Are you proud of the rank you achieved?

SPC Margaret Higgins — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 15:13:58 -0400

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Jul 26 at 2015 3:14 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 15:14:52 -0400

Yes SPC Margaret Higgins , I am thankful for my promotion to LTC. I had been passed over twice based on a bad report as a young CPT from a Brigadier General (BG). I had prayed that the Lord would allow me to be promoted to LTC. One of my previous raters suggested I contact a few flag officers and ask for their endorsements. I contacted three BGs and they each provided endorsements. I was promoted in April 2000 which was 2 months before I would have been forced to leave the military. I volunteered after 9/11/2001 and was mobilized soon afterwards. I ended up serving under one of the BGs who had since been promoted to LTG. I was able to serve for 8 more years after that final promotion and contribute in many ways to various war efforts. SPC Private RallyPoint Member, SGT Forrest Stewart, CH (MAJ) William Beaver, SSG James J. Palmer IV aka "JP4", SGT Robert Hawks, TSgt Hunter Logan, SGT Robert Hawks, SGT Private RallyPoint Member, COL Mikel J. Burroughs, GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad ], MSG Brad Sand

Response by CPO Joseph Grant made Jul 26 at 2015 3:18 PM

CPO Joseph Grant — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 15:18:33 -0400

Most definitely. I wold have continued my career had my Navy not gotten so PC and touchy feely.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2015 3:19 PM

SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 15:19:31 -0400

Every promotion has been a great feeling when I got notified. So far making E8 has been the best. For the first time I had to not only study but work hard, because I was not going to kiss butt or play politics. Of course I am sure there are some out there that may feel differently, but I am able to look in the mirror and know it was never about me.

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2015 3:31 PM

CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 15:31:17 -0400

Indubitably. :)

Response by MSgt Curtis Ellis made Jul 26 at 2015 3:40 PM

MSgt Curtis Ellis — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 15:40:54 -0400

Considering my career? YES!!! :D

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2015 3:48 PM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 15:48:45 -0400

Yes I am, especially with promotion rates the way they are now and the overall competitiveness of making the next rank. I still have some time before I get looked at for CW4, but I imagine the selection rate will be even lower by that time. All that I can do is to continue to sevre honorably and to continue to improve as a leader, continue to support my peers, continue to mentor and train junior officers, NCO's and Soldiers, obtain more military and civilian education and to strive to remain value added to my bosses. After all that, if it's meant to be, then it will happen, but if I had to retire a CW3, I wouldn't have any regrets.

Response by SSgt Scott Schwerman made Jul 26 at 2015 3:56 PM

SSgt Scott Schwerman — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 15:56:09 -0400

I'm always proud to be promoted. I don't know who wouldn't be.

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Jul 26 at 2015 4:09 PM

LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 16:09:05 -0400

I would have loved to have been promoted to Commander, but nonetheless, when I Enlisted, I never even expected to be commissioned, so YES!!!

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2015 4:09 PM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 16:09:27 -0400

Yes and I hope to make SFC this year in my primary MOS and not my secondary MOS!

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2015 4:12 PM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 16:12:54 -0400

Good question, SPC Margaret Higgins. My answer is a resounding YES! When I made CW4 in 1998, I was proud of that, but somewhere along the way the Army brought out the CW5 rank. So, I was all set to retire in January 2004 - I was on terminal leave in about October of 2003 - and the Army notified me I was selected above the zone (later than I should have been) for CW5. Needless to say, I stayed for the promotion. Two years as a CW5 put me at 30 years of active duty, which was just the right time to retire.

That's a long-winded response to your question. Bottom line: Yes, very much so. Thanks for asking. :-)

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Jul 26 at 2015 4:15 PM

LTC Bink Romanick — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 16:15:11 -0400

Very proud. I enlisted as a PV1 and rose to SSG , went to OCS and was promoted up through the ranks to LTC.

