at 20 as an E6.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made May 13 at 2020 6:51 AM

SSG Shawn Mcfadden — Wed, 13 May 2020 06:51:55 -0400

THAT, I haven't seen, but I did know an E-6 when I was in Germany long time ago. She had her shit together. First met her in 1990, and the last time I saw her was in 2000, she was graduating ANOC(Advanced NCO Course), the same time I graduated BNOC(Basic NCO COURSE).

Response by SGT Walter Drumm made May 13 at 2020 1:48 PM

SGT Walter Drumm — Wed, 13 May 2020 13:48:07 -0400

If their ability and grasp of the essential skillset is commensurate with rank and responsibilities of such then why not? My u it had a week every 2and quarter where E-4s stepped into the green tab enlisted slots for a week. It was twofold in cslue: first, it helped keep the E-4 mafia grounded in terms of perspective. Less bitching and moaning which negatively affected the conduct/,morale of junior enlisteds. Second it helped leadership identify those with the aptitude for greater responsibility and rank.

Response by SFC Craig Titzkowski made May 18 at 2020 4:52 PM

SFC Craig Titzkowski — Mon, 18 May 2020 16:52:49 -0400

I spent 8 year 3 months in the Navy getting in trouble and made it to E-4 and attended 7 captains Mast. I got the boot and came back on Waivers about 2 years later and joined the Army I went from E-4 to E-7 in 4 1/2 years. I learned alot from alot of great leaders I would say soldiers are like wine better with age and time

Response by PO2 Lawrence Janiec made Jun 5 at 2020 11:06 AM

PO2 Lawrence Janiec — Fri, 05 Jun 2020 11:06:08 -0400

Wow, things must have changed since I was in. (1991 - 1997). I was wearing E5 at 23 months (and it could have been earlier, but that's another story - but even 23 months to get E5 was considered super-fast) and assuming I had made it 6 months earlier, 17 months for E5. At the time when I was in, in order to take the test for E6, you had to have 3 YEARS time in rate as an E5. I took the E6 test 3 times and PNA'd before I got out. But the fact that you were E6 in 3 years was literally impossible when I was in due to TIR requirements for advancement. If I was wearing it at the 1.5 year mark, I could take the first test at the 4.5 year mark (assuming I had perfect timing on it) and then wear it around the 5 year mark. But the 3 year TIR requirement alone meant that if you were E6 in 3 years, then you started your enlistment as an E5..... Wait, what was the question?

Response by CPT Jeff Reichardt made Jun 8 at 2020 10:30 AM

CPT Jeff Reichardt — Mon, 08 Jun 2020 10:30:37 -0400

I went from E1-E4 in 16 months. E5 by 24. Then back to E4. Then E4-E1. Then back to E4 before I got out in my first 4 years in the Army. (78-82) After 24 years as an enlisted, I became an officer. Retired as a Captain. (Never saw O1)

Response by SgtMaj Robert Burke made Jun 8 at 2020 1:52 PM

SgtMaj Robert Burke — Mon, 08 Jun 2020 13:52:37 -0400

I made Lance Corporal in 9 months. After 19 months in Jan, being a squad leader ( with e-4's) under me I returned to the states and at my discharge date left with 27 months in grade. To quick?? Maybe!!

Response by SgtMaj Robert Burke made Jun 8 at 2020 1:54 PM

SgtMaj Robert Burke — Mon, 08 Jun 2020 13:54:09 -0400

19 mths. in Nam, not Jan

Response by PO1 Fred Erben made Jun 9 at 2020 3:04 PM

PO1 Fred Erben — Tue, 09 Jun 2020 15:04:24 -0400

E-6 in 6 years. Got out before I went up for E-7

Response by CWO2 Jack King made Jun 10 at 2020 5:50 PM

CWO2 Jack King — Wed, 10 Jun 2020 17:50:01 -0400

I made E-6 in 5 yrs and E-7 in 7yrs, E-8 in 10yrs, E-9 in 12 yrs. I was in the Navy degree completion program. I spent 7 yrs in Asia mostly Vietnam. Retired as a CWO.

Response by CWO2 Jack King made Jun 10 at 2020 5:52 PM

CWO2 Jack King — Wed, 10 Jun 2020 17:52:01 -0400

Made the LDO list but retired and went in the Merchant Marine

Response by SSG Randy Talbot made Jun 11 at 2020 11:46 AM

SSG Randy Talbot — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 11:46:47 -0400

I think so. When I was in, my MOS was balanced. Promotion cut off scores for E-5/6 was at 998 points. For a large number of years, only one person was promoted to E-7. We could not get out of the field and for promotion purposes, couldn't stay in. The average TIS to make E-7 was 15 years. I made E-5 in 3 1/2 years and E-6 in 7 years. Unfortunately, there were so many E-6 above me that getting promoted was nearly impossible. By the time I had enough TIS to make the average, I now had 8 years as an E-6. The result was I was viewed as "stagnant" in my field, there was no more schools to go to and nothing I could do to get promoted. One of the folks that was promoted to E-7 had her PhD. I entered a month after I graduated from high school and spent my time in field units. This was before the internet so on line classes was not available. I ended up getting a medical discharge during the purge in 1990.

Response by MSgt Rodney Mayberry made Jun 11 at 2020 6:23 PM

MSgt Rodney Mayberry — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 18:23:59 -0400

I got busted three times for doing stupid stuff as a young one. But I always worked well. I finally got smart and got meritoriously promoted four times including to E7 in 8 1/2 years. E5 and E6 were regular promotions. Never really had and issue with accelerated promotions. Some others took exemption with me from time to time but once we worked together for a bit it generally straightened out. I think my colorful beginnings may have made me grow too. I had some excellent SNCO’s I learned from too.

Response by PO1 Nancy Gwinn made Jun 11 at 2020 10:21 PM

PO1 Nancy Gwinn — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 22:21:08 -0400

I agree. The same thing happened to me. I feel I was not ready to lead because I advanced so quickly. Having said that, I wouldn't trade my time in the Navy for anything. It saved me.

Response by SP6 Greg Jetter made Jun 12 at 2020 2:13 PM

SP6 Greg Jetter — Fri, 12 Jun 2020 14:13:40 -0400

Yes and no , if we are at war and your making rank because all the folks above you are getting killed off and you got to step up to survive I see no problem , because trying to stay alive and save those around you as well tends to mature a fellow or gal right quick . You will grow into the job .
On the other hand in a peace time environment making rank too fast can lead to failure , at a young age your just might not have the right combination of life experience and knowledge to take on all the responsibility of the rank .

Response by Sgt Jude Eschete made Jun 13 at 2020 3:22 AM

Sgt Jude Eschete — Sat, 13 Jun 2020 03:22:05 -0400

My only question is if said individual executes the duties of their rank as sufficiently as the average person holding that rank. I added that last bit because anyone who makes rank that fast will likely be scrutinized for it and any mistake they make would be due to their lack of experience. Is it ideal for say a 18 year old to make E6 by the time they're 21, personally maybe not, but if they are doing the job and doing it well, then no big deal. The problem is when they get dismissed for their TiS or their age and not for their ability by other SNCOs. That isn't the fault of the young E6, but an issue with those not respecting the rank rather than the person.

Response by SGT Robert Shannon made Jun 13 at 2020 8:30 PM

SGT Robert Shannon — Sat, 13 Jun 2020 20:30:39 -0400

I too entered at 17, didn't turn 18 until I was done with basic and had reported to my unit at Ft. Drum, I later found myself as a 20 year old E-5, and it was awkward for a bit. Most of the other NCO's were older and my peers in my age group I had to maintain some professional distance from depending on the circumstances. I look at the advancement as a negative from that standpoint, but took some positive from it to, it made me grow up fast and helped to shape and mold who I am today. I never let it go to my head, and I always listened, observed, and retained the information and training being given by those above at the same level and above me.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 14 at 2020 6:43 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 14 Jun 2020 18:43:57 -0400

I honestly don’t know. If you’re qualified, that’s all that matters.

E6 in three years is incredible.

Congratulations to everyone here who has done it

Response by SGT Allen Treviranus made Jun 15 at 2020 1:31 PM

SGT Allen Treviranus — Mon, 15 Jun 2020 13:31:00 -0400

I can't speak for every case, but I have seen a lot of service members fail when given too much responsibility too early, usually because they had a high pt score and did well at the board too.

Response by SSG Craig Thompson made Jun 16 at 2020 11:36 AM

SSG Craig Thompson — Tue, 16 Jun 2020 11:36:19 -0400

In the ancient days of Vietnam, when NCOs in the Infantry were rare, and casualties were high, the Army had the NCOC program where young soldiers who did well would go through 90 days of training on what it took to be an Infantry Squad or Team Leader, followed by 90 days of OJT running a training squad/platoon back in an Infantry AIT battalion. Then they were shipped off to Vietnam to serve as a small unit leader.

I was “first-cycle” which means my time in NCOC was not voluntary. We were just sent. After the first cycle, the program became. Volunteer.

Rank too early, probably, but special circumstances ruled the day.
Oath of Enlistment June 1967 PVT E-1 age 19
Grad from Basic PVT E-2
Grad from AIT PFC E3
Nov 1967 entered NCOC program (Non-Commissioned Officer Candidate) Corporal E-4 (not Spec 4!)
Grad NCOC March 1968 SGT E-5
Vietnam June 1968 - June 1969 11B4P age 20-21
June. 1969 assigned as Instructor, Ground Committee, USAIS, Fort Benning (Black Hat)
Went before E-6 Promotion Board December 1969, Promoted SSG E-6 on December 10, 1969, age 22.
E-1 to E-6 in 913 days.
ETS May 28, 1970

Response by MSgt Wayne Morris made Jun 17 at 2020 6:37 PM

MSgt Wayne Morris — Wed, 17 Jun 2020 18:37:56 -0400

I never saw too many fast burners in the AF and most of that stopped at E-7 as then you had a promotion board and more than scoring high on promotions exams were required. Funny things like experience and leadership ability. My AFSC (MOS) only got 2 E-8 slots a year and 1 E9 but those went away when they lumped us with a larger AFC for selection to E8-9. Most of my AFSC were 1 deep except maybe at MAJCOM so you pretty much supervised yourself only so hard to compete with those in other career fields. Kind of sucked but paid off on the civilian side as job skill is in high demand. I had an EE degree as an enlisted troop but was mostly 1 deep most of my career when it came to the board. When I was in I think there was only about 75 AD types in my field.

Response by SP5 Joel O'Brien made Jun 17 at 2020 6:49 PM

SP5 Joel O'Brien — Wed, 17 Jun 2020 18:49:21 -0400

I made E4 (Army) in just under 4 years and at the time I thought that was kind of quick.

Response by SFC Peter Cyprian made Jun 20 at 2020 5:18 AM

SFC Peter Cyprian — Sat, 20 Jun 2020 05:18:48 -0400

E6 in so little time....must be the Navy. When you make rank so fast, you miss the lessons each rank has for you. You will not know what it is you don't know. The Army has (or had?) minimum TIS requirements for this and it is not possible to make E6 in 3 years.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jun 20 at 2020 3:01 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 20 Jun 2020 15:01:16 -0400

I knew an AGR 1SG who did not know how to write NCOERs or did not give a shit about the process.

Response by 1SG Robert Rush made Jun 25 at 2020 9:50 AM

1SG Robert Rush — Thu, 25 Jun 2020 09:50:46 -0400

I am addressing the Enlisted side. I have seen some individuals that had the military knowledge and mature attitude to working in that new position. But, I have seen individuals that were not ready for advancement to the next rank. In my last 10 years of service, I have meet some Senior NCO's that were promoted and shouldn't have. E-7s and above are matched up with an officer to advise and support the missions set forth by their officers. They need to have the over all military knowledge to advise their commanders, and must support any course of action their commander chooses 100%. As long as these orders are lawful orders.

Response by SP5 Norman Binder made Jun 27 at 2020 12:06 PM

SP5 Norman Binder — Sat, 27 Jun 2020 12:06:15 -0400

For a Specialist it's just a pay grade, go for it.

Response by CMDCM Richard Moon made Jun 28 at 2020 9:58 PM

CMDCM Richard Moon — Sun, 28 Jun 2020 21:58:21 -0400

I was an PO1 at 23 and a Chief at 26. And yes, there is such a thing as making rank too fast. Senior Enlisted are relied upon for their experience, and when you lack the years to provide said experience, what really does thia Sailor have to provide at this point? I retired as a CMDCM.
The opposite is being stuck at PO1 and not making Chief until near the end of their HYT. Generally, they were never able to make that needed transition I to wearing that Anchor.
With all that said, you take what opportunities the Navy offers you, and if you promote "too fast" you have to make that extra effort to learn faster as well. Seek out great mentors and learn from your mistakes.

Response by MSG Richard C Finley made Jul 7 at 2020 12:48 PM

MSG Richard C Finley — Tue, 07 Jul 2020 12:48:39 -0400

yeah and i screwed the pooch on my comment i had to go back and correct it. i actually made E6 in about 3 1/2yrs. recalling my promotions kicks my butt sometimes. i made E4 in one year almost to the date. then E5 the following year again almost to the date. then E6 SSG came in mid 1969 after attending the 6th Army NCO Academy at Ft Lewis.

Response by SFC Patricia Tucker made Jul 7 at 2020 4:16 PM

SFC Patricia Tucker — Tue, 07 Jul 2020 16:16:30 -0400

I made E7 in 7 years, but I was also prior service with a 6 year gap. Sometimes there are those who make the rank fast but don't have the experience and/or maturity to fill the responsibilities of that rank. I'm sure most of us have served with/under someone that fell into that category. Not good for anyone.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 8 at 2020 11:05 AM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Jul 2020 11:05:45 -0400

I think making E-6 in 3 years is WAAAYYY too fast! There is maturity to think about. If someone enlists at 18, that means a 21 year old SSG/PO1/TSgt. Some people may have enough maturity for the responsibilities of the rank, but most people do not. I might have been a "late bloomer" but Life didn't make sense to me until I was 23 years old. Before then I was a confused "kid" bumbling through life.

I enlisted at 35 years old and made E-6 in 7 years. I don't feel that I had enough E-5 time, as I spent 5 1/2 years as a E-4 SPC, and then less than 2 years at E-5 SGT before being promoted to E-6 SSG. I was a "Team Leader" in charge of three Soldiers while a SGT, but that time was mainly at a desk job and leading my Soldiers was monthly counselings and ensuring accountability. However, I think my E-4 time gave me a lot of perspective on following and noticing what made both good and bad leaders. I've been a SSG (E-6) for 6 years now and have lots of leadership time. I am pretty confident about the upcoming USAR SSG-SFC Promotion Board in September.

Response by PO1 Lyndon Thomas made Jul 8 at 2020 12:51 PM

PO1 Lyndon Thomas — Wed, 08 Jul 2020 12:51:26 -0400

Okay, I'm confused. In my time in service, there was a required Time in each Rate to allow for growth maturity and knowledge of that particular Rating. It went something like this:
E1 thru E3= Could be attained through Boot camp or ROTC program at high school lever. Also a minimum of 12 months if entering the fleet as E1, to become an E3.
E4- One must spend at least 24 months as an E4 before even being considered for E5. Though we had programs where one could be frocked or Advanced for Stellar Performance.
E6- There was a minimum of 3 years as an E5 one Had to fulfill before you could be eligible for E6. This TIR was mandatory for the growth wisdom and knowledge necessary to hold this esteemed position. Three years and promoted to E6...Waaayyy too soon! This is the equivalent to Sergent Senior Airman or NCO. I would NOT follow someone who made E6 in three years into combat or a bar fight. Sorry, that's just me! I've seen far too many o these types Fall Fail and Falter throughout their careers, if they were fortunate enough to actually have one.

Response by SGT Joseph Dutton made Jul 9 at 2020 10:46 PM

SGT Joseph Dutton — Thu, 09 Jul 2020 22:46:13 -0400

Yes! and here is my take on it from a posting on FB whom made E-4 in 9 months. Way to soon to be a PO3. Back in my day it takes about 3 to 4 years to make PO3 and that's when you have all your Ducks in a row. I think that promoting to fast and to young can be detrimental to one's career in any service. Is the Navy getting like the Army? Promoting & promoting to the grade of E-4 and become a stalemate / in limbo to make E-5 and only to get discharge because of failing to meet Time & Grade in service (Retention). The youngins know nothing and have no experience in doing the job & leading peers of lower rank.

Response by MSgt Nathan Krawitz made Jul 15 at 2020 10:13 PM

MSgt Nathan Krawitz — Wed, 15 Jul 2020 22:13:00 -0400

The fastest I heard of E-7 is 7 years, which would be E-6 in 4. I once knew an E-7 who made it in 8 years and at 16 years was still waiting for E-8.

Lots of factors go into accelerated advancement, mostly getting time waivers and guaranteed promotions. We can work backwards to see how quickly an active duty Sailor can make E-6.

To start, eligible Time In Grade is retroactive to January 1st for the March test cycle, promotions eligible July 16 through December 16, July 1st for September cycle. It's 3 years TIG for making E-6, but up to 1 year may be waived. Let's say the Sailor takes the September exam for promotion in the 1st half of the following year. He would have put on E-5 off the September exam 2 years prior. In order to be eliginle for that exam, you must meet requirements NLT June 30th. You need one year TIG as E-4, which means promotion to E-4 can be as late as June 30th.

Various accelerated programs guarantee E-4 upon graduation from A school, and some may be under 2 months. Basic training for two months means there is plenty of time to go active duty in January, get out of Basic and complete A school and E-4 before the July 1st deadline. You do have to complete all leadership and professional requirements prior to thevend of June, which is ambitious, but possible. TIG for promotion is retroactive to before you went active, making you eligible for the E-5 exam shortly after you put on E-4. If you make 1st increment, you could be paid for E-5 before your 1-year mark (and theoretically before you turn 18).

As stated before, you can have a year waived going up for E-6. It's rare, used mostly for deserving sailors as a reward for being good, or perhaps to allow a sailor a chance to get back on track if they were unfairly held back in the past or administratively demoted not for disciplinary reasons.

You still have to meet federal minimums, otherwise be an early test taker. If you are flagged as early, you can't just meet the minimum requirements for promotion, but also have ti be in the top 10% of test takers.

Yes, you can make E-6 in 3 years. If you're fresh out of high school, maybe not so unless you've been working that field since you were 12. Otherwise, an older Sailor with journeyman or craftsman skills might already have all the skills, just no Navy experience, and can be deserving of such accelerated promotion.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2020 9:33 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 Jul 2020 09:33:34 -0400

There was a kid in the S3 shop that made E6 in 3 years. He was completely inept. He couldn’t make a sound decision. He was moved to my S4 section. I sent him to assist a company supply sergeant inventory before deploying back to the US and he was caught stealing equipment. He went back to the US as a private.

Response by SGT Jim Ramge, MBA made Jul 22 at 2020 12:54 PM

SGT Jim Ramge, MBA — Wed, 22 Jul 2020 12:54:39 -0400

When I first joined, I made 4 in 14 months and sat for six years before I made 5. Twelve months later I was put in for 6. I had a 15 month break-in-service service in there too. I had an NCO whom didn’t want me to be his equal, so he didn’t let me go to the board. I then had a waste of my time SSG, whom I never saw for a Squad Leader. Suffice to say, I was held back because of two individuals...
That said, I was pretty pleased, fortunate in not being in the sandbox, I had more personal awards than either - and no, I wasn’t a board weenie! As funny as it may seem, I only went two, both the 5 and 6 boards. I turned 6 down, being retired on a medical.
My main reason for jumping in here is to make you folks flip the coin here. Let’s go back to the Civil War era. Think of those troops, their ages, the era, etc., now tell me if a 28-30 year old COL/06, or even Flag Officer was or wasn’t ready for battle after rising thru the ranks of that war? Look at Audie Murphy during WWII. I am sure there are a number of others out there...
Just food for thought when you are in a position of authority and are promoting folks. There are a select few out there whom are extremely mature at a young age, and, there are those that join later in life and are mature already! So do you hold them back because YOU don’t “think” they are ready? Quite honestly, at that point, questioning yourself you should be seeking assistance and guidance before you truly either hold a troop back, or make them seek other employment! Have actually seen SSGs with 18.5 years walk, and OCS selectees say nope, I’m done playing the game!
Always seek the advice of higher - you might be saying goodbye to the next SMA, or CJCS!
My thoughts and prayers are with each of you Brothers and Sisters! Peace

Response by CPO Kurt Baschab made Jul 23 at 2020 6:09 PM

CPO Kurt Baschab — Thu, 23 Jul 2020 18:09:05 -0400

Yes there is such a thing as making Rank to fast for some Individuals.
this does not mean they or you are INCAPABLE of doing the JOB , other wise you would not have been Promoted , it means they, you , I lack the Mental Maturity to lead the men and women they are going to have to lead, at that time, and we are going to have to find it quickly .
this is not your fault or the Fault of your Supervisors, it is the FAULT Of the Senior Leadership. we put to little training on LEADERSHIP!
to Little TRAINING ON MENTORING IN LEADERSHIP.
no one is a Natural BORN LEADER, we learn by watching are SUPERVISORS, we learn from those we work under, and taking what we like from them, and what we do not like from them, we say i want to be a leader like him, or i do not want to be like him. and we make it part of who we are.
we all they have the Physical , and Mental Knowledge to to the Job but we are unsure just how to apply that knowledge, that where a mentoring comes in handy, and that where as we Mature service Members start to know just how to apply the MENTAL MATURITY AND SKILL SET TO LEAD THE MEN AND WOMEN.
this is why I use to tell every new PO, as they moved up in Rank to find a mentor one who they could talk, to when they had a tough situation, someone they could get advice on how to handle a situation, it never hurts to have more than one mentor that you can call or talk to.
i know it saved my ass a few times. when I had the situation or difficult member to deal with, I would call and talk to them. over time you will find you will be calling them more and more just to say hi, and you will find you will be Receiving calls. and you will be making more and more Decision on your own. sometimes you just have to make a Command Decision, but that why the CO left you in Charge. so don't be AFRAID TO MAKE THOSE DECISION!

Like I TOLD MY CO , if you do not like my DECISION, don't leave me in Charge.
APPARENTLY He was ok with MY DECISIONS .:)

Response by PO1 F D made Jul 23 at 2020 9:02 PM

PO1 F D — Thu, 23 Jul 2020 21:02:09 -0400

Not true Cmdr. I was one of the navy's finest. In fact served as a Dept Training Officer when I was (2-yr) E-5. There were no such things as hits on a certification inspection on my watch. Got my SECNAV to prove it. They had to call me Assistant though because it was an Officers Billet. But trust me there was no one in the office with me reading directives and safety manuals and running the program. You get mature real fast when the entire department's annual certification depends on you. BUT I came up through the ranks quickly because I wrote a hell of an advancement exam. Made it every time and didn't have to search for points. So when a person has been in for 12 years and still can't make E6. It begs the question, do we really want this person running anything? i personally prefer an immature highly educated Butter Bar that grasps concepts quickly and can be groomed toward maturity.

Response by SFC Kurt Brunken made Jul 24 at 2020 11:07 AM

SFC Kurt Brunken — Fri, 24 Jul 2020 11:07:13 -0400

No, I made E5 and E6 at the min time in service. Leadership and maturity and technical expertise should dictate the progression. I personally have seen E-7 and O-7s that needed to go back a few notches due to maturity issues.

Response by SMSgt Robert Anderson made Jul 24 at 2020 4:43 PM

SMSgt Robert Anderson — Fri, 24 Jul 2020 16:43:48 -0400

That’s awesome but it wouldn’t happen in the AF because that have time in grade rules. As an E3 that just made it he would have to wait two years in grade before he made E4.

Response by SPC Albert Schafer made Jul 24 at 2020 8:29 PM

SPC Albert Schafer — Fri, 24 Jul 2020 20:29:01 -0400

I steadily went through the ranks as I had planned... Before I signed on the dotted line I had insisted that I would accept nothing less then the starting rank of Brigadier General.. In only three years of Army life I was discharged with the rank of Spec.4... I was on rank higher than I thought I would have been at the end... It's all in the planning..

Response by LTC Wayne Brandon made Jul 25 at 2020 2:31 AM

LTC Wayne Brandon — Sat, 25 Jul 2020 02:31:00 -0400

That would depend upon the individual and the circumstances.
During times of peace, promotions do come slower as the attrition is nominal whereas, in times of war and especially high-intensity conflicts, an Infantryman can go from PFC to Buck Sgt in practically no time just by exhibiting some leadership qualities. Audie Murphy, David Hackworth, Dick Winters, and others like them made rank very quickly during WWII, Korea, and Viet Nam.
There is a caveat to making rank too quickly and by way of example, there was an outstanding Reserve LTC (in the early 80s) who rose very quickly through the officer ranks making 05 at the age of 33 and was ready for promotion to 06 by the time he was 36. There were no 05 command slots in any of the divisions and he was relegated to the IRR until one opened up. If he ever found a command slot, I am not aware but I felt it was a great injustice to send him to the showers that early in his career.
The IRR takes a soldier out of the system and out of the line of sight of those who will be making the decisions as to who gets what command slot. The longer one is out, the worse that condition gets until the SM is forgotten.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 25 at 2020 6:26 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 25 Jul 2020 18:26:45 -0400

I actually worked with someone who made PO1 on his first test because our CPO spoon fed him EP evals so he would make PO1. Never mind that he was on shore duty first them went to a ship and knew nothing about the equipment or how to lead sailors on a ship. Every PO2 and below in our division would look to me for help t/s equipment or advise while this now PO1 couldn't really help with anything. He was not ready to be a LPO and before I left the ship I was actually LPO as a PO2.
It comes down to how well the Sailor or Soldier pays attention to their leadership and if they actually follow and learn from their mistakes or keep fumbling along. It took me almost 10 years to make PO1 but tht is because of my attitude and stubbornness. Officers and Chiefs don't like being told they are wrong by a PO2. Or told something should be done a different way then how they want it done by a PO2. That has and will always be my problem. I don't know how to bite my tongue you could say.

