How to Become a Sergeant in the Army?
Becoming a sergeant in the army is a significant milestone in a soldier’s career, requiring dedication, hard work, and a strong commitment to serving one’s country. In this article, we will outline the steps you need to take to achieve this prestigious rank.
What Does a Sergeant Do?
Before we dive into the process of becoming a sergeant, it’s essential to understand the role and responsibilities of a non-commissioned officer (NCO) at this level. A sergeant is a junior officer who is responsible for leading and mentoring junior soldiers, as well as supervising and training them in various tasks and operations.
Key Responsibilities of a Sergeant:
• Leadership: A sergeant is responsible for leading and motivating junior soldiers to achieve their full potential.
• Training: A sergeant is responsible for training and mentoring junior soldiers in various skills and procedures.
• Administration: A sergeant is responsible for managing and administering the daily activities of their unit.
• Communication: A sergeant must be able to communicate effectively with their superiors, peers, and subordinates.
How to Become a Sergeant in the Army?
To become a sergeant in the army, you must meet the following requirements:
Age Requirement:
- Must be at least 18 years old (with parental consent) or 21 years old (without parental consent)
- Must not be older than 35 years old (for active duty)
Education Requirement:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT)
- Completion of a higher education degree or certification program (optional)
Enlistment Requirements:
- Must enlist in the army and complete Basic Combat Training (BCT)
- Must have a valid military occupational specialty (MOS)
- Must be physically fit and pass a physical fitness test (PFT)
Time in Service Requirement:
- Must have at least 2 years of active duty service
- Must have at least 1 year of time in grade (TIG) as a corporal or specialist
Promotion Requirements:
- Must meet the promotion board’s eligibility requirements
- Must have a minimum score of 260 on the Army Administrative Promotions (AAP) test
- Must have a minimum score of 270 on the Army Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) test
Sergeant’s Career Paths:
There are two main career paths to become a sergeant in the army:
1. Officer Candidate School (OCS):
- Must be a college graduate or have a higher education degree
- Must meet the Officer Candidate School (OCS) eligibility requirements
- Must complete OCS training and be commissioned as a second lieutenant
- Must serve as a junior officer for at least 2 years before being eligible for promotion to sergeant
2. Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) Career Path:
- Must enlist in the army and complete Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT)
- Must have at least 2 years of active duty service
- Must have at least 1 year of time in grade (TIG) as a corporal or specialist
- Must meet the promotion board’s eligibility requirements
- Must have a minimum score of 260 on the Army Administrative Promotions (AAP) test
- Must have a minimum score of 270 on the Army Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) test
Sergeant’s Responsibilities and Expectations:
As a sergeant, you will be responsible for:
• Leading and mentoring junior soldiers
• Training and supervising junior soldiers
• Managing and administering the daily activities of their unit
• Communicating effectively with their superiors, peers, and subordinates
• Setting the example for junior soldiers through their behavior and conduct
Conclusion:
Becoming a sergeant in the army requires dedication, hard work, and a strong commitment to serving one’s country. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can set yourself on the path to achieving this prestigious rank and serving as a leader in the army. Remember to focus on your education, physical fitness, and leadership skills, and always strive to be the best version of yourself.