Response by MSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2015 4:27 PM

MSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 16:27:16 -0400

Couldn't be more proud! But it's never about me...it's what I can give back to the Army....I'm promotable now and will have a company in Nov. This one will be my most rewarding!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2015 4:29 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 16:29:10 -0400

IMHO, this is almost a silly question. Who wouldn't be proud of the new rank they achieve? I have been proud to receive every singe ranks I got

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2015 4:51 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 16:51:17 -0400

Not much tops the feeling that comes over you when you first find out your getting a promotion. The excitement and pride I would say is only second to the birth of my children.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2015 4:57 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 16:57:08 -0400

I'm proud to have achieved Sergeant First Class as it was the rank I first aspired to be. My first experience with an NCO was a SFC recruiter and then the Drill SGT I first met was a SFC. They showed me what right looked like and I have tried to emulate them ever since. Once I reached SSG, my new goal was to make MSG but now I see how much more I can benefit the Army when I make Sergeant Major!

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made Jul 26 at 2015 4:58 PM

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 16:58:11 -0400

SPC Margaret Higgins Yes proud to have served from E-1 to E-6 for over 9 years and then served 28 years from 2LT to Colonel.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Jul 26 at 2015 4:58 PM

SSgt Alex Robinson — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 16:58:15 -0400

One thousand percent yes

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2015 4:58 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 16:58:36 -0400

I am not trying to be a donny downer but I am often found to be much of the antihero at times. But is there anyone that isn't proud of the rank they achieved?

Response by SGT Christopher Hamman made Jul 26 at 2015 7:04 PM

SGT Christopher Hamman — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 19:04:02 -0400

Yes, I am proud to have been a Sergeant. I'm also proud to have matched the final rank of my father who was also in the USAR.

Response by TSgt Robert Mahaffy made Jul 26 at 2015 7:09 PM

TSgt Robert Mahaffy — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 19:09:25 -0400

I made Tech by 16 years TIS and had to decide if I would get more mileage out of a MSgt stripe or a Bachelors Degree. I chose the latter and spent my remaining years on active duty finishing up school and I'm glad I did. Besides, in my AFSC (1C0X2), MSgts and above usually got assigned to a Wing job and I liked being at squadron level.

Response by TSgt David L. made Jul 26 at 2015 7:35 PM

TSgt David L. — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 19:35:36 -0400

No, I'm not. I had a non combat accident and was substantially injured in Iraq. Fast forward, I was on convalescent leave for the last years of my career. I didn't have access to our classified references so I wasn't allowed to WAPS test. It's a long sorted tale but the treatment last years make me feel that doing it all over would be a big NO. 3 new commanders all at the same time (Squadron, Group and Wing) left me without the support that had been afforded to me after I came back from Iraq. So long story somewhat shortened, I am absolutely not happy or proud of the rank I retired at.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2015 7:52 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 19:52:40 -0400

SPC Margaret Higgins Am I proud to be a First Class Petty Officer? Heck yes I am! But more importantly I am proud to be a Sailor helping to bring up our future generations by instilling in them a sense of heritage and pride.

Response by SMSgt Thor Merich made Jul 26 at 2015 8:18 PM

SMSgt Thor Merich — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 20:18:58 -0400

Yes. My original goal was to retire at MSgt (E-7). I have many friends of mine that retired at TSgt (E-6) and I am thankful that I had great mentors that helped me achieve my goal. I made MSgt several years ago and I am not retired yet. When I was younger, I thought I would just coast along once I met my goal. Then I realized that there are still future promotional opportunities for me ahead. I think that what's more important is whatever rank you have attained, is not to settle. Continue to strive to be the best you can and you may be surprised what lies ahead.

Response by SSG Keven Lahde made Jul 26 at 2015 8:19 PM

SSG Keven Lahde — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 20:19:27 -0400

SPC Margaret Higgins I am happy for mine. But I am more than ready for Stripes as being an SPC for way too many years gets old. But yeah I am happy with being SPC. Now if I can become an NCO, I will feel as though my career will have been complete.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2015 8:35 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 20:35:01 -0400

I could have done better in the pass. But I'm happy with my career.