Response by SFC Dennis Yancy made Jul 26 at 2020 9:38 AM

SFC Dennis Yancy — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 09:38:21 -0400

Way to fast. Is there not TIS and time in present rank to even be considered?

Response by SSG Harry Herres made Jul 26 at 2020 10:01 PM

SSG Harry Herres — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 22:01:43 -0400

Made sp-5 in 9 months, 1year 3 months later was to go for E-6. Had to wait till return from Nam so could not get tax free re-up bonus. Bunch of bull,. E-6 2 years 4 months. Too early promotions, if you have the ability to do the the job, it benefits the unit. If you can't do the job no promotion time in position does not mean you are an asset

Response by CPO Rob Cummins made Jul 27 at 2020 4:53 AM

CPO Rob Cummins — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 04:53:54 -0400

Yes there’s a big problem with making Rank too quickly. Not enough Time In Rate to go with the maturity level to lead effectively.

Response by CW3 Joseph Lawrence made Jul 27 at 2020 11:01 AM

CW3 Joseph Lawrence — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 11:01:31 -0400

I made E6 in 33 months. Vietnam to Germany and we were losing so many key NCO's on levee to Vietnam that they were promoting a lot of SP-5's and Bucks to E6. E-7's were a little old, but most of the Squad leaders were young. I was the Supply Sergeant. One platoon had squad leaders that were all under 20 years of age. So went the Army in the Vietnam Era.

Response by SSG Lauro Jimenez made Jul 27 at 2020 2:58 PM

SSG Lauro Jimenez — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 14:58:10 -0400

Yes there is. I had NCO's that made their rank to soon were to immature their rank went to their head and were terrible leaders.

Response by SSG Lauro Jimenez made Jul 27 at 2020 2:59 PM

SSG Lauro Jimenez — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 14:59:41 -0400

They didn't have time to learn anything. No time in service and no mentoring from senior staff. Sad

Response by SGT Debra Jahnel made Jul 27 at 2020 8:59 PM

SGT Debra Jahnel — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 20:59:00 -0400

Depends on the service & the job. If they come in w/skills & education specific to the job - why not?
And many 27yr olds in the non-military world hold positions of equal responsibility/pay/respect.

Response by SSG Charlie Davis made Jul 27 at 2020 11:34 PM

SSG Charlie Davis — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 23:34:06 -0400

I made E-6 in three years: (E-3/April 1967 - E-6/May 1970) I knew my job - I did it well - was first in and last out. I didn't flaunt the rank and those who I worked with (several older that me) knew my ethics and they knew their jobs. The next rank in the chain was a 43 year old E-7/SFC. I had just turned 21.

Response by SGT David Jones made Jul 28 at 2020 12:25 PM

SGT David Jones — Tue, 28 Jul 2020 12:25:45 -0400

I made E5 after only 3 years active and E6 after only 6 1/2 but i joined at age 38 in 2006 so felt that my life experiences helped when dealing with lifers who never used common sense instead of this is the regulation it was written 20 years ago, so follow and do NOT defer attitude, plus I saw some of the most petty "fuck you" attitude towards junior NCO's from those same 18-20 year veterans who didn't give a shit about soldiers under their command, i miss it now having medically retired after only 8 years active but on the other hand cant say that experience was pleasant either.

Response by MSgt Seth Trent made Jul 28 at 2020 4:10 PM

MSgt Seth Trent — Tue, 28 Jul 2020 16:10:48 -0400

I spent 11 years doing Army support..I found that making rank in the Army is easy, as long as you can count to 10......But it is easy to lose as well.

Response by 1SG Ken Bedwell made Jul 28 at 2020 9:40 PM

1SG Ken Bedwell — Tue, 28 Jul 2020 21:40:37 -0400

Absolutely. Time and experience are key in preparing one for the next step.

Response by SGM Thomas Adderley made Aug 1 at 2020 8:30 PM

SGM Thomas Adderley — Sat, 01 Aug 2020 20:30:10 -0400

Yes, one can make rank too fast. I 1962 I mad E6 in under 3 years. Promotion to E7 required 10 years service before I could be considered for E7. There were a few times when being the youngest (age) Plt Sgt while other and older E6s were available but I had the time in rank over them. When 10 years arrived I made E7, followed by E8 and E9. The long time I spent as an E6 allowed me to observe and learn and put to use what I learned from the older E6s. Yes it was frustrating but as I look back it was well worth it.

Response by MAJ John Lavin made Aug 3 at 2020 6:43 AM

MAJ John Lavin — Mon, 03 Aug 2020 06:43:08 -0400

Reading this is just like having deja vu all over again. Back in the day, the Vietnam War Days, combat units were going thru NCO’s so fast, mostly because NCO’s were the prime targets of the NVA and the Viet Cong regulars who realized that shooting Junior Officers was not as effective the as shooting NCO’s, that there were more SP4’s just out of AIT leading squads than there were E5 Sgts available. So the Army and the Marines started Instant E5 programs just like OCS programs that turned out instant 2 Lts. I had several instant instant E5’s. After they learned their jobs, just like 2 LTs learned their jobs thru OJT and the school of hard knocks, they actually turned out to be pretty good NCO’s. So don’t be too hard on yourself. If you can do the job, then do it. Why do you care what a Chief who spent twenty years working in his Rating before he or she made Chief thinks? Look at it this way. You got where you are because you earned it. He got to where he or she is because that was the system then. So you got to where you are now because this is the system now. Good luck.

Response by CPT Brad Wilson made Aug 3 at 2020 3:51 PM

CPT Brad Wilson — Mon, 03 Aug 2020 15:51:24 -0400

Sometimes it depends on the maturity of the individual. Historically it’s happened a lot. Richard Winters went from 2Lt to Major in 2 years Eisenhower was a LTC before World War II and 6 years later was a 5 Star General

Response by 1SG Michael Farrell made Aug 30 at 2020 5:48 PM

1SG Michael Farrell — Sun, 30 Aug 2020 17:48:20 -0400

I made Sergeant in 24 months, and Staff Sergeant in 60 months; three years after that, I got the call that I was on the list for Sergeant First Class, and I pinned it on a year later. Four years later, I was out of Reforger trying to coordinate something with the British Army and got back to our location in time to jog to a formation and then respond to a call from the CG to "front and center..." I got there, and the adjutant announced that I was on the list for Master Sergeant. About fifteen months later, I pinned it on. Yeah, I was a fast mover. Thing is, there was a lot of nit noid stuff I never experienced, and it showed when they hand selected me for a First Sergeant position with a troubled company and a very "Captain Quegg" type company commander. Served in the role for fifteen months, and did staff crap for four years, all in SGM operations roles until I got another chance to put on my diamonds. After my first First Sergeant position, I figured out that I was never going to make Sergeant Major. Served continuously in First Sergeant roles because I loved the work and didn't mind the hours and issues. Tore up my back doing "juvenile shit" as one of my CSM mentors called, and ultimately dropped my papers with a variety of back problems and other health issues. Two weeks later, the list came out and I was on E-9 list with a sequence number of 1 and the CSM list with the same sequence number. I realized that I could probably stay until 30 years, but the types of positions I be assigned with my back told me it was time to do something else.

In retrospect, I have no regrets; I learned a lot of stuff making up time in that first First Sergeant Assignment and the following staff E9 roles. I served with more great people and earned the chance to be First Sergeant of a staggering Headquarters Company which was in really good shape when I left. I did a good job at the next one, but I heart wasn't in it. Here's the deal and it's pretty simple -- work hard, accomplish the requirements and you'll be promoted but it's always based on needs of the service. You may get promoted early -- doing PO1 work for less than a long in the tooth PO2 makes, but who cares. Things will even out, and it's important to remember as Stonewall Jackson (the singer, not the General) sang, "Everyone will meet your Waterloo.." It's how you respond to that experience that pays your dues that you skipped over in the chase. ( I've also said that everyone meets their career ending asshole, and it really depends on luck as to what happens...)

Response by SSG Mike Busovicki made Aug 31 at 2020 2:40 PM

SSG Mike Busovicki — Mon, 31 Aug 2020 14:40:38 -0400

Without a college degree? Probably too soon.

Response by CPO Jack De Merit made Sep 1 at 2020 3:07 AM

CPO Jack De Merit — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 03:07:05 -0400

The only time I have ever seen an early advancement was when I enlisted in 1961. The Recruiters were offering rapid advancement for people whose civilian career was exemplary and needed in the military. I was offered an early advancement because I was a qualified Printer at the age of 5 and had 13 years of experience when I enlisted. I turned it down because I was afraid I would be missing out on too much. I did make Chief in 11 years but never got any higher because of Affirmative Action. I was told that there were no billets for E-8 or E-9 yet a black E-7 was promoted to both and the billet canceled when he was again promoted. That's life.

Response by Lt Col David Rotthoff made Sep 2 at 2020 10:22 AM

Lt Col David Rotthoff — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 10:22:55 -0400

Toward the end of the Civil War, a young man from Pennsylvania, Galusha Pennypacker as I remember the name, became a general of volunteers in the Union Army. When the Civil War ended, he was not quite old enough to vote. Oh, he entered the conflict as an enlisted man. E-6 in three years? Man, that's small potatoes!

Response by MSgt Gilbert Jones made Sep 4 at 2020 1:53 PM

MSgt Gilbert Jones — Fri, 04 Sep 2020 13:53:33 -0400

The Army must promote differently then the AF, we have a thing called time in grade, and it's no way you could get promoted to E-6 in four years. Even with a spot promotion thrown in it would be almost impossible to make E-6 in less then six years. With max points for evaluations, and awards, the people who had more TIS and TIG would likely beat you out. The average grade for an airmen after four years was E-4 when they were discharged. So it looks like the Army has or had a better promotion system then we did.

Response by SSG Harry Outcalt made Sep 6 at 2020 3:41 AM

SSG Harry Outcalt — Sun, 06 Sep 2020 03:41:41 -0400

yes, there is . The Non Commissioned Officers Corps has had to deal with this with the butterbars fresh off the military commissioned reservation. It is known as lack of good leadership skills due to lack of development of said skills.. Now with the Nco side it was usually seen when someone reclassed for promotion into the ranks of the Infantry Nco.. Why ?. not everyone is cut out to be an Infantryman let alone a Leader of Infantryman, same as a Medic but people find there way into jobs they have no business being in. That being said those who fast track through the promotion's tend to have big ego's as a result without the seasoned leadership skills to back them up, and yes there is always an exception to the rule of leadership, some are born leaders others take time like fine wine... When the 15th Inf Reg 3rd Id. was still stationed in then West Germany, A Soldier by the name of Pvt E-1. Audie Murphy enlisted in the U.S. Army as a 11 bang bang and his first tour he was assigned to West Germany , more specifically to the headquarters of the 7th brigade to B. co. 1st Bn. 15th Inf in Ketzingen, West Germany he went from E-1 to E-4 in 12 month's half the time it took me back in those days.. This guy had it made to make E-5 in 18 month's he was on a fast track for promotion, because he shared a well known name in the 3rd Id. The most decorated Solder of ww2. Lt. Audie L. Murphy MOH B cop. 1st Bn. 15th Inf Reg.... Unfortunately he was not a chip off the old block as not long after he was promoted to E-4 he was chaptered out of the Army for failing a drug test... lack of development...

Response by MSG Frank Kapaun made Sep 6 at 2020 11:50 AM

MSG Frank Kapaun — Sun, 06 Sep 2020 11:50:28 -0400

I made E7 in 5 1/2 years it happen. But, I stayed an E7 for 13 years.

Response by PO2 Tony Divito made Sep 6 at 2020 3:40 PM

PO2 Tony Divito — Sun, 06 Sep 2020 15:40:06 -0400

I recall sailors getting E-4 out of nuke school. In exchange for a 6 year enlistment.

Response by CPT Thomas Monahan made Sep 6 at 2020 6:52 PM

CPT Thomas Monahan — Sun, 06 Sep 2020 18:52:20 -0400

Navy Nucs used to make Chief quick. Red Striped in the Chiefs’ Mess used to raise eyebrows.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2020 3:50 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Sep 2020 15:50:11 -0400

I was impressed with a 26 year old Major I met in 1969. And I knew several mid 20’s senior Captains on their second tours who were OCS/College dropouts. Rank was fast and furious during the Vietnam era. It wasn’t until 1971 (when I voluntarily joined a Reserve unit at the Presidio for the $110 tax free monthly pay) that I found out about RIF’s. The Major leading my battalion with 15 years in Reserves was RIFFED. My guess is a number of the young Field Grades without required educational backgrounds were RIFFED as well? Thank you for your service. Now get out!

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 11 at 2020 8:15 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 11 Sep 2020 20:15:45 -0400

You can definitely make rank too soon. People expect certain things from a First Class or higher. They are expected to KNOW THE DRILL for one thing.
We had one individual who made E6 in 4 years. This person was AWESOME at their job. They, however, did not know enough about the big picture, and because of divisional staffing, there was no one there to recognize the problems that were forming. Thankfully, a more senior person transferred to the ship and was able to turn the division and the newly frocked First Class into a fine working division on the ship. Had the new blood not checked in when they did, I shudder to think how bad it could have gotten.

Think - Lord of the Flies.

Response by MSG Don Burt made Sep 13 at 2020 2:42 PM

MSG Don Burt — Sun, 13 Sep 2020 14:42:15 -0400

In 1962 while stationed in Asmara, Eritrea, Ethiopia at a STARCOM site (Strategic Army Communications Command) I was an E3 upon arrival. The NCOIC of my Section said if I could convince him that I could run the Receiving Section in 30 days, he'd promote me...I did, and he did and I made Spec 4.
I was a Fixed Station Radio Repairman E4 drawing P2. In 90 days, time in grade was waived and I made Spec5 and all this was within 18 months of my over seas service. This also was an era when rank from DOD was fast and furious and I was at the right place at the right time. So to answer your question, it seems to me if all the planets line up at the right time, yes.

Response by MSG David King made Sep 14 at 2020 5:53 AM

MSG David King — Mon, 14 Sep 2020 05:53:47 -0400

It really depends on the person, I've seen it go both ways. Back when my Dad was in the Air Force (Korean War Era) you could make rank fast, and he did. One mistake later he's busted from E5 to E2. for essentially having a big mouth. He left because he said he didn't think he could live it down. I explained the rational for UCMJ is to allow swift judgement and rehabilitation. He just laughed and said he never saw that. I've seen lots of dead weight because they were promoted too soon and didn't really know their job. The funny thing was when given a chance to change that they resist, It's amazing to watch. I've also seen heavy hitters that have earned everything they have.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cichelli made Sep 18 at 2020 2:32 PM

CPT Lawrence Cichelli — Fri, 18 Sep 2020 14:32:29 -0400

Depends. With Band personnel making the premier bands where minimum rank is E-6, you get the rank upon completion of BCT or equivalent in other branches. But to do that, you have to pass a very rigid audition and be symphony caliber to get in. I did see a 13 series (field artillery fire direction) NCO make rank E-7 in 5 and E-8 in 7 years. I will say, he did quite well in his MOS. This is a very demanding and technical MOS. He is the only one I've seen be successful in getting rank that quickly. I've seen other NCOs get rank quickly and it was a disaster, the NCO didn't know anything about the job he was in.

Response by SFC Donald York made Oct 18 at 2020 11:49 AM

SFC Donald York — Sun, 18 Oct 2020 11:49:41 -0400

In Vietnam it wasn't unusual to see a 19 year old Infantryman get a battlefield promotion to Ssg. E-6 .

Response by CPO Joel Bentley made Oct 18 at 2020 6:19 PM

CPO Joel Bentley — Sun, 18 Oct 2020 18:19:18 -0400

No. I knew a lot of slick arm First Class. They were all good shipmates. I recently lost a very
good slick arm First Class from Easley, SC. I miss my friend John Wayne Anthony, he retired from
Milliken Corporation in Management,

Response by LCDR Mike Morrissey made Oct 28 at 2020 9:31 PM

LCDR Mike Morrissey — Wed, 28 Oct 2020 21:31:53 -0400

Since you are in the NROTC program now, I’d say that you have hit the deck running. Keep it up. The only time to look behind you is as the OOD to see if your helmsman is using too much rudder and a “snake” is following the ship. “on the helm, mind your rudder.”

Response by LCDR Mike Morrissey made Oct 28 at 2020 9:40 PM

LCDR Mike Morrissey — Wed, 28 Oct 2020 21:40:53 -0400

Looks like previous note of mine disappeared To reiterate, you’ve hit the deck running. Your achievements at sea in the Cruiser/Destroyer world are exemplary. Qual for NROTC and commissioning? Forget about the too soon thing. You are going to be a seasoned Ensign compared to non-prior service Ensigns entering the fleet and SWOS. Quit looking behind unless you’re the OOD checking to see if there is a snake following the ship..then it’s “helmsman, mind your rudder.”

Response by CSM Carlson C. made Oct 30 at 2020 9:04 AM

CSM Carlson C. — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 09:04:25 -0400

Yes, there are individuals who progress too soon, conversely, there are those who fail to progress. Both scenarios can be considered failures of leadership depending on the circumstances. The knowledge and performance that is expected from an E-6 is hard to gain in three years. However, there are also leaders that see the spark in young troops and attempt to cultivate that fire. There are outliers. It is our responsibility as seniors to mold and mentor juniors into successful seniors. When I was a young Soldier, there were two camps, the ones that encouraged me to progress and the ones that felt I was too young. Just like all young Soldiers, my mouth would get me in trouble but as I learned tactfulness and regulatory guidance, it fostered knowledge and the ability to talk to people in a manner that I could tell someone senior to me that they were a roaring dumpster fire, without being disrespectful. I was lucky to have a majority of leaders that saw something in me and cultivated my fire. We need to do the same for this newer generation that is slated to replace us. Young or not, take someone, hell a few people under your wing and mold them, teach them. Be there when they need advice, even when you move on to a new duty station. Encourage people to work out of their comfort zone. Give troops regular counseling and make sure to include promotion counseling, so they know what your expectations are as a leader. Don't be a salty older Soldier when you see someone make rank faster. Sometimes, it's about being at the right board at the right time and there are definitely those that deserve to be promoted that don't get picked up. But, don't be a roadblock unless that person is not performing at the level expected for their current grade or position that they hold. Don't allow people to not take care of the individuals under their charge. Put a junior Soldier in charge once and a while, let a young troop shadow you here and there. Let them see what it's like to be the 1SG or PLT SGT every once and a while. Counsel, Counsel, Counsel... I owe where I am today to a lot of people who pushed me forward and to some who said I couldn't or that I was too young to succeed.

Response by MSG Brenda Neal made Oct 30 at 2020 2:16 PM

MSG Brenda Neal — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 14:16:32 -0400

In my era a soldier had to nominated to go to the next rank by a superior NCO/Commanding officer. It was by performance as well as years in service. EERs played a role in that even though you may have been transferred or had new personnel over you in your unit. I was in charge of a hospital wing for soldiers returning from Vietnam and their families. I was a SP6 at 25. In 9 years a MSG training soldiers to erect a field hospital in one day. If you can do your job and go beyond the minimum expected, always looking for ways to improve your objective, then that should be the criteria if your superiors are paying attention. I suppose with bullets flying over your head that may not be the case. I'm not sure how promotions are given today but I know I recommended those who earned it.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 31 at 2020 8:36 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 31 Oct 2020 20:36:29 -0400

Way too soon.The maturity is not there ...I have seen a CMDCM at 15 years,on a Ship underway, and it was a,disaster

Response by SPC Douglas Hearron made Nov 2 at 2020 10:46 PM

SPC Douglas Hearron — Mon, 02 Nov 2020 22:46:19 -0500

In 3 years?!?! Hell yeah that’s too soon. Doubt they’ve been able to master their basic job let alone learn how to lead.

Response by SGT David Jones made Nov 3 at 2020 11:00 AM

SGT David Jones — Tue, 03 Nov 2020 11:00:02 -0500

Conversely, I joined in 2006 aged 38 and made E5 after 3 years from PFC, My issue was the lack of common sense sometimes from senior NCO's without life experiences that would have stood them in better stead when making decisions that required some better empathy other than military regs written 20/30 years earlier that probably didn't or weren't necessarily applicable or relevant at that time, however, I fully understood the follow the regs ordinance just didn't necessarily agree with at times when dealing with certain SM

Response by MSG Jim Martin made Nov 4 at 2020 12:40 PM

MSG Jim Martin — Wed, 04 Nov 2020 12:40:42 -0500

I think it's too fast. Need to experience more of your field before making it to E-6. Especially in the combat arms fields, what kind of training / experience can you get in in three years. Heck, some people haven't even reenlisted in that time.

Response by PO3 Dale Olson made Nov 4 at 2020 1:27 PM

PO3 Dale Olson — Wed, 04 Nov 2020 13:27:00 -0500

When I was in... your join date had a lot to do with it... time in grade and test dates.

Response by CMSgt Donald ONeill made Nov 6 at 2020 8:38 AM

CMSgt Donald ONeill — Fri, 06 Nov 2020 08:38:14 -0500

In the private sector they advance the best and brightest that is the name of the game. And it pays off most of the time for the companies . In the military we don't always get the right person in the job that we would like . Why is because some of our best people didn't fill the right squares to meet the military standard . I made E-5 in two years in the Army in war time base mostly on my performance when I was called on . Later in my career I made E-6 over others because I had the squares filled through PME. Through out my career I seen many great people who were great at their jobs but never advanced past E-6 because because they never wanted to do PME and many would have made great supervisors . But because of our standards of promotions it could never happen . Just remember this not every Harvard or Ivy league grad pans out like many would wish . And great leaders are born with certain greatness that carries them throughout life . Many others learn and takes time but mature into their roles with God given abilities .

Response by SPC David Jorde made Nov 6 at 2020 9:29 AM

SPC David Jorde — Fri, 06 Nov 2020 09:29:28 -0500

I made E4 in 18 months in the US Army 66-68.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Nov 6 at 2020 9:42 AM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Fri, 06 Nov 2020 09:42:18 -0500

It depends on the person and MOS/AFSC. I flew with a loadmaster who made SMSgt (E8) under 10 years. Very early at the time. I asked him how he did it. He said he simply did what the AF told him to do. He excelled in his AFSC becoming an instructor-evaluator. He studied hard and maxed scores on Promotion Fitness Exam. He passed PT test. He completed his bachelors degree and SNCO leadership training. He also had a very positive attitude.

Response by SGT Jay Holland made Nov 7 at 2020 7:47 AM

SGT Jay Holland — Sat, 07 Nov 2020 07:47:53 -0500

There is a such a thing as getting promoted too quickly. I retired in 2016 as an E-5, which many believe was a waste, but I personally feel that not all people are suitable to be in leadership positions. I have known many E-5 and above that had no business being in leadership positions, and only were promoted because they went to the board prior to RCP and got points or had advantages such as a college degree or delayed entry. My last tour to Iraq, I was the Ammunition NCOIC as an E-5 even though there were 2 NCOs that were senior to me, because of my experience. Personally I believe that the Army made a mistake removing the other specialist ranks. A person can be a great subject matter expert without being a good leader.

Response by SSG Eric Blue made Nov 8 at 2020 12:00 PM

SSG Eric Blue — Sun, 08 Nov 2020 12:00:29 -0500

Something I didn't mention previously in this post is that sometimes it depends VERY HEAVILY on who you know and who you...well, you know. The first artillery SMOKE (chief of the firing battery in artillery/E-7) I ever met was a former drill sergeant who had sex frequently with one of his trainees, dated her after basic & AIT, got her pregnant, and married her when she was a 19 year old PV2. She was an E-5 before her 21st birthday and an E-6 not too long after. That smoke made damn certain she got squared away. He even got her records so incredibly stacked that she didn't get reduced!

