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Call of Combat Enlisted Ranks |
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 PRIVATE
(PVT/PV2)
(Addressed as "Private")
Lowest rank: a trainee who’s starting Basic Combat Training (BCT). Primary role
is to carry out orders issued to them to the best of his/her ability. (PVT does
not have an insignia)
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 PRIVATE
FIRST CLASS (PFC)
(Addressed as "Private")
PV2s are promoted to this level after one year—or earlier by request of supervisor.
Individual can begin BCT at this level with experience or prior military training.
Carries out orders issued to them to the best of his/her ability.
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 CORPORAL
(CPL)
(Addressed as "Corporal")
The base of the Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) ranks, CPLs serve as team leader
of the smallest Army units. Like SGTs, they are responsible for individual training,
personal appearance and cleanliness of Soldiers.
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 SERGEANT
(SGT)
(Addressed as "Sergeant")
Typically commands a squad (9 to 10 Soldiers). Considered to have the greatest impact
on Soldiers because SGTs oversee them in their daily tasks. In short, SGTs set an
example and the standard for Privates to look up to, and live up to.
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 STAFF SERGEANT
(SSG)
(Addressed as "Sergeant")
Also commands a squad (9 to 10 Soldiers). Often has one or more SGTs under their
leadership. Responsible for developing, maintaining and utilizing the full range
of his Soldiers' potential.
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SERGEANT FIRST CLASS (SFC)
(Addressed as "Sergeant")
Key assistant and advisor to the platoon leader. Generally has 15 to 18 years of
Army experience and puts it to use by making quick, accurate decisions in the best
interests of the Soldiers and the country.
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 MASTER
SERGEANT (MSG)
(Addressed as "Master Sergeant")
Principal NCO at the battalion level, and often higher. Not charged with all the
leadership responsibilities of a 1SG, but expected to dispatch leadership and other
duties with the same professionalism.
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 FIRST SERGEANT
(1SG)
(Addressed as "First Sergeant")
Principal NCO and life-blood of the company: the provider, disciplinarian and wise
counselor. Instructs other SGTs, advises the Commander and helps train all enlisted
Soldiers. Assists Officers at the company level (62 to 190 Soldiers).
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 SERGEANT
MAJOR (SGM)
(Addressed as "Sergeant Major")
SGMs experience and abilities are equal to that of the CSM, but the sphere of influence
regarding leadership is generally limited to those directly under his charge. Assists
Officers at the battalion level (300 to 1,000 Soldiers).
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