How Much Does a Gunnery Sergeant Make?
The Gunnery Sergeant (E-7) is a highly respected and skilled non-commissioned officer in the United States Marine Corps. With years of experience and training, they hold a crucial role in the Marine Corps’ leadership structure. But what does it take to become a Gunnery Sergeant, and what kind of salary can you expect?
What is a Gunnery Sergeant?
A Gunnery Sergeant is a senior non-commissioned officer in the Marine Corps, responsible for leading and mentoring junior Marines. They typically serve in a specific military occupational specialty (MOS) and have a deep understanding of their trade. Gunnery Sergeants are experts in their field and are tasked with training, mentoring, and leading teams of Marines.
Requirements to become a Gunnery Sergeant
To become a Gunnery Sergeant, you must have:
- At least 8 years of active-duty service
- Completed advanced training in their MOS
- Demonstrated exceptional leadership and performance
- Earned a promotion to E-6 (Staff Sergeant) and then E-7 (Gunnery Sergeant)
Gunnery Sergeant Salary
Now, let’s get to the million-dollar question: how much does a Gunnery Sergeant make? As of 2022, the annual base pay for a Gunnery Sergeant in the Marine Corps is $56,444.10. However, this figure does not include additional forms of compensation, such as:
- Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): $1,300 – $2,000 per month, depending on location
- Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS): $369.42 per month
- Special pays and bonuses: $1,000 – $5,000 per year, depending on job and location
Here is a breakdown of the Gunnery Sergeant’s annual salary, including these additional forms of compensation:
| Year | Basic Pay | BAH | BAS | Special Pays | Total Annual Compensation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $56,444.10 | $15,600 – $24,000 | $4,409.04 | $1,000 – $5,000 | $77,453.14 – $90,454.14 |
Promotion and Incentive Pay
As a Gunnery Sergeant, you may be eligible for promotion to Master Gunnery Sergeant (E-8) or even First Sergeant (E-8), which comes with a higher salary. Additionally, the Marine Corps offers various incentives and bonuses for Gunnery Sergeants, such as:
- Enlistment Bonus: $10,000 – $20,000 for enlisting in a critical MOS
- Retention Bonus: $2,000 – $10,000 per year for re-enlisting in a critical MOS
- Re-enlistment Bonus: $5,000 – $20,000 for re-enlisting for an additional 4-6 years
Health and Benefits
As a Gunnery Sergeant, you and your family are entitled to a range of benefits, including:
- Tricare: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage
- Base privileges: Access to on-base facilities, such as fitness centers and commissaries
- Thrift Savings Plan: A retirement savings plan with matching contributions
- Veterans’ education benefits: Assistance with tuition and education expenses
Conclusion
Becoming a Gunnery Sergeant is a challenging and rewarding career path in the Marine Corps. With a salary ranging from $77,453.14 to $90,454.14 per year, including additional forms of compensation, it’s clear that the Marine Corps invests heavily in its non-commissioned officers. If you’re considering a career as a Gunnery Sergeant, be prepared for a challenging and rewarding experience that will shape your leadership skills and set you up for success.