Response by SGT Dan Theman made Nov 13 at 2020 3:05 PM

SGT Dan Theman — Fri, 13 Nov 2020 15:05:10 -0500

Hard to say and personally I think it’s within the individual to manage the promotion ladder.
While in the army I joined as (E-ya owe me 1) and made rank fairly quickly. By my 2nd year I was Spec4 and 2 months later Corporal. In my 3rd year while stationed in Germany, I was selected for and received grade waivers to attended BNOC and PNOC. When I graduated the first course as Distinguished Honor graduate I was promoted to E5 Sergeant when I returned to my duty station. In 6 months my CSM requested I attend the 2nd course and of course I considered that an order not a question. I would have preferred to wait as in my Platoon I had seasoned E5’s and E6’s who never attended either School as of yet. Never the less I went and I graduated Top 10% and #2 in the class. This was all before my actual 4th year. When I returned I was reassigned from 3rd Squad leader to 1st Squad leader replacing the E6 in position who moved to 2nd Squad.
This did not go over well with my fellow Squad leaders and in private we all talked about it and they felt I was too young in grade for the job, however we just dealt with it by moving my old squad up with me and he took his back with him... I didn’t care as I had a great squad
4 months later we had our 72 hour ARTEP where my Squad was the first Squad to pass their ARTEP on the first go...
Nothing was ever said again and when we got back to base my Squad was given the a 4 day pass by the company commander and no clean up duties. I was informed I would be promoted to E6 and a hefty bonus upon my reup. It never went to my head because I earned it with hard work dedication and one hell of a squad....
That said
Sadly my wife (non army issued) didn’t like the life and hence cane the ultimatum...
Should have stayed in
Divorced 2 years later

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 16 at 2020 12:05 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Nov 2020 12:05:43 -0500

It's important to do some soul searching; its all about the responsibilities that comes with promotion and if you're personally ready. As one promotes, duties and responsibilities increases. I appreciate individuals who step up to the plate and say's "I am not ready yet." There are those who promotes as they meet the requirement of TIG/TIS, but sometimes, they are not up to the challenge. At the end...do some soul searching; after all, it's American lives your leading or fail to lead..

Response by SGT Harvey Schacherer made Nov 17 at 2020 5:40 PM

SGT Harvey Schacherer — Tue, 17 Nov 2020 17:40:10 -0500

First let me say I am retired Army, I also had reenlisted in my late 30's, this resulted in many individuals younger than me out ranking me. With that being said, I pointed out to many NCO's and officers alike, how I would not come to them if I was having problems, whether career or family related. My basis for that comment, simply my age and years of military service. For me, dealing with NCO's who were younger than me but outranked me, often ended in them showing their overall immaturity. Granted this may not apply to all who make rank quickly, but it is the most common scenario.

Response by SP5 Gary Perkins made Dec 1 at 2020 7:29 PM

SP5 Gary Perkins — Tue, 01 Dec 2020 19:29:17 -0500

Upon completion of basic training, E-6 is awarded to all branches upon arrival at a Special Band! United States Marine Band are exempt from basic training!! Purpose of E-6 is to keep inline with pay as a civilian musician!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 18 at 2020 7:59 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 18 Dec 2020 07:59:28 -0500

I made E-5 within two years of enlisting. It could have been a huge mistake to get rank too early, but I managed my career rather than letting events manage me. I made the most of it by going to OCS and earning my commission. I volunteered for every training opportunity and school I could. I took assignments no one else wanted. I studied regulations and learned what my options were. I couldn't control everything, and I didn't always get what I wanted, but I had specific training and experience that allowed me to stay in uniform for 36 years!

Response by 1SG Steven Malkowski made Dec 22 at 2020 1:56 PM

1SG Steven Malkowski — Tue, 22 Dec 2020 13:56:45 -0500

It all depends on your maturity level and ability to comprehend your responsibilities. Number one, you have to be technically proficient at your grade and every one below. If you don't know your job and your subordinates then how can you know/evaluate their performance? Number two, you have to have the maturity to use your authority in an appropriate manner. This is where many get into trouble. Like the CSM below said, it can go to your head. Study up on leadership principles and use the appropriate level of supervision based on your personal style and the level of experience of your crew. Never be a know-it-all but don't hesitate to correct in a positive manner.
Good luck in your future

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 23 at 2020 4:49 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 Dec 2020 16:49:30 -0500

I have read before that you can rank up too fast . I think in my opinion that ranking too fast if you're too young can be an issue due to the fact that you may not be mature enough , but I'm not sure if that would apply to someone who is a little bit older already in the army .

Response by PO2 Robert Wollam made Dec 24 at 2020 12:16 PM

PO2 Robert Wollam — Thu, 24 Dec 2020 12:16:33 -0500

I made E5 in three years (‘68-‘71). As an EO I did three tours of Vietnam in that time. I don’t know if that had anything to do with it or not. After my three tours i was separated from the Navy and spent the rest of my enlightenment on inactive reserve. Another note, my basic training was cut in half along with my A school. From the time I enlisted to the time I was deployed it was 13 weeks. I was not the only one who made rank that fast.

Response by CPT Carolyn Andrews made Dec 26 at 2020 9:31 AM

CPT Carolyn Andrews — Sat, 26 Dec 2020 09:31:48 -0500

In the Army we have a score. When the points goes down in Sgt or SSG
Is when we get promoted.

Response by CPT Carolyn Andrews made Dec 26 at 2020 10:18 AM

CPT Carolyn Andrews — Sat, 26 Dec 2020 10:18:35 -0500

I came in as a SPC. I had 2.5 yrs of college and a yr in ROTC.
SGT took 2 yrs and SSG in another 2yrs. Now I had to wait for the scores to go from 999 down. We watched our "Ps and Qs until the scores came out again.

Response by PO2 Lon Hebert made Dec 26 at 2020 12:35 PM

PO2 Lon Hebert — Sat, 26 Dec 2020 12:35:45 -0500

there is no way in gods green earth to make E-6 in three years in the navy. I was in 71-77 USAF and 78-93 USN. Never saw any of my friends as RM2 that took the RM1/E-6 test until they had at least 10years, I have seen Operations Specialist who made it in 7 years but no one makes it in 3 years. another thing I saw these Push button E-4 that never served as a Fleet radioman and did not learn there rating. did not believe in push button. it takes fleet experience to get promoted.

Response by SSgt Warren Henthorn made Dec 30 at 2020 4:11 PM

SSgt Warren Henthorn — Wed, 30 Dec 2020 16:11:19 -0500

Made E-5 in under 3 years in the AF in 1970. Put my strip on before reporting to my next post, the senior NCO's told me the first day they were going to get my strips. They crapped on me for a short time then decided I knew my job and backed off. I was in service at the right time and the right place.

Response by PO1 Troy Simpson made Dec 30 at 2020 4:31 PM

PO1 Troy Simpson — Wed, 30 Dec 2020 16:31:20 -0500

I did it 1982-1985 seaman recruit E1 to Bm1 (SW) E-6. Yes I was over my head none else seemed to want the job. Very few self motivated deckapes onboard my three ships.

Response by SGT George Duncan made Jan 2 at 2021 1:43 PM

SGT George Duncan — Sat, 02 Jan 2021 13:43:07 -0500

not really it how you get there

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 3 at 2021 8:26 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 03 Jan 2021 20:26:52 -0500

It really depends on the degree of leadership responsibilities you have. I know in the army depending on whether you are combat, combat support or combat service support MOS, your direct accountability and supervisory functions can vary greatly. We at one time had the "stripes for skills" program which meant a civilain LPN nurse or RT who more or less had already done tech school for those jobs got the higher rank. Throwing on rank without some good mentor/mentee time on the job is iffy. Same for not completing the NCOES. I had a unit 1SG who somehow had to do PLDC at the E8 pay grade. He laughed about it. As an RN I had a Lt Col in my Captain career course.

Response by SGT Daniel Merriman made Jan 9 at 2021 3:57 PM

SGT Daniel Merriman — Sat, 09 Jan 2021 15:57:28 -0500

Takes 3 to make 5 unless you were a REF !

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2021 4:34 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 09 Jan 2021 16:34:26 -0500

I think there should be an alternate rank structure for every branch, one that allows servicemembers to earn more with promotions based on work ethic, but without placing them in higher positions of authority and decision making. I don't see anything wrong with making rank quick, but the problem that usually occurs is the servicemember lacks proper leadership experience when they are slotted for a higher leadership position.

Response by SP5 Richard Panek made Jan 22 at 2021 9:43 AM

SP5 Richard Panek — Fri, 22 Jan 2021 09:43:33 -0500

I was offered E6 and $10,000 tax free on my 2 yr and 7 mo. anniversary. Albeit, it was done in Nam, at the time. It took me 5 seconds to tell my captain, NO.
That is why war is manufactured. It puts money in fat cat back pockets and rank for the full hitch guys

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 24 at 2021 8:50 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 24 Jan 2021 20:50:00 -0500

General individuals that are on the fast track also because of their technical abilities. And generally these individuals are plugged into a system where that is understood and the need for their technical abilities outweighs the need for their leadership skills. Of course he's individuals still have to go through the same courses as everyone else the leadership courses and continually be evaluated. My early twenties I served in the Navy for three years and four months and began as an ENFR (E-1).. but it's time I left the Navy I was in E5. Of course when I was older 42 years old I joined the army reserves as an E3.. one year I was in E4 and I guess one more year and I was in E5 and as soon as I made it E5 I dropped my warrant officer packet. 1 years of w1 I became a W-2. So when six years approximately I went from an E3 to a W-2. Did I deserve it of course I did I earned it I paid attention to detail. I sought out responsibility. Drill weekend with the army reserves by Sunday everybody's pretty wore out but my boots were shiny as day one. It's be honest with you I was inspired by an e6. What I made my E4 he called me over and put his arm around me and he said Hogan you're on the fast track keep up the good work you know what to do. Is the military prejudice of course there are discriminators everywhere. They even get away with defeating the 1974 eeo act that says that you cannot discriminate against anybody of the ages of 45 and above. Which is a shame by myself right now at the age of 57 I am no slouch I can meet or exceed the standards and that's what is required for success.I did see a lot of warrant officers that were about themselves I never took that stance we are only as strong as our weakest link we leave no one behind my people come first because without them there is no mission and there are certain personal promises I make to myself. Like I will not tolerate any of my soldiers dying or becoming damaged is my responsibility to get them through it all and succeed I feel proud of what they've done and be righteous and when the hearts and minds of those who oppose us. When it was time to take supplies I was there making a chain when it was time to throw out the trash I was there assisting you have to instill your intent you have to give them ownership you have to put the authority where the authority needs to be the two pillars of intent the first two questions your people should ask themselves is it safe and is it the right thing to do these individuals understand what is required what their Commander or leader requires of them. They succeed we all succeed and they can take all the credit like a proud father yes. There is one true fact about war it's like street fighting the first rule of street fighting is not to get into a fight. And we are governed by the Constitution of the United States and that should not be waived for any reason for anyone and as we are the benefactors of this constitution every person beyond the borders should also fall under the Constitution of the United States of America in our actions at least. One problem at a time God bless you all

Response by PO2 Joseph Chantiny made Jan 25 at 2021 10:03 AM

PO2 Joseph Chantiny — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 10:03:35 -0500

Yes, I'm not sure how fast is too fast-but it's a subjective timeframe, for sure.

Response by SFC Melvin Brandenburg made Jan 25 at 2021 10:40 AM

SFC Melvin Brandenburg — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 10:40:20 -0500

Yes. Promoting people too quickly before they have a chance to develop sufficiently at each step of their career progression ultimately creates gaps in experience and leads to eventual gaps in judgment.

Response by 1stSgt Rex Lawrence made Jan 25 at 2021 12:32 PM

1stSgt Rex Lawrence — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 12:32:57 -0500

i think we all still put our pants on the same

Response by SPC Chris Ison made Jan 28 at 2021 1:56 PM

SPC Chris Ison — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 13:56:40 -0500

Since the Navy doesn't care about leadership. No.

Response by PO2 Louis Fattrusso made Feb 17 at 2021 8:18 PM

PO2 Louis Fattrusso — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 20:18:02 -0500

I made E5 in les than 4 years and felt ready. it depends on your maturity level and ability to command respect of your peers. Some people are mature enough to be an E6, but not many.

Response by SMSgt Billy Cesarano made Feb 17 at 2021 9:00 PM

SMSgt Billy Cesarano — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 21:00:47 -0500

In active duty military promotion systems, there are the basic qualifiers, TIS, TIG, PME etc. These are then used to rank the qualified personnel along with test scores and in many cases a board. The intended result is the absolute best selectee is promoted for the good of the service. This is the enlisted side of things. If you meet the most basic of qualifications and have a senior NCO who gets an officer in the command to sign off on it, you can back door all other competition, if no one dares to protest. Then there are field promotions and field commissions, requiring much the same but bypassing all qualifiers other than an obvious immediate need. Many who are promoted outside of the established military promotion norms way too soon are most likely pawns of one sort or other and many a good soldier is damaged for a time or permanently in many cases, along with the collateral damage to subordinates and the whole of the system in general. Each individual should already be displaying full qualifications and even filling the role actively prior to promotion. This is how I was taught and how I prepared my subordinates while watching others build puppets in their regimes. In 31 years of service, I have seen the best and the worst. Following what I was taught always produced excellent results. Anyone who feels they were promoted too early is not at fault necessarily. It is those who did the promotion for an unprepared individual who should be held accountable and demoted. In the Profession of Arms, we cannot accept the luxuries of civilian whims in process and purpose. Follow the regulations and it's wisdom and beauty will be revealed.

Response by SSgt John Sohm made Feb 18 at 2021 1:17 PM

SSgt John Sohm — Thu, 18 Feb 2021 13:17:51 -0500

Made E5 in just over 3-1/2 years at a time when people getting out of the Air Force after 4 years were E4 SRA but not yet E4 Buck Sergeant. Due mostly to making Below the Zone first try for E4. Was a Buck Sergeant for the shortest period of all preceding ranks, 4 months (Mar ‘81 to Jul ‘81). WAPS tested Nov ‘80 and got line number for Staff Sgt. first time.
I was a bit older than most having turned 22 half way through basic training. Had two years of college and a year and a half of work at a nowhere job prior to enlisting.

Response by Sgt Kenneth Kimble made Feb 19 at 2021 12:47 AM

Sgt Kenneth Kimble — Fri, 19 Feb 2021 00:47:15 -0500

I made Sgt E-5 in 2 years while serving in the Marines. It was kind of hard to lead Marines in the field when I hardly knew what I was doing.

Response by MSG David Densmore made Feb 19 at 2021 10:23 AM

MSG David Densmore — Fri, 19 Feb 2021 10:23:16 -0500

I think so. I’m sure it depends on the individual to a degree, but I agree with the need for mentorship by good leaders to develop leadership skills in the soldier. I’ve seen too many that have been promoted too soon, and the effect it has on those they interact with, whether fellow team members, and/or “customers” when in support positions. BTW, I don’t think this is exclusive to enlisted. I’ve seen some young 1LTs that were way to full of themselves. Mentorship and command climate matters for them as well.

Response by SSG Mitchell Richmond made Feb 19 at 2021 3:21 PM

SSG Mitchell Richmond — Fri, 19 Feb 2021 15:21:05 -0500

I made E6 in 4 years, pinning 1NOV2019. It depends on if you let it get to your head or not. I do my best to stay humble and realize that 4 years isn't a long TIS for a SSG. That being said, I don't think that there is a problem with ranking up too fast. Some people are recognizable as leadership material, and their leadership can see it, and reward them with an early board appearance. But that person still has to put in the work of passing the board, passing BLC/ALC/etc, and earning points. I think that the current state of promotion puts a lot of responsibility into their leadership's hands, but the leadership doesn't always use it or recognize it. A board appearance shouldn't be automatic, unless the regulations say so. Even then, a memo stating why they aren't being recommended for a board appearance is up to leadership. Making poor leaders is the fault of the leadership, not fast promotions.

Response by SGT Carlton Martin made Mar 5 at 2021 7:34 AM

SGT Carlton Martin — Fri, 05 Mar 2021 07:34:40 -0500

I can only speak for myself. I didn't make a career of it, but for the years I put in, I gave it 100%. I grinded everyday and was rewarded by gaining rank swiftly. Looking back, I wasn't ready! Though my work ethic and drive warranted the rank, I was still a tad immature, lacked leadership experience, and my overall military acumen was still developing. Now I was successful, but I look at where I am today as a well seasoned business professional - and, I can only imagine how much more successful I would've been if I had the maturity, and skill sets I carry today, back then.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2021 1:40 AM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Mar 2021 01:40:30 -0400

I can see someone being high speed and and making E5 in 4, but E6 absolutely not. I don't want to get into how the hell regardless who you are. E6, Nope.

Response by SGT J M Porters made Mar 19 at 2021 9:47 AM

SGT J M Porters — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 09:47:09 -0400

We need good NCOs. I was 17 when I entered service. Basic was tremendous, and I loved AIT. But when I PCS, I became a total screw-up. And I screwed-up for3 years. What changed it for me was my 1st SGT said I had too much time on my hand. So he put me in charge of the barracks. I made E-4 in three months. From there, I moved to Brigade HQ. I became the Commander drive and made SGT in two months. Then I was promoted to Brigade NCOIC of distribution Center. We need NCO with good insight. Let's agree a lot of the NCOs do let it go to their heads. However, we need them to because sometimes they think outside the box. If they can do the job, promote them. Fast-track them if they are outstanding. Sidebar for some of you. When it came time to reenlist, I got out of the service. I knew I could make it in the military, but I did not know about civilian life. And I did catch "Hell for doing that." I went to college, got my degree, and when to Auburn and never looked back. But I will say this the Army was a great place for me to grow up. I hate it took me so long to do so.

Response by CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana made Mar 19 at 2021 10:20 AM

CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 10:20:10 -0400

I joined the Army as a PFC and by the time I completed six months in the 2/11 FA I was already a SPC/E4. Another six months and I was a SGT/E5 and I completed the DivArty Leadership Course, a parallel to the PLDC. By June 1992, I had pinned on SSG/E6 stripes and was acting Division Artillery S-1 NCOIC in the 25th ID at Schofield Barracks. In July 1992, the DivArty Commander recommended me for OCS at Benning and in September 1992 I was airborne to Fort Benning to attend OCS in the rank of SGT/E-5. So, yes, you can make rank in under 3 years, if you are like me, but keep your feet on the ground and don't try flying too high for jealousy can defeat your purpose.

Response by CSM David Hopkins made Mar 19 at 2021 6:51 PM

CSM David Hopkins — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 18:51:33 -0400

I don’t know about the Navy, but I know in the Army, you cannot even be promoted to E-6 until you have 4 years Time in Service. Now I suppose in the 2 1/2 years I have been retired, it may have changed, but I seriously doubt it.

Response by CPO Amb. Terry Earthwind Nichols made Mar 20 at 2021 6:26 AM

CPO Amb. Terry Earthwind Nichols — Sat, 20 Mar 2021 06:26:52 -0400

I made E6 in 4 years and E7 in 7 years and never regretted it. My only focus was to be a CPO and I did it.

Response by SP5 John Eskins made Mar 21 at 2021 1:35 AM

SP5 John Eskins — Sun, 21 Mar 2021 01:35:23 -0400

I don't know if there is such a thing as too soon, I personally made E-5 in just over 2 years and I think that's a lot to do with willingness, but only in part. the other part is due to MOS and intelligence levels. Not in IQ but knowledge of what is on the table. The other part is ability, ability to perform the job offered. During weapons training, I maxed out every weapon they put in my hands. Took the highest score in base history, especially in distance fire. I earned a 3 foot tall trophy for my efforts, they wouldn't let me take that one home tho, they gave me a 10 inch tall replica instead. But I had elite groups visit during boot camp wanting me to TDY to their org. Besides being a rough and tumble troop, I had the intel. level they needed. I was sent out on solo actions that carried stealth activities so there was no fanfare, just silent promos at CQ which is why the quick rank I think. The other part about quick rank makes me think of the NCO's who became an officer as soon as boot camp was over. Anyway, this is my take on it. They find someone they feel is an elite in one way or another and they are the ones who get promos quicker. We've all seen green lewies that couldn't hit their own asses with both hands but had gotten a promo by one way or another. I have a nephew that made it to a Master Chief in under 10 years in the Navy but the Navy promos faster than all the rest do. I really didn't believe him until I seen his DD-214, still not really sure he didn't just pull some strings or something but it's standing.

Response by SGT Ronald Audas made Mar 21 at 2021 2:03 PM

SGT Ronald Audas — Sun, 21 Mar 2021 14:03:36 -0400

I was 24 years old when I was drafted in 1966.I was sent to Korea after AIT. I have never been a stand back and watch sort of person.Perhaps this was recognized as I made E-5 in 19 months.Right place at the right time...maybe.You can't ask for or buy rank.Someone must recommend you.It may have happened,but I have never heard of any one saying,I don't deserve this honor. I was told by my CO that if I reupped, I was assured E-6 within 6 months.21/2 years to that rank would have been pretty uncommon.Also,that was his opinion.I could have still been E-5 ten years later.All this blabber to say that it is possible to make E-6 in 3 years.Don't hold me to this,but it seemed to me that draftees seemed to gain rank faster than enlisted personnel.

Response by SGT William Revis made Mar 22 at 2021 11:17 AM

SGT William Revis — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 11:17:30 -0400

If you work at Lieutenant Audie Murphy and how fast he made rank but those were ranked promoted under combat conditions. There are officers who finished College ROTC and come in a second lieutenant Ensign in your case. You would not have been promoted if your command felt that you could not handle the responsibility and you had to demonstrate leadership in order for it to be accomplished

Response by LT John McCormick made Mar 22 at 2021 5:44 PM

LT John McCormick — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 17:44:17 -0400

Nuclear ratings/MOS make E5/6/7 pretty quick... they are technically smart but need a strong Goat Locker to round them out... provide leadership lessons. As a baby nuc I wouldn’t have ate that shit/workload if I wasn’t making money... too many fun things to do... leadership is a callus earned... not taught is some BS skool...

Response by SGM M.B. Pace made Mar 22 at 2021 7:55 PM

SGM M.B. Pace — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 19:55:28 -0400

Congratulations! I joined at 17 yrs of age as a E1/PVT in a high strength Mos 76V which became 92A the cutoff scores were high on the 999 point system. Picked up additional MOS', skill identifiers and was E5 for one year, E6 for two yrs, E7 for two yrs, E8 for four yrs and made E9 in less than twenty out of my 22 yrs. Continue to move up the ranks E8 was the longest rank I held before I made it to E9 which was my longest!

Response by SGT Randall Smith made Mar 22 at 2021 8:02 PM

SGT Randall Smith — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 20:02:00 -0400

Went before the promotion board the week after I qualified with time in grade and time in the service with wavers. At that time most comanies were short of NCO's due to drafts for Viet Nam. What helped me was I was 21 when I got my draft notice then I enlisted. Most of my platoon were draftees and quite happy to be PFC or Sp4. I made Sgt E5 16 months after I entered the Army. That was my goal and I worked for it. Went to schools, was strack in appearance and manners.
When I got to Viet Nam the 1SGT told me if I performed the same as I had in Germany he would see that I made SSG. 9 months later I got my rocker. 2 weeks later I was told to remove it. It seems that Brigade wanted the rank for there people and I was not in the Army long enough. 3 months later I was told I could get the rank back with reenlistment. But I was not going back to Viet Nam. 1 tour was more than enough.

Response by 1SG Brian Adams made Mar 22 at 2021 10:15 PM

1SG Brian Adams — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 22:15:04 -0400

Having a bachelor's degree enlisting will get you E-4. Having said that, having all that college used to get you huge promotion points and promotions came quickly. I feel that yes, maybe gaining rank quickly can have challenges. On the other side of the coin, Soldiers should respect the rank, not the person.
As a 1st Sergeant, I saluted the young 2nd Louie...I respected the uniform.

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made Mar 23 at 2021 9:19 AM

LtCol Robert Quinter — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 09:19:23 -0400

Cast my remarks in the light of someone who has been retired for 30 years. During my career this happened with the rapid expansion for Vietnam. Units required additional people to be deployable and the time in grade for many promotions was shorter than was previous to allow for the influx of new people. Happened to enlisted and officer promotions. I know of some who were on leave and assigned to training enroute to VN who had both their promotion to first lieutenant and selection to captain paperwork waiting for them when they got to their new assignment.
This phenom resulted in their spending a longer than "normal" time in the grade that they had gotten an accelerated promotion to, and a hump in the number in that grade. Those behind the hump had to wait until the hump smoothed out, so spent more time in their junior grade than those who had been in that grade a short time earlier who got the accelerated promotions.
Unfortunately, I was one of those "behind the hump" and was anxiously anticipating selection every month until it hit me that the accelerated promotions had passed.
Obviously, the majority of those who received the accelerated promotions did not have the "normal" experience of their seniors in that grade, but the people who had progressed in the normal, longer process picked up the slack and paid more attention to the grooming of the rapid selectees.

Response by A1C Carl Pardon made Mar 23 at 2021 9:24 AM

A1C Carl Pardon — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 09:24:33 -0400

I made E-3 in one year in the Air Force and stayed there for 3 years. The Medical field never got rank. I worked with an E-4 with 12 years and an E-5 with 16.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Mar 23 at 2021 10:21 AM

LTC John Griscom — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 10:21:34 -0400

The story was going around in Germany in the 1970s.
A new arrival at the unit asked if it was hard to make E-6. The reply was, "Not if you are an E-7."

Response by TSgt Mario Guajardo made Mar 23 at 2021 5:43 PM

TSgt Mario Guajardo — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 17:43:38 -0400

Depends on the individual and what training they received. A lifetime ago I made E-5 in 5 years but didn't get to Leadership school until two years later. Not for lack of trying. The lack of training was a disadvantage. Fortunately I had great supervisors during the first couple of years of and didn't enlist until I was 23. I may have had the advantage of maturity but also emulated those supervisors. It served me well enough until I got training I needed.

