What Rank Was The Most Challenging But Rewarding?

Sergeant (E5)I learned a lot, some of the best times served, also a couple of rough assignments.

Specialist because it's no secret that we were the backbone of the army. Not wet behind the ears anymore and as knowledgeable as our squad leaders twice as dedicated as our Platoon Sergeants. It was definitely a rank that I was proud I held. When I announced my rank to civilians for some reason they wanted to know more about my specific job. I strutted my stuff into the CSM board. Hooah!!!!!!

SGT E-5 or CPL E-4 both required directly supervising soldiers, common NCO duties, counseling, and leadership roles without the recognition that most senior NCO's received. I believe E-5/E-6's are the backbone of the Army. As a CPL you're treated like an NCO when it's convenient then a junior enlisted when that's convenient.

I made E-5 in 3.5 years, which is unusual. As leader of two-man sound-powered phone shop aboard USS Constellation (CVA 64), as a "plankowner", I found this quite challenging; to keep 3 guys busy and happy performing our duties. 'Twas a rewarding experience.

E-4 mos was locked lateral move to 1341

E6 Tsgt was pretty challenging, as a TSgt you are the bridge between the lower enlisted and the SNCO corps. Not only do you need to lead by example but you also have to set the standards tasked to you by the ranks above. You also have to find that balance of being a good leader while gaining the respect of your subordinates which can be a challenge on its own, troops may not like you or your leadership style but if they respect you they will move mountains with you.

To me being a first sergeant what's the most challenging and rewarding rank that I ever held because I was a lot of times I was younger than a lot of my soldiers and I learned a lot from them

I would say when I made MSgt. In the Air Force I also acted as a First Sgt. Balancing the needs of the enlisted Corp and the commander's wishes can be a fine line.

Top, Army UAMTF. 2020. We had more issues in a national geographic but none of us got covid but we saw death before us every day.

PVT. I was the youngest marine on the base. And lowest rank by 3 ranks. I did everything. Everything crappy that is.