Of all your promotions, what was your best promotion and why?

2017-02-25T12:34:35-05:00

I went into DEP on 15 Feb 80, and left Newark for Fort McClellan, AL (by train) on 1 Oct 1980 as a PV1. Getting promoted to PV2 was cool, as was being promoted to Acting Sergeant (Acting Jack) after just two years, and getting promoted to Sergeant at 30 months TIS. 2LT was huge. But, for me getting promoted COL, after being flagged by the DAIG for over 36 months - for BS - was the best!!!

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Feb 25 at 2017 12:46 PM

2017-02-25T12:46:58-05:00

Thanks for sharing COL Charles Williams the background and pictures of your promotions.
The camera which contained pictures of my promotion to LTC in the Pentagon in April 2000 was stolen. That was my most important promotion since it was the first one my family was present for.
My promotion from USMA cadet to 2LT in the US Army infantry was the most emotional one after 4 years at the academy.
Images: may 28, 1980 at West point; February 1984 at 1st Bn 52nd Infantry Regiment in Bamberg, FRG promotion to Captain; January 1975 PV2 at Fort Leonard Wood, MO

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Feb 25 at 2017 12:54 PM

2017-02-25T12:54:42-05:00

Promoted to E2 at the end of BCT. As we sat in the theater the CO called off the names of those promoted. When he reached mine, he paused and asked, "Who the hell is Durish?" A moment not to be forgotten. I had mastered "staying off the radar"

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Feb 25 at 2017 1:06 PM

2017-02-25T13:06:53-05:00

Capt was best - no more LT jokes.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Feb 25 at 2017 1:29 PM

2017-02-25T13:29:35-05:00

When I received my E-5 Sgt promotion, that was one happy day. My wife and son got to see me receive it.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Feb 25 at 2017 1:47 PM

2017-02-25T13:47:57-05:00

SFC Shirley Whitfield Very nice. I am a "Be all you Can Be" era Soldier too. WAC is from the way back machine. Thanks for sharing.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2017 1:52 PM

2017-02-25T13:52:56-05:00

My wife was there to pin all of my NCO ranks on me, SGT - 1SG. For me I would say my best promotion would be 1SG. I know that MSG and 1SG are the same pay grade but they have different responsibilities. When I was pinned a 1SG I had reach my final goal in the Army.

Response by CW5 Sam R. Baker made Feb 25 at 2017 2:08 PM

2017-02-25T14:08:32-05:00

Private - the only reason that three of the men that represented and set me on the path to SSG, WO1 and CW5 were all present, my retired uncles from the Army, COL Thomas Austin and COL William Austin and then my dad, Sam Baker. These three men did not get along, mainly for my dads sexual preference, he was homosexual and that was not acceptable in the 1960s, but these men, all of them 6'5" were towering over me as a Private at Fort McClellan, AL in 1987. It was a cordial and celebratory moment where I had a lot of living up to the image of perfection these men set for me. Humble, hard-working, successful career Soldiers and family men. That was my best promotion of all time.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2017 2:08 PM

2017-02-25T14:08:50-05:00

Getting promoted to SGT was really damn good. I thought nothing could top that........then I got promoted to SSG, which was outfrigginstanding. I found it interesting the interaction change people of higher rank had with me when going from SPC to SGT. But when I made SSG, the interaction dynamic really changed. Can't wait to see what happens when I get promoted to SFC.

Response by SMSgt Roger Horton made Feb 25 at 2017 3:37 PM

2017-02-25T15:37:27-05:00

For me it was PFC (E-2). I was promoted to PFC coming out of Engineer School at Court house Bay, Camp Lejeune, NC. I was 1st in my class and the only one promoted. Had a LCpl (E-3) that switched MOS when he re-enlisted and wanted so bad to be 1st and get promoted to Cpl.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2017 3:40 PM

2017-02-25T15:40:04-05:00

When promoted to sergeant. One could argue that it's my only promotion, as E-1 to E-4 are advancements. It was the first that isn't given out for passing PT and having a pulse. I also got promoted well ahead of most of my peers, so I felt my hard work was rewarded. My first fireteam, I had a soldier who had more time in grade than I did in service.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Feb 25 at 2017 3:50 PM

2017-02-25T15:50:59-05:00

In think perhaps the promotion to Senior Master Sergeant while I stationed at Hanscom AFB, MA . shown sliding the rank insignia over My right shoulder is My wife Joanne and on the left shoulder, Colonel Moore who was Director of Security Police at Headquarters Air Force Systems Command at Andrews AFB, MD. Also promoted was My friend Nicholas Zallas who was being promoted from Captain to Major and He liked how I included My wife and did the same thing to include His wife. We were they only two being promoted on that occasion and the unit provided food, drinks and was well attended by a large number of people from the 3245th Security Police Squadron and also the Base Commander.

Response by MSgt Richard Randall made Feb 25 at 2017 5:33 PM

2017-02-25T17:33:25-05:00

My second stripe to E-3, A1C at the time. Our tech school at Chanute AFB, Il was so long, 10+ months, that the handful of us in ICBM missile electronic systems got promoted based on time in grade. That meant I was no longer nailed for KP and Halls and Walls. That was reserved for those low life E-2s.

Response by MAJ Raymond Haynes made Feb 25 at 2017 5:35 PM

2017-02-25T17:35:01-05:00

The first time my Senior Drill Instructor called me Marine instead of Turd Stain.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2017 6:13 PM

2017-02-25T18:13:43-05:00

Probably to SGT/E-5 back in the 90s. First, my promotion packet lost enroute from Vicenza Italy to Ft Sam then Fitzsimmons AMC (in the days when it was all actual paper) and subsequently found and sent to me a couple months later. Second, it took a lot of points to get promoted in that MOS and it felt really good and really earned to finally pin on those stripes back then.

Response by GySgt Melissa Gravila made Feb 25 at 2017 7:14 PM

2017-02-25T19:14:29-05:00

Mine is bittersweet- when I got promoted to Sgt a Colonel (who was like a father to me) came down to the mess hall and promoted me there. He also re-enlisted me the first time. The reason it's bittersweet is because he died in the Pentagon on 9/11.
Semper Fidelis

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2017 7:16 PM

2017-02-25T19:16:07-05:00

No brainier, when I pinned my anchors on.

Response by SP5 Robert Ruck made Feb 25 at 2017 9:05 PM

2017-02-25T21:05:07-05:00

My promotion to Spec 5 was the most gratifying. Although promotions to E-2 out of basic and E-3 out of AIT were based on performance my Spec 5 promotion was my first real accomplishment as a young man in the real, albeit, military world. It was recognition for a lot of hard work dedication to duty and a job well done.

Response by CPO Bill Penrod made Feb 26 at 2017 3:11 AM

2017-02-26T03:11:55-05:00

Making Navy Chief in 1976 only the Navy and Coast Guard have chief and the initiation that goes with it..........................

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Feb 26 at 2017 12:17 PM

2017-02-26T12:17:26-05:00

Promotion to Major. A little time perspective is necessary to understand why major was very important. I entered the AF in 1969 with a reserve commission. I was allowed to go on extended active duty and promoted on time to 1st Lt and Capt. Major was the first rank for which we truly competed. About two years before I was considered for major, DOPMA (Defense Officer Personnel Management Act) was signed. One important provision was the requirement for Reserve officers on extended active duty to be considered for Regular appointment at 7 years of service. If they failed to make it, they were considered again at the majors' board. I failed to gain Regular appointment at 4 years and I was pretty worried. Without a Regular Commission, it looked like the chances of making major were very small. Fortunately, I was selected for Regular at 7 years. The majors' board was about a year later. I was very happy to be selected for major because it meant I would be allowed to serve to 20 years and then retire if I wanted or if I was not selected for Lt Col. I was a very happy guy when my wife and boss pinned the oak leaves on.