Response by Maj Martin Smith made Mar 24 at 2021 11:01 AM

Maj Martin Smith — Wed, 24 Mar 2021 11:01:48 -0400

Had a POL guy who made E-5 in under 4. He literally ran around the building (outside) for almost 5 minutes yelling 'I made Staff in under 4'. Pretty sure he retired as a Chief Master Sgt.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2021 1:50 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 Mar 2021 13:50:16 -0400

I made E-5 in four, and E-6 in eleven. The AF WAPS system seemed to be geared through time-in-grade/time-in-service scoring to preclude riding the rocket sled up the ranks. In my first couple tests, I would have had to test above 100% to make the cut for my AFSC.

Response by CSM Danny S. made Mar 24 at 2021 5:04 PM

CSM Danny S. — Wed, 24 Mar 2021 17:04:16 -0400

I think that how fast you make rank is situational and maybe a little bit of luck. However I will say you can get promoted before you are ready. I have soldiers today that struggle with responsibility because they didn't get the type of mentor ship they needed for the next rank. If that soldier can't adapt it only causes the soldiers below him/her pain because their leader can't take care of them like they need to. However you never know what your going to get until you get promoted and get that time in the new position. Success or failure is always up to the individual.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2021 9:10 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 Mar 2021 21:10:03 -0400

What happened to time in service and rank requirements?

Response by CWO2 Alfredo Didier made Mar 25 at 2021 9:04 PM

CWO2 Alfredo Didier — Thu, 25 Mar 2021 21:04:42 -0400

I have a friend who served 4 years and showed me his ID it said E-7 It took me 10 years to make E-7. I was Navy he was Army maybe some of you Army guys can tell me how did he make E-7 in only 4 years I know there is no way you can do that in the Navy.

Response by SSG Christopher Reaves made Mar 25 at 2021 11:09 PM

SSG Christopher Reaves — Thu, 25 Mar 2021 23:09:30 -0400

CWO2 C.m. Reaves, I was part of a COHORT tank company 82-86, and we had a bunch of Elvis 6es,in our unit, guys who made E6 in 2 to 2 1/2 years,when we formed our company only had a handful of ncos, so the hard chargers who want responsibility and leadership were promoted at blinding speed, some folded, to much to fast, but a few blazed,so you have to take it on a case by case basis, we called these guys Elvis 6es because they made E6,like the king E1 to E6 in 2 years.

Response by PO1 Frank Downs made Mar 26 at 2021 8:56 PM

PO1 Frank Downs — Fri, 26 Mar 2021 20:56:11 -0400

In today’s Navy I would say it’s not.
Sadly to say after my 20 years active duty and 10 years working elsewhere, I went back to working with the navy.
In that short 10 years I didn’t recognize the Navy I once served when I return, rank is now more important then leadership, today leadership is more about how woke a individual is, the Military for some reason is following the old Soviet Union Top Down leadership and Central Command and Control just like the way we lost Vietnam.
The only thing I can say is thank God our weapons system are smarter then most of our top leadership who can’t and won’t get out of wars now after 20 years and if you lose a body part remember that this government supports the Non Citizen over the Veterans who need better medical and support for them and their families, and now the top brass says the enemy is within your ranks.

Response by SSgt Philip Rouse made Mar 28 at 2021 12:26 PM

SSgt Philip Rouse — Sun, 28 Mar 2021 12:26:14 -0400

I made Staff Sergeant in 3 1/2 years in the Air Force during Vietnam. SSGT in the AF was an E-5. Which in my AFSC was still pretty good for the time. it did get all my stuff shipped home for free!

Response by PO1 Ed Cola made Mar 28 at 2021 9:41 PM

PO1 Ed Cola — Sun, 28 Mar 2021 21:41:39 -0400

At the end of Vietnam we had an E-6 report aboard the USS Ranger. Associates degree in electronic engineering and made rate right out of C-school, no idea what C-school he got. Nice guy, totally lost. The chiefs wanted him to supervise the repair of systems he had never seen. Old electronics has quirks, we had a TV system for PLAT vacuum tubes and 2 inch reel to reel video tape. 6 foot tall and 10 foot wide cabinets with 64 "bugs" we could fix by the proper application of a rubber mallet on marked numbers. the list was on a clipboard. All the equipment was old; communications, teletypes, radars, and the men maintaining or operating it were used to the quirks and the poor man just walked from room to room looking over people's shoulders. You could really tell he wanted to get his fingers on the problems. I felt so sorry for him.

Response by SSG Gregg Mourizen made Apr 1 at 2021 11:50 PM

SSG Gregg Mourizen — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 23:50:22 -0400

It really depends on your job and your branch.
I have seen many NCO's in the Army that somehow managed to skip the Time-In-Grade requirement. Some were ok, most weren't. Conversely, I saw many capable soldiers and leaders, stuck at E-4 for no apparent reason.

Navy? That's a little different story.
Promotion requirements are different.

As an Army Instructor, and as a Civilian Contractor, I have seen many Navy NCO's holding positions, normally staffed by lower enlisted in the Army.
Not knowing what rank you came in as, I also do not know how much of a head start you had, over your pears.
Obviously, you impressed your leadership enough to advance so quickly. Just don't let it go to your head. One oops, can ruin all those ataboys you got along the way.

Response by PO1 Tim Lewis made Apr 5 at 2021 6:06 PM

PO1 Tim Lewis — Mon, 05 Apr 2021 18:06:14 -0400

I reached E6 in 4 years in the Navy. Some folks were 'Push Button' E4s right out of Bootcamp. I started as an E1 and had to earn every single promotion.
I made E6 in 4 years, and I retired as an E6 after 40 combined years of Navy, Air Force, and Army. Including almost 2 years in a non-pay status.
Not much to brag about.

Response by PO1 J D made Apr 9 at 2021 7:06 PM

PO1 J D — Fri, 09 Apr 2021 19:06:08 -0400

Oh I guarantee that the reason I made E-6 three times is that I made it the first time in the absolute minimum in 79-82. But it was fun

Response by CH (CPT) Heather Davis made Apr 25 at 2021 4:39 PM

CH (CPT) Heather Davis — Sun, 25 Apr 2021 16:39:31 -0400

We call them shake in bakes! You can recognize the difference! That is exactly why we have a huge problem in lack of mentoring and development.

Response by CW3 Alan Smith made Apr 26 at 2021 9:57 AM

CW3 Alan Smith — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 09:57:15 -0400

I made E6 in under 4 years and E7 in just over 7 years. It’s all about your work ethic and assignment/MOS. I was acting Motor Sergeant as an E4 Sergeant but couldn’t get promoted for over a year when I had more points than needed to make E6 do to no E5 allocations in my MOS. I finally received promotion with The soldier of the year in Germany in 1970. That was when promotion allocations were limited to the local Command.

Response by SGT Michael Escarzega made Apr 27 at 2021 8:36 PM

SGT Michael Escarzega — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 20:36:27 -0400

I made E-5 in less than 3 years. I give

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2021 8:55 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Apr 2021 08:55:04 -0400

Absolutely. We're definitely 100% promoting way to early. They just don't have the day to day experience to lead. They just memorized some sh*t in a TM/AR/etc and passed a board. They're not humbled yet. They all think they're untouchable and big headed. They don't know how to handle different Soldiers differently, cause it's still just a "one size fits all" type leadership for them. Hell I knew a 1SG (SFC), with only 11 years. Dude was so toxic, but thought he was the best thing since sliced bread cause he was given the 1SG position really early.

Response by MSgt Rafael Cortes made Apr 29 at 2021 12:03 PM

MSgt Rafael Cortes — Thu, 29 Apr 2021 12:03:32 -0400

simple answer is yes. it all depends on the person maturity level. Some have it due to circumstances of seeing the world through the eyes of an adults eyes for what ever reason. And there are some that do not have it but are very book smart. Back in the 90's the Air Force made a major mistake in Force reduction they tried to get people to get out by offering them a large lump sum of money instead of staying in to retire thinking that those closest to retirement age would take the money. Did not think they would smart enough to understand they would be cheating themselves out on a lot of money and benefits in retirement pay over their years. Instead the middle management E-5 thru E-6 with less than 10 years in took the money an ran for the hills. This left a vacuum of experience and maturity that the AF then tried to correct by lowering the promotion score to allow people that had 2 years of college come in as E-3 then put on E-4 in a year or two and with high test scores get promoted to NCO status within 4 years of service and so on. After that it becomes a Promotion Rating game of who you know, who writes your evaluation report, awards, but that is another long subject that I believe all services have tried to fix but promotion environment won't change.

Response by CPT Don Kemp made Apr 29 at 2021 1:24 PM

CPT Don Kemp — Thu, 29 Apr 2021 13:24:11 -0400

Interesting this question continues to come up regarding enlisted advancement. Why never for Officers? I made E-5 in 2.5 years at age 20, E-6 in 4 years at age 22, 2 LT at age 24, and Captain by age 28. Personally, I observed more officers unprepared to lead a platoon at 21 or 22 than NCO’s at the same age. Conversely, there are stories of 20 year old O-3 Company Commanders in Combat leading men with exceptional results. It may have more to do with maturity than age. IMHO.

Response by SFC Lorence Parker made Apr 29 at 2021 2:26 PM

SFC Lorence Parker — Thu, 29 Apr 2021 14:26:55 -0400

Depends on the situation. I was an E-5 in 90 days, and E-6 at one year and and E-7 at 18 Months in Service. This was during and in Vietnam and I was an Infantry Soldier. We lost Leadership very quickly back then and it was whoever was still alive and not WIA moved up to the next position. I was a PSG E-7 But when I was WIA and sent back to Fitzsimmons Hospital they returned ne to E-6 as there was An Army Regulation that said you had to have Seven years in the Army to be an E-7.

Response by PO1 Michael Brouty made May 2 at 2021 11:24 AM

PO1 Michael Brouty — Sun, 02 May 2021 11:24:57 -0400

It took me 8 years to E6. I suppose it could be done in three at the right command if the Sailor was a workaholic and smart. I still think they'd be lacking experience however.

Response by SPC Rick HUnt made May 2 at 2021 1:28 PM

SPC Rick HUnt — Sun, 02 May 2021 13:28:10 -0400

Depends on a lot of factors, to include Mos, deployments (op speed). High speed low drag? Spec ops would make this easy to have happen. E-3 to direct E-5 finish selection, q course could easily be E-6 via waivers that quickly. To much goes into this made rank quick too. E1 to E4 in 11months obviously die to waivers

Response by LTC Clayton Hill made May 2 at 2021 6:02 PM

LTC Clayton Hill — Sun, 02 May 2021 18:02:01 -0400

My wife made E-7 in 7 years before going officer. Me - never enlisted - commissioned and warrant, 28 and 10 years.

Response by PO1 RIchard Petty made May 2 at 2021 10:56 PM

PO1 RIchard Petty — Sun, 02 May 2021 22:56:58 -0400

In the regular surface or aviation Navy I would say no even a push button 3rd class out of "A" "C" school, but in the Nuke side I would say yes its possible because once done with nuke school they are E-5 and be eligible for test on the next cycle.

Response by SSG Chris Gursky made May 3 at 2021 4:45 PM

SSG Chris Gursky — Mon, 03 May 2021 16:45:39 -0400

Everyone is different, everyone matures differently.

Response by SSG George Duncan made May 4 at 2021 9:15 PM

SSG George Duncan — Tue, 04 May 2021 21:15:41 -0400

YES

Response by SSG George Duncan made May 4 at 2021 9:16 PM

SSG George Duncan — Tue, 04 May 2021 21:16:18 -0400

yes

Response by CW4 Charles Dawson made May 5 at 2021 11:33 AM

CW4 Charles Dawson — Wed, 05 May 2021 11:33:52 -0400

I made Master Sergeant (E7), a week before my 25th birthday, so I was 24 years old. I stayed in and retired as a Warrant Officer Four, the highest there was at the time.

Response by Cpl Loel Larzelere made May 5 at 2021 9:35 PM

Cpl Loel Larzelere — Wed, 05 May 2021 21:35:07 -0400

I was in the Marine Corps at a time when the commandant determined that no one was going to make E-5 on their first enlistment, whether it be 2, 4, or 4+extension to 6 years. Also blocked promotions in the air wing for E-6 and above because "there were to many in the wing."

A lot of good people with lots of technical experience left active duty at that time for civilian jobs and the reserves.

Response by SSG David Brandgard made May 11 at 2021 11:04 PM

SSG David Brandgard — Tue, 11 May 2021 23:04:28 -0400

Absolutely too many get rank too fast. When I reclassed from aviation to be a scout, I had 7 years time in rank as a sgt. Way too long but that is what it is. I had 10 years time in service. It sucked professionally/ career-wise, but with all that time came a whole lot of experience. After I reclassed I was supposed to be promoted after I got to my unit, as I had more than enough points to make ssg in my new mos plus I had been to the board, and bcnoc phase 1. Well, of course the "new guy can't get promoted immediately so my promotion packet was "messed up" and I had to wait a year. But anyways....I get to my troop, and we were just in the process of standing it up as a new unit. Well, here I am 29 with almost 11 years in service and 7 in rank. Im obviously the senior E5 so I get all the joy that comes with that. Meanwhile, I'm having a hard time getting on with the ssg's as they are very immature and not very wise in the way of the army. I had more time in grade than any of the E6s had in the army. They all made 6 in 6. Which is great for the paycheck and ego, but not so much for the humility and technically and tactically proficiency. They only knew how to lead as long as the situation was one of the examples in the manuals. They were always picking on the young troopers....who were only a few years younger than them. Not for corrective purposes or anything, just for the sake of bullying. I don't mind a little hazing and good natured ribbing but this was just trying to see who had the most dominance. Finally I would ask for a word with them and tactfully correct them and try to teach them the difference between being an NCO and a sgt. Of course I'd get told to stay in my lane and shut up and all that. I would take the guys and teach them different things from mos to skills to how and why certain things worked or didn't in the army. Of course I would correct when needed, but generally just raising my voice a bit got them in line. (One of the many tricks I tried to teach the other ncos....treat them right, speak to them with respect and honesty, let them know we are on a team...then when you do yell, cuss, rant, whatever....they know it means something. I had the same time in service as the E7s in the unit and one less year than the 1sgt. But they understood what I was doing and why...because they had years of experience. Eventually, I got my promotion and the respect from the other ncos, but more importantly I had the respect of the soldiers, and not just mine. They have gone on to have some pretty good careers and I'm comfortable knowing that I thought them some very good habits.
So after all of that....yes it is bad to get promoted too early

Response by SSG Frank Bova made May 12 at 2021 9:33 PM

SSG Frank Bova — Wed, 12 May 2021 21:33:56 -0400

I made SSG in 1 1/2 years during Vietnam. Rank was available back then. Was drill sergeant at Ft. Dix

Response by SFC Kevin Quinn made May 31 at 2021 11:27 AM

SFC Kevin Quinn — Mon, 31 May 2021 11:27:29 -0400

I mage E6 in 6 yrs and E7 at 10. Even that seemed a bit fast but my competitive spirit would never have seen it like that (then). I think I was ready but I have seen a few in similar situations that failed so I think it should be fine. Especially when you balance it against a 22yr old 2Lt

Response by SSgt James Mathews made Jun 1 at 2021 9:19 AM

SSgt James Mathews — Tue, 01 Jun 2021 09:19:23 -0400

Fort Knox 1959, standing in formation and out came what I called little ford Fontaroy. He was a 19-year-old master Sargent. Could not believe it. In 1995 in my home town I ran into him by surprise. I was talking to someone about my military days, and he stated that he was at Knox the same time as me. Conversation led me to talk about this master Sargent, and he said that was him. So, 19 and a Master Sargent, you think he had a big head, you know it.

Response by SP5 Jeffrey Osborn made Jun 1 at 2021 9:54 AM

SP5 Jeffrey Osborn — Tue, 01 Jun 2021 09:54:04 -0400

I joined at 17 as well. My mother signed an age waiver. My 4th day in reception (Army, btw) was Sept 11th, 2001. Talk about dealing with nonsense t a high level. I made E5 4 years in. You said TIS which is important but most don't know. I'd say thank you for your service but few know that it sounds ironic. You are appreciated however. Thank youy for going above and beyond.

Response by CW5 William Gasaway made Jun 1 at 2021 11:00 AM

CW5 William Gasaway — Tue, 01 Jun 2021 11:00:25 -0400

Trick question. COL Burroughs has it right. It is a case by case situation and if the people doing the recommending and promoting do their jobs right then it WON'T happen. If not, then watch out. I joined the Army with the stated goal of making Warrant Officer. I had a college degree and entered as a PFC, made SPC out of MOS training (Distinguished Honor Graduate) and made SGT after 6 months in my unit. Eighteen months later, with a waiver, I made SSG (thirty-three months in the Army). Three years later I made Warrant and retired after thirty-one years as a CW5. The only regret I have is that in WOCS, I found out that as a college grad I could have enlisted as an E-5 and after basic, MOS and WOCS could have made warrant then, but my #%$hole recruiter did not tell me as he got a $2500 bonus for signing a college grad as an enlisted. Do I think I made rank too fast no, but as a college grad I was a bit more mature than my contemporaries and as a Psych major, I understood the purposes behind some of the more tiresome things they did in basic training so was better able to deal with them.

Response by CW3 Joseph Lawrence made Jun 3 at 2021 12:34 PM

CW3 Joseph Lawrence — Thu, 03 Jun 2021 12:34:15 -0400

I was in the same boat as you, I made E-6 after 33 months in service and I was scheduled to return to the U.S. after my tour in Germany and the Battalion C.O. pulled me aside and said that If I stayed in his unit, and re-enlisted, he would hand me my orders for E-7 and I could take a leave and go home and visit my sick father. I turned him down and sometimes I think I made a mistake, but as far as being too young, that has nothing to do with your capabilities as a leader. I returned to the U.S. and ended up using my big mouth to get me into all kinds of predicaments and then it took me 10 years to get my E-7. The problem with my mouth and my temper came back to haunt me again when I was up for promotion to Warrant. I managed to remind the people that I hadn't lost my temper in years and I received the appointment. The old adage of "An Ounce of Keep your Mouth Shut, Beats a Ton of Explanation." is the best thing for any soldier to know.

Response by PO3 James Bobiney made Jun 4 at 2021 4:49 PM

PO3 James Bobiney — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 16:49:18 -0400

God, this post is from 2016. But I'll add my two bits anyway. I was active Army for eight years before Navy. We had a Medic(I was a Medic) named SSG Sheedy. He made SSG(E6) in 28 months. He said it can be done and he has the orders to prove it, even showed us all. He was a damn good NCO. Mature enough for the responsibilities. He was in his thirties, which makes a difference.
As far as making it too soon...if you mean as far as maturity's sake, I'd say yes. When I was a Mechanic in the Army(my first term of service before I re-classed to Medic) we lived in the same barracks as the Scouts. They were down the hall. We had a kid who made E6 at 22 years old. He was way too immature for it too. I PCS'd a couple months later so idk if he ever fucked up and got busted down or not. I can only assume he did because he was a drunk and a partier. Just not mature or responsible enough.
Anyway, that's my two bits. Enjoy your day.

Response by PO3 Scot Fahey made Jun 4 at 2021 6:23 PM

PO3 Scot Fahey — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 18:23:02 -0400

1978 a CTM could expect E-6 in three years
E-7 in 8 years

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 5 at 2021 5:11 PM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 05 Jun 2021 17:11:53 -0400

Making rank to fast isn't the problem. The problem the wrong ppl making rank. Now making e6 shouldn't be done til after 6 years honestly & e7 til after 10 years. But each branch has their own requirements for the ranks for positions. The thing is the right ppl should make the rank.

Response by CPT Daniel Cox made Jun 6 at 2021 8:01 AM

CPT Daniel Cox — Sun, 06 Jun 2021 08:01:23 -0400

It depends on the person and their job. Some people can handle the stress of leadership and the ability to lead people as much as a decade their senior while others cannot. I think it is easier for most people if they are in a technical position. I don't think the speed of my promotions is possible in today's Army. Congratulations on Officer Candidate School.
I enlisted on my 18th birthday. I was promoted to PV2 as a Squad Leader and the Honor Graduate of BCT and made PFC as the Honor Graduate of my MP School company. I arrived at Fort Ord and was the second-highest-ranking person in the 3rd Platoon as part of the reformation of the 7th ID MP Company in 1975. Only the SFC Platoon Sergeant outranked me since everyone else was straight out of AIT as PV2s. I was an Acting SGT as a Squad Leader and was the Dispatcher when we had Garrison MP Duty.
Six months later I was a Cadet Candidate at the US Military Academy Preparatory School. After ten months at Fort Monmouth and ten more as a Cadet at West Point, I requested a three-month early out of my AD contract to attend college (they counted my time at USMAPS and USMA as part of my enlisted time). I was accepted to a Top Ten College with an outstanding ROTC unit and joined the Army Reserves. I was the 1SG in my ROTC Company and made SP4 in the reserves after four months, so slightly more than a year enlisted to make E4.
I had to leave the USAR less than a year later when I received a Two-Year ROTC Scholarship. I was commissioned as a Chemical Corps Officer in 1980 and was given a medical discharge in 1988 right before I was going before the early promotion board for Major.

Response by 1SG Ed Pablo made Jun 6 at 2021 12:32 PM

1SG Ed Pablo — Sun, 06 Jun 2021 12:32:55 -0400

No. Its no different that getting a 21, 22 year old to be a commission officer or Warrent Officer.

Response by SSG Franklin Briant made Jun 7 at 2021 1:42 AM

SSG Franklin Briant — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 01:42:47 -0400

It is a double edged sword. There are those who are out for themselves and don't care who they burn or step on to get ahead. Some get lucky and survive leadership either by growing up and learning, the others will point fingers and hide to survive. Then there are those who truly earn their rank by their actions. During the Vietnam era they had what was referred to as "shack and bake" sergeants. They showed leadership abilities during basic and AIT. These individuals literally learned the job under fire. Some became very good leaders. Bottom line is if you promote do the job. I was slow to promote due to my inability to shut up and not question stupidity. I retired with 20 and small change as an E6. IF you looked at my record I entered the service with a college degree and should have had an advantage but my straight forward what you see is what you get attitude I did not progress. I have no regrets and I am proud of all I accomplished.

Response by CWO3 Robert Fong made Jun 7 at 2021 11:31 AM

CWO3 Robert Fong — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 11:31:25 -0400

Chief (I assume you're an initiated Chief and not an E-7): Well, I've seen service wides where all you need to do is spell your name correctly to advance because the community is way below 100%. Usually, a red stripe Chief means little or no practical leadership skills, nor practical KSAs, not in all cases, but in most. Most persons who made Chief during my tenure had a minimum of 12 good years, sea time, beau coup points, and had the KSAs to fix a Cutter with holes below the waterline with only a wad of bubble gum. I may be biased because I'm a "sea going" rate. When they say, "Ask the Chief." they are serious because the Chief is a walking textbook, operational Bible, leader, and teacher, so when someone makes Chief they will be found out if they have it all packed in a sock or not, especially in the Chef's Mess.

Response by SP5 Edward Chapman made Jun 7 at 2021 10:14 PM

SP5 Edward Chapman — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 22:14:29 -0400

I agree, mostly. I made E5 at 18, but I was a specialist, 058. ( don't worry about not recognizing the MOS, it's obsolete). I didn't have the decision making responsibility of a "command" MOS. But I did have a PITB job that most sane people wouldn't do. I think my PAY GRADE was appropriate for the work I was doing. Was I qualified for a line job? No!

Response by SSgt Paul Murray made Jun 7 at 2021 10:49 PM

SSgt Paul Murray — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 22:49:13 -0400

During the VN era, USAF promotions were slow. I was augmenteed to a NAS and working for supes that had more rank and less time then me. I thought it was fast to make E-5 in 3 1/2 yrs in the USAF when I have seen E-4's with 10 or more years in. That's when my promos stopped and I remained E-5 until I got out with 8 yrs in. They not only screwed around with USAF stripes, eliminated buck Sgt after 24 yrs as an NCO rank, but also kept on changing the promotions. I missed getting E-6 with 5 1/2 years in by 10 points, but it was my fault.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2021 11:30 PM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 23:30:13 -0400

I am sorry but in our service only IT folks can make 6 in under 10. The reality is I wouldn’t brag about that because 95% of E6s with under 10 years of service have next to no leadership skills and aren’t ready to lead. Just not enough experience. It’s pretty much a fact and has been my entire 20+ years in service.

Response by PO2 Joseph Chantiny made Jun 8 at 2021 9:48 AM

PO2 Joseph Chantiny — Tue, 08 Jun 2021 09:48:15 -0400

Yes, leadership should come with a price and time in rate is important. Just because you're the last person standing doesn't mean you should be an E6. Unfortunately, 30 years ago it was a way to retain people rather than focusing on who would make a good leader, the "carrot" was a promotion to make more money or a better way to spend a reenlistment bonus.