Response by COL Jon Thompson made Jul 26 at 2015 9:38 PM

COL Jon Thompson — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 21:38:49 -0400

Very proud. I was passed over to promotion to active duty Major in 1995 when the Army was going through the post-Cold War drawdown. I did not expect that at all and went back to Illinois not knowing what I was going to do next. A couple of years later, I was promoted to Major in the Army Reserve and the joined a reserve unit. I enrolled in the CGSC distance learning as I had to complete at least 50% of that to get promoted to LTC. I ran out of time for CGSC but because I was deployed, I received a waiver for another year. I was selected for LTC as a provisional selection based on completing 50% of CGSC. I did complete the course and was able to stay a LTC. Colonel was a surprise for me because I was passed over 4 times before I was selected and actually had my retirement orders as a LTC. Unfortunately, I was in the IRR and did not have enough time to get an O6 position but I did retire as one. So from a time when I thought I was capped out at as a Captain, I am very happy to have progressed from there and it goes to show that even when careers do not happen as planned, that does not mean those plans failed.

Response by MSG(P) Rafael Aguilera made Jul 26 at 2015 9:39 PM

MSG(P) Rafael Aguilera — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 21:39:22 -0400

I am proud of the rank that I achieved; it places me in a position to initiate changes in the areas that need improvement.
I have the honor to lead the sons and daughters of America on a daily basis; overseas and DOMOPS.
If you are the best at what you do, it will show to those that count when it counts.

Response by Cpl Tou Lee Yang made Jul 26 at 2015 10:17 PM

Cpl Tou Lee Yang — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 22:17:42 -0400

I believe rank is a given such as E1-E4 and O1-O3. So anything below that doesn't matter and everything above that requires extensive ass kissing to get the next rank or as my Gunny once told me, "it's called making rank".

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2015 11:52 PM

LTJG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 23:52:47 -0400

Heck yeah! I'd like to think everyone is, assuming they haven't gone backwards any. :)

Response by SMSgt Tony Barnes made Jul 27 at 2015 12:00 AM

SMSgt Tony Barnes — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 00:00:35 -0400

Yes I am...loved wearing the diamond of 1st Sgt. Retired as a SMSgt because it seemed our chiefs were too political. Missed 1st time for chief by 9 points. But it was time to go...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2015 2:49 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 02:49:35 -0400

Yes, I am proud to achieve SFC. over the last 20 plus years I have endured and often overlooked for promotion recommendations because I wasn't what they were looking for. I pinned on E-7 on July 1st 2015, so this is a big step in my career and I am almost ready to retire.

Response by SGT Steve Oakes made Jul 27 at 2015 5:45 AM

SGT Steve Oakes — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 05:45:37 -0400

I am very proud to have served and achieved the rank of E5. As seen in my profile pic. I have a licensed Army leather jacket with the official seal on the back. I have my 3RD ID patch on the Left shoulder and the flag (stars forward into battle!) on the right. My stripes are on the collar, all displayed as if on a Military uniform so as to honor and respect my service and those still serving.

Response by MCPO Douglas Pennington made Jul 27 at 2015 7:10 AM

MCPO Douglas Pennington — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 07:10:28 -0400

Yes i am very proud of my rank of Master Chief Petty Officer. I came from a long list of family members that excelled so i had a tough road to hold. My dad, after serving in the Navy during WWII, moving over to the Army Air Corp and then the Air Force retired a Chief Master Sargent after 32 years. My middle brother retired a CWO4 from the Navy after 30 years of service and my oldest brother retired a First Class Petty Officer after 20 years. It was a sad day in 2004 when i retired. It was the first time since 4 July 1942 that a Pennington was not active duty. My daughter broke that dry spell joining the Naval Reserves in 2010.