Response by LT Louis McKellar made Feb 26 at 2017 7:31 PM

2017-02-26T19:31:42-05:00

Going from TSgt to Ensign. I set my sights on becoming an officer when I was in boot camp, and had achieved that.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2017 10:45 PM

2017-02-26T22:45:10-05:00

I haven't had one yet, but I do remember getting my rank. The patch was placed carefully and exactly perfect on target and then I got punch in the chest. I hope we don't get rid of things like that, some call it hazing but... I don't know, Soldier up?

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made Feb 27 at 2017 12:16 PM

2017-02-27T12:16:27-05:00

Well, since I didn't serve as a careerist, I would have to say my last promotion to Cpl. I wasn't a rank chaser, but I did know that if I got out of the military, I wanted to go out as at least an NCO. I didn't want to be a Terminal Lance. I wanted to be an NCO to have the opportunity to lead Marines and shape the next generation of leaders.

So being promoted to Cpl was a big deal for me. I treated it as if it were my last promotion because I didn't know if I was re-upping or not. So I invited everyone who had an influence in my development as a Marine. Had the Colors displayed behind me. Had two SNCOs who were instrumental in my growth pin me. My family was there and I even gave a small speech to inspire Junior Marines and thank my Senior Marines.

Nothing made me happier than leaving the Corps with my Bloodstripe.

Response by CSM Richard StCyr made Feb 27 at 2017 1:36 PM

2017-02-27T13:36:41-05:00

For me it was appointment to CSM. I was blessed to get and take the unit I had left as a 1SG to combat. CSM McDaniel the Regimental CSM and SMA Tilley were in town at USASMA and CSM MC got SMA Tilley to pin me.
I thought it was nice that the Regimental CSM took the time to coordinate something like that and that the SMA took time out of his schedule to do that and visit with my family.

Response by SSG Mark Franzen made Feb 27 at 2017 10:09 PM

2017-02-27T22:09:04-05:00

My promotion was Given to me while attending Basic technical course I was on the E6 list for 90 days and Got promoted in was the best day of my Life. Ill never ever forget that day I was in Maryland and there was snow in Dec 3 1983.
SSG MARK FRANZEN
USA VET

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 28 at 2017 12:05 AM

2017-02-28T00:05:05-05:00

SFC E-7, because I no longer had to bite my tongue as hard.

Response by A1C Charles D Wilson made Feb 28 at 2017 12:27 AM

2017-02-28T00:27:48-05:00

1984 BMTS USAF 3743rd Flight 352 R09. Completing basic training as an E-3 after being told I would never be or achieve anything. I was raised on government support housing etc.
I took the time to get my G.E.D. and join the USAF Res at the age of 17 and proved all the ones who said I could not or would not be anything. I then applied all my training towards credits to go active duty in 1986-1987. Never let anything hold me back from then.

Chuck D

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Feb 28 at 2017 11:22 AM

2017-02-28T11:22:17-05:00

Personally, I would say pinning on my Sergeant stripes was my most memorable. I worked hard for it and it marked a fundamental change from follower to leader.

After that, the promotion I remember the most is promoting my first troop. It was a simple E2 to E3 promotion but standing up front of the formation and having the honor to reward a soldier felt amazing.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Feb 28 at 2017 7:33 PM

2017-02-28T19:33:57-05:00

Sergeants Major! I'd set two goals:
1. Stay in long enough to get a retirement
2. Make Sergeants Major

I did both!!

Response by SFC Dennis A. made Feb 28 at 2017 8:47 PM

2017-02-28T20:47:44-05:00

I would have to say when I was pinned SSG & SFC. Both for the same reason, my family (wife and kids) were there with me.

Response by Sgt Dale Briggs made Feb 28 at 2017 10:59 PM

2017-02-28T22:59:49-05:00

When Top pinned on my third stripe. For a small amount of time in my life I was a Sgt of Marines. No greater honor. Then having my jump wings pinned, sorry it's a promotion to a degree , only Anglico and Force Recon wore wings in the day.m

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made Mar 4 at 2017 10:59 AM

2017-03-04T10:59:17-05:00

COL Charles Williams For me it was my promotion from Staff Sergeant (E-6) to 2LT after completing OCS in on 20 Jun 1983 and then getting promoted to Colonel on 3 March 2003! Thanks for sharing the memories Charles

Response by SGT James Colwell made Mar 4 at 2017 1:34 PM

2017-03-04T13:34:12-05:00

The weird thing for me was getting promoted from E3 to E4. A company formation was held while were in the field. I was told to report to the company commander. In a field environment we were trained to not salute. So I reported, but the CO told me very quietly to report, so I did, complete with salute. He then had the XO read the orders and pinned my SP4 insignia on me. We fell out and went back to training. Very odd. Going from E4 to E5 was pretty much done at the platoon level. Not a big deal made about it.

Response by PO3 James Bobiney made Mar 4 at 2017 4:53 PM

2017-03-04T16:53:51-05:00

I have eleven years service and only ever made it as high as an E-4. But I think it was partly my fault as I had several breaks in service. I've got almost eight years Army with a break in service and made it as high as Specialist E-4. However, my first term of service I was a Corporal for about two months at the end of my term and no paper work was ever submitted so I was unable to keep the rank. This is the circumstance, our Squad Leader, Sgt Elder had gone AWOL. Since I was next highest in rank I was told on a Friday at COB by our Plt Sgt that Top(1SG) wanted me to have Cpl on for Monday. Our unit was short NCO's, as alot were then. But that was not my most favorite promotion. No, my favorite promotion was going into the Navy Reserve as a Petty Officer 3rd Class(E-4) which is an NCO. The Navy does not have two ranks for grade E-4. Since I was a fully trained Army Medic already and even though I was on another break in service, the recruiter managed to get me in as an OSVET and transferred straight over as a HM3(Corpsman PO3). That was my most favorite promotion because I was treated as an NCO from jump with all the respect that comes with it.

Response by MAJ Raúl Rovira made Mar 4 at 2017 7:52 PM

2017-03-04T19:52:50-05:00

Becoming a 1st LT.

The LT next to me forgot to bring his rank and the battalion commander dropped him to do push-ups in front of the battalion formation. I will never for get that.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Mar 5 at 2017 4:54 PM

2017-03-05T16:54:39-05:00

Making Major was my highpoint. This pretty much told me that the things I had been doing other than being a grunt aircrew crewmember were worth the effort. Saw many of my peers who had done nothing but be exceptional aircrew crewmembers get passed over.

Response by Cpl Donna Dover made Apr 25 at 2017 12:51 PM

2017-04-25T12:51:54-04:00

Picking up CPL because the cutting scores kept getting closed out and then jacked way up for no reason.

Response by MSgt George Cater made Apr 25 at 2017 10:31 PM

2017-04-25T22:31:57-04:00

A split between two: Meritorious Sergeant a year after making Corporal tied with MSgt on my 40th birthday.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Apr 25 at 2017 11:37 PM

2017-04-25T23:37:14-04:00

Not my best promotion, COL Charles Williams, but maybe the quickest! I had just returned from SF Phase 1 at Camp Mackall and was promoted to Specialist Four on 22MAY70. However, I had only just made PFC on 12APR70! We were told that we would make rank quickly in Special Forces, and that was proof. I was only a PFC for 30 days! LTC Stephen F. LTC Roger Gaines CPT Private RallyPoint Member

Response by MSG James Hughs made Apr 26 at 2017 2:13 AM

2017-04-26T02:13:57-04:00

For me..... and I have held every rank from Private to Captain (except CSM).... my favorite promotion was 2 LT..... as a juvenile delinquent who dropped out of high school .... was told by his father that I would be hung before I was 21.....a trooper who had 9 Art 15 and a court martial the first year on active duty..... and it took 4 applications and 6 years before I could get into OCS..... being a 2 Lt was my vindication..... and for the first time my father said he was proud of me.....