Response by SGT William Harding made Jun 8 at 2021 7:03 PM

SGT William Harding — Tue, 08 Jun 2021 19:03:21 -0400

I made rank quickly because Leadership saw my potential and it help me to excel. It all depends all how good the senior nco’s and immediate NCo’s

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2021 7:04 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 08 Jun 2021 19:04:32 -0400

Not really, what is wrong is having those difrent standards/point depending on MOS

Response by FN Charlie Spivey made Jun 21 at 2021 11:47 AM

FN Charlie Spivey — Mon, 21 Jun 2021 11:47:40 -0400

Not sure of the Navy, but I am aware of one in the C.DG. who made E-7 in under 4. The wouldn't let him in the CPO club as a slick sleeve. The rate was ET which had a huge shipping over bonus too. Didn't have near enough to fill the billets. My Dad was Navy and made Chief in 4, but that was during WWII. He said that at the time he was the youngest CPO in the Navy. My Brother was Navy and made E-5 in under 4 ( ADJ ). He may have had enough time to make E-6. In the Coast Guard, if you meet all the requirements and do well on the Servicewide Exam, if you are a short timer, you won't get the promotion unless you ship over.

Response by SGM Darryl Dean made Jul 6 at 2021 6:41 PM

SGM Darryl Dean — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 18:41:21 -0400

I am pretty sure to get promoted to SSG/E6 in the Army you have to have 48 months in the secondary zone so 3 years is to early. For SFC the earliest you can get promoted is 6 years TIS.

Response by SSG Michael Hale made Jul 6 at 2021 7:11 PM

SSG Michael Hale — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 19:11:13 -0400

I made E6 in 5, lost it in one. I got it back within 1.5 years. I got into a situation where my friends in lower rank didn’t understand that I had to make tremendous changes. I had to change my environment with lower subordinates.

Response by SPC Michael Cochran made Jul 7 at 2021 10:47 AM

SPC Michael Cochran — Wed, 07 Jul 2021 10:47:39 -0400

Was Spec4 in Vietnam, C.O. Offered to make me an E5 on the spot if I would extend or re-up. Could have been E6 with two years time in grade if I would have taken the deal.

Response by CMSgt William Reed made Jul 7 at 2021 11:23 AM

CMSgt William Reed — Wed, 07 Jul 2021 11:23:48 -0400

Certainly, in my service career, AF, I saw several incidents of "too much, to soon" and the NCO Corps suffered as did mission accomplishment. The individuals concerned suffered also, some never figured it out/some did and they recovered well.

Response by CPT Don Cox made Jul 8 at 2021 10:19 AM

CPT Don Cox — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 10:19:37 -0400

I can only respond from my experience in the Army. I was an E-1 at 18 and an O-1 21. That was too fast!!! I was lucky not go to jail or get my ass whipped. I was fortunate to have a seasoned group of NCO's around me. To me a 10-12 year E-7 is the sweet spot. But then that was in the 1960's. So take it for what it's worth.

Response by CPT Don Cox made Jul 8 at 2021 10:23 AM

CPT Don Cox — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 10:23:01 -0400

I was an Army E-1 at 18 and an O-1 at 21(OCS). THAT was too fast. I was fortunate not to go to jail or get my young ass whipped. But I was fortunate to have a bunch of mostly seasoned NCO's around me. I think a 10-12 year E-7 is the sweet spot. But that was in the 1960's. Take it for what it's worth!!!

Response by SGM Otis Whitaker made Jul 8 at 2021 10:41 AM

SGM Otis Whitaker — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 10:41:59 -0400

Apparently it was for the Army. I was an E-7 at 24.5 years old, with 7 years in. The Army refused to promote me to E-8 for 8 years, I had all my ducks in a row but couldn't even break through the "secondary" promotion. All things considered, I should have been promoted to E-8 at the 10 to 12 year TIS time frame. Anyway, decided to stay in anyway, and retired as an E-9 in a difficult career field, the AG Corps.

Response by SP5 Kenny Belden made Jul 8 at 2021 12:16 PM

SP5 Kenny Belden — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 12:16:05 -0400

I made E5 in 2 1/2 years, but that was back in the day. Just sayin.

Response by SMSgt Cary Baker made Jul 8 at 2021 3:37 PM

SMSgt Cary Baker — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 15:37:21 -0400

As long as the individual is willing to listen and learn and not get too big headed - then no, there is no issue with making rank too soon. Think about this - all Ensigns and 2LTs are too young and must listen and learn from their POs and NCOs along with fellow officers if they want to succeed and be respected.

Response by SGT Drew Clifton made Jul 9 at 2021 2:58 AM

SGT Drew Clifton — Fri, 09 Jul 2021 02:58:43 -0400

Considering the TIS requirement for SSG is 4 years if you somehow manage to meet secondary zone requirements, no you cannot make E6 in 3 years. Even to do it in 4 is near impossible and nearly everyone gets there at 8 years at the earliest. From my experiance the average time frame seems to be about 10 to 12 years.

Response by PO1 Lyndon Thomas made Aug 9 at 2021 11:56 AM

PO1 Lyndon Thomas — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 11:56:43 -0400

I would have to say Yes. CSM Michael Sweeney said it perfectly. I don't think anyone joining the military say after high school is in any way equipped to handle that level of responsibility or accountability in any branch of military service.

Response by SGM Michael Womer made Aug 11 at 2021 9:24 PM

SGM Michael Womer — Wed, 11 Aug 2021 21:24:51 -0400

I made SFC (E7) in 7 years, 4months and 11 days, I was supervising people 10 years old than me at age 25.

Response by Cpl Ernest Thomas made Aug 22 at 2021 2:36 PM

Cpl Ernest Thomas — Sun, 22 Aug 2021 14:36:59 -0400

Honestly, INMO, If someone made E-5 in 3 years I wouldn't trust them to lead let alone E-6 in 3 years. They haven't the time in service or time in grade to truly understand the responsibilities of the rank. There's a reason there are time in service/grade requirements. Pushing a golden child up through tge ranks not only hurts moral. It hurts leadership.

Response by MSgt Thelbert (Whitey) Roark made Aug 22 at 2021 11:06 PM

MSgt Thelbert (Whitey) Roark — Sun, 22 Aug 2021 23:06:39 -0400

After reading some of these comments I’m guessing most are from the more recent years. When I was active duty the service branches had a lot more manpower and consequently fewer promotions to go around, depending on the career field. When I went in I saw highly experienced technicians retiring at 20 years as E4 and E5. I made E5 in 4 years and was told that I was very lucky. I wore those stripes for the next eight years before a slot opened up for E6 for me. E7 came three years later. A slot for E8 opened up in ‘88, but I had turn it down so I could retire and spend some time with my Dad before cancer took him.
It seems that rank is just another thing they’re making easier in the military these days.

Response by SFC Richard Baerlocher made Aug 23 at 2021 1:54 AM

SFC Richard Baerlocher — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 01:54:55 -0400

I was stationed in Hanau Germany for my first overseas assignment. We had a Sergeant E-5 that was a UP (unit Police) guarding the gate. He asked aout getting promoted to E-6, and his commander laughed. The sergeant asked to go to personell to fill out his retiremeent paperwork, and was again refused. He went to our unit 3rd Armored Division artillery HQ to call in his retirement. Within a few days he recieved his retirement orders. He was promoted to O-7, and placed in charge of the Army reserve in Germany. He was a full Colonel during the Korean war, and was rifted back. He didn't appear as military as the officers thought he should. He had been wounded a couple of times, and just lacked that appearance. Don't judge an officer or an NCO by appearances, only by their actions.

Response by CSM Thomas Ray made Aug 23 at 2021 1:26 PM

CSM Thomas Ray — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 13:26:42 -0400

I went to Viet Nam as an E-2 and made E-5 in 6 months, because there was no one else left for the slots. I was promised E-6 if I would extend for 3 more months, I turned it down, figuring I was lucky to live as long as I did. We did have some that went to NCO school ( shake and bake ) and came over as E-5, but because of experience most might be under an E-4 with more time in country, rank didn't mean anything, experience and time in country did.

Response by Lt Col Timothy Cassidy-Curtis made Aug 23 at 2021 5:22 PM

Lt Col Timothy Cassidy-Curtis — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 17:22:08 -0400

It would seem to me, from reading the responses, that the answer is yes and no.

On one hand, the Navy wants to recognize EM with exceptional potential. If you get that lucky then you just might be able to make something of it.

On the other hand, however, the Navy's good luck could be your own bad luck. This would be true if you had no capability to handle being a CPO when it was given to you.

So, "No" being an exceptional EM in the Navy and being recognized for it could be the start of something really wonderful for both you and the Navy.

However, "Yes" because a very great deal of EM's need much more than just a few years to work out what being a CPO is all about.

Response by TSgt Ann Smith made Aug 23 at 2021 5:55 PM

TSgt Ann Smith — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 17:55:49 -0400

Some people are book smart and will pas the test the first try. But many times they don't know how to really run the shop in the real world, nor lead. Others of us that exceed in street smarts department and can't make rank fast, who should really be in charge, suffer.

Response by TSgt Ann Smith made Aug 23 at 2021 6:05 PM

TSgt Ann Smith — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 18:05:55 -0400

My sister made Chief real early and she was very effective. She applied for Chief MSgt of the AF and was told she was a shoe in, but alsas, No-go, there was nothing left for her to accomplish so she retired in 2016. She was ahead of her time. There had NOT been a female CMSGT of the AF let a minority until 2020..finaly. Talk about Bias!

Response by SPC David Roberts made Aug 23 at 2021 6:52 PM

SPC David Roberts — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 18:52:42 -0400

I made E4 in 9 months. I came in as an E2 from JROTC and then was promoted as honor grad in my two AIT courses. It was too soon. As an 18-year old, they would put me in charge of details of people much older and more experienced than me. I had no idea of how to earn respect and they would often just ignore me or give me a hard time.

Response by Cpl Craig Howard made Aug 23 at 2021 9:09 PM

Cpl Craig Howard — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 21:09:20 -0400

I was on an accelerated path to E-4, and that was about all I would say was acceptable. I know a young Woman that has picked up E-4 in less than a year, and that is part time in the National Guard. I am happy for her, but she does not have the maturity to handle being an NCO as I understand it. I hope she spends some time in grade to mature and to learn her job. E-4 while still in A School is not right.

Response by CPL Adam Schoenwald made Aug 24 at 2021 10:30 AM

CPL Adam Schoenwald — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 10:30:31 -0400

I certainly wasn't making a 6 in 3, but I was fast tracking to make a 5 in 4. Deployed I was promotable 4 ready to get my 5 but got hurt, WTU Bound they wouldn't give me my 5 because my injuries prevented me to pass PT Test (messed up I know) so they gave me a FG Promotion to get my chevrons. I'm not happy about it, but I guess that's why they don't call them the Hard Stripes for nothing. Point being, it depends on the MOS, How Good Command is on noticing the soldiers that can handle the next rank and how motivated the solideir is. I do think that After 6 some time in rank is probably a good thing. Wisdom is derived from experience, not book reading (although that is important too). I would rather have a WISE leader than a Book Smart Know it all. If personally given the choice I would want to be the experienced leader not the wet behind the ears college student (no offense to the fresh butter bars out there), but that's also why I think soldiers that went from green to gold make better officers in most cases too. Not always, but from my experience most often that is the case a soldier with experience and time in rank seems to have a better understanding to lead and groom soldiers under them opposed to someone that earned the rank via college education, favoritism or any other means.

Response by PO1 Dennis Mackie made Aug 24 at 2021 1:59 PM

PO1 Dennis Mackie — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 13:59:32 -0400

I made it in 4 and the only reason was that Hospital Corpsman were getting killed off during the vietnam war which I was in. I remained an E6 for the next 16 years since my NEC changed to Biomedical Repair after I returned to the USA and went directly to Fitsimmons Army Hospital in Denver for training. I never could pass the Military part of the exams and basically I wasn't interested in that part of my career. Since then they no longer require biomed's to take that part and focus on the actual jobs we performed. So I am told. I was out of the Navy twice but came back in each time without losing a stripe since we were needed.

Response by MGySgt Johnnie Canales made Aug 26 at 2021 5:49 PM

MGySgt Johnnie Canales — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 17:49:27 -0400

Not enough time to gain experience handling issues. Maturity is important.

Response by PFC Nicholas Hare made Aug 26 at 2021 6:12 PM

PFC Nicholas Hare — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 18:12:27 -0400

Not sure if it’s been mentioned yet, and seeing that RP puts old questions in my inbox. 3 years isn’t long considering some get E6 straight out of BCT depending on MOS.

Response by LTC Matthew Maki made Aug 26 at 2021 10:42 PM

LTC Matthew Maki — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 22:42:11 -0400

It may be that rank may come too soon for some. For example, I had barely turned 20 when I made E5 with only 15 months TIS in 1971. On the officer side, from 01 to 03 was only a matter of 24 months TIS. On the other hand, "too soon" may apply to some, no matter what their TIS or TIG.

Response by TSgt Gary McPherson made Aug 28 at 2021 2:28 PM

TSgt Gary McPherson — Sat, 28 Aug 2021 14:28:04 -0400

Making E6 in just 3 years I feel does not give the person time enough to hone up his leadership skills.Leadership/Supervisor skills takes time to learn and practice.

Response by 1SG Michael Farrell made Aug 29 at 2021 1:44 AM

1SG Michael Farrell — Sun, 29 Aug 2021 01:44:43 -0400

Yes. Much of the time it's caused by market forces. I was in a high growth MOS that nobody really wanted to be in. As a result, the Army forcibly re-classified most of the soldiers in the Corrections Facility NCOs into the Chemical Corps. Utterly different requirements, utterly different tools, utterly different people, expectations and responsibilities. A very few made the transition and did reasonably well. Quite few did not. So, if the way to achieve attrition is the goal, transfers and involuntary reclassification will work if all you want to do is sort out some people. As for Candidate Martin, I had a similar experience, but I did not feel that I missed anything until I was a First Sergeant and spending a lot of time in motor pools. I have almost no mechanical aptitude, so I learned a few things to always check and make noises at if I understood and to ask questions if I didn't.

Response by SrA Manny Diaz made Aug 29 at 2021 10:32 AM

SrA Manny Diaz — Sun, 29 Aug 2021 10:32:21 -0400

I doubt it in the Air Force. Unless you get constant step promotions.

Response by 1SG Mitchell Smith made Aug 29 at 2021 6:24 PM

1SG Mitchell Smith — Sun, 29 Aug 2021 18:24:09 -0400

I fast tracked 7 in 9, that was good for transportation....stayed 7 for 7 years and pinned 8 a year later.

When I reached the 1SG seat and also sitting in for the CSM with COC, Battalion, - Brigade staff meeting etc, I was seasoned and was able to handle myself.

I believe you need a 'little' time behind Senior ranks. In my last years in the changing of the promotion system, I witnessed a lot of Seniors getting in trouble. Don't get me wrong there are some that can handle it and do a great job...IMHO.

Response by CW4 John Schwartz made Aug 30 at 2021 10:51 AM

CW4 John Schwartz — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 10:51:27 -0400

I made E-6 / SSGT in six years while serving in Army Reserve from 1973-1979. This was after Vietnam and the Reserves were hurting for NCOs. I retired after 32 years as a CW4. Best 'part-time' job I ever had including deployment to Northern Iraq.

Response by SMSgt Michael Gleason made Aug 30 at 2021 10:52 AM

SMSgt Michael Gleason — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 10:52:52 -0400

In the Army in Korea in 1969, in a battalion totaling 99 members, of whom about two thirds were officers, I made E-5 in 16 months. I didn't hang around for E-6. (At the same time, I attended one soldier's Promotion-to-PFC (E-3) Party THREE times! He'd get drunk at the first two parties, and be demoted the following morning.)

Response by SFC David Pope, MBA made Aug 31 at 2021 11:53 PM

SFC David Pope, MBA — Tue, 31 Aug 2021 23:53:22 -0400

It took me six years to make E5. Then two years to E6, and three years to E7. Three years later I had orders for E8, but was placed on medical hold and forced to retire. I think my time as jr enlisted helped me as a SNCO.

Response by LCDR Mike Morrissey made Sep 3 at 2021 8:40 PM

LCDR Mike Morrissey — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 20:40:36 -0400

Saw this pop up again and decided to add on. In the early 70s, Navy Officer promotions had delays from selection to actual promotion, except for certain circumstances. One was serving in Vietnam. With “just right” timing, I went from O-1 to O-3 with just over 2 yrs TIS and in the Navy Riverine forces at the time “railroad tracks” really upped the respect received. However, those collar devices didn’t impart any wisdom etc. which didn’t help when conducting ops. on the rivers but sure upped the pressure and lead to a near vertical learning curve. But it was also a time when O-3 pay, tax free,and Combat pay combined with the soon to receive the 3 yr TIS pay bump really helped my then bachelor lifestyle on R&R etc.

Response by SGT Mike Fischer made Sep 26 at 2021 11:42 PM

SGT Mike Fischer — Sun, 26 Sep 2021 23:42:11 -0400

I made E5 in 17 months It pays to do your job. Bump in pay to 205.00 a month helps.

Response by PFC James Henderson made Sep 27 at 2021 7:20 AM

PFC James Henderson — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 07:20:44 -0400

Combat services make rank quicker than desk jobs.

Response by PO3 Andrew Kelly made Oct 27 at 2021 10:13 AM

PO3 Andrew Kelly — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 10:13:38 -0400

I had the unfortunate opportunity to watch a young man go through a firework promotion/crash cycle.
I had just put on my crow and was easing into my new responsibilities when we got a new E5 to our shop fresh from training. Between AFTA and prior professional experience, he had come out of schooling advanced to his rank with just under 2 years TIS and was lined up to sit his E^ exams next cycle.
Initially, no one had any problems with our new PO. He was a good mix of personable and professional that makes few a good shipmate in the shop. He took the exam and was tapped for his third chevron with a second-round advancement. That was when things fell apart in an unexpected way.
About two weeks after he tacked on his new rank his number came up in the monthly lottery and he got to pee in a bottle. It came out positive. The second test to verify and it came back positive. As per SOP since he was still living in the barracks a Health and Welfare was called and to everyone's surprise, they found close to two ounces of weed in his room. Now due to his otherwise spotless record to date, the command decided to pursue only the simple possession and use charges and let him go to the old man for Mast.
Over time you pick up the unspoken rules of the road when it comes to taking your licks in the service. No one comes right out and tells you to do this, don't do that, to a lot of these things. You just pick them up by observation and sea stories along the way. Being fast track our young PO seemed to have missed out on some of this seasoning.
From this point on it was like watching a slow motion train wreck.
Everyone in the command knew the score, our CO made it a standard practice to post the minutes of Captain's Masts openly so everyone knew where they stood if their turn in front of him came. Possession and use were cut and dry. Forty-five days restriction and extra duty, 1/2 pay for 6 months, and a stripe. And when you were done you picked up and carried on and no more was said or done if you kept your nose clean. Hard but fair and consistent with no one playing favorites or being made a scapegoat.
This young man seemed to think that he was a special case and proceeded to screw up by the numbers. it was almost painful to watch. Since he was tapped and not yet paid for his new rank he was facing being dropped to E4 but that should not have mattered that much.
I am going to assume that most of those reading this know the score when it comes to Article 15 and court marshals so i will just check off the list of dumb moves rather than explain why they were dumb.
He started by opting for a court marshal at his Captain's Mast, he then proceeded to opt for trial by his peers. The Master Chiefs they tapped were equally amused and annoyed at him. He then waved JAG counsel and brought a civilian lawyer in to represent him. It should be noted at this point that as he had decided to make things difficult NCIS also stepped up their end and applied possession with intent to distribute and distribution to the charges. (They actually tracked down a few folks who would admit they had shared a few bowls with him). The trial went as one might predict and when it came time for sentencing he took his opportunity to speak and spewed forth the craziest diatribe anyone had ever heard challenging the board with its authority to try him, the Navy with its ability to make what he did illegal, and a general disavowal of the proceedings. He spoke for close to two hours despite advice from his lawyer. In the end, he lost everything. Busted down to E1, loss of all pay, 2 years confinement, and in the end a DD214 with the word dishonorable on it.
While this is easily an anti-drug story I think that it is also a case of something that could have been avoided if the young man had the seasoning and wisdom proper TIS would have given him. Not everything you need to know is learned in a classroom. Some lessons are learned by being there and doing your job as the service moves and acts around you. The best people I ever served under were neither one of the guys nor by the book. They were those individuals that had learned the lessons that TIG and TIS teach you and applied them for both the good of those that looked to them as well as the good of the service.

Response by PO1 Nancy Gwinn made Nov 23 at 2021 6:33 PM

PO1 Nancy Gwinn — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 18:33:52 -0500

I would have to agree. I advanced quickly as well. As a young first class I was not prepared for the decisions I would need to make.

Response by Lt Col Warren Domke made Nov 23 at 2021 9:29 PM

Lt Col Warren Domke — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 21:29:52 -0500

I began my military service in the Air National Guard and was promoted to E-4 in three years. Then I went inactive until I was commissioned several years later in the Air Force. Making rank is great but it works best when it comes with maturity. That can be acquired slowly or quickly. I am now retired from the Air Force but have a son who has moved up quickly in the enlisted ranks, but he has done so based on ability, merit and has been mature beyond his years. Another son has moved up in the Army--more slowly, but with merit as well. I think it is possible to promote too quickly, but it is also possible to grow up as one adds stripes or other insignia. Rank is one sign of growth. There are others that are equally or more important. Great question for our modern American Forces!

Response by SFC Dwight Beaver made Nov 25 at 2021 7:07 PM

SFC Dwight Beaver — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 19:07:30 -0500

I don't know what the TOS is now,I've been retired many years but in 3 years is simply too soon. Those individuals usually have a chip on their shoulders and it affects everyone under him/her. I'll take a leader that moves up by his bootstraps anyday

Response by SSG Rafael R. Rodriguez Sr. made Nov 25 at 2021 8:27 PM

SSG Rafael R. Rodriguez Sr. — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 20:27:09 -0500

They are promoting young soldiers too quickly to become Sergeants without training them and giving them responsibilities of taking care of their soldiers and teaching them how to perform proper counseling and NCOERS.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2021 2:10 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 14:10:25 -0500

Yes, as far as the US Army, you have to be a highly motivated soldier with Air Assault, Airborne, EIB, Pathfinder, Ranger, SF or any other types of what have you badges and tabs. Then, you'll make E-6 or E-7 really fast!

Response by SGT Craig Johnston made Nov 28 at 2021 11:35 AM

SGT Craig Johnston — Sun, 28 Nov 2021 11:35:52 -0500

I remember as an E5 SGT in the Army years ago. There was this SSG who had been in for 3 or 4 years. He too as some here have stated, had a big head. Being younger than most other E5’s and E6’s, he didn’t have the experience we had. Consequently he didn’t receive the respect he demanded, because all the soldiers realized he didn’t have a clue. He hadn’t developed his leadership skills, his military social skills nor his technical skills. He was essentially a lost soldier, a week leader and was having a very difficult time. Having more years behind me, more experience, I pulled him aside and gave him the constructive criticism others wouldn't give him. I didn’t see him again after that deployment, but I would like to think my input help him going forward in his career.

Response by PO1 Steven Ewing made Nov 28 at 2021 11:58 AM

PO1 Steven Ewing — Sun, 28 Nov 2021 11:58:21 -0500

I made Petty Officer 1st Class (E-6) in just under 6 years, which was considered fairly fast in the Navy at the time. I took the test for Chief (E-7) on a waiver for time in rate and time in service, but was not selected by promotion board so I got out with just under 9years active duty.

I only saw one sailor while I was in that made E-6 faster than that and he was an electronics instructor at NATTC Memphis with a degree in Electronics (and he was about the same age as I was when I made E-6, 24). He was promoted to E-6 in 4 years (and it was under special circumstances with numerous waivers).

Response by SSG Franklin Briant made Nov 28 at 2021 11:14 PM

SSG Franklin Briant — Sun, 28 Nov 2021 23:14:05 -0500

I is not unheard of but it is the person and and their abilities which come with time and training. You can be book smart and a go getter but that alone doesn't make you a leader. I made E 5 in four years and E 6 in eight years. Leaders will be made, stripes mean nothing if you cannot lead.

Response by CWO3 Robert Fong made Nov 29 at 2021 9:33 AM

CWO3 Robert Fong — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 09:33:37 -0500

Well, I'm not too sure if I should be answering this or not, but here goes. The answer off the top deck is yes. There are several reasons for this. Experience comes to mind. The longer you're in the more mistakes you will make, and those mistakes make you wiser and help you guide the young POs. "ASK THE CHIEF"! There is a reason for that comment; he is a teacher, he knows more work arounds than Carter's got pills, he has a vast network of other Chiefs, and most of all he has command respect from the Bridge. Let me ask you a question. In a combat situation when your ship is in dire straits but still fighting and you need someone you can count on and who has been in the fight before, will you choose the Red Stripe Chief or the Gold Stripe Chief with that crusty nasty cigar hanging out of his mouth? I'm "old school". Next to the "Old man", who do you think really runs the boat, Right, it's the COB. Did you know in the Coast Guard there is so much respect and confidence in Chiefs that O-in-Cs have UCMJ authority, and they are Commanding Officer's Afloat? Few know that. Why do we have Gold Badges for Chiefs only and not officers? Where do we select the CWO community from? There is a sound foundation behind the value of "Old Salt". As for my head swelling two time larger than a bollard when I made Chief, the Chief's Mess had an answer for that; Chief's Initiation, the purpose of which was to deflate that oversized head of yours, refocus what your real function at the junction is, and to take with pride when someone says, "GO ASK THE CHIEF". Long answer to a highly philosophical and leadership quandary, but it demands not a snap answer, but one of thought and this one really is only the tip of the iceberg. As a sea service, the Navy and Coast Guard are steeped in naval tradition which we inherited from the Royal Navy in the 1700 and 1800s, which at that time ruled the waves until we came along. Who do you think was responsible, some Dandy on the Quarterdeck or some crusty scared up Leading Bosn on the main deck? Who do you think the crew would follow? My only regret is that the Chiefs' Initiation has become nothing more than a soiree and does nothing to strengthen the community nor deflate those swollen nobs on their shoulders. There is value in the comradery in the Chief's Mess of which there are many and varied.

