What holds more weight an E-5 in a E-6 position or a E-5 with more time in grade? Also should the more senior E-5 be in the E-6 position?

Of course, but the question did not clarify if they were in different platoons or not. If that were the case then yes the senior E5 should be serving in the E6 position. But like I said you can still play devil's advocate because what the senior E5 isn't promotable? Hence why I said you can play devil's advocate with this question.

Politics play a part in this type of thing not to mention the senior e5 might be to good and makes the higher ups look bad. We can all sit here and Monday morning quarterback this question. I was always an e5 in e7 slots, wasn't fun at all. The worst part was when they found a real e7 to move in the troops would always question him and then say SGT Keys didnt do things this way...instantly I'm hated. Ncoer from among the best to average. That's why I got out, one guy hosed me on getting my e6 because I was better doing his job than he was. Tons of things we don't know but the first thing I thought was the senior guy might be a slug.

SSG Eric Eck - I agree, I was put in the position as Platoon Sergeant, three of my squad leaders out ranked me by time in grade. It had nothing to do with their leadership ability, the decision was based on experience in our MOS field. I can be a very tricky situation and requires a lot of tact.

SN Greg Wright - , uhh, detaining. Arrests can only be made by officers, usually the suspects CO.

SGT (Join to see) Apples and oranges comparison. Your scenario discusses 2 SGT's with one sitting in a SSG position. A SSG sitting in a PSG position (which is a SFC position) a SFC comes in obviously the SFC will assume the position consummate with his grade.

He may not be qualified or different mos in same unit

SGT (Join to see) - The orders for the position would have the NCO written into the position that they will be filling. Typically the SFC would be taking over as the PLT SGT, due to the MTOE. Straight forward, the MTOE tells all.

SGT (Join to see) - , Methinks PSGs have gone the way of the dinosaur and all are SFCs now, even 11 series MOS where PSGs used to be the thing.

I gotta agree....you can be in whatever position or have all the time in grade in the world....competence goes along way

Makes an old proud to have worn my Chevrons when I see statements like this! You are soooooo right!

Yes indeed

Nailed it. Or hammered it. One of the two. Either way, I'm with you.