Response by SGT Philip Roncari made Apr 26 at 2017 10:54 AM

2017-04-26T10:54:09-04:00

My promotion to SGT after being ordered to attend the NCO Academy at FT. Hood TX. (had a girlfriend back in Leesville LA.) was also amazed I passed the E-5 board on my return,was not so amazed the girlfriend was gone,gone,gone ,well at least got out of the barracks !

Response by SP5 Dave Forrest made May 4 at 2017 7:38 PM

2017-05-04T19:38:51-04:00

At the end of a 2 1/2 hour IG inspection of my motor pool the Lt Gen leading the team (He had a full bird and a captain to help him) asked my CO why I wasn't a sergeant. I made E-5/SP-5 that afternoon.

Response by SCPO Don Baker made May 12 at 2017 8:53 AM

2017-05-12T08:53:46-04:00

I believe PO2. The middle man. When the crap rolls down hill from the Goat Locker, a lot hits PO1 and most lands on PO3.

Response by SGT Kevin Leake made May 15 at 2017 12:45 AM

2017-05-15T00:45:21-04:00

When I made E-5 they called me in to the old mans office he was on leave and the XO started read off a set of papers like I was getting an art 15, then the wording changed up and said you've now been promoted to E-5 make sure there's plenty of beer available by close of bus.

Response by PO2 Tanya Middlebrooks made May 15 at 2017 5:01 PM

2017-05-15T17:01:18-04:00

When I made Petty Officer Third Class. (Navy E4) I'll never forget because I was in labor with my now 15 year old son. As I was trying to maintain my breathing, the nurse popped her head in, and said, "Your command just called. Congratulations! You made third!" My husband (who was also awaiting news to see if he had promoted) turned to me and said, "I better had made it!" Lol. .. (He did) Two years later, when I was in labor with my now 13 year old son, I happened to be watching the news when word came out they had captured Saddam. Needless to say, both births were memorable!

Response by CW4 Leonard White made May 19 at 2017 2:57 PM

2017-05-19T14:57:52-04:00

To SFC/E7 follow closely by to WO1. Becoming a senior NCO means everyone in the military knows you have the experience and professionalism to handle whatever challenges your given. Becoming a Warrant meant that I could be an OIC of an intelligence mission, something that I really wanted. I wanted the responsibility/authority to ensure the missions were successful. Being an NCIOC was great but, has everyone know, it's the OIC that Army expects to "lead" a mission and it's ultimately the responsibility of the OIC to ensure its successful.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2017 6:54 PM

2017-05-19T18:54:09-04:00

Being promoted to corporal while on an overseas squadron rotation was the best I can remember. I had pissed off the gunny back home and didn't get promoted for a LONG time. I got to come back as a corporal and watch him grind his teeth.

Yeah, I guess that's a bit petty.

Response by SGT Gregory Reilly made May 19 at 2017 11:06 PM

2017-05-19T23:06:14-04:00

Buck Sergeant in the Air Force. We were in a 90 day exercise in Korea living in sand bag bunkers. Sr. Airman And Sergeant were the same stripes but the star was colored in on the Sergeant stripes. My Lt. read my promotion orders, congradulated me and handed me a sharpie. Seeing the confused look on my face he explained I could either sew on new stripes in the field or I could color in the stars. I excepted the sharpie and relished the time it took to color all the stars. Best promotion ever. LOL

Response by 1LT Rich Voss made May 25 at 2017 7:26 PM

2017-05-25T19:26:51-04:00

COL - excellent story. Mine similar. Drafted 10/66, E1, made E2 during AIT, then short perm. party, then OCS = SGT E5, graduated and became 2LT in 8/67...all while nineteen years old. Quite a jump for a guy with no college at all. From what I've read, this can't be done now due to regs. Was I fortunate ? You bet, Sir !

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2017 6:32 AM

2017-05-26T06:32:26-04:00

E-7 will be the best for me (just found out I made it yesterday). It will be the first one my spouse will be able to tack me on. Plus, joining the SNCO ranks means something.

Response by LT Richard Mondak made Jun 2 at 2017 1:27 PM

2017-06-02T13:27:29-04:00

CHIEF PETTY OFFICER, UNITED STATES NAVY
I entered the Navy in 1975 as a Seaman Recruit and rose through the "pay grades" from E-1 to E-7 then commissioned as a CWO2, Ensign, LTjg and LT. Without hesitation, I list the INITIATION and APPOINTMENT as Chief Petty Officer in September 1984, as not only a highlight in my career, but in my entire life. For anyone who has ever earned the ANCHOR and wore the HAT, it is difficult to explain to a civilian or another E-7 and above in the DOD. I am closer to my Brother and Sister Chiefs than I am to some members of my family and most of the Officers with whom I served.

Response by SP5 Rich Levesque made Jun 4 at 2017 11:17 AM

2017-06-04T11:17:13-04:00

That jump to E5. I was no longer a SP4 for life!!!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2017 10:12 AM

2017-06-07T10:12:36-04:00

When I deployed in 05-06 my brother, who is National Guard, was deployed as well. We were both SPCs then. I got promoted in Aug 06 and he used his four day pass to come up so he could pin on my SGT stripes. That was really cool that I got to have someone from my family there while I was deployed.

Then afterward we were outside and he was being a smartass I said I could make him drop. He said "I can kick your ass." I said not while we're in uniform...now I'm a SFC he's a SGT. He's been in a year longer than me too.

An old drill sergeant pinned my SSG. He ended up being the S2 NCOIC right before we both PCSed.

My dad pinned on my SFC stripes - unfortunately my ex is in those photos though so that part sucks. But that was pretty cool my dad could do that.

So I guess all so far are memorable. :D

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Jun 7 at 2017 11:25 AM

2017-06-07T11:25:50-04:00

Had to think about this one for some time. It really wasn't a bump up in rank because that's a shift to more responsible work. The big one was changing a life direction. I had E-5 and O-1 papers in my hand. Sign one of them. So I took the leap (like many other times) expecting some things but not having a clue about others. Best? Debatable. Most profound? Yes.

Response by SGT James (Jimmy) Crone made Jun 11 at 2017 4:02 PM

2017-06-11T16:02:17-04:00

It would have to be my promotion E5 hard stripe after being promoted in front of formation they put my rank on my collar without the backs and slammed them they called it blood rank, felt good to really earn it

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2017 9:21 PM

2017-06-18T21:21:05-04:00

To me every promotion has a special meaning. Being Meritoriously promoted to PFC, out of Bootcamp. Promoted to Staff Sergeant and Gunnery Sergeant at the same unit, with two different tours of duty. Then being selected to Warrant Officer in my selected MOS with 1st Force Service Support Group, 1st Maintenance Battalion, Electronics Maintenance Company, Camp Pendleton, California. I believe the only one on the West Coast to be selected. I have been Blessed with all of my promotions, but the ones that stands out was when my wife and son's were there to witness my promotions to my Staff ranks and especially my Warrant Officers Ranks. Semper Fidelis To all who helped me get these promotions, especially to my family for believeing in me and their support to make it all happen.

Response by SCPO Vanessa Crawford made Jun 19 at 2017 9:58 PM

2017-06-19T21:58:04-04:00

Making Chief in the Navy.... I had just given birth a couple hours prior and was in the hospital when I got the call from my Master Chief.... in fact I hung up on him the first two times he called because he kept asking to speak to the Chief and I thought it was a wrong number.....

Response by CMSgt Mark Schubert made Jun 20 at 2017 1:53 PM

2017-06-20T13:53:14-04:00

When I was promoted at the lower ranks, I thought I was doing something - then, as I got promoted into the TOP3, I realized it wasn't me - it was God - and this was HIS plan and not mine - then, everything changed. Without that mentality, I really don't think I would have EVER made Chief.