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Jul 27 at 2015 7:14 AM

GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 07:14:04 -0400

Very much so!

Response by CH (CPT) Heather Davis made Jul 27 at 2015 7:28 AM

CH (CPT) Heather Davis — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 07:28:04 -0400

I joined the military when I was 17, in 1984. I was enlisted for 22 years as a SSG. I took a leap of faith and became a WO1 and it was a struggle for the transition. I went from CW2 and while deployed my nephew committed suicide. I stayed in church and I prayed so hard I became a 2LT Chaplain Candidate. God took me to serving over 30 years as a Chaplain. All I ever wanted to achieve was E-7. Now I am an Army Chaplain and working on my Ph.D. Reach for the stars and pray and God will move you beyond your wildest belief. I graduated with a 2.0 and I was told that I would never amount to nothing. LOL

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2015 8:28 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 08:28:49 -0400

Yes each and every one.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Jul 27 at 2015 9:12 AM

SrA Edward Vong — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 09:12:01 -0400

I had the responsibilities of an NCO or if I was in another branch, a warrant officer and I was only an E4. In some ways, I am proud of my accomplishments at such a low rank.

Response by SCPO David Lockwood made Jul 27 at 2015 10:08 AM

SCPO David Lockwood — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 10:08:54 -0400

Absolutely! I worked hard to get where I was. Every promotion every personal award. I worked hard to attain them. But then I also have to admit that I was not able to achieve any of those without the junior Sailors who busted their butts to make things happen for me as well.

Response by SFC Walt Littleton made Jul 27 at 2015 11:38 AM

SFC Walt Littleton — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 11:38:12 -0400

I'm always proud of my service and the rank I achieved. Very disappointed I didn't make E-8-9. My father did 21 and so do I. We both were in the Signal Corps and retired as E-7 SFC.

I always followed advice on assignments and schools in order to try and stand out as an exceptional NCO. Always a Squad Leader, Platoon Sergeant or Shop NCOIC. Prayer and religion got me through.

Anyway, I was passed over for E-8 twice at 20 years figured it was the Army putting me out to pasture. For the life of me I still don't understand why? Being a 26V a very small MOS By the numbers I knew I had to have a good combat related MOS as a secondary. I was stationed with 101st as a 31V Commo Chief where I cross trained and was awarded the MOS.

STILL NO PROMOTION!

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2015 11:56 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 11:56:17 -0400

One of my biggest memories in boot camp was when my second RDC (I forget his name, but he was a Logistic Specialist First Class, or LS1) told my division to always be proud of where you are. Mind you, this is the bald-headed, always angry looking guy you expect to see as a drill sergeant in BMT, so hearing something actually uplifting from him was even more uplifting than it would've been normally. He told us that yes, we were simply recruits, but we made it that far. That counts, that stands for something. So, needless to say, yes, I am very proud and actually surprised of my rank. I made Third Class on my first shot while most Sailors at my command and even in my rate just made it on their third or fourth. I didn't expect it, so when I heard my name called I froze. It was a pretty good day and I'm very proud to wear these crows on my collar.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2015 11:58 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 11:58:50 -0400

Hello Margaret,
I am proud of the rank that I have achieved as of now. However, I will be even more proud when I actually reach my TR

Response by SCPO Larry Knight Sr. made Jul 27 at 2015 12:04 PM

SCPO Larry Knight Sr. — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 12:04:43 -0400

100 % Yes. I enlisted as an E-2 and rose to the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer and retired after 25 years.

Response by SSG John Jensen made Jul 27 at 2015 12:20 PM

SSG John Jensen — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 12:20:56 -0400

different kind of pride maybe - proud to have been a SP5, all kinds of people put it down, but it was the happiest time of my career,
making SFC would have been nice, but in my unit, promotion happened by back-stabbing, and I won't do that, and the lower enlisted in the unit respected me more than all of the other jerks

Response by MCPO Bob Shea made Jul 27 at 2015 12:32 PM

MCPO Bob Shea — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 12:32:44 -0400

Yes I was. Enlisted as an E1 and was proud of every rank I held up to E9! Retired as a Master Chief Petty Officer.