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Nov 30 at 2021 5:43 PM

LCpl Mark Lefler — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 17:43:38 -0500

I always have had the hardest time with SSgts in their mid 20s. They seem to enjoy the power way too much and have a lack of control, sort of "just because you can, doesn't mean you should". Besides noticing it in person, I've noticed on here, the most disrespectful posters have usually been SSgts.

Response by SSG Bob Robertson made Dec 1 at 2021 8:29 AM

SSG Bob Robertson — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 08:29:29 -0500

It depends on the individual. Are they mature enough to take on that responsibility? A lot has changed since 76 when I joined and 85 when I got out. I was put in for the E-6 board at 4 years 9 months. Which at that time was the soonest you could go. The time limit was at least 5 years at that time, however you had to wait for promotion 3 months after you passed the board, therefore you would be promoted on the month of your 5th year. I joined at the age of 17 years and 16 days old. That means I was put up at the age of almost 22. Thepint system at that time for my MOS was very high so I had to wait a year and a half more to get promoted. 23 anda half I finally got my stripe. There were MANY 23 year olds I would have never put up for promotion at that age. Example, when I was on recruiting duty a very young E-6 who was single couldn't keep his "johnson" in his pants and was court martialed for "doing a female senior who was in high school".

Response by PO3 John Fahrer made Dec 2 at 2021 12:07 PM

PO3 John Fahrer — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 12:07:39 -0500

I joined the Navy in 1964 as a E-1. I went to A school and in two years was E-4.
I took the E-5 test, and in 1966 I entered Oak Knoll Naval Hospital and spent one year as a patient. I was told I could not get E-5 while in the hospital. I was eventually put on the TDRL for 6 years before the Navy said I was totally disabled, Officially Retired USN. At the time it seemed like the worst thing. However, the retirements benefits have helped my and my family a lot. The biggest issue has been the VA as it changed my from 100% disabled to 50 for several years. In 1995 the VA finally came to the conclusion they were wrong, and gave me the 100% service connected award. At 76 I have spent several years total in the hospital, this last year was over 100 days.
What gets me is men my age that somehow got out of serving during 1965 to 1975.

Response by 2LT Evan Arguello made Dec 2 at 2021 2:08 PM

2LT Evan Arguello — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 14:08:04 -0500

E6 in 3 years? Sure. if you entered the Army with a 4 year degree, or have seen heavy combat and your unit has seen heavy casualties, like Audie Murphy, and there are vacancies. Heck, Custer was a brigadier general in 2 years. The promotions are temporary, but enough time, and it becomes your guaranteed retirement rank, if you never earn it back.

Response by Maj Dale Smith made Dec 4 at 2021 7:04 PM

Maj Dale Smith — Sat, 04 Dec 2021 19:04:31 -0500

Yes, it is very possible to be promoted one to two years below the primary zone. On many occasions it deals with political influence of some sort. The issue we have here is someone being promoted below a primary zone may have filled a bunch of squares on an annual fitness report, and is great at the " book learning" aspect of military manpower and weapons management, but may not have the critical thinking that needs to go with it. Spending another year in a current rank or job may provide you with observation and problem solving, which you may not have seen if you had been promoted early. A lot of it deals with maturity and being able to appraise a situation from a number of points of view. The pros and cons of an action on the battlefield by leadership is exceedingly important. The element in the field with the weapon may be reactive, and it is a leaders job for him/her to be proactive. You are exposed to a larger bag of tools to be able to do this if your career is not sitting on the accelerator.

Response by SPC Anthony Moscicki made Dec 17 at 2021 10:04 PM

SPC Anthony Moscicki — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 22:04:03 -0500

When I was in 1967-69 they had NCO Academies they started right after basic and AIT. The program was six months and you graduated as E-5. The top 10% of the class came out E-6. This with less than a year in service and being 19 years old. When they got to Vietnam some already knew it all. The good ones asked for help. Same with officers. Some 2nd lieutenants didn't need any advice. Then there was a new company commander, a captain and a West Pointer. First thing he said was, "I don't know a f**king thing. I want you guys to teach me. And if i start to screw up, stop me before I get into too much trouble". He learned and fast. Had respect for him from day one.

Response by SGT Brad Hall made Dec 18 at 2021 11:35 AM

SGT Brad Hall — Sat, 18 Dec 2021 11:35:03 -0500

Depends on the person. If it makes the person an ***, then yes, it was too soon. But No E6 outranks an officer and they come in as children, so it's subjective.
Personally, and this is kind of funny; I'm 19 years in, 8 years overseas, Master's degree, no UCMJ, and I'm an E5 who LOVES seeing high-speeds make their 6, in three. I think it's amazing!

Response by LT Leon Heselton made Jan 21 at 2022 11:52 PM

LT Leon Heselton — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 23:52:19 -0500

Yes, I made ET-1 in 3 1/2 years, but didn't gain the maturity until I made ETC in the USNR in 10 1/2 years.

Response by CPO Melvin Miller made Jan 22 at 2022 9:54 AM

CPO Melvin Miller — Sat, 22 Jan 2022 09:54:06 -0500

Pushbuttons: Usually when they got to the fleet they had no deck experience but knew the books. Problem was not always accepted readily by the command. I had one right out of school and sorry to say he ended up getting a blanket party within a couple months. He tried to correct a person in another division. After that he backed up a little and asked more questions of others. I myself made E-5 in three and E-6 in six. Pretty much had to have time in rank and time in service in the early 70's. I actually took the E-6 exam three times. third time a charm. My rating was pretty tight. I went aboard my one command as an E-6 at the age of 25. I was the youngest and most junior E-6. I got harassed by a couple E-6's with 14 plus years in. First class lounge was a place I di not frequent. I was a hard charger. At nine years board approved E-7. Ended getting out I needed three more years active duty to get advanced. Had family issues so I left. I planned on going Warrant.

Response by PO1 Sam Deel made Feb 5 at 2022 11:09 PM

PO1 Sam Deel — Sat, 05 Feb 2022 23:09:32 -0500

Well Chief, I believe that I am a poster boy example for your topic.

I Enlisted at age 32 in the double-aughts. I could not get a waiver to go Big Navy, so I had to Enlist in the Naval Reserves (Navy Reserves). The Recruiter set my up in the NPSAC program. Due to my extensive work experience in IT (Director of Technology), I was to Enlist as a temporary First Class Petty Officer, permanent Second Class IT Rate. I turned that down for many reasons. One, being that just seemed too damn improper to me. The other being that I want to start at the very bottom as an Seaman Recruit and work my way up in the Ranks. I eventually made it to Second Class Petty Officer the traditional way. Then I took TAR Orders (Active Duty), but had my NEC 8218, NAC and a Chevron stripped from me. It would be sometime in aught nine when I would become a First Class Petty Officer. I was up for my first Chief's exam when my career was shot to Hell with a Service Connected Injury. By the way, due to how I had to Enlist in the NPSAC program, I missed out on the full 11 week Boot, had no A, C or Aviation Physiology, or SERE School. The only school that I had was the 6 weeks Loadmaster Course for C-130T. Because of this, I never felt sure of my leadership as a Petty Officer. I had not walk the walk to talk the talk, as we say in Texas. When it came to my Rate or my NEC, those reservations did not exist, as I knew my job and by the book. Everything I was able to do in the Navy, was purely On The Job Training.

Response by CSM Thomas Ray made Feb 6 at 2022 7:53 AM

CSM Thomas Ray — Sun, 06 Feb 2022 07:53:04 -0500

Different times, but I made E-5 in 7 months, went to Viet Nam as an E-2 in Jan. and made E-5 the last of July, all accelerated promotion. The highest rank we had on the teams was E-5, and the turnover rate was high. I was promised E-6 if I extended for another 3 months, but I turned it down.

Response by LTC David Howard made Feb 26 at 2022 10:44 AM

LTC David Howard — Sat, 26 Feb 2022 10:44:06 -0500

For some folks, yes. I entered as a 2LT at the height of the Vietnam War, and was a Captain two years to the day later. That worked out fine for me. And I stayed a Captain for 8 years until promoted to Major.

Response by TSgt John Brody made Mar 17 at 2022 5:51 PM

TSgt John Brody — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 17:51:54 -0400

Of course there is such a thing as making rank too quick! We all know this.
Heck, I was stationed with a female that made E5 in 3 years and would tell everyone that she was NOT ready for the responsibilities that came with being an NCO. She like the money, sure, but she wasn't thrilled with the additional workload. Not mature enough yet.

Response by Sgt Dennis Doty made Mar 19 at 2022 4:53 PM

Sgt Dennis Doty — Sat, 19 Mar 2022 16:53:30 -0400

George Martin,
Please quit worrying about this petty shit and finish writing Winds of Winter. ;o}

Response by SSG Murphy Anderson made Mar 23 at 2022 8:11 AM

SSG Murphy Anderson — Wed, 23 Mar 2022 08:11:04 -0400

Getting promoted during war was way faster than when we had nothing going on

Response by SFC Steven Page made Mar 23 at 2022 4:36 PM

SFC Steven Page — Wed, 23 Mar 2022 16:36:35 -0400

I was one of those who made E6 in 3 years but let me explain why. I enlisted in the California Army National Guard in December of 1987. I went in as an E3 because of the number of college credits that I had at the time of enlistment. I also was placed in an E5 96B Intel Analyst slot which in the 40th Div Arty was the lowest rank for that MOS And it was a hard MOS to fill. I left for basic in January of 1988 and after I graduated basic I went to AIT where I finished and graduated in July 1988. After I came home to Cali I was then promoted to SPC/E4 where I started working with the recruiters as a recruiter aide. I started doing so well, actually calling prospects and setting up appointments that the recruiting NCOIC took notice and had an opening for a full-time field recruiter so they (Recruiting Command) talked with the commander to have me promoted to E5 in April 1989. You had to be an E5 in order to be a recruiter.
I was such a successful recruiter that in my second year of recruiting I was the top recruiter in the state up to the last day. My consolation prize was my being promoted to E6 in September of 1991.

Response by CPO Kim Hanthorn made Apr 18 at 2022 10:14 PM

CPO Kim Hanthorn — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 22:14:51 -0400

Your really asking this question after Brandon pinned a Transvestite a Admiral in the US Navy? WTF

Response by PO3 David Keck made Apr 18 at 2022 10:22 PM

PO3 David Keck — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 22:22:31 -0400

the only people I knew that made rank that fast were people that made E4 right out of A school. I was a non rate seaman that made E4 in two and was up for E5 in a little over 3 but by now I was in the reserves and wasn't go to continue once my obligation was up. But E6 in three is real fast

Response by SGT Joseph Dutton made Apr 22 at 2022 12:17 AM

SGT Joseph Dutton — Fri, 22 Apr 2022 00:17:13 -0400

Making rank to soon is not appropriate and doesn't comply with-in PROTOCALL. Time line between each grade should be enforced and not advance before that time. The reason for the time lines is to gain experience and knowledge in their MOS / RATING field to include administrative duties. Like writing Evaluations, Giving & Receiving orders and writing reports. Each advancement comes with more responsibly. I remember seeing Sailors fresh out of boot or A / AIT school as E4's to E5's that is still wet behind the ears and have no idea about Fleet Duty. But they want to be a bad ass know it all leader when lower grades had a year or more under their belt on Fleet Duty. They was frond up on. Over all I think it hurts the moral and the service. There is one other way a person can be advanced, is through Frocking by a Commander because a Billet needs to be filled but time in grade must play a roll. The final approval has to come from D.C..

Response by SGT Joseph Dutton made Apr 22 at 2022 12:24 AM

SGT Joseph Dutton — Fri, 22 Apr 2022 00:24:23 -0400

Response by PO3 Roy Rosalez made Apr 23 at 2022 1:31 PM

PO3 Roy Rosalez — Sat, 23 Apr 2022 13:31:42 -0400

Yes, because I knew a push-button Third class who made 1st class and had no leadership skills. He used his crow to boss and not lead. It took a Senior Chief to put him in place. Under command orders he had him work under a long-serving second class for 6 months to teach him leadership skills. Did he learn? I would say yes, because he would have never made it into the officer's corp.

Response by MSgt James Slawson made Apr 24 at 2022 8:11 AM

MSgt James Slawson — Sun, 24 Apr 2022 08:11:04 -0400

Making rank is a good thing but the hard work without experience will be earning the respect the rank deserves. Never expect respect if you have not first given it.

Response by James Rush made Apr 24 at 2022 10:48 AM

James Rush — Sun, 24 Apr 2022 10:48:51 -0400

drafted 1966 corporal in about 6 months thru drill Corp school SGT E-5 in 11 months they had E-6 orders cut I just had to re inlist declined at 24 months

Response by SSgt Scotty Marks made Apr 25 at 2022 12:33 PM

SSgt Scotty Marks — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 12:33:54 -0400

Every LT that wasn't prior enlisted made rank too fast.

Response by CPL Dan Hadam made Jun 11 at 2022 10:22 PM

CPL Dan Hadam — Sat, 11 Jun 2022 22:22:09 -0400

Spec. 4 in less than 5 months . It happens when ur not a dummy and take Aviation school at Ft. Rucker serious . 6 out

Response by CWO4 Carter Owens made Jun 13 at 2022 9:58 AM

CWO4 Carter Owens — Mon, 13 Jun 2022 09:58:17 -0400

Depends on your MOS or Rating. Sure, being a subject matter specialist is important but with advancement in Rank usually comes with the price of Leadership. And Leadership is a tangible characteristic. That is where success is either achieved or not.

Response by SGT James Littlejohn made Jun 15 at 2022 12:46 PM

SGT James Littlejohn — Wed, 15 Jun 2022 12:46:01 -0400

During the Viet Nam conflict, I went from PFC E-3 to Sgt E-5 in 3 months. Things tend to happen quickly in combat. 4 months later, I was offered a commission, which I elected to turn down as it meant a guaranteed return trip to the "Party Uncle Sam " was hosting.

Response by Maj A. Clark made Jun 15 at 2022 8:17 PM

Maj A. Clark — Wed, 15 Jun 2022 20:17:39 -0400

Yes. I made E5 back in 1979 with only 24 months of active duty. I was only 20 years old and had a big head and no clue what I was doing. Fortunately I had a super great E9 who straightened me out. Made E6 at the 5 year mark ( which I think was too early) and had an OCS recommendation.

Response by SGT Richard Hanson SSP/CGS made Jun 19 at 2022 3:40 AM

SGT Richard Hanson SSP/CGS — Sun, 19 Jun 2022 03:40:14 -0400

In the fall of 1967 they took all of the E-4 and E-5 promotion allotments that had not been used and turned them back to the companies to fill. The time in grade was waived and all it took was an excellent conduct and efficiency report and you had it. They even skipped grades and went from E-2 right out of AIT to SP5. I has 2 years and change in the Army and I received a lateral promotion to Sgt E-5 so I wouldn't have to pull KP. SP5 had to do KP and other duties that were normally assigned to a lower rank. We had all these guys running around with rank they didn't work for and no idea of what to do. This was at Fort Belvoir Virginia, I don't know what happened elsewhere but I imagine it was the same. I made up my mind then and there that when Aug 30, 1968 came I was long gone.

Response by SPC Shelby Kline made Jun 23 at 2022 1:11 PM

SPC Shelby Kline — Thu, 23 Jun 2022 13:11:22 -0400

Yes, and it will be heavily apparent in their attitude towards their subordinates who will likely have more time I service than they do. I had someone like that at my first unit. He had a high and mighty attitude because he made E5 in 3 years, and he only got E5 because of his PT score (but nobody will ever admit to that). He wasn't a leader. He didn't have the interest of his subordinates in mind. He only cared about himself and how he could get promoted again. He saw the military as a ladder to climb as fast as possible, like going for a high score in a video game. I didn't respect him at all, and I don't care what UCMJ says - he didn't deserve it.

Response by CPT Earl George made Jul 2 at 2022 11:07 PM

CPT Earl George — Sat, 02 Jul 2022 23:07:22 -0400

Unless the person wearing a certain rank did something that displayed to me that he(or she ) did not know what they were doing, it did not bother me. I know many times that in the case of officers, they were asked how they got their commission. It did bother me that after my boss made major with 8 years and 4 months TIG as a CPT, I had a long wait also.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Jul 15 at 2022 8:15 AM

SSG Shawn Mcfadden — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 08:15:27 -0400

In some MOS'S you can make rank fairly quickly. I knew an E-6 when I was in Germany in 1988, and she got promoted to E-7 in 2000.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2022 8:14 AM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 08:14:26 -0400

In my early days, I had a supervisor put on chief after 14.5 years. Great guy but ends up he had a lot of issues at home and was discharged because of them. Then had a friend go from E-5 to E-7 in 2 days because the general he worked for only wanted senior NCOs working for him. Went to his head and never talked with him again. That general became chief of staff and was shortly fired along with his staff. Friend ended up getting out as a pariah.

Response by MSgt Robert E. M. made Jul 27 at 2022 3:20 PM

MSgt Robert E. M. — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 15:20:33 -0400

In times of war, promotions are given to those who deserved it. I'm happy to say I was blessed from PFC to LCpl field promotion because of what happened in Vietnam.

Response by SPC Edgar Jordan made Jul 27 at 2022 3:37 PM

SPC Edgar Jordan — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 15:37:15 -0400

Yes it is a person does have military experience in three years

Response by SGT Mark Rhodes made Jul 29 at 2022 11:57 AM

SGT Mark Rhodes — Fri, 29 Jul 2022 11:57:14 -0400

I don’t think there is such a thing as making rank to soon. I have a daughter who will pin in E7 in the Marines in under 9 years. I can see her making Sergeant Major before here career ends.

Response by PO1 Christopher Gómez made Jul 30 at 2022 6:07 AM

PO1 Christopher Gómez — Sat, 30 Jul 2022 06:07:54 -0400

I went from E-1 to E-6 in 6 years and was going to make E-7 at my 9 year mark but was medically retired just shy of 9 years in. I joined in 1999 when I was 20 so I was a little more mature than a lot of us are when we join. I did know some FCs and other technical rates that made rank far too young and fast. Some were good leaders and some were simply poor managers due to their youth and immaturity. It all depends on the individual.

Response by SGT J M Porters made Jul 31 at 2022 3:35 PM

SGT J M Porters — Sun, 31 Jul 2022 15:35:22 -0400

Never look a gift horse in the mouth. I joined the Army at 17. And let me say it was a good place to grow up. I made it through Basic and AIT as a PFC. When I arrived at my first permanent duty station I was ready to go. Remember this guys. There are those who make things happen and then there are those who wonder what happens. My Mos was 63F. I was on bed rest because I had a wisdom tooth pulled. And you know when you live in the barrack you always catch the weekend duty. The motor pool officer came in and gave me a direct order to go put a track from the field. So you know how that went. For the next 2 years, I stayed in trouble every day. I got written up for something. Never got promoted and never went to jail. Short story my first Sgt said I had to much time on my hand and I need responsibility. So he put me in charge of the barracks. From there I learn it is better to make the rules than to break them. I moved up to ranks in three months. I was 19 when I made Sgt. The Commander put my age up two years. Then I became NCOIC. I was recommended for OIC school. I knew I could make it in the Army but I did not know about civilian life. My plans were if I could not make it in civilian life I would come back into the Army, I finish college got my degree, and never looked backed. I say that to say this If you have been promoted take it and run with it! Making rank has always been heard.

Response by Sgt Greg White made Jul 31 at 2022 4:06 PM

Sgt Greg White — Sun, 31 Jul 2022 16:06:28 -0400

3 years is way way way too soon. It doesn't matter if your a front line soldier or a supply person. There's a certain amount of maturity that only time and many many experiences can bring. Without that maturity your people will obey you because they have no choice, but they won't respect you!

Response by SSG Jack Chandler made Aug 1 at 2022 1:28 PM

SSG Jack Chandler — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 13:28:44 -0400

https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/709/451/thumb_v2/255a4a70.JPG

255a4a70.JPG

Response by SSG Jack Chandler made Aug 2 at 2022 4:06 PM

SSG Jack Chandler — Tue, 02 Aug 2022 16:06:18 -0400

I made SSG E-6 in two years and 7 months, and no that wasn't too soon because of the duties I performed. I enlisted in May of 1965 and after Basic and AIT I was sent to Germany, third infantry. Within 12 months I was promoted to SGT E-5. I was then sent to Vietnam for my last 12 months. I lead my platoon into combat two many times to count. They had a shortage of Officers so I did what was asked of me. In my 7 month in country I was promoted to SSG E-6. Military life was not for me so I rotated in May 1968.

Response by SSG Jack Chandler made Aug 5 at 2022 10:12 PM

SSG Jack Chandler — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 22:12:00 -0400

The questioned shouldn't be making rank too soon, but whether can you perform at that level.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2022 2:23 PM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Sep 2022 14:23:47 -0400

It is definitely possible to progress too quickly. I was a Staff Sergeant in four years and was selected for Sergeant First Class in seven years. Luckily, I was already in the transition process to becoming a warrant officer, so I didn't have a chance to sully the rank. I am quite certain that I would have been a dirt-bag SFC - my leadership, life experience, and knowledge weren't equal the rank. I probably would have straightened myself out (or been straightened out by concerned peers) in time, but it would have been a steep learning curve. Becoming a warrant allowed me to re-look at my experience and leadership, and build a much more effective style and manner of exercising authority. A field-grade NCO carries a lot of authority and respect, and they should have the experience and knowledge commensurate with the rank.

Response by SGT Erick Holmes made Sep 10 at 2022 3:28 PM

SGT Erick Holmes — Sat, 10 Sep 2022 15:28:20 -0400

It all depends on how you look at it. If theres an opening and your the next person in line to make E6 regardless of what age you are then it is what it is. Yes we have all seen the ones that shoukdnt have been promoted however, if they meet the criteria then you have to award them the rank.

Response by Sgt Ivan Boatwright made Sep 11 at 2022 6:16 AM

Sgt Ivan Boatwright — Sun, 11 Sep 2022 06:16:25 -0400

I joined the Marines in 1964. During my time in the Corps, a person usually shipped over to get E-4. I arrived in Vietnam in June of 1965 and stayed almost continuously until April 1968. I was not well trained before arriving in Nam, but I made E-5 in just over three years because of my job. I was only a combat Sargent, and because I got out when I returned from Vietnam in April 1968, I never learned what the duties of a Sargent were stateside.

Response by A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney made Sep 11 at 2022 8:48 AM

A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney — Sun, 11 Sep 2022 08:48:24 -0400

As I Read All These Successes Of Gaining Rank Rapidly, I Have To Give Out A Chuckle Because I Was In The Strategic Air Command (SAC), Where Rank Was Supposed To Be Issued By Abilities..... Although I Tested Out Through E-5, And Held Positions As Such; I Remained, For About 3 Years, As An E-3 .... And EXACTLY My ONLY Reason For Not Reenlisting.
No Rank, No Money, No More!

Response by CPT Robert Madore made Sep 11 at 2022 3:36 PM

CPT Robert Madore — Sun, 11 Sep 2022 15:36:34 -0400

Well, I am prejudiced I was E1,E2,E3,E5,W01,CW2,1LT,and CPT. From being a draftee in 4YRS, 4 months. So, I am not qualified to answer such a question. I was also a Rotary Wing Flight Examiner Instructor, the highest Aviation rating in the Army.

Response by MSgt Frank Askins made Sep 11 at 2022 7:04 PM

MSgt Frank Askins — Sun, 11 Sep 2022 19:04:49 -0400

I think a lot of it depends on the individual and their maturity. I've seen some folks who were prime examples of the Peter Principle when they were promoted too early. I was stationed with one guy who made E-6 after 15 years but turned it down. His rational was that he didn't know enough about being an E-5 to take on additional responsibility. Personally, I don't think he wanted the additional responsibility. I became a shift supervisor as an E-4 when I was 20 years old. Fortunately, I was surrounded by several saged NCO's who guided me through the initial phases of the transition. I also am reminded of the 2d LT's who come into the service and the difference you see in most of them by the time they make captain. In summary, I think the rapid rank climb is totally dependant on the individual. Some can handle it while others cannot.

Response by CSM Frank Graham made Sep 12 at 2022 2:00 AM

CSM Frank Graham — Mon, 12 Sep 2022 02:00:50 -0400

Maturity level is key. Can one handle the next level properly.