Response by LT Wesley Comer made Jun 20 at 2017 2:34 PM

2017-06-20T14:34:38-04:00

My best promotion was Chief Hospital Corpsman (Chief Petty Officer-E-7). All of the others were good but that was the best! 2nd best was being commissioned as a Chief Warrant Officer2 (In the navy CWOs are commissioned officers) and 3rd was my promotion to LTJG (O2). Others that were good were to Senior Chief and Master Chief Petty Officer (E8 E9) and CWO3 and LT (03). Finished career at LT.

Response by SFC James Beasley made Jun 21 at 2017 5:13 PM

2017-06-21T17:13:31-04:00

Getting promoted to E-5 was very special for me. I was in an outstanding unit (864th Engineers). that had great leaders up and down the chain. Above any other unit I served in, I truly felt like I was among family and friends. I miss those days greatly.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 22 at 2017 4:57 PM

2017-06-22T16:57:10-04:00

I went from E-2 through E-4 and then O1. Easily the O1. I would say because of the time I put into it, and it was what I wanted to do since I enlisted, go to college, etc. I had my grandfather, USMC veteran of Iwo Jima do my first salute. I'd say that was the best for me. He told me many times that was one of the only reasons he had to stay around anymore.

Response by SP5 Rod Bernsen made Jun 25 at 2017 2:34 PM

2017-06-25T14:34:47-04:00

My promotion from Sp 4 to Sp 5 in November 1967. I was do to rotate back the the States in December. I became eligible for promotion in late October. The Colonel I worked for wanted assurances because this was at the minimum for promotion. I told him I'd take the proficiency test and pass with a score of 95 or better; I did. Being a Sp 5 for the remaining 18 months in the service great.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 25 at 2017 6:42 PM

2017-06-25T18:42:47-04:00

Getting promoted to SGT/E-5. Somehow, all the planets aligned allowing me to be promoted at my PLDC graduation. My husband was there to do the honors (he earned his SGT a few months before). Pinning his diamond on when getting his first company was *way* more special, though.

Response by CPT Larry Hudson made Jun 28 at 2017 8:31 PM

2017-06-28T20:31:41-04:00

Promotion to o3, seasoned combat officer, command, staff officer career course

Response by CPO Michael Callegri made Jul 12 at 2017 3:56 PM

2017-07-12T15:56:49-04:00

For me, of course it when I promoted Chief. Mostly because I was on the USS Constellation on my twilight tour. I was ready to retire as an E-6 after over 20 years, when I discovered I made CPO. I was actually shocked, but it was the best feeling in the world. It made up for all the times I had seen others bypass me. Those last four years were pretty much the best years of my career. There's nothing like the Chief's Mess.

Response by Sgt Carlos Barrera made Jul 14 at 2017 3:31 PM

2017-07-14T15:31:03-04:00

When I got promoted to Corporal, it took for ever to get promoted; I hit the four yr. mark and had a hash on my sleeve and still a Lance.

Response by PO1 T.M. Ritchie made Jul 14 at 2017 11:31 PM

2017-07-14T23:31:21-04:00

I was meritoriously promoted to Petty Officer 2nd Class on the 5th of August 1983 personally by President Reagan which makes me most likely still the ONLY person to serve in the American military to have earned that honor. I was also invited to attend his funeral as a guest of the family.

Response by SSgt James Tadlock made Jul 16 at 2017 8:58 PM

2017-07-16T20:58:52-04:00

Staff Sergeant while in Vietnam. I had no idea.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 28 at 2017 5:07 PM

2017-07-28T17:07:25-04:00

My promotion to Captain. Both my parents were there along with my sister and her family. Hard to believe that would be the only time all of us were together.

Response by SSG John Jensen made Jul 29 at 2017 12:27 AM

2017-07-29T00:27:58-04:00

31 Aug 1984, Ed Miner and I were on a C-5 bound for Ft Hunter Liggett via Travis AFB, we both had our orders for 1 Sep, and the moment the plane lifted off, we turned to each other, and pinned each other with our SPEC/5s Later during the exercise the family drove to Hunter-Liggett to visit me.

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Aug 1 at 2017 10:25 PM

2017-08-01T22:25:28-04:00

Promotion to SGM, while on deployment to Iraq the second time. On a patrol base we built, in a small gap between patrols, by a man I very much respected, so that I could do a job he asked me to do.

Response by SSG Michael Burdiss made Aug 2 at 2017 9:21 AM

2017-08-02T09:21:08-04:00

Retired. I win. Game over.

Response by SGT James Murphy made Aug 2 at 2017 6:11 PM

2017-08-02T18:11:25-04:00

From SPC4 to SGT E-5 Attached to ASA. Can't tell Ya' why or I'd have to kill Ya....

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 3 at 2017 2:58 PM

2017-08-03T14:58:33-04:00

I was both an E and an O. I thought that making SSG was awesome because I was now taken seriously as an NCO. As an O there is no doubt that becoming an LTC was the best. I could truly impact the direction of any organization where I served.

Response by GySgt Charles O'Connell made Aug 5 at 2017 2:47 PM

2017-08-05T14:47:38-04:00

GySgt - There is nothing better than being "The Gunny".

Response by CSM Td Phair made Aug 6 at 2017 5:45 PM

2017-08-06T17:45:15-04:00

When I received orders for the First Infantry Division,(BRO) and was promoted to First Sergeant. That was the best.

Response by Sgt Lowell Tackett made Aug 6 at 2017 9:55 PM

2017-08-06T21:55:18-04:00

1966 was the year I spent in Vietnam, as an artilleryman (Fire Direction Control). On June 8th of that year I received a promotion to Sergeant (E-5). The date-of-rank was 1Jun66, but as these things usually go, the papers sat "somewhere" for a few days. So there I was, on a sandy beach near Chu Lai, on the afformentioned date, getting promoted. June 8th is also my birthday - so that (surprise) event made my 22nd birthday a somewhat special one.

Response by MSgt Richard Romig made Aug 10 at 2017 4:18 PM

2017-08-10T16:18:51-04:00

None of my promotions stands out as the "best" although my promotions to MSgt (E-7) stands out the most in that I totally didn't expect it, especially given it was on my first time testing for it. I was in a small career field (specialty) so I essentially knew everyone I was testing against. When the promotion list came out I didn't even bother to check. Then at Commander's Call, the commander walks up to me, hands me a set of stripes, shakes my hand, and congratulates me. I was dumbfounded. For some reason nobody believed me when I said it was totally unexpected. The upside of the promotion was that I was pretty much able to choose my next assignment since I knew where all the other E-7s in the field were and when they were due to rotate. The downside was that it threw me into a higher level of management that was beyond my abilities. I retired 3 years later.

Response by MSG Mamerto Perez made Aug 11 at 2017 7:17 AM

2017-08-11T07:17:11-04:00

Being promoted to SP/4 was my best as my Captain fought for me to get promoted/

Response by PO1 Tom Follis made Aug 17 at 2017 2:45 PM

2017-08-17T14:45:04-04:00

E-5 (PO2). Not at the top, not at the bottom. Right in the middle. Info was passed up or down but, never stopped at the PO2.

Response by SGT Louise Hawthorne made Aug 20 at 2017 1:19 AM

2017-08-20T01:19:46-04:00

My memorable promotion was when I got promoted from SP4 to Corporal. My job was 54E then NBC Specialist. I was busting my butt filling an E6slot. I never knew I was earning Hard Stripes. Anyway, 708th sent me to PLDC in Baumholder Germany. TORE MY ASTERISK UP. I made it.
Graduation day on the parade field my Company CO Abel showed up and pinned Corporal on my lapel. My 1SG was there saying, YOU better not get girly and cry on me, troop.
I found out later they made me the first female Corporal in 8th ID that day.
I shall never forget it.