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Jul 27 at 2015 1:57 PM

SGT Michael Glenn — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 13:57:12 -0400

Yes I am, My Father was an E5 in Vietnam, even though we chose different MOS's I think he would be proud of the accomplishments I achieved. Thats good enough for me!

Response by CDR Terry Boles made Jul 27 at 2015 2:42 PM

CDR Terry Boles — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 14:42:51 -0400

Yes, it’s been an interesting journey to obtain commander and I’m proud I made the journey, and the stops along the way. When I look back as an E-1 to E-6, then 0-1 to 0-5 there were numerous great moments in life. I thought E-5 was the best place to be, enough responsibility without the politics, and then with E-6 came more politics and more admin duties.

When I commissioned as a 0-1 I was certainly starting a new career at the bottom of the rung again. I thought 0-3 was a great place to be with enough responsibility once again without a lot of politics, focused on taking care of the troops and mission as the clinic chief. However when I made 0-4 and deployed as team commander; well it’s never been the same. Upon promotion to 0-5 the tempo is even greater and to be honest I look forward to retiring soon.

Like many before me, it has been interesting to have two full careers, enlisted and commissioned. Both are an eye opener and these experiences have allowed me to make better informed decisions based on my military experiences wearing different ranks; mindful of where I came from and where I am today.

Response by CSM Michael Poll made Jul 27 at 2015 3:33 PM

CSM Michael Poll — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 15:33:29 -0400

Absolutely! I never thought I would make it to this level, It still amazes me that I have, I love the fact that I can influence change at this level for the betterment of the Soldiers!

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Jul 27 at 2015 4:58 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 16:58:34 -0400

I am not so much proud as surprised inasmuch as I had offended just about every superior officer that I served under. One even went so far as to relieve me and pack me off to USARPAC HQ until they could find some place to stash me until I could be mustered out. However, my accomplishments caught the attention of my superiors' superiors and I was promoted to Captain and given some choice assignments until those arrayed against me could have me RIF'd

Response by PV2 Robert Bowne made Jul 27 at 2015 5:31 PM

PV2 Robert Bowne — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 17:31:42 -0400

Indeed i am and i will always cherish this achievement ....

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2015 5:38 PM

1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 17:38:09 -0400

Yes. I was convicted in s Summary Court Martial in 1986 and still rose to the rank of 1st Sergeant. According to the monitor, I was the only one on active duty with a CM conviction at the time. Semper Fidelis

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2015 6:04 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 18:04:19 -0400

The answer to your question is an undeniable yes. Over the past 11 years, I have been through some tough leadership, some great leadership, a lot of not so great leadership. I took the good out of every situation and experience that I was in, which is what has made me the proud leader that I am today. I will continue to lead and excel into the unforeseeable future :)

Response by SGT KellyAnn Piergiorgi made Jul 27 at 2015 6:13 PM

SGT KellyAnn Piergiorgi — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 18:13:16 -0400

For what little time I did, I am proud of the rank I achieved.

Response by SP5 Joel O'Brien made Jul 27 at 2015 8:03 PM

SP5 Joel O'Brien — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 20:03:58 -0400

My dad made it to Buck Sgt. during WWII. I made it to E-5 at about 4 years. I'd like to think he'd have been proud of me.

Response by TSgt Manuel Perez made Jul 27 at 2015 9:18 PM

TSgt Manuel Perez — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 21:18:36 -0400

Yes, I am I have completed my servive with (20) active duty. i serviced with pride abd didication as Fighter Crew Chief, now I am working in aviation still, serving the flying public in the FAA now for 11 years as an Aviation Saftey Inspectors.

