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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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