Response by TSgt Gino Scuncio made Aug 20 at 2017 8:20 AM

2017-08-20T08:20:39-04:00

Not technically a promotion, but my appointment to CPL was the best for me. I was put in charge of a landscaping detail, and the Brigade CSM pulled up in his ride, made me recite the NCO Creed. I thought he was just testing me, as he did whenever he saw me. After the creed he pinned me as CPL.

Response by SPC Bogus Cornett made Aug 21 at 2017 10:43 PM

2017-08-21T22:43:36-04:00

In 1983 I was promoted to E4 doc and it was the greatest feeling in the world to me, I could now become the gunner in my M60A3 TTS tank

Response by SGT Christopher Lachcik made Aug 22 at 2017 1:53 PM

2017-08-22T13:53:11-04:00

My promotion to SPC. Took me 8 months in afghanistan to get it after PFC.

Response by SSgt Warren Henthorn made Aug 24 at 2017 5:07 PM

2017-08-24T17:07:45-04:00

SSgt, because I was getting short.

Response by CWO2 James Mathews made Aug 24 at 2017 5:46 PM

2017-08-24T17:46:52-04:00

Master Chief Torpedoman (SS), USN (Ret.) -- I was a first class Petty Officer , (acting Chief) on the commissioning crew of the USS Lapon (SSN 661) at the Newport Shipbuilding Co. I had taken the test for Chief Petty Officer three times and passed each time, but was passed over because of the over-burden of Chief Torpedomen in Naval Service. Two of my friends had given up on ever making Chief, and decided to join the Army as helicopter pilots. However, in my view, while a submarine can be dangerous, a helicopter is very often a death trap. So when I was confirmed as a Chief Petty Officer, I was very, very, pleased! Exactly thirty days later, I was notified that I was now a Warrant Officer, and that, as such, I would have to leave submarines, and go to a Submarine Tender, A little bitterness, with a very pleasant surprise!

Response by SP5 Joel McDargh made Aug 24 at 2017 9:20 PM

2017-08-24T21:20:53-04:00

I would have to say when I made E-5. My CO had told me at one time that it would be a sorry day when he would promote me. Not only did he pin my specialist stripes on and congratulate me, but he also gave me a letter of commendation not long afterwards. Presidio/SanFrancisco, 1975.

Response by COL Vincent Stoneking made Aug 24 at 2017 9:25 PM

2017-08-24T21:25:15-04:00

I think LTC was my best, by far. Especially being followed less than 100 days later by command.
However, I'm willing to let COL in January impress me if it wants.

Response by SSG Joseph Dowell made Aug 27 at 2017 10:11 PM

2017-08-27T22:11:40-04:00

I had two, from E-3 to E-4, I had been recommended for promotion by my entire platoon CoC but when it reached the 1SG it got kicked back because my PT and Weapons qual "Wasn't good enough" (the guy who got promoted was shooting a .45 ACP and had a broken foot). But DA Promoted me in Iraq just after Desert Storm. It took a month for my platoon to realize I was wearing a sham shield (I was a line medic when I got promoted), but were happy for me anyway.
The other was my promotion to E-6, Date of rank was the end of February when most were dated for the first of March. The day I graduated from BNCOC was my DoR because it was the only requirement I had left to be promoted. I got my rank pinned on by the ICU OIC and NCOIC when I returned to my duty station, which were both great people to work for.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2017 7:11 AM

2017-08-31T07:11:56-04:00

From cpl to sgt: I was in ASUs when SFC Private RallyPoint Member almost took my shoulder out pinning me. Lol. My SFC (who end up taking me to the E6 board) pinning his little E5.

Response by Capt David L. Duffy made Sep 8 at 2017 12:54 PM

2017-09-08T12:54:40-04:00

I actually had three that stand out for me. I always had the greatest respect for captains in the Marine Corps. I eventually became a Captain of Marines...a dream come true for me. It was quite an honor to hear Marines refer to me as 'Skipper'. My promotion to the warrant officer ranks is another. Being selected as a WO-1 and getting those bars pinned on was an unforgettable day. But my best promotion was a meritorious promotion to Staff Sergeant (E-6) while serving as a Drill Instructor. I had not yet even completed 3 1/2 years in the Corps. It felt very surreal, walking around base with a rocker and no hash mark. It definitely caught attention.

Response by Sgt Michael Betts made Sep 9 at 2017 5:15 PM

2017-09-09T17:15:10-04:00

The meritorious promotion to PFC out of Parris Island was certainly the hardest earned and at the time those promoted were put to one side in formation to take in the final review. However, the promotion which surprised me the most was to Sergeant E-5. I had been sent from Vietnam to Japan for a school which was supposed to be for 11 days but it ended up taking 21 due to difficulty in catching hops to and from Danang (not to mention a bit of drunken dalliance in Taiwan on the way up to Yokosuka). When I got back I dumped my gear on my rack and went to the company office to turn in my orders. The First Sergeant greeted me with, "You're out of uniform!" I figured he meant I was going to be wearing Lance Corporal's chevrons again and was absolutely astounded when he opened his desk drawer, pulled out a set of Sergeant's collar chevrons, tossed them across his desk, and said, "Here, put these on." A bit later I had to move to the Sergeants' hooch and as I hauled my gear through the hooch door on a Sunday afternoon a Sergeant who was relaxing on his cot asked me what I thought I was doing. I told him I was moving in and he said I couldn't because it was a Sergeants' hooch. I replied, "Well, I'm a Sergeant." He was easily more than half-again my age and his one word response was "Bullsh!t!" Can't say as I blame him. A 20 year-old Sergeant with less than 2 1/2 years in the Corps was a pretty rare bird in 1966.

Response by CW4 NorthandMarianne Witcher made Sep 16 at 2017 6:12 PM

2017-09-16T18:12:40-04:00

I was very pleased to earn CW4 (figured I'd die in some helo crash or ground-fire and was nearly taken down by following a regulation), was disappointed with the Clinton-cut CW5 board, but ecstatic when my USAF son made LtCol and my other USA son made LTC -- nothing but their births elated me as much. I doubt a father who would not want his son(s)/daughter(s) to out-rank him. I'm so proud of them and love them with all my fatherly heart.

Response by MSgt Raymond Hickey made Sep 18 at 2017 1:05 PM

2017-09-18T13:05:31-04:00

Sgt was the most surprising. Made buck Sgt while n Vietnam Nam, 1970. I had no idea that I had made it until about 20 days later when I got paid more MPC, went to the pay master and they told me I had been promoted 20 days previously . Went back to my cube, got some elmers glue and glued me first set of stripes on. We got hit later that day and I went to the armory to get my gun and ammo, once armed, the posting NCO, looked around the Guardmount area and seeing me yelled, "Sgt, grab the next 4 or 5 individuals and a deuce Ann a half and form a blocking force at grid (can't recall)". I looked at him and said, "who me! Just put the stripe on today!... bottom line...I formed the blocking force...

Response by CSM Andrew Perrault made Sep 18 at 2017 1:45 PM

2017-09-18T13:45:54-04:00

First Sergeant was the best promotion especially of a 3ID 3D Brigade Headquarters and Headquarters Company a tanker slot and I was Signal. Had 200 plus folks in garrison and when we went to the field all the slices came we had close to 400 folks. Fun had by all..................

Response by MSgt Brian Williams made Sep 19 at 2017 11:53 AM

2017-09-19T11:53:35-04:00

MSgt. I came up working for some great SNCOs. I felt that I worked hard and earned my way to join that elite fraternity of NCOs. Plus I was stationed in the Netherlands at the time. Can't be mad at any of that.