Response by LCDR Jesse Howell III made Sep 13 at 2022 1:36 AM

LCDR Jesse Howell III — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 01:36:37 -0400

My answer to that is Yes and No; it depends on the person. Either way, it’s a challenge…and it’s supposed to be. How one positions him/herself to respond to the challenges can be the difference between a successfully progressing career or pure hell.
I’m not boasting about my successes but this is applicable to the topic: I made CPO (vice E7…there is a traditional difference) in 7yrs, 11mths, 29days; made everything 1st time up including LDO 0-4. Now, with that being said, I was 24 yrs. old when I enlisted so that tells you something about my maturity level as I “rate grabbed” my way up. I had an agenda: I made up my mind from the start that I would remain in service long enough to retire. I also had the frame of mind to consult with some very good Career Counselors who provided the salient guidance I needed to keep my head in the game but low enough to not get it “shot off”. I took the position that since I was going to do 20 (actually did 25), I would pursue the route that would give me the fattest retirement check...period! But, along the way, as my parents taught me, with one mouth and two ears, “you need to listen more than you talk”. Even as rate grabbers, boot chiefs or butter bars in the wardroom, there are folks that have your best interest in mind…if you’ll listen to them. Sure, sometimes you have to separate the wheat from the chaff (a.k.a. BS), but that’s part of the learning curve or curve ball; it depends on your mindset when you step up to bat.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2022 5:39 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 14 Sep 2022 17:39:56 -0400

Absolutely. As a FCPO (First Class Petty Officer, for oyu non-Navy / CG types), or any branch equivalent, really, one would be expected to know their job and how to lead / manage people. It took more than 3 years just for me to get my head out of my ass as an E3/E4.

Sure, someone could have their head on straight, but they don't have the seasoning to be that salty yet.

Response by PO2 Chris Sabo made Sep 16 at 2022 11:47 AM

PO2 Chris Sabo — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 11:47:52 -0400

2.5 year second class here. I missed 2nd at 2 year mark by .01%. if I had stayed in the Navy and made e-6 my first try I would have made it in 5.5years... Fuck that noise! Without a lot of training and experience at being work center supervisor(3m boss); A LPO/LPO; specific in rate related job supervisor; and I would have had to get my Surface warfare pin.

Response by SGT William Reed made Sep 16 at 2022 8:13 PM

SGT William Reed — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 20:13:05 -0400

I knew a E-9 in the army and he only been in 9 years. It is all about the MOS and the demand

Response by Capt Heather Brown made Sep 17 at 2022 5:44 PM

Capt Heather Brown — Sat, 17 Sep 2022 17:44:34 -0400

Rank isn't based on merit so it doesn't really matter.

Response by PO2 Timothy Hinds made Sep 17 at 2022 7:51 PM

PO2 Timothy Hinds — Sat, 17 Sep 2022 19:51:38 -0400

Too quick? Navy Band members start at E-6. That’s pretty quick if you ask me. I would have made E-6 but my advancement date was a month after I got out. They tried to use that to get me to re up. They offered it to me at the reenlistment date. I turned it and $10,000 and choice of duty stations down. Mh wife said if I reenlisted she would leave me. I liked her more

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 18 at 2022 11:51 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Sep 2022 11:51:10 -0400

This must be Army because in the Air Force there is a minimum require of 4 years TIS to be promoted to E-5 and then 2 years TIG to be promoted to E-6

Response by MSG Kevin Elliott made Sep 19 at 2022 11:26 AM

MSG Kevin Elliott — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 11:26:01 -0400

As some others have pointed out, it depends on the individual. I made SGT in 25 months. I had been serving in Team Leader/Squad Leader positions since I was a E-3/PFC. I went to the E-6 Board as soon as I met Time In Service. Unfortunately, I spent two years on the promotion list. Infantry promotion scores were maxed out at 998. I was always promoted early, and I was always already serving at the next rank. I had some very good examples (and bad) and some great mentors that helped me to be a better prepared leader.
I remember after DS/DS, the Army did a VERA/VSIP (early out). They were targeting E-8 and E-9, but they took just about every application, and it created a big void in E-6 and E-7. As a 1SG, I had E-6 PSGs and E-7 PSGs who didn't/couldn't write NCOERs, Counseling Statements, or Awards. I can't count the number of times I had to tell PSGs and their PLs that they were not going home until the required NCOER, Counseling, or Award was turned in and approved by me. Fortunately, the CO and XO backed me up every time a Lieutenant went to them and complained that I was being too picky.
I wouldn't accept NCOERs with no bullets on the back page. As I explained to the Platoon Chain of Command that they know the soldier, and the NCOER is what will be used to get SSGs promoted. DA promotion boards only look at a file to make selections. Same for awards, I had to train them to put in quantifiable statements to justify awards. Explaining the how's, why's, and types of counseling to an E-7/PSG seemed ridiculous to me, but they didn't have the experience or knowledge, even if they had been to ANCOC.

Response by CWO3 Robert Fong made Oct 5 at 2022 10:17 AM

CWO3 Robert Fong — Wed, 05 Oct 2022 10:17:35 -0400

Chief, I am assuming you're an initiated Chief and not an E-7. I'm all for encouraging my people to make rate; however, hands on experience and leadership trumps book theory. When I see a red strip Chief it tells me either he/she had time 'afore the Mast, or hasn't quite figured out where the Head is. When someone says, "Go ask the Chief." your response should not be "I don't know." You're the person who has seen and done things that are not in the books. Gold Stripes demand respect. I believe there should be mandatory time between rates, just as officers do their time between rank. Time means experience tried and true.

Response by PO1 Mike Wallace made Oct 12 at 2022 5:26 PM

PO1 Mike Wallace — Wed, 12 Oct 2022 17:26:38 -0400

There are rates whose members are all on the fast track. Nukes come to mind and that's nothing new. My rate (RD/OS) was one of those rates who saw faster advancements because there was a need to fill billets. I did become the LPO at a young age but I was fortunate to have worked for people who were true leaders and saw their job to include developing both technical and leadership skills. Otherwise being promoted so quickly would have made my life hell.

Response by PO2 Mike Vignapiano made Oct 21 at 2022 10:53 PM

PO2 Mike Vignapiano — Fri, 21 Oct 2022 22:53:55 -0400

I'm just thinking about all the 21 to 24 year olds I knew and know. I cannot imagine any of them being in a position of leadership. Their maturity and lack of experience would be extremely detrimental to moral and the task at hand.

Response by PO1 Ben Maxie made Nov 18 at 2022 9:27 PM

PO1 Ben Maxie — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 21:27:59 -0500

There are time whereas there are exceptional people that perform exceptional well and are awarded advancement to the next pay grade , in addition there are areas that may involved a heroic act that advances an individual...So in reference as is it too fast, it definitely not depending on once dedication, commitment and high standards in performing in a high quality will always determine the merits of promotions

Response by SSG William Hommel made Nov 21 at 2022 12:46 PM

SSG William Hommel — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 12:46:59 -0500

YES. That's too fast. I was active 78-89 and it took me 3yrs to get E5 and another 3 for E6-- and in those days that was moderately fast. I tried USAR afterward, where many troops were old. They wanted to bring me in as an E3. (No I didn't let them; I had more experience than almost everyone in my unit.) I assume nowadays rank comes faster because there is more attrition, and so if everyone around the young E6 are also making rank fast, maybe it all evens out a little.

Response by SSG Ted Strachan made Dec 14 at 2022 2:18 PM

SSG Ted Strachan — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:18:19 -0500

I cannot speak to the officer side of the house, but I can say this much... The trip from E1 to E4 is entirely too speedy. I believe that is a large part of the reason why we have an "E4 Mafia". E2 through E4 shouldn't be "throwaways". They exist for a purpose and that purpose is to prepare them for service in the NCO corps. That being said, I am also one that believes that there should be expanded opportunities in a Specialist/Technician career path to retain those individuals that are highly proficient technically in specialized fields but simply not geared toward hard-stripe leadership. I said in another post regarding the issue of specialists vs. NCOs that the fact that it would aggrieve some CSMs/SGMs is a little more than somewhat immaterial. And if the idea of a 'turkey-on-a shield' set of specialist ranks being seen on a set of pinks-and-greens offends you, then reincarnate that same idea in the form of the Technician ranks from 1943-48. The prospect of losing proficient specialists in the increasingly complex technical environment that warfighting has become, along with the massive challenges in recruiting and retention makes the idea of making the specialist/technician career track more imperative and more of a no-brainer than ever. All IMHO.

Thanks all for your Service!

Response by Cpl George Matousek made Dec 16 at 2022 10:30 AM

Cpl George Matousek — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 10:30:53 -0500

I don't think so, rank is based on ability. I went to Nam as a PFC, made Cpl. in 15 months after joining the Marines. I was put up for Sgt. 5 months later, which I turned down as I was getting out in 2 weeks.

Response by SrA Don Oberlies made Dec 16 at 2022 1:51 PM

SrA Don Oberlies — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 13:51:43 -0500

I don’t see it happening in the Air Force.

Response by SPC Curtis Kennedy made Dec 17 at 2022 9:27 AM

SPC Curtis Kennedy — Sat, 17 Dec 2022 09:27:03 -0500

You can be recruited in the Army as an E-3 (PFC) under certain circumstances, and make E-6 in 3 to 4 years

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 21 at 2022 8:54 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 21 Dec 2022 08:54:17 -0500

I think there is such thing as making rank to quick… there’s a pretty decent different expectation as an E6 then there is as an E5 and depending on units and MOS you may miss a huge opportunity of learning and development as a leader and dealing with soldiers that you won’t be able to take with you further up the food chain.. I made E5 at my 8 year marker then 1 year later I was a 6 and was put into AIT as an instructor. Even though as a 4 I was specialist and corporal and did my fair share of E5 NCO business with leading and developing soldiers it’s a whole other ball game when you have SGT stripes backing your actions and what not. So I even think that I promoted to staff sergeant to quickly after pinning Sergeant and I missed out on potential great learning experiences. Now as an E6 I’m expected to be a well oiled and diverse adaptable machine but for about a year I was inadequate as an E6 and I’m okay with saying that and owning my mistakes but I was inadequate because I jumped into a category quicker than my time was. Also the age and experience I think that is needed from an E6 when so many people will be looking up to you for guidance and answers will leave you as an inadequate leader that if you don’t work extra hard to fill that gap you could find yourself exiled into something that leaves you subpar with basic NCOERs that are not gonna help you later unless your MOS just promotes like that lol.

Anyways, yes I think there’s such thing as promoted to quickly and if you don’t bust your ass to fill that experience and dedication and knowledge gap it can horribly affect your future.

Response by Sgt William Margeson made Dec 22 at 2022 5:32 PM

Sgt William Margeson — Thu, 22 Dec 2022 17:32:10 -0500

While in Army School, while I was serving ( 60's) Several Soldies made E-6 after NCO School, they called Shake and Bake. Two of 20 or so wanted to turn in their stipes, as they had only been in Army fort 6 months. They wetre intelligent enough to understand they did not have the experience to be good NCO'ws.

Response by TSgt James Sutton made Dec 23 at 2022 9:33 PM

TSgt James Sutton — Fri, 23 Dec 2022 21:33:50 -0500

In the Airforce there are minimum time in service and time in grade requirements, earliest for E6 is 5 years Time in Service, average is 12 years for making E6 in the USAF. Reading a lot of posts from prior decades where I guess they gave rank out like candy, probably the reason for so many changes since then they realized that just giving out rank without actually performing your job for awhile makes for a very poor leader.

Response by SP5 Hank Vandenburgh PhD made Jan 17 at 2023 8:49 PM

SP5 Hank Vandenburgh PhD — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 20:49:00 -0500

Having been in the pre-Vietnam Army, I made Sp5 in about 4.5 years. I had reupped for an additional three years on top of the first three. I think the PFC and E-4 out of basic programs are bad ideas, in spite of any incentives to college grads and top performers they might provide. You need to settle in to the culture. In time of general war this could be relaxed somewhat.

Response by CPL LeChonne Wright made Jan 21 at 2023 12:25 PM

CPL LeChonne Wright — Sat, 21 Jan 2023 12:25:29 -0500

Being white and male in the Army has always had its privileges.

Response by SSG Roland Shelton made Jan 30 at 2023 5:06 PM

SSG Roland Shelton — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 17:06:58 -0500

I made staff sergeant at 4 years 3 months. I believe I was ready for the rank and responsibilities.
I will say how fast a person makes rank depends on their maturity and expertise. That may take some longer and some less time.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Feb 13 at 2023 4:02 AM

SSG Shawn Mcfadden — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 04:02:29 -0500

Maybe. However every MOS (rate) is different, and the individual progressing in the ranks is different.

Response by Sgt Ed Allen made Mar 15 at 2023 12:41 PM

Sgt Ed Allen — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 12:41:24 -0400

The more I think about this question I realize that the answer is absolutely. But, maybe, not for the reason you are thinking.

While on active duty I knew people who would have been more than ready for a promotion to higher rank but didn't get promoted due to time in grade or time in service. However, at the same time, there were marines much older with more time in grade and service that should never have been promoted.

Two Staff Sergeants come to mind.
The first one had an attitude that if you were senior to him, you were just in the way. If you were junior to him, you weren't worth anything except to be ordered around. He did not exhibit the professionalism or the traits or a leader. He and I both got promoted about a month apart. Me to Sgt (E5) and him to SSgt (E6). Fortunately, the Captain we both reported to saw who he was. He ended up with a single LCpl working with him while I was given responsibility for a team that would have anywhere from 15 to 45 marines on it, based on deployment needs.

The second SSgt was one of only two individuals who ever got fired.
When given an assignment, he would postpone it until it was making the team look bad. He didn't care about his troops. Didn't maintain his appearance or his hygiene and was a poor role model. In the end, the OIC for our shop had to "fire" him after which he had to report to me. The project he was working on also fell to myself and another Sgt because it was 10 months behind schedule and the date was less than 90 days away. We were successful in getting the project completed before the due date. But it meant lots of very long days to do so.

Being promoted too soon is not a matter of Time in Service, Time in Grade, or even how old you are. It's whether or not you have the right frame of mind and the aptitude.

Being ready for promotion is about the maturity and leadership that you display. The ability to lead others and to inspire others to greatness, or at least to be successful.

You can be 20 years old and still command the respect of those around you. But you can also be 45 and nobody wants to report to you because you do not have good leadership traits and skills.

Response by Cpl George Matousek made Apr 14 at 2023 2:45 PM

Cpl George Matousek — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 14:45:20 -0400

I was in the Marine Corps, made E4 in 14 months.

Response by PO3 Donald Reed made Apr 14 at 2023 4:50 PM

PO3 Donald Reed — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 16:50:36 -0400

Most of you were lucky to rise in ranks so fast. I was in the Navy for four couldn't get past 3rd class petty officer and I was a good sailor. Never got into trouble. Not advancing to 2nd class kept me from reenlisting.

Response by CH (CPT) Jerry McGowin made May 26 at 2023 9:18 AM

CH (CPT) Jerry McGowin — Fri, 26 May 2023 09:18:50 -0400

Simple answer is NO. But the Bible does have a lot to say about the mouth getting us into trouble.

Response by SGT Kevin Cook made May 27 at 2023 5:56 PM

SGT Kevin Cook — Sat, 27 May 2023 17:56:56 -0400

I was army and I made my E5/SGT in 2 and was on track for my E6/SSG in 3. It all depends on your MOS and points for promotion my MOS was 63W/63B and if I stayed in I would have changed to a 63H all in the mechanic family what changes is going from light mechanic to heavy mechanic and working on tanks. So if you want to rank fast know your job and know all things army like ARs, FMs,and DAPAMs. Also never get put on fat boy PT program and always pass your PT tests and max out your points on online learning, and take advantage of collage while Enlisted you will also get points for that. Also know army ethos, army history unit history and know the NCO Cread. Also if you get a chance go to the Audi Murphy board that Also is extra points that no one ever thinks of to do it might be hard but it is worth it in the end it helps with all other boards that you will have to do threw out your army career.

Response by SFC Michael Lindenbusch made May 28 at 2023 2:38 AM

SFC Michael Lindenbusch — Sun, 28 May 2023 02:38:07 -0400

I would tend to think so. There is a lot that goes into holding those higher ranks, things like in depth job knowledge, ability to handle difficult situations and people and simple maturity and confidence. While it is possible for someone to develop these that quickly, I would say the likelihood is low.

Response by MSG Justin S. made May 28 at 2023 4:38 PM

MSG Justin S. — Sun, 28 May 2023 16:38:00 -0400

No. I made E5 in 18 months. Army and promoted in Vietnam.

Response by SSG Ken Thurman made May 29 at 2023 9:22 AM

SSG Ken Thurman — Mon, 29 May 2023 09:22:16 -0400

My experience (& survival) says, "No"... in extraordinary times & circumstances.
I made it at age 19; 1 year & 11 months. Earned Sgt E5 by graduating (surviving) Armor NCO Academy. Went to 'Nam at 18 as a tank commander with 1st Brigade/5th Mech Div. Sent us immediately up to, & in, the DMZ. Got pounded by &/or engaged &/or mined by ChiCom anti-tank mines (not improvised anything) several times per week by everything the NVA (supplied by Russians & Chinese) could reach us with. We kicked ass & they did too; this was NOT guerilla, shoot-&-run or fire-a-few-rockets warfare; this was trench warfare against a well-armed & supplied army... in their country. When we pulled back, every running tank was pulling another + the recovery vehicle was pulling the CO's. Ugh.
After 8 months, got transferred to 2/2/Infantry (mech) with 1st Inf Div. Now a 19yo squad leader. Just in time for Tet`69, when the NVA & remnants of VC (leftovers from Tet'68) poured over from their "you-can't-touch-me sanctuaries & staging areas a few km's away in Cambodia. Three months, 2 PH's, & too-many-to-count firefights & ambushes later, the 25% of us who remained were "rescued"/replaced by the 11th Armor Cav. So we could essentially; rebuild the battalion. This meant "replenish & resupply", including allocations for rank. They looked around & saw i had survived = Sgt Thurman,"Congratulations, well-done. You get a promotion". So i got my E6 rocker as a blood stripe.
Note: remember guys, this was a WAR fought mostly draftees, especially in combat arms... the "lifers" & senior officers used their rank to get the safe jobs in the rear... while the "youngsters" paid the price(s).

One month later i was "65 going on 20", as i somehow managed to live long enuf to get on that "freedom bird". And yes, i earned the rank & was an old man by the time at got back.
But as the saying goes, "For those who fought for it, Freedom & Life have a taste the protected will never know." Amen! Got out an early out to start using my GI Bill education at 20. Oh yeah, & to start making Love as intensely as i had war(!). (;-}
Hope all of you/US warriors have a respectful & well-deserved Memorial Day. Peace be with the mothers, Gold Star especially... they are the ones who pay a lifetime of prices. May God & The Force be with Yo All.

Response by SFC Edwin Sierra made May 29 at 2023 11:50 AM

SFC Edwin Sierra — Mon, 29 May 2023 11:50:48 -0400

I also made it in that time frame, E-7 in 9. I was ready, just had family issues that prevented me from certaint assignments, which in the long run, prevented me from reaching E-8, when I retired I had over 9 years time in grade. No regrets about my service, no negative actions, great evaluations and leadership position. Just assignments to short tours did affect my progress to the next levels.

Response by SSgt W. Aaron Gregory made May 31 at 2023 4:22 PM

SSgt W. Aaron Gregory — Wed, 31 May 2023 16:22:32 -0400

I am not sure I personally would say there is a blanket yes or no answer to this question. It probably varies based on a dozen factors. The prevailing one, for me, is maturity. Not to say that everyone that is young is immature, but often the best way to achieve maturity AND wisdom, is with time, and because of that, age. If you achieve rank noticeably faster than your peers, especially in the same MOS... both you, AND they have to answer some questions. WHY did you pin on rank, and WHY did they NOT? Then focus on changing that, if that is your ultimate goal.

Its not fair to come down on the early-risers, nor is it fair to come down on those that did NOT get promoted as quickly. But in the same breath, stay humble and look out for your people. Its not an opportunity entrusted to you to "boss people around"... but instead a responsibility to look out for your people - and/or MORE of them; so here is some additional rank to help you do that.

Response by Sgt Robert Elliott made Jun 30 at 2023 2:48 PM

Sgt Robert Elliott — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 14:48:15 -0400

This may not be relevant due to branch and decade of service. I enlisted for three (3) years in the Marine Corps in 1964. I, too, was 17. In '67, I returned from Vietnam as an E-5 and was offered E-6 to reenlist. I was about 3 weeks short of being in 3 years. That came with a promise of being made Warrant Officer within the year. I was guaranteed my choice of duty station for one year. Notice how everything was one year? In those days, you could be assured of being stateside for one year and back to Nam. No thank you.

I made one E-6 very upset. I had just under 3 years in and he was offering me E-6. He had 15 years in!!! There was a big difference in making rank pre-Vietnam and during Vietnam. I went to Nam as an E-3. After a while, I made E-4. THREE MONTHS later I made E-5. THREE MONTHS later, I was back stateside, and they offered me E-6. Yeah, a little bit fast.

Response by SSG David Brown made Jul 1 at 2023 9:21 PM

SSG David Brown — Sat, 01 Jul 2023 21:21:44 -0400

I earned Staff-Sergeant in just over four years. I was only 23 years old. At first, things were fine working in a supply unit, but once I received orders to Germany, and was placed in a Motor Sergeant position, I realized that I had a lot to learn. Luckily, I had an old-school Chief Warrant Officer as a boss along with a hard-core Master Sergeant who passed down their management skills and a boatload of ass-chewings on top of that, and I eventually evolved into a decent leader. Never discount the importance of being chewed out. The biggest lesson I learned was to constantly learn from proven leaders but at the same time, tap into what leadership qualities you already have. It always helps to gain the respect of your platoon and realize that yes, they are soldiers who will make mistakes. But when one makes a mistake or triumphs, the whole unit suffers or celebrates as one. One last note: I learned just as much from my squad members as I did from senior NCOs and officers.

Response by SSG Eric Blue made Jul 2 at 2023 6:14 PM

SSG Eric Blue — Sun, 02 Jul 2023 18:14:22 -0400

I do know a number of people that made rank way too quick, though. One E-6 I knew in Alaska made came into the Army in 1996, made it in five years, then made E-7 before June of 2002. No, he was not a squared-away NCO. But he had the right people pushing him forward, doctoring up his NCOERs and whatnot. Never went past E-7, though. Weird.

Response by CPL T.A. Nelson made Jul 2 at 2023 9:23 PM

CPL T.A. Nelson — Sun, 02 Jul 2023 21:23:34 -0400

I was Army and it is possible for someone to get rank way too soon. It took me long enough to make NCO that I had learned what it took to be a team leader. It is all based on the individual but E-6 in three years doesn't sound like long enough to gain the necessary skills...

Response by SSG Douglas Shaffer made Jul 3 at 2023 12:41 AM

SSG Douglas Shaffer — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 00:41:59 -0400

I have seen folks promoted to soon and have not a clue as to what they were doing. Had a PAC NCO who was promoted too soon. I had a soldier that need to go on emergency leave went to the PAC office to do a DA-31 the goofball said that we would have to wait for the clerk typist to return in order to file it out. I told him to give me the damn form and showed him at the bottom "Print in Blue or Black Ink" and asked him just where does it says it needed to be typed?

Response by PO2 Lawrence Moody made Jul 4 at 2023 12:27 PM

PO2 Lawrence Moody — Tue, 04 Jul 2023 12:27:07 -0400

NO. If you qualify you should get promoted. I was up for E6 in 5..
I knew a Gunnery Sgt. That was 22 years old and his men loved him/

Response by A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney made Jul 5 at 2023 10:24 AM

A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 10:24:07 -0400

I See Many Comments Saying They Had Advanced Too Rapidly...
I Enlisted On My 17th Birthday And Placed In Situations Where
I Was Temporarily In Charge Of Others With A Higher Rank;
I Don't Recall Having Any Problems... So Is It The Advancement Which Occurred To
Rapidly Or The Maturity Which Was To Slow?..... Having Been In Corporate Management
Or Business Ownership All Of My Adult Life, I've Never Experienced Any Problem Adjusting To Either... It Was As Though, When The Situations Arose, All I Actually Did Was Adjust To Them And Continue On... But It Was Nearly Unnoticeable; It Just Happened With Little To No Effort..
~ Any Comments? ~

Response by SSG Bill McCoy made Jul 5 at 2023 1:00 PM

SSG Bill McCoy — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 13:00:33 -0400

I'd say it depends on age, background and experience, the combination of which can still result in a solid Petty Officer or NCO. I made PO3 in a little over a year (Corpsman); got busted and promoted again. Left the Navy for the Army and entered as a PFC. Made SGT in 3 years and SSG 2-1/2 years later. SGT and SSG were probably the most enjoyable (as in fun) ranks for an MP. I was up for SFC when I ETS'd and a small part of the reason I was willing to leave was a police job, and the fact that E-7's in the MP Corps VERY RARELY worked road duty or actual law enforcement duties. I hated the idea of ending up at a desk.

Response by PO1 Robert Ryan made Jul 5 at 2023 4:00 PM

PO1 Robert Ryan — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 16:00:10 -0400

During Vietnam i got ther E-2, left E-4. My Second tour I got there E-4, left as E-5. My third tour got there as E-5 left E-5 (due to doing an OJT out of my primary MOS). I left E-5 My primary MOS was 11B and did an OJT tour as 95B and was awarded secondary MOS 95B. Didn't make E-6 until my tour in Korea, 1975-1976 as 11B.

Response by SGT Jay Holland made Jul 6 at 2023 5:51 PM

SGT Jay Holland — Thu, 06 Jul 2023 17:51:58 -0400

Yes sometimes the fast track to rank is also the fast track to failure. My last tour to Afghanistan I was doing the job of the E6 as an E5 because those that outranked me didn't have the experience or knowledge to do the job. It irritated the me, that I was penalized because I preferred to be a subject matter expert instead of in a leadership position. I ended up retiring as an E5 in 2016 with 20 years in and 12 years time in grade.

Response by PO1 Lyndon Thomas made Jul 6 at 2023 8:03 PM

PO1 Lyndon Thomas — Thu, 06 Jul 2023 20:03:55 -0400

I say Yes. Though there are rare individual who adapts, adjusts, and is wise enough to handle the responsibilities of rank. I've seen the mistakes they make, and the potential for loss of life. I'm all for fast promotions, but they should be limited to certain MOS/Ratings. Rank should be earned, never Given no matter how quickly one can pass a test, read a book, or complete physical requirements. When the lives of others are at stake, give me a seasoned and Wise veteran every time.

Response by SSG Michael Schneider made Jul 8 at 2023 12:54 PM

SSG Michael Schneider — Sat, 08 Jul 2023 12:54:59 -0400

I also joined at 17, four days after turning 17 I was sworn in at the Los Angeles Induction Center and before sunrise the next day was in the reception center at Ft. Polk! My first tour in Vietnam began less than four months after my 18th birthday. Was a Pfc, E-3 at that time. After that year was a Sgt, E-5 and, after a 6 month extension on my tour re-enlisted as a Ssg, E-6 still 19 years old! Didn't feel like a teen, was almost 20 going on 50. Combat ages one dramatically and I never felt that I was promoted too soon. In your case that may not have been true, some are ready for rank and responsibility, others not.

Response by MSG Dale Fairbanks made Jul 9 at 2023 12:18 PM

MSG Dale Fairbanks — Sun, 09 Jul 2023 12:18:23 -0400

Back in the late 60s or early 70s the army was so short of NCOs in Vietnam that they had a shake and bake NCO academy that promoted you to SGT in about 5 or 6 months. A graduate could then go to Ranger school. E-4s were promoted to E-5 and E_5s were promoted to E-6, all in less than 9 - 10 months of active service. Of course, this was a guaranteed next stop in Vietnam

Response by Sgt Fire Chief David Alston made Jul 14 at 2023 11:01 AM

Sgt Fire Chief David Alston — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 11:01:28 -0400

yes I seen this while I was in the Marines it really depends on your MOS You can make rank faster on the combat MOS side 0311 etc

Response by CWO4 Russell Kauffman made Aug 9 at 2023 11:38 PM

CWO4 Russell Kauffman — Wed, 09 Aug 2023 23:38:38 -0400

Well, I can’t really relate to the Army space , however I can share a similar USN experience. In a 100% promotion rate FTG , made Chief E7 in 9 years and wondered What’s next?” the Warrant Program had just been reinstated and that was the path I took. Retired as CWO 4!
Loved every day of 32 years!

Response by MAJ John Eckholm made Aug 10 at 2023 7:38 PM

MAJ John Eckholm — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 19:38:52 -0400

Yes.

Response by PO2 Eric Lozaga made Aug 10 at 2023 11:49 PM

PO2 Eric Lozaga — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 23:49:43 -0400

I think it just depends on the person, their attitude, and their maturity. Back when I was in, I had an ITC who I was told was the second quickest ranking E7 on the west coast.. I believe he made it in 5 years or so (it's been awhile).. he was a squared away gung ho dude lol I only made E5 in 3 years but I also came in as an E1.. I got out right before my first E6 exam.

Response by Cpl George Matousek made Aug 11 at 2023 1:38 PM

Cpl George Matousek — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 13:38:58 -0400

I made E4 in 15 months in the Marines. So no I don't think you can make rank to soon, you would not bepromoted if you didn't desere it. Semper Fi

Response by CPO Kurt Baschab made Aug 13 at 2023 3:13 AM

CPO Kurt Baschab — Sun, 13 Aug 2023 03:13:23 -0400

Yes & No, it depends on the Individual,
on the members Maturity, Leadership & Job experience & Knowledge

I have seen some Individuals that have a really Outstanding knowledge of there Rate, and are really Good at taking a test, yet lack the experience and maturity in leadership.

to many members, spend all there time and effort learning there rate, and forgetting to find a mentor to teach them on how to be a really good leader.

it seems to me your command believes you are ready, the question is do you believe you are ready?

I have found most people will grow into there new rank and leadership role after they receive their advancement.

I recommend looking back at your past leaders, take what you like from there leadership style, & Make it your own, leave the rest that you do not like on there table.

find yourself a E-7 that you feel will be open to mentoring you in your new leadership role.

also Remember it easy to mentor the person who is a go getter,

not saying you should not mentor the go getter just the opposite, you should mentor them and have them help you mentor the member who is struggling , this will help the Go getter to learn his or her leadership role,

Use the go getter, to help you mentor that young sailor that is struggling with his or her rate and leadership.

take that Individual and start mentoring him or her, also remember you can mentor more than one person at a time, you can have the 1st, 2nd , 3rd class help you mentor the third-class, & Non rates

as a senior E-6 , or NEW E-7 OR Chief , I have found the very 1st thing you need to do with a junior member who is struggling with there Rate or service, is to get them back to basics.

what do I mean by that? the Júnior member who is struggling, will not have pride in him or her self or uniform, or pride in there job or service, why?
not 100% sure, but I feel they feel under prepared, and over whelmed for the upcoming challenges' they are facing, in there rate and service, sadly there uniforms will Look unkempt, & they will try to hide, as there supervisor it your job to help them get there pride in themselves , service, Rate back.
you start with there uniform.

you call them in for a counseling session, let them know what you expect of them , tell them there job is to follow all safety rules, etc, if they follow the basic safety rules no Equipment is damaged beyond repair, no member is injured or hurt, if no Equipment is damaged there is no mistake that cannot be fixed, if they are having a problem on a job task, they should not be afraid to go to there mentor for help. so the Mentor can teach & help them become better at there job, guide them.

you need to let every junior member know they should not be afraid to attempt any job or task, on there own, as long as they follow all safety rules and tag out procedures, no equipment should be damaged beyond repair, no personal will be injured.
you will start to see a big change

once the junior member realizes there no mistake, that cannot be corrected as long as they follow all safety rules and tagout procedures. they will start to become more confident at there rate

Start ensuring every service member arrives to work at least 30 min before the workday starts, nothing use to piss me off more, than a juniors member waking in 60 sec before the start of the workday.

have a uniform inspection every AM before the workday starts
ensure everyone is wearing the proper uniform, once you see the improvement in your personal you can back off .

ensure there bunk or rack is properly made, nothing worse than a long day at work, and coming home to a messed up bunk or rack.

in case your wondering why I tell my personal to arrive to work 30 min prior to the start of the workday?

here is my reason, Members should be ready to start work at the proper time, not going around the different shops saying hello to shipmates , while they are going out for a cup of coffee, smoke or dip break, not spending 30 to 45 min getting tools ready for the job, when the work day starts ,

this is why you come in 30 min prior, to the start of the work day, to look over your work list, get your tools ready so when the workday starts, you are ready to go!

Response by SGT Juan Robledo made Sep 2 at 2023 9:12 PM

SGT Juan Robledo — Sat, 02 Sep 2023 21:12:01 -0400

Could be, unless the individual has proven they can do the job of an E6, lead, disciplne and just carry out the duties and having the necessary training, College Education

Response by PO3 Ted G made Sep 17 at 2023 1:27 PM

PO3 Ted G — Sun, 17 Sep 2023 13:27:35 -0400

4 years of college and zero military experience will make a 21 year old (or younger) an O-1, thus the question "what is the difference between an E-2 and an O-1? an E-2 has been promoted once.". There was a time when people left boot camp and went straight to buy E-7 uniforms. Making enlisted rank is based on job proficiency and the ability to pass an exam, not leadership skills, all personnel are required to be ready to take the next exam as soon as they are eligible, and some people are great at taking tests. Normally people that make rank at breakneck speed know they are good at their job but might not be great leaders so they stick with doing their job and let someone else be a leader, those that don't figure that out become disliked.

Response by SGT Erick Holmes made Sep 19 at 2023 6:57 PM

SGT Erick Holmes — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 18:57:22 -0400

Let's just say that maybe you made rank too fast, its more important on how you act and carry yourself and how you hold the rank. Again, when I was in I had LT's and Captains younger than me. Some were awesome and some you just shook your head with that being said you have to listen to your peers, listen to other people how have held the rank and listen to the E1's to your rank and beyond. Absorb all of that knowledge and use it.

Response by CPT Larry Hudson made Oct 8 at 2023 7:16 PM

CPT Larry Hudson — Sun, 08 Oct 2023 19:16:46 -0400

Yes for those who have no combat experience advancing in rank quickly presents a liability to those he is responsible for.

Response by SPC Edward Abney made Oct 13 at 2023 7:29 PM

SPC Edward Abney — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 19:29:11 -0400

What happened to the time in grade requirements? When I was in, 62 -65, there were time requirements for advancement in rank. (Old Timer here)

Response by CSM Arthur Phillips made Oct 15 at 2023 9:36 AM

CSM Arthur Phillips — Sun, 15 Oct 2023 09:36:08 -0400

I was promoted to E-6 in five years and E-7 in seven and half years. Retired as a Command Sergeant Major after 26 years. I agree it is a case by case. During the Vietnam era the army had a program that we referred to as “Shake & Bake E-6s”. Completed basic training, continue to AIT and on to another six months of advanced infantry training and if successful they were promoted to E-6 and shipped off to Vietnam. Unfortunately, many of them did not come home alive.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2023 11:17 AM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 15 Oct 2023 11:17:33 -0400

I made E-6 in six years but I was serving in the Army Reserve starting in 1973. No troops were going to Vietnam and the draft was over. Many reserve units were understrength so they needed NCOs who met the qualifications. Later made E-7, then became a Warrant Officer.

Response by PO2 Lawrence Moody made Oct 15 at 2023 6:48 PM

PO2 Lawrence Moody — Sun, 15 Oct 2023 18:48:52 -0400

No, If you passed all the qualifications and are able to pass the UCMJ and your rating's Technical exams, especially with high enough scores to place you on the promotion list, mor power to the Navy as it proves that this person is dedicated to his Rating and knows his job, as far as leadership, come on they make 21-year-old Ensigns with no working past, only book schooling.

Response by PO2 Lawrence Moody made Oct 15 at 2023 6:50 PM

PO2 Lawrence Moody — Sun, 15 Oct 2023 18:50:53 -0400

They make Ensigns out of people that only claim to fame is College.

Response by SP5 Wick Humble made Oct 23 at 2023 1:12 PM

SP5 Wick Humble — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 13:12:04 -0400

In 1968, a (late) homie of mine got E6 in Vietnam during his second year, and I was offered SP6 just to re-up, but as a draftee, I didn't bite. Sometimes the job fits the person, other times the person fits the job, huh? I was permanent PFC, oc.

Response by LTC George Morgan made Oct 29 at 2023 3:44 PM

LTC George Morgan — Sun, 29 Oct 2023 15:44:24 -0400

Learning from mistakes is important. Live, learn, and move on is extremely improtan.

Response by SP6 Peter Kreutzfeldt made Dec 4 at 2023 5:31 PM

SP6 Peter Kreutzfeldt — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 17:31:01 -0500

I made Sp6 in less than 3 years cause the job I was assigned to called for a 6 and I was not going to turn down the pay increase. Be proud of you accomplishments

Response by SSG Craig Thompson made Dec 5 at 2023 1:26 PM

SSG Craig Thompson — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 13:26:15 -0500

Enlisted E-1 June 3, 1967, promoted to SSG E-6 December 10, 1969. Lot of job openings in the Infantry back then

Response by Sgt Ricky Weatherford made Dec 6 at 2023 3:24 PM

Sgt Ricky Weatherford — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 15:24:19 -0500

It all depends on your MOS how fast you get promoted.
I seen a Marine get his Cpl/ E-4 and one year later his Sgt/E-5 the Sgt rank was meritorously promotion.
His MOS was short Cpl's when he picked it up not sure about the Sgt rank to find out if it was short too.
I left the unit a few days after.

Response by MAJ Dale E. Wilson, Ph.D. made Dec 6 at 2023 7:26 PM

MAJ Dale E. Wilson, Ph.D. — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 19:26:47 -0500

I made E-6 in July '73 after enlisting in early December '69. I was selected from the secondary zone for E-7 and spent 14 months on the list. I was a promotable E-6 throughout OCS hoping I'd make it before graduation. We were commissioned on 22 February '79. Right after the ceremony, our 1st Sgt. handed me orders promoting me to E-7. Only one problem: The effective date was 1 March with a DOR of 28 February! Oh, well . . .

Oh, yeah, I also made major below the zone . . .

Response by SGT Gary Stemen made Dec 7 at 2023 1:20 PM

SGT Gary Stemen — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 13:20:13 -0500

Brother-in-law was an instant Spec 5 after graduating from refrigeration (HVAC) school, his responsibility was maintaining A/C for hospital units in VietNam... Had more air miles than most pilots, went everywhere he was needed by chopper...

Response by Cpl Craig Howard made Dec 27 at 2023 5:48 PM

Cpl Craig Howard — Wed, 27 Dec 2023 17:48:03 -0500

As a Marine on board a Navy ship, I saw a lot of Petty Officers that treated the Marine NCO's that were junior to them with a lot of respect. I asked a 1st Class PO about it and he said that their crew had been trained that by the time a Marine reached E4 Corporal, that they were more equal to an E5 2nd Class PO than any other rank. We had more leadership training and had ourselves more squared away than most junior enlisted in the Navy. Many of us made a lot of friends with the Navy, and that made us a tighter knit group when it came time to go to the Gulf. I felt that the Navy system is moving people up before they are as ready as other branches.

Response by PO3 Alex Bravo made Dec 27 at 2023 6:06 PM

PO3 Alex Bravo — Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:06:40 -0500

I thought that only could happen in combat. Ability, efficiency and maturity moves slow during non combat situations. Otherwise, it should not be allowed, the military wants competent and people willing to take responsability by merits.

Response by Brig Gen Joe Callahan made Dec 31 at 2023 1:41 PM

Brig Gen Joe Callahan — Sun, 31 Dec 2023 13:41:11 -0500

Yes, the services can promote before the person is ready for the additional responsibilities. However if a particularly sharp person is recognized with an early promotion, they probably deserve the promotion. I worked with a Chief Master Sergeant (E-9) who had only 10 years TIS. He was very sharp and it was easy to see how he did it. His biggest issue though was he was stuck as an ops NCOIC for years. He was a Chief but didn’t have the experience to be a group Chief. He still did fine once his TIS caught up with his rank.

Response by PFC David Gettman made Jan 1 at 2024 11:13 AM

PFC David Gettman — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 11:13:44 -0500

My dad went from private to corporal in two months, sergeant six months later, and staff sergeant in less than twenty-six months from the day he was drafted. Received a battlefield commission to second lieutenant ten weeks later. Private to lieutenant in two years eight months. But then again, it was WW II.

Response by Cpl Brian Ruby made Jan 1 at 2024 4:44 PM

Cpl Brian Ruby — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 16:44:53 -0500

Depends...in combat it's understandable for exemplary leadership, not in combat then it's way too fast. Makes you wonder...

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2024 11:34 AM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 11:34:58 -0500

I think it depends on the MOS and volume of work. I was an E6 at 24 years old (turned 20 in basic training), however, I was in a fast promoting CMF and volume recruiting. Meaning we had 18 year old recruits coming in all the time. If I passed on the promotion or the opportunity to be on the EPS list it just meant someone else would step up. Senior Leaders should understand their younger leaders and develop ways to motivate so to get the best performance out of everyone.

Response by PO1 Ray-Allan Huskins made Jan 2 at 2024 1:37 PM

PO1 Ray-Allan Huskins — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 13:37:21 -0500

Those who are focused and have found their Nitch, deserve to be promoted. This also makes them more noticed by their superiors to be groomed for OCS. They can take the CPO examen 1 year sooner and pass that qualifies them for OCS, Which is also great for the military.

Response by LTC George Monsson made Jan 3 at 2024 8:49 PM

LTC George Monsson — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 20:49:15 -0500

The same can happen with officer ranks. During the height and later part of the Viet Nam War a 2LT would get promoted to 1LT in one year which is OK but then the person would make CPT in another year. When I was at Infantry Officer Basic Course at then Ft. Benning there were guys in my class who had been commissioned ar 2LTs and then got a deferred entry to go to graduate school for 2 years but their time in grade clock was still ticking. So, they had the potential of going to Viet Nam as a Company Commander with no actual unit active duty experience. I don't know if any of them did but it was a possibility. I went in as a 2LT and got promoted to 1LT during my first weeks as a Platoon Leader in Viet Nam.

Response by Cpl Loel Larzelere made Jan 4 at 2024 11:22 PM

Cpl Loel Larzelere — Thu, 04 Jan 2024 23:22:23 -0500

About the time I was at the end of my enlistment, we (The Corps) acquired "leadership" that had a stated policy that no one would make E5 on their first enlistment. Didn't matter if it was 2, 4 or an extension to 6 years. No one would make E5 on their first enlistment, ESPECIALLY in the Air Wing.

It was immediately post-Vietnam, the civilian aviation industry was ramping up, and of course, the MCAWs emptied out with all possible speed.

TBH, I enjoyed my time in The Corps but not enough to give up twice the money, half the hassles, and no complaints about my wife's "attitude" to return at the same rank I had left.

Response by SGT Jay Holland made Jan 5 at 2024 11:57 AM

SGT Jay Holland — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 11:57:13 -0500

I have never seen a fast tracker that was worth anything, at least not in my MOS, but there are many variables that have to be taken into account. First maturity, if you can't take the job seriously and be responsible for yourself and your troops, you are a no-go at that station. Second, administration; counseling packets, reccomendations/nonreccomendations for promotion or board, primary maintenance checks and services, precombat checks and inspections, drill and ceremony, pretty much the total NCO and Soldier package. Third Military Occupational Specialty; do you know your job at your level and one level above you? If not you are failing yourself and your unit. Many fast trackers have the first two, but not the third through no fault of their own; job experience takes practice, and after Desert Storm until the Iraqi campaign (1996-2005 approximately), there were many jobs in the army that were contracted out to civilians on American bases, so there were many NCOs in my unit in 2003 that had no clue how to do their jobs when we got to Afghanistan. It is not being technically proficient when the E4 who was Marine Corps prior service has to teach their boss how to do the MOS based tasks.

Response by PO3 Donald Reed made Jan 5 at 2024 1:48 PM

PO3 Donald Reed — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 13:48:08 -0500

You were lucky I got to third class petty officer but that was it in the four years I was in the Navy. I never got into any trouble while in. If I would have gotten to 2nd class I would have stayed in longer.

Response by SSG Roger Ayscue made Jan 6 at 2024 1:04 AM

SSG Roger Ayscue — Sat, 06 Jan 2024 01:04:08 -0500

Yes, Sir there is.
Sometimes, and it is up to the leader to figure it out, a person meets every published metric to be promoted but just does not meet the landing gear to the tarmac ability. This is where it becomes a critical skill to be able to vocalize and put into words the "WHY" you as a leader just do not feel comfortable promoting someone right now. Perhaps they are not mature enough, or they demonstrate a propensity to complain or seek self over unit.
Malcolm Gladwell wrote a book called "Blink" I highly recommend it. Just Sayin'

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Jan 6 at 2024 3:27 AM

SSG Shawn Mcfadden — Sat, 06 Jan 2024 03:27:13 -0500

Not really. I knew an E-6 when I was in Germany. First met her in 1990. Don't remember when she got promoted, but she went to ANOC the same time I went to BNOC which was in 2000.

Response by SSG Stephen Belschner made Jan 6 at 2024 2:29 PM

SSG Stephen Belschner — Sat, 06 Jan 2024 14:29:13 -0500

no not at all especially if you know what your doing and can save lives. i went to nam as a private and came back as an e-5 buck Sargeant. i save some lives i know of. then six months my commander official put me in for e-6 staff Sargeant. i made the rank. i did make some dumb mistakes, that i learned from, but no one got hurt or confused, i just pissed this captain off. no worries though, he wasn't the best official. i kinda wished i had stayed in the army, but i wanted to live my life as i wanted. a 50/50 decision.

Response by PO1 Weston Scriba made Jan 7 at 2024 7:22 PM

PO1 Weston Scriba — Sun, 07 Jan 2024 19:22:52 -0500

Yes I in fact was a "slick arm" PO1 CTR1 as critical rate at the time 1965 - 1968 cold war

Response by MSgt Craig Gauger made Jan 8 at 2024 11:17 AM

MSgt Craig Gauger — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 11:17:14 -0500

I would think the rarest of individuals would be promotable this quickly. It would be akin to a very young person going to university for an advanced degree. Perhaps if they came from a majority military family, they had common sense, learned quickly, and had a SNCO mentor early on, they may excel as a leader. Older soldiers who didn't get promoted would find it difficult to work for a much younger person. There lies a challenge to their authority that would need to be handled well to gain respect. During combat, a level-headed "leader" can motivate other troops to go above and beyond.

Response by CPL Jonathan Roberts made Jan 14 at 2024 4:29 PM

CPL Jonathan Roberts — Sun, 14 Jan 2024 16:29:15 -0500

I often wonder that myself,when I got to my second assignment duty station FT.Carson,co. For me being a support mos 88m ( motor vehicle transport operator) and being assigned to 759th MPBN @ Ft, Carson . Just coming back from Iraq fresh E-4 specialist to be honest it was a struggle for that E-5 rank to become an NCO . I'm approaching 3 years in service. this time frame was around October 08 . And promotion points were maxed out, basically I needed 800 before I could see the rank of sergeant. Then there was this one soldier making their E5 sergeant as a first term soldier joined as a PFC like I did. They didn't even have 3 years time in service requirements for E4 to E5 and had no deployment but I did.. it came down to their mos and their really low promotion points 350. They were military MI . going on their first tour in the sand box going on my second. Was told I my had to consider do army 's reclassing to fill spots were the army was short on NCO's.

Response by 1SG John Millan made Feb 3 at 2024 7:11 AM

1SG John Millan — Sat, 03 Feb 2024 07:11:23 -0500

Yes. Then,you gave limited room for growth and can get in over your heaf.

Response by SCPO Art Michel made Mar 19 at 2024 2:12 PM

SCPO Art Michel — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 14:12:08 -0400

YES! it may sound not hurt every rating/MOS in any branch but it could hinder not only the individual but the immediate unit to which he/she is assigned. In today's military some things have changed for the better..some not. I recall my time as a senior Petty Officer First Class (E6). When I arrived in Newport News, Va for CVN71 precomm unit, I saw for "my" first time, Nukes. Now having previously been a recruiter, I knew that nuclear power fields required some pretty smart book worms. I don't recall having met a well-rounded, mature, ready to lead Petty Officer (E6). The few Chiefs (E7) I heard about through my chain where considered book smart but lacked in leadership. it was the talk of the day back in 1986-90. Honestly, I had E4s that could run circles around nuke E6s if given the chance.

Response by CPO Christian Wilson made Mar 19 at 2024 10:47 PM

CPO Christian Wilson — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 22:47:28 -0400

I made E6 in 4 1/2 years and Chief in 10.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Mar 20 at 2024 7:10 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 19:10:54 -0400

I was an AD Army Officer and did a tour with a large NG unit. I saw firsthand the good ole boy network at work. Some of the people wore rank because of who they knew. I saw an NCOER of an absolutely outstanding E-5 which would have been detrimental to the SGT written by a 1SG. I don't know if the 1SG was lazy of did not know how to write NCOERs, but the fact of the matter is the NCOER was poorly written and would have been an injustice to the SGT. There was no way that stud of a SGT was going to receive such bad rating.

I saw some very hard-working soldiers and some who just tried to look good in uniform. However, the good ole boy system is a double-edged sword. I was able to convince the COL who was the CoS to promote the said SGT to SSG. I appreciated the help because he was quite deserving. It was a very interesting tour. lol

Response by CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana made Mar 25 at 2024 10:11 AM

CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 10:11:07 -0400

I began my career in the Army as a PV2 making E-5 in 18 months and E-6 six months later. I made rank too soon and then, I became a commissioned officer where I was challenged on a number of occasions. In hindsight, with more maturity, at the speed at which I was rising up the enlisted ladder, it is not farfetched to suggest that the objective of achieving the rank of SGM was not far off for me and perhaps I should have continued towards my set goal at that time. Essentially, making rank too soon can obscure your decisions.

Response by SPC Michael Budzinski made Apr 21 at 2024 10:23 PM

SPC Michael Budzinski — Sun, 21 Apr 2024 22:23:19 -0400

E-4P 3yrs and out. Would have got within 6 months. Depends on accomplishments but mostly MOS. Was 63N and 45N probably only one in the Army. Automatic at E-6