Should the Space Force use naval rank and insignia or the current Air Force rank structure?

CW4 Keith Dolliver — Sat, 18 Jul 2020 00:51:48 -0400

The US Space Force hasn't unveiled its full rank structure yet, currently having only the ranks of 2nd LT and General (4-star) in it's officer ranks and CMSgt as its only enlisted member, but so far that would seem to suggest they'll be adopting the Air Force's current rank structure.

Admittedly, this could just be a temporary measure while they determine what they'll ultimately be using, but I think going with a naval rank structure would be more appropriate in the end. Here's my argument:

1) While in the short term the service will have its mission based in space defense and satellites, it's hard to imagine that in 50-100 years it won't pivot into an actual manned space fleet. If/when that ultimately happens its fleet will be ships... space ships, or star ships, but ships nonetheless and naval strategy will likely be the more appropriate fit at that time.

2) It will give the USSF personnel a distinct identity of their own separate from that of AF personnel. Similar to USMC and USN both under Department of the Navy, they have different mission and different structures. The same should be the case with USAF and USSF.

3) Lastly, it would be hard to ignore the fact that naval structure is used in all the science fiction films and pop culture and it's most likely what the general population/public would expect and be familiar with.

So that's my case... agree or disagree?

Response by SSG Roger Ayscue made Jul 18 at 2020 3:27 AM

SSG Roger Ayscue — Sat, 18 Jul 2020 03:27:29 -0400

Stick with the Air Force Ranks and keep it simple

Response by SPC Nancy Greene made Jul 18 at 2020 4:13 AM

SPC Nancy Greene — Sat, 18 Jul 2020 04:13:43 -0400

IMHO, it would be logical to use a form of USAF rank and then adjust it to meet the needs of the Space Force. Although, I understand your rationale regarding Navy rank CW3 Keith Dollivar.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Jul 18 at 2020 9:36 AM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Sat, 18 Jul 2020 09:36:22 -0400

I vote for none of the above. USSF has an opportunity to deveLop a rank system that more accurately reflects the position or job the Service Member holds. Something closer to the RAF than USAF. Some terms will cross over such as Commander at the O5 level for unit commanders. Also split officer titles at the O4 level between the command track and staff track. Example: O6 would be either Senior Commander or Senior Leader. Generals could simply be numbered. O8 world be General 2. Enlisted grades would start with Apprentice, Trooper, Senior Trooper, Junior Supervisor, Supervisor, etc. to Chief Trooper at E9.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2020 11:02 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 18 Jul 2020 11:02:38 -0400

All I'm saying is, if they don't take the opportunity to using the term "stargeant" for their NCO cadre, I'll lose all respect for them.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 29 at 2020 9:55 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Nov 2020 09:55:07 -0500

IMHO, I think the Enlisted should follow the Marine rank structure and the Officers should follow the Navy rank structure, since a "space vehicle" is technically a "ship", as commonly understood.