Response by PO1 Donnie Wilson made Sep 27 at 2017 12:17 AM

2017-09-27T00:17:12-04:00

When I advanced to Petty Officer Second Class. Only 22 had made Engineman Second class and 7 EN3 at Port Services study for many months at lunch and after work. 5 yes FIVE EN3's advanced to EN2 from our command and one of the guys hit the cut off score dead on and to top it off my Ex-wife left me for my so called friend who also took that exam and he never made E5 in the Navy but he made as an Indiana national guard and stayed there for 15 yrs so it's still a sore spot for him because he not only failed at the test he got stuck with the crazy witch!

Response by CPT David McDonald made Sep 27 at 2017 11:16 AM

2017-09-27T11:16:35-04:00

When HRC finally got my retirement correct 39 months after I retired.

Response by SP5 David Gentry made Sep 30 at 2017 11:06 AM

2017-09-30T11:06:12-04:00

Sp5. Made that rank in 16 months of service. Felt pretty good to qualify that soon. Finished second in battalion rating for promotion list.

Response by SGT B Miller made Oct 5 at 2017 7:25 PM

2017-10-05T19:25:46-04:00

sp4 meant that i was good at my job, and i was very good at my job. sgt was honoring but i was a terrible sgt

Response by CCMSgt Joe Dehorty made Oct 9 at 2017 8:10 AM

2017-10-09T08:10:41-04:00

Probably when I made Chief (E-9) at 17 years service. I was the youngest chief in the comm. group (2350 personnel) at the time (35 years old) and was called junior chief by many of the older chiefs until I became the senior enlisted advisor which is today a command chief. It seems like that once you get 20 years of service you gain instant credibility.

Response by SGT John Meredith made Oct 11 at 2017 3:20 PM

2017-10-11T15:20:46-04:00

I was a Spec 4 working the control tower on the night fire range at Fort Ord.A Col walked up the ladder to the top and my promotion to Sgt E5 was announced over the loudspeaker and I got a standing ovation from the whole company.

Response by SFC Harry (Billy) Tison made Oct 13 at 2017 4:00 PM

2017-10-13T16:00:12-04:00

My best promotion was to SFC. That was because my father in-law pinned me. He is a retired 1SG from the Air Force, and he told me that it was his honor to to it

Response by SSG James Dennis made Oct 14 at 2017 10:33 AM

2017-10-14T10:33:43-04:00

I would have to say making SSG in 5 years. I was fortunate to be working in an E-6 slot as an E-5, so as soon as I qualified in the secondary zone, my 1SG sent me to the board.

Response by SGT Walter Lester made Oct 15 at 2017 5:39 PM

2017-10-15T17:39:23-04:00

My promotion to SGT was the best. I had to work for it going through Engineer supervisor NCO school 51H40. It was much like the engineer sapper school they have now only longer. It was for 18 weeks after my AIT. When I made SGT, there was no more being called PVT, PFC or CPL though CPL wasn't that bad.It kept me out of details and all I had to do was go to classes all day. In class and "OJT" field training. Being SGT gave me the feeling I wanted after all the training I went through. The honor and the respect I earned that goes with the rank.

Response by MSgt Chandos Clapper made Oct 15 at 2017 10:03 PM

2017-10-15T22:03:10-04:00

MSgt, E-7, in the USAF. SNCO status is huge, at least for me it was.

Response by SSG Michael Babker made Oct 17 at 2017 10:25 PM

2017-10-17T22:25:37-04:00

The one that technically only happened on paper, my promotion to SSG on my last day as a Soldier. It's bittersweet and memorable for me for a lot of reasons. It marked the end of a career cut short, it was a promotion I felt like I wouldn't be able to achieve because I felt like my medical state was going to hurt my career and make progressing difficult, and it was a sigh of relief because for the first time in 9 years I didn't feel like I had a chip on my shoulder and a need to prove myself and my worth.

Response by SGT Stanley Bass made Oct 23 at 2017 1:25 PM

2017-10-23T13:25:56-04:00

Several parts to it, but getting promoted to SGT. I was stationed in Korea in 1994-95. The Specialist that in processed me lost my 201 file. I had just left the Pentagon. I was able to call them and get the proceedings to my promotion board and my points re instated. I get to Ft Lewis in 1995 and the same Specialist in processes me. Needless to say she lost my file again. Now I had went to PLDC while in Korea so I was promotable now. My command did not much like me, as well as there was now nobody I knew left at the office I worked at at the Pentagon. My command shafted me made me go back to the promotion board and sabotaged my board. I want from 198.6 in 1994 to 176.5 in 1996, on my promotion board. Thankfully in 1997 the points for Administration started dropping. But my points had to take the 90 days to take affect after the board. So my points did not take affect Until around march 12th 1997. Too late for March Promotions. Well Come April 1st, the points had not raised back up yet. I made the cut off and was promoted to E-5. The phone call was awesome when they called to tell me I was getting promoted. I answered the phone. The E-6 that called me says "Is SGT... Um I mean Specialist Bass there. I knew a LTC from when I was in Korea, he was also now at Ft Lewis. I asked him to pin me. Snubbed my company commander and My 1SG. My E-7 as he is knocking in the prongs as everybody goes down the line tells me. "Now lets see if you can keep em." Of all the medical issues, and useless commanders I had after I left Ft Lewis, I was never in fear of losing em. I also told that E-7. "You are gonna have to kill me to take em off."

Response by Sgt Larry Howe made Oct 26 at 2017 11:52 PM

2017-10-26T23:52:41-04:00

I enjoyed my promotion from Sargent to civilian

Response by Sgt Carlos Barrera made Oct 27 at 2017 4:10 PM

2017-10-27T16:10:46-04:00

when I got promoted to Corporal.
I had a 1st Sgt who did not like me and did everything possible for me not to get promoted. Finally happened and he was adamant to make a scene for me not to get promoted, unfortunately for him, My boss (Gunny) was getting also promoted. Since it was a SNCO getting promoted, the Colonel was also present; so he had to eat a big slice of crow.
No love lost, he made it well know to the company commander that it was a mistake getting me promoted.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 27 at 2017 5:36 PM

2017-10-27T17:36:45-04:00

It was earning my SGT stripes. I had always wanted to be part of the NCO Corps and passing the Promotion Board was one of the happiest days of my career. I'll look forward to the others, but the 1st one was special.

Response by SPC William Pearce made Nov 1 at 2017 7:37 AM

2017-11-01T07:37:35-04:00

My promotion from civilian to PV1 Army. I now joined a long list of family heros.

Response by CDR Don Wicklund made Nov 1 at 2017 9:30 PM

2017-11-01T21:30:00-04:00

I got out of the Navy in 1980 as an E-6. I swore I would never have anything to do with the military again. 5 years later, I get a call from a Navy recruiter telling me I should come back in. My response was why in God’s name would I do that? Her response, we will make you an officer. Best promotion ever. Retired after 25 years as an O/E-11.

Response by LCDR Frederick Clem made Nov 2 at 2017 5:56 PM

2017-11-02T17:56:17-04:00

I have two promotions that are significant for me. First, I was selected for and advanced to Chief Petty Officer/E-7 with a little over nine years on 16 Sep 78. Advancement to Chief Petty Officer in the Navy is meaningful because it is the pay grade that is viewed as having the most technical knowledge of a particular Rating (job). It is also the pay grade that requires broader leadership skills. Second, my promotion to Lieutenant Commander/O-4 as a Limited Duty Officer is special to me because it was during a time of reduction in force and selective early retirement boards, 1990, and the competition for promotion was extremely keen at that time.

