How to Write a Retired Military Rank?
As a veteran of the armed forces, writing your retired military rank can be a crucial aspect of your resume, job applications, and even social media profiles. However, many veterans are unsure about how to correctly write their retired military rank. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to write a retired military rank, along with some essential tips and examples.
Understanding Military Ranks
Before we dive into the how-to, it’s essential to understand the different types of military ranks. In the United States military, there are several types of ranks, including:
- Enlisted ranks: These ranks are awarded to personnel who have completed basic training and have a specific skillset or expertise. Examples include Private (E-1), Corporal (E-4), and Sergeant (E-5).
- Officer ranks: These ranks are awarded to personnel who have completed officer candidate school and have leadership responsibilities. Examples include Second Lieutenant (O-1), Captain (O-3), and Colonel (O-6).
- Warrant Officer ranks: These ranks are awarded to personnel who have specialized technical expertise and serve as experts in their field. Examples include Warrant Officer 1 (W-1) and Chief Warrant Officer 5 (W-5).
- General Officer ranks: These ranks are awarded to personnel who have reached the highest level of leadership and command. Examples include Brigadier General (O-7) and General (O-10).
How to Write a Retired Military Rank
When writing a retired military rank, it’s essential to follow the correct format. Here are the steps:
- Include the rank and grade: Start by including the rank and grade. For example, if you were a Sergeant First Class (E-7), you would write "Sergeant First Class (E-7)".
- Include the pay grade: Pay grade refers to the numerical value associated with the rank. For example, E-7 is a pay grade of $4,600-$5,400 per month.
- Include the branch: Include the branch of the military you served in. For example, if you served in the Army, you would write "United States Army".
- Include the years of service: Include the years you served in the military. For example, "20XX-20XX".
Here’s an example of how to write a retired military rank:
Example: Sergeant First Class (E-7), United States Army, 20XX-20XX
Tips and Variations
Here are some additional tips and variations to keep in mind:
- Use the correct terminology: Use the correct terminology for your rank and branch. For example, if you were a Warrant Officer, you would use the term "Warrant Officer" instead of "Officer".
- Include decorations and awards: If you have received decorations and awards, include them in your writing. For example, "Sergeant First Class (E-7), United States Army, 20XX-20XX, with 3 Bronze Stars and 2 Purple Hearts".
- Use the abbreviated form: If you’re writing in a limited space, you can use the abbreviated form of your rank. For example, "SFC (E-7)" instead of "Sergeant First Class (E-7)".
- Use the military suffix: If you’re writing in a formal setting, you can use the military suffix "-USMC" for Marine Corps, "-USN" for Navy, "-USA" for Army, "-USAF" for Air Force, and "-USCG" for Coast Guard.
Table: Retired Military Rank Format
| Rank | Grade | Branch | Years of Service |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sergeant First Class | E-7 | United States Army | 20XX-20XX |
| Lieutenant Colonel | O-5 | United States Air Force | 20XX-20XX |
| Chief Warrant Officer 3 | W-3 | United States Navy | 20XX-20XX |
Conclusion
Writing a retired military rank can be a complex process, but by following the correct format and including the necessary information, you can ensure that your rank is written correctly. Remember to include the rank and grade, pay grade, branch, and years of service, and don’t forget to use the correct terminology and abbreviations. With practice and patience, you’ll be able to write your retired military rank with confidence.