Response by MSG Floyd Williams made Jul 27 at 2015 10:16 PM

MSG Floyd Williams — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 22:16:11 -0400

Yes, I'm proud because the rank achieved put me a good position to help those who was under my supervision.

Response by SSG Jerry Eidson made Jul 27 at 2015 11:11 PM

SSG Jerry Eidson — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 23:11:33 -0400

Nope!!'

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made Jul 28 at 2015 12:15 AM

CPT Pedro Meza — Tue, 28 Jul 2015 00:15:17 -0400

SPC Margaret Higgins, I am happy with the rank of Captain, all my contemporaries are now 0-6, but for me staying close to the troops was more important, I purposely did not submit promotion packets and even switched back and forth to NCO and 0-3 for deployments in 03.

Response by SGT Frank Leonardo made Jul 28 at 2015 2:58 AM

SGT Frank Leonardo — Tue, 28 Jul 2015 02:58:04 -0400

in the amount of time that I was in I am proud that I made E5 in the Army

Response by Lt Col Timothy Parker, DBA made Jul 28 at 2015 9:10 AM

Lt Col Timothy Parker, DBA — Tue, 28 Jul 2015 09:10:56 -0400

I was glad and proud for each promotion. Each one meant more responsibility and the chance to help others along the way. Needless to say, there were bumps in the road like most of us have. In the end, the people I met, experiences and opportunities were the best rewards regardless of the rank I achieved. Just my humble opinion.

Response by SFC Felix Burgos-Figueroa made Jul 28 at 2015 11:09 AM

SFC Felix Burgos-Figueroa — Tue, 28 Jul 2015 11:09:00 -0400

I am very proud to have made it to Sergeant First Class before the Army gave me the boot in the name of "Force Restructuring".

My last day on active duty is 1 Nov 2015. A total of 16 years active duty.

Response by SGT William Howell made Jul 28 at 2015 1:27 PM

SGT William Howell — Tue, 28 Jul 2015 13:27:12 -0400

I was going for Field Marshal when that IED went off, so I got the boot with just E-5 and a OCS packet approved. I always wanted more and I always loved my Army!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 28 at 2015 4:03 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 28 Jul 2015 16:03:01 -0400

Yes. Served 6 years in the Cavalry. Finished as an E-5 Tank Commander. That's what I'm proud about, being in the Cavalry. Best job I ever had...

Response by Cpl Schnequa (Guy) Hutchins made Jul 28 at 2015 7:52 PM

Cpl Schnequa (Guy) Hutchins — Tue, 28 Jul 2015 19:52:47 -0400

Not really. I wish I would have stayed in but my husband at the time was also active duty and we had children. He had more time in so I decided to get out so I could be with my children. It was the best decision for my family. Now, I've been at my current job for 16yrs and I am very proud of my accomplishments there.

Response by SPC Jim Watkins made Jul 28 at 2015 8:01 PM

SPC Jim Watkins — Tue, 28 Jul 2015 20:01:46 -0400

I might have only made it to SPC but served both active duty an National Guard for 20yrs. I loved my job an traveled often. Never sitting behind a desk . I am an always will be an Army trucker.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 28 at 2015 8:33 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 28 Jul 2015 20:33:12 -0400

I am, but sm upset that my chance to excel was destroyed by the system which erased all of my promotion points!

Response by SGT Jennifer Rixe made Jul 29 at 2015 12:05 AM

SGT Jennifer Rixe — Wed, 29 Jul 2015 00:05:14 -0400

I most certainly am thankful that I made it to SGT. It was definitely not an easy task and had to prove myself worthy time and again. Alas, I made it...just wish I could have stayed in and continued!

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2015 9:03 AM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Jul 2015 09:03:37 -0400

No. I was placed under a toxic leader who has slown my career progression down, tremendously.

