Posted on Jan 25, 2022
What are some tips, advice, or thoughts about potentially becoming a Drill Sergeant Candidate as an E-5?
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So I am an fairly young E-5 that wants to become a Drill Sergeant Candidate. I know it’s not very common for E-5s to do so but I have quite a few buddies who are already on the trail that are doing it. I just wanted an outside perspective or some tips, advice, or thoughts about the matter. I am very dedicated and I know for a fact that this is what I want to do and this is the path for me.
Drill Sergeant
Career Advice
Career Counselor
Posted 3 y ago
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The Army was all about E5 Drills back during the surge, but now the Army wants more experienced Drills. You should have at least a year or two rated in a Squad Leader position, preferably as a SSG. The ideal career progession is that you should be competing for SFC at the end of your time on the trail. With four year pin on for SFC, the ideal time for you to apply for drill is one to two years after pinning Staff Sergeant. Plus, the added maturity and leadership experience will really come in handy when you're at your wits end and ready to cuss out every Private in your formation
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Practice Marching Drills. Learn about 10 cadences. Learn how to inspect rooms, personal uniform and grooming standards. Learn to recognize when people are struggling with personal problems and under stress. Learn how to give the trainees breaks - they don't have your stamina, abilities and capabilities yet.
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When I went through Basic most the Drills were E5s. It was like one E6 and two E5's to platoon. There were no E7's and the next up was the 1SG. There also weren't any XO's and the Commander (CPT) was the only officer.
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SP5 Peter Keane
And back in the Jurassic era, it was about 80% E5 in basic with a couple of 6's and a 7 as Senior Drill.
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