How to Become a Warrant Officer in the Army?
The United States Army is one of the most respected and prestigious military organizations in the world, with a long history of service and dedication to protecting the nation. Within the Army, there are various ranks and roles, each with its own unique responsibilities and challenges. One of the most coveted and respected ranks in the Army is that of a Warrant Officer. But how does one become a Warrant Officer in the Army? In this article, we will explore the process, requirements, and benefits of becoming a Warrant Officer in the Army.
What is a Warrant Officer?
A Warrant Officer is a specialized officer in the Army who has expertise in a particular field or skillset. Warrant Officers are assigned to a specific Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) and are responsible for advising and assisting commanders on tactical and technical matters related to their area of expertise. Warrant Officers are unique in that they are commissioned officers, but they do not hold a commission from the President, as regular officers do. Instead, they are commissioned by their respective branch or department head.
Requirements to Become a Warrant Officer
To become a Warrant Officer in the Army, you must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a U.S. citizen: You must be a U.S. citizen to be eligible for the Warrant Officer program.
- Must be enlisted: You must be currently serving in the Army as an enlisted soldier, or have previously served as an enlisted soldier.
- Must have a valid Army MOS: You must be assigned to a valid Army MOS that is eligible for Warrant Officer candidacy.
- Must have at least 2 years of service: You must have at least 2 years of active duty service or 4 years of Army National Guard or Army Reserve service.
- Must have a high school diploma or equivalent: You must have a high school diploma or equivalent to be eligible for the Warrant Officer program.
- Must have a minimum score on the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT): You must have a minimum score of 270 points on the APFT, which includes push-ups, sit-ups, and a 2-mile run.
- Must have a minimum score on the General Technical (GT) portion of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB): You must have a minimum score of 110 on the GT portion of the ASVAB.
How to Become a Warrant Officer
Once you meet the requirements, you can begin the process of becoming a Warrant Officer. Here are the steps:
- Submit an application: Submit an application to the Warrant Officer Selection Board (WOSB) through your chain of command.
- Pass the Warrant Officer Selection Board: The WOSB will review your application and conduct an oral interview to assess your suitability for the Warrant Officer program.
- Attend Warrant Officer Candidate School (WOCS): If selected, you will attend WOCS, which is a 4-week course that provides basic training in Warrant Officer skills and knowledge.
- Complete Warrant Officer Basic Course (WOBC): After completing WOCS, you will attend WOBC, which is a 9-week course that provides advanced training in your specific Warrant Officer MOS.
- Commission as a Warrant Officer: Upon completion of WOBC, you will be commissioned as a Warrant Officer and awarded your Warrant Officer Badge.
Benefits of Becoming a Warrant Officer
Becoming a Warrant Officer in the Army comes with many benefits, including:
- Increased responsibility: As a Warrant Officer, you will have increased responsibility and authority, as you will be advising and assisting commanders on tactical and technical matters.
- Higher rank: Warrant Officers typically hold a higher rank than enlisted soldiers, with more pay and benefits.
- Specialized training: Warrant Officers receive specialized training in their specific MOS, which provides them with advanced skills and knowledge.
- Leadership opportunities: As a Warrant Officer, you will have opportunities to lead and mentor other soldiers, which can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience.
- Potential for career advancement: With experience and additional education, Warrant Officers can continue to advance in rank and take on more senior leadership roles.
Conclusion
Becoming a Warrant Officer in the Army requires hard work, dedication, and a strong commitment to your career. By meeting the requirements and following the steps outlined above, you can achieve this prestigious rank and enjoy the many benefits it provides. Whether you’re looking for increased responsibility, higher rank, or specialized training, becoming a Warrant Officer in the Army can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience.
Table: Warrant Officer Requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| U.S. citizenship | Must be a U.S. citizen |
| Enlisted service | Must be currently serving in the Army as an enlisted soldier, or have previously served as an enlisted soldier |
| Valid Army MOS | Must be assigned to a valid Army MOS that is eligible for Warrant Officer candidacy |
| Minimum 2 years of service | Must have at least 2 years of active duty service or 4 years of Army National Guard or Army Reserve service |
| High school diploma or equivalent | Must have a high school diploma or equivalent |
| Minimum APFT score | Must have a minimum score of 270 points on the APFT |
| Minimum GT score | Must have a minimum score of 110 on the GT portion of the ASVAB |
Bullets List: Benefits of Becoming a Warrant Officer
• Increased responsibility and authority
• Higher rank with more pay and benefits
• Specialized training in a specific MOS
• Leadership opportunities
• Potential for career advancement