Response by MSG D. Layne-Sheffield made Jul 29 at 2015 9:33 AM

MSG D. Layne-Sheffield — Wed, 29 Jul 2015 09:33:46 -0400

Most definitely!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2015 12:02 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Jul 2015 12:02:05 -0400

Yes I am very proud of making it to SFC. I have worked hard over the past 19 years spending 6 years over 10 years deployed either to Iraq or a state side mission. SFC was a goal of mine and now that I have reached that goal I will keep looking high for the next one. I have almost completed 20 years and plan on staying another 20, each promotion has its own blessing and curse. I for one look forward to both.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2015 12:52 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Jul 2015 12:52:57 -0400

On one hand, I'd like to say "Yes" because I'm proud of my service all the way around. On the other hand, I want to say "No" because my opportunities were limited by my rank (which was a decision on my getting out vs. re-enlisting) and I always wanted to retire as an O-4 like my Grandpa (he was a Cav SGT then became a bomber pilot for the Army Air Corps and transitioned into the USAF, retiring as Maj).

After I got out, I went to college and then graduate school, but I've always sort of regretted not re-enlisting (or getting back in with a commission)...

I've still got time on the clock though (everything stops at 42 I'm told), so I might look into the possibility of re-entering the service (after a 13 year break). Maybe I'll have to come back and edit my answer to this...

Response by SGT Jeremiah B. made Jul 29 at 2015 4:03 PM

SGT Jeremiah B. — Wed, 29 Jul 2015 16:03:49 -0400

"No one is more professional than I. I am a noncommissioned officer, a leader of Soldiers." Damn skippy I'm proud.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2015 4:34 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Jul 2015 16:34:20 -0400

Yup. I may not be exactly high ranking, but I earned it, as I will earn every other rank I achieve. Why should I not be proud of it?

Response by SGT Eric Dziekan made Jul 29 at 2015 4:36 PM

SGT Eric Dziekan — Wed, 29 Jul 2015 16:36:29 -0400

Yes I am very proud of the rank that I obtained. It was a minimum goal that I had set for myself and was in promotable status when I ETSed.

I would like to see our Military ranks kept and recognized post Military like other federal offices such as Senators. We earned that rank and title and deserve that respect!

Response by MSgt Erik Copp made Jul 29 at 2015 4:43 PM

MSgt Erik Copp — Wed, 29 Jul 2015 16:43:44 -0400

Absolutely.

Response by CH (CPT) Thomas Kirchhoefer made Jul 29 at 2015 10:03 PM

CH (CPT) Thomas Kirchhoefer — Wed, 29 Jul 2015 22:03:23 -0400

Glad to have served for the 10 years. CH (CPT)

Response by PO1 G. Leslie /Stiltner made Jul 29 at 2015 10:43 PM

PO1 G. Leslie /Stiltner — Wed, 29 Jul 2015 22:43:07 -0400

Yes, I joined the Navy as a nod designated sailor, went to the fleet and after a year made E-3 and requested to go to Aviation Structural Mechanic School. I made E-4 on my first attempt. E-5 and E-6 did not come as easy. I was fortunate however that I was a hard Charger and after not picking up after the second attempt, I was promoted by the CO under the Command Advancement Program. I had just lead the Squadron through a post deployment inspection where we received an Outstanding. I was an E-4 running a work center that was suppose to be run by and E-6.

Response by TSgt David Case made Jul 30 at 2015 12:41 AM

TSgt David Case — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 00:41:05 -0400

I am proud of the rank I achieved. Would liked to have gone further though. I held 3 AFSC's (MOS) for non AF, which had me starting over in new positions at various stages of my career. I had made BTZ (Bleow-The-Zone, E-4 early), which allowed me the opportunity to cross train into a job I really enjoyed. I stayed as long as I felt I was physically able and moved to another job towards the end of my career. I even went Boot Strap to gain a 2Lt bar, but was not picked up. I ended up going to Iraq at 20 yos and it was at that point my family asked to me to retire. So I dropped paperwork as a 21 year TSgt (E-6) and retired a little over 22 YOS. Looking back, it was a great adventure that I really enjