I’m pretty sure the difference between the two was both are Non-Commissioned Officers, but a SP5 didn’t have soldiers under his command. I know this because my father was a SP5(P) when he got out after three years. An NCO, but no soldiers under his command. He was enlisted 1966-69.

Me too bro what gives

I was a Spec 5, field medic, didn't worry too much about it at the time, Viet Nam.