What is the most important position in the military?

I think it's a moving target. On the day OBL was killed, I'd argue those special operators were the most important. On another day it could be a fighter pilot putting bombs on target to salvage a ground mission gone bad. Yet another day could see the CJCS negotiating for needed funding taking the title. I don't think any position or rank is most important every day.

This will sound like an Army thing because I use the word Soldier but being a leader 365/24/7 as a Soldier first. A position to me has meaning, but it doesn't make a leader at all. The best leader is one who embodies every facet of being a Soldier who lives the Values, Ethos and Profession of Arms. I once was seeking a position to be a company commander as a warrant officer (rare) and sat down to lunch with a officer I very much respected. Finally after all the time lining and discussion, he said simply, "it is not the job you hold, but how well you do the job you have". There has been no truer words said as evidenced by my career path to date.

I believe taking care of Soldier, Sailors, Marines and Airmen, anyone who needs guidance, assistance, help and your example of leadership is the best position. Sometimes that may be a simple "On the Spot" in public that re-cages someone's gyro if you know what I mean.

Having had the opportunity over a mere 27 years of service, I have to say the company level is where leadership is the bedrock. At battalion and above, it is rare and only a few positions that influence the entire body of the unit. Now IF the folks in those positions are naturals and make an effort they will be followed and remembered as leaders.

Take this one step further, ask anyone who they admire as a leader or standard bearer. DO they mention a 4 star general or an NCO or PLT LDR?

The Squad/Team leader is the most important leadership position. I say that because they are key to how new Soldiers straight from AIT will perceive NCO's for the rest of their career. SL/TL's have the authority to almost single-handedly shape young Soldier's lives. But the most influential position has got be the 1SG.

I would have to agree with Team Leader, they are the first line of leadership for most new and young Soldiers looking for guidance and mentorship from a learning standpoint.

As the first impression for a young soldier, which in the end is who makes stuff happens, I'd say the Squad/Team Leader (E5).

We tell them what to do, they see us make stuff happen, we are their mentors, we are tasked to make sure they are safe and sound at all times, we're the ones that determine if their weekend will be an easy or a hard one, etc.

The Rifleman! Everyone and everything we have is in support of this person! Without this person, no one else would have a job. We all support this American who is the American Boots on the Ground, meets the enemy and destroys him/her. This answer may stir the pot; but think about it. He is our Guy, he has one job, everyone else supports him to do his JOB!

The sergeant is the backbone of the military. NCOs is where militaries that systemically fail do so repeatedly. Every nation can field good Officers, every nation can passable to good good frontline troops. NCOs require an educated, intelligent, industrious middle class. Modern technology makes good NCOs mandatory for a successful military, that's why we are so good, and all the countries we've tried to mentor are so bad.

The covered and concealed one with fields of fire covering the most likely avenues of approach?

Most assuredly junior enlisted personel. Without individuals willing to enlist your military dwindles down quickly over time. However having individuals ready, willing, and able to enlist into lower enlisted ranks continually is what builds our military.

Pvt's