Response by Sgt Charles Malcom made Nov 6 at 2017 8:58 PM

2017-11-06T20:58:54-05:00

I think the best and most memorable promotion for me was SSGT. This, gentlemen, was in the old Corps (1956). I had been on the rifle range for two weeks of requalification and was not even expecting or anticipating any type of promotion. I had only three years in grade as an E5. But when I walked into the legal office that afternoon after firing, my Legal Officer stood up and said, "Stand at attention, Sergeant." I thought my butt was gone. BTW my legal officer was a drill instructor when I was in boot camp almost 7 year earlier. So I stood at attention, rifle properly placed, and just looked at him. He came around his desk and again said, "Staff Sergeant Malcom you are out of uniform. When you show up here tomorrow afternoon you better have three up with a rocker or your ass will answer to me." He then handed me my promotion certificate and every body in the headquarters area took advantage to pin my chevrons on, though I did not have them as yet. It is little things like this that you remember for the rest of your life after you return to civil life. Semper Fi, Marines.

Response by PO2 Gerry Roberson Sr. made Nov 21 at 2017 12:56 PM

2017-11-21T12:56:45-05:00

1981, VF-11, Nas Oceana. Made PO-3. Finally made the ranks of the NCO!

Response by SPC Wilson Warner made Nov 23 at 2017 11:45 AM

2017-11-23T11:45:12-05:00

I would have to say PFC. The reason, you had to finish in the top 10 percent of your class back then, Military Police school. 19 December 1969

Response by SSgt Warren Henthorn made Nov 23 at 2017 4:38 PM

2017-11-23T16:38:26-05:00

When I made E-5 because I knew I was "short".

Response by SFC Greg Bruorton made Nov 23 at 2017 11:42 PM

2017-11-23T23:42:46-05:00

I was promoted to master sergeant E8 in August, 1979, but never pinned the stripes on my uniform. The promotion was declined as I was ready for retirement because of family matters and did not relish an overseas assignment again that would break up my family. Yet, making E8 had been my earliest goal when I first enlisted. Retiring with the rank I held for over 11 years as SFC does not negate the fact that I had achieved my goal.

Response by SPC Scott Domogalla made Nov 24 at 2017 2:08 PM

2017-11-24T14:08:38-05:00

Best promotion, retired. 4 years military, 29 years working federal prison. The best part, not having to deal with knuckleheads.

Response by CPO Bill Penrod made Nov 25 at 2017 9:02 AM

2017-11-25T09:02:23-05:00

One of my proudest days in the Navy was being the judge at my daughter's Chief Initiation.

Response by Sgt Chic Lien made Nov 26 at 2017 10:47 AM

2017-11-26T10:47:03-05:00

During the 70s while in the Air Force, they decided to change the promotion structure. Going from A1C to "Buck Sgt" was the norm. We all looked forward to the distinction of becoming an "NCO" instead of "Airman". But, they started the "Senior Airman" rank before the Buck Sgt. I was one of the first to get stuck with the Senior Airman rank. The chevron had no star as did the rest of the chevrons. It was almost an embarrassment to have those on your sleeves. One day, I get a call from the 1st shirt telling me that the Squadron Cmdr wants to see me. Obviously I was nervous because I had never been called in to his office before. When I got to the office, the shirt said you're late have a seat. He calls the Cmdr and said sir he's hear. I hear him say send him in. My heart is pounding by this time. I knock on the door, he says enter. I walk in and report as ordered. He does not say "at ease" as normal. He proceeded to tell me that I was out of uniform. I'm thinking to myself... Crap..... What's not right? Then he tells me that the stripes on my uniform are wrong and I better fix it asap. Finally He tells me at ease. He opened up his drawer and pulls out a folder and opens it up. He flashes the "Buck Sgt" stripes and says congratulations Sgt. Lien and he and the shirt start laughing

Response by SPC Byron Skinner made Nov 26 at 2017 3:37 PM

2017-11-26T15:37:18-05:00

Sp4 Byron Skinner. My promotion to Sp4 in Vietnam Our unit had only been in country a short imd and the first mission we got were dismounts into FFZ's for the rifle Squads. We learned the term FFZ went both ways and on a daily basis we could expect to fired upon. Don'y get me wrong this was good training for what was to come but never the less guys were getting hit and we may have shot some collaterals, as they now say, in out aggressive reactions. Well any way after a couple of weeks and the 13 many rifle squad was more like a six man squad my Platoon Leader came up after we returned to Long Bing after a rather annoying patrol he looked like he was ready to chew me out so I braced myself for the unknown she he yelled "SKINNER" in front of the whole Platoon. He after a fes rather cad comic attics he threw a Sp4 patch at me and said nothing more. I got the first promotion in country even though I didn't have enough time in grade of E-3. I will admit to a moment of pride.

Response by CW3 Christian Johnson made Nov 26 at 2017 4:27 PM

2017-11-26T16:27:56-05:00

When I was promoted to SFC. I was selected from the secondary list and spent 2 years on the list. I was 27 years old and in Germany at the time.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2017 10:00 AM

2017-12-02T10:00:13-05:00

Printed to Sgt on 11 November in Bagram Afghanistan, about 2 weeks before heading home.

Response by SSgt John Massey made Dec 4 at 2017 9:17 AM

2017-12-04T09:17:12-05:00

S/Sgt NCO club and dinning hall

Response by Cpl Howard Dingman made Dec 4 at 2017 9:25 AM

2017-12-04T09:25:11-05:00

My promotion to "Civilian", Honorable Discharge in hand, DD-214 filed with the county clerk in my hometown.

Response by SFC Gary Stanfill made Dec 10 at 2017 4:10 PM

2017-12-10T16:10:21-05:00

When I made E-5,E-6 and E-7 I never had a formal Pining on In front of the Unit.. I was put in front of the E-5 board while in school..Made it while I was enroute to Panama...Long story but I got a call saying my Orders were in the Comm Center..Went to pick them up then to the PX to buy stripes...E-6 I reclassed in to a shortage MOS was attached to the school house for school...Went by my office one day and my E-6 orders were in my in box.....MY SFC again the 3rd time they promoted of the list I made it...I was on leave so when prossing in thru MilPO ..They said that in fact I had and it took a few days to cut the orders...They told me to starting wearing my SFC strips then....

Response by SPC David Willis made Dec 11 at 2017 4:08 PM

2017-12-11T16:08:30-05:00

I was 4 and out so Id have to say my promotion to civilian :P

Response by LTC Jack Regan made Dec 21 at 2017 11:07 PM

2017-12-21T23:07:34-05:00

Making Major certainly had the most impact on my work environment and paycheck. Must have been the field grade thing; all of a sudden senior officers and NCOs definitely began treating me differently. Understandable. Pretty much all I had to do to make the other ranks was show up to work.

Response by SSG Trevor S. made Dec 21 at 2017 11:12 PM

2017-12-21T23:12:24-05:00

My wife "pinned" my SGT rank upside down. She is German so it was a good laugh because it reminded everyone that things were different in other countries.

Response by SSG(P) Brian Kliesen made Dec 23 at 2017 1:46 AM

2017-12-23T01:46:25-05:00

When I was promoted from SPC to SGT in the Army Reserve. I had sent in around 12 promotion packets over a 4+ year period, and had only the first two returned with information. At this point I was sending them in just to see if I would ever get a response. I finally found a UA in another unit that was holding our promotion board to give me feedback. She recommended only minor changes to the format, etc., and offered some advice. Then nothing for another year. When I contacted RSC to find out when the next board was (no one seemed to know), I happened to get the right person at the right time. I found out by accident that when the Army Reserve moved to the new promotion system, my points had not been transferred from the old to the new system, so I had been in a 'non-promotable' status for over a year. She answered my questions, reviewed my file and kept saying 'this is unacceptable' and 'your unit should know better'. She made the correction but had to kick it up to ARMEDCOM. A couple months later, I asked one of my buddies at ARMEDCOM and she said she played racquet ball with the G1. I told her the situation and she said 'I'll ask him'. An hour later she gave me his number and after a brief conversation he said he would look into it. A few weeks later I followed up and asked if he had found anything out, he replied 'It has been taken care of', but wouldn't say anything else. 2 months after that, I got an email saying that I was being transferred to another reserve unit and that I had been promoted. No ceremony, not a word from our HQ, nothing, just the email. Later I heard that I wasn't promoted by my unit, or Central MARS-G, but by ARMEDCOM. My old unit HQ had tried to rescind the orders but ARMEDCOM said no, it doesn't work that way. You can't rescind orders from a higher authority. In that time, very few enlisted had been promoted to E5 and no awards had been presented, though packets and 638's had been sent up. The unit had been holding slots for certain soldiers to trade with other units. I like to think I broke up the old system as since then, others have been promoted and even a few awards have sneaked through the system.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Dec 25 at 2017 4:27 AM

2017-12-25T04:27:33-05:00

When I tested and got promoted to SSGT, a few(adversaries that didn’t make or pack the gear to be SSGT) said I’d Lose it in short time before 6 months was up.... I didn’t.. I didn’t belittle/berate people because of lack of status.. (in my mind but not in front of others).. I didn’t let what certain adversaries said get under my skin.. they’d get their payback via their own crude remarks return back to bite them In the lower posterior region.. and eventually it did... eventually they were alone.. their followers slipped away.. well, some ran away.. that was the payback..
i didn’t Have to do anything... write them up.. or having them ‘standing tall before
The man.. ‘. they did it to themselves...
I had Airmen telling me “did you hear what
happened to... “. No.. I’ll read it in the official daily blotter, thank you.. I wasn’t trying to be rude .. I didn’t want to read Idle gossip whether it’s true or not.. because all the facts usually are not present.. I found the daily blotter and read it; Sgts ______ and_____ we’re disciplined via the UCMJ for making inappropriate remarks /crude language
about other persons. They are charged under art. ______ and art._____ of the UCMJ. Further..... that’s all need be said.. I informed those Airmen to just let them two stew in their own juices, don’t go rubbing salt in the wounds.. they’re feeling bad enough as is.. I wasn’t trying to be all p.c. over their sitrep.. just not let those Airmen lower their level of breeding to that of those that do that kind of chiding.. it’s childish.. the disciplined ones were finally paying for their comments.. they seemed to of “slept during that class in BMT about the articles of the UCMJ” that discussed improper behavior/ conduct unbecoming.... There are lines I don’t cross or do not like to cross..

Response by Clayton Benignus made Dec 25 at 2017 1:20 PM

2017-12-25T13:20:55-05:00

As a Civilian, the best promotion I have to my name is to Eagle Scout. It's not Military, but it will have to do.

Response by CMSgt Dale Griffith made Dec 27 at 2017 10:45 AM

2017-12-27T10:45:51-05:00

For me all were significant, but the one that I remember and hold as the most significant was when I was promoted to CMSgt. Aside from the significance of the rank, it has a very sentimental meaning to me. In my previous promotions, none of my family members were able to attend, but in my Chief ceremony, my dad (who has since passed) was able to come down to Hurlburt Field and tack on my new Chief stripes. My wife's Mom and Dad made it as well. All my children were there and got to participate in the ceremony as well. It's most significant because he was unable to make my retirement ceremony (he passed a year after my retirement).

Response by Cpl Thomas Woods made Dec 29 at 2017 1:04 PM

2017-12-29T13:04:26-05:00

21 February, 1985....Meritorious Lance Corporal upon graduation of Infantry Training School, Camp Geiger, NC...Company Honor Grad...At 5'6" 140 lbs....26 June,1986 I made Lance Corporal again, meritoriously, but that time from Corporal instead of PFC.......Stangely enough, I have a matching pair of Corporal Warrants, exactly 4 years apart; 1 Nov 1985, 1 Nov 1989....Yeah, I had A LOT of fun in the Corps.......

Response by SPC Max Thompson made Jan 2 at 2018 9:39 PM

2018-01-02T21:39:45-05:00

I was posted to the 504 PIR, a weapons squad in Dec. 74. I served as an a-gunner to a man who became a friend of mine, Bunny Hearns. Long story short, Bunny ETSed, And I was left as acting jack of the squad at E-3. Shortly thereafter I got my spec-4. The promotion I got from bunny made me stand a little straighter. He told me he had been taking care of weapons squad but he had to leave. He told me to take good care of his people. That promotion exceeded all others. Bunny, I took care of your people.

Response by SFC Greg Bruorton made Jan 2 at 2018 9:55 PM

2018-01-02T21:55:58-05:00

Master Sergeant E8 was my best promotion; mainly because I had, since my youth, wanted to attain that rank. Conversely, I declined the promotion made in August 1979, because I needed to retire to handle family matters that were getting out of hand. Had I accepted the promotion, I'd be locked in for two years (as I understood it) and would become ripe for an overseas tour that would split up the family or worsen the situation even more.

"C'mon, Bru--put 'em on!" was the customary remark I'd get every day from a young buck sergeant in the office. (This same E5 went on to a 35-year career and subsequently retired as a CSM). I chose not to elaborate as to why I refused the stripe other than if I had accepted it I would have a more difficult time in letting it go.

Truthfully, I miss the Army to this day, and even had I stayed in, hoping to be a First Sergeant or Section Leader in a leg Signal or MI outfit after a back fracture, Heaven only knows what additional problems might have surfaced with my family situation.

In the end, I've learned much from today's Army members and have even caught on to some of the acronyms and abbreviations used in the Infantry and other combat arms. So I ask you grunts and other professionals: be patient with me as I ask you to explain what some of the abbreviations and acronyms mean.

After all, I'm an archaic E7 from the early 1980s.

Response by SGT Russell Wickham made Jan 2 at 2018 11:31 PM

2018-01-02T23:31:31-05:00

I was sitting in the crapper on FOB Falcon in south Baghdad, Iraq on 1 July 2008 when a SPC rank patch came flying over the top of the door and landed on the floor next to me. "You're gonna need that," my battle buddy said. I knew several other men were getting their two year automatic that month, but my automatic wasn't due for another three months, so it was a pleasant surprise to get that promotion early. I came out of the latrine and met my platoon sgt as I approached the trucks. "What's this?" I asked. He said, "Put that (curse word redacted) on, don't let it go to your head, and get to work." That afternoon the largest man in the platoon reared back like he was going to punch right through my chest, stopped his fist a quarter inch from the patch, rubbed it, and then shook my hand. That made such an impression I did my own soldiers that way on their promotion.

Response by LTC Charles "Pappy" Patchin made Jan 3 at 2018 9:55 PM

2018-01-03T21:55:35-05:00

My best promotion was to CORPORAL. I'd been a PFC for 13 months after being busted from SP4 for putting the boots to a legg Chief of Firing Battery. CPL was great! No KP, No Guard, No Sgt of the Guard, No CQ Runner No CQ (had to be an E5), was an NCO so the NCO club was good, better seating in the chow hall (if I wanted it) and got an RTO so I didn't have to hump my radio anymore!

Major was good because it proved that Bill Clinton couldn't just remove people from the promotion list because they were Vietnam Veterans.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Jan 10 at 2018 12:24 PM

2018-01-10T12:24:56-05:00

Went to Korea in January 1966 as a 2LT and came home in February 1967 as a Captain. Called the Officers Club at Corpus Christi NAS to make reservations. They thought I was a Navy Captain.

Response by SGT Mario Nardiello made Jan 20 at 2018 1:06 PM

2018-01-20T13:06:49-05:00

E5 back bone of the Army its where it all begins

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Jul 2 at 2019 5:44 PM

2019-07-02T17:44:25-04:00

A W E S O M E, S I R !.....
And here’s a Salute from this AF SSGT, Sir !