Marine Corps master gunnery sergeants and sergeants major receive the same pay but have different responsibilities. The same is true for the positions at the E-9 level. Whether one is, for example, a senior master sergeant or a first sergeant in the Air Force depends on the person's job. The Navy and Coast Guard NCO equivalent, petty officer, is achieved at the rank of petty officer third class.Īt the E-8 level, the Army, Marines and Air Force have two positions at the same pay grade.
This responsibility is given formal recognition by use of the terms noncommissioned officer and petty officer.Īn Army sergeant, an Air Force staff sergeant, and a Marine corporal are considered NCO ranks. Leadership responsibility significantly increases in the mid-level enlisted ranks. They have specific specialties within a military unit, perform specific job functions and have the knowledge that ensures the success of their unit's current mission. The enlisted service members are the backbone of the military profession.
