What rank/paygrade did you hold the longest?

Mine was Spc5. I was very motivated and was promoted very quickly to Spc5 back in the 70's. I was in the signal corps and was an E-5 for about 6 years I think. I was Soldier of the Month, NCO of the Month, NCO of the Quarter maxed out education, awards and PT scores were good, still nothing for my MOS. I was in the 101st AB and was told I had to wear sergeant stripes because they didn't have Spc5 there. So there I was a sergeant with 11 years service and about 6 years in grade. I was the Platoon Sergeant for headquarters platoon because I had more time in service and grade than all the SSG's in the unit. Finally made SSG and was picked up as an SFC MY 2nd year. Missed E8 at my 20th year and decided it was time to retire. In signal during those days the stovepiped MOS's at the E7 grade therefore fewer slots for promotions.

E7. I was there for just over 5 years because I took a shore duty after back to back submarine tours.

PO2, 5years. Hard advancement for my Rate.

Spc. Was 4 years due to permanent profile and my unit refusing promotion. So I elected for Honorable Discharge due to medical reasons and left. They wouldn't approve transfer either.

I tied with SPC and SFC at 4 years. However I had orders to 1st Sgt a week after being put on medical hold, but because of the hold I was not able to be promoted. I was shown a copy of my orders by the general at my retirement cerimoney. If I had not had the medical, I would have made E-8 in 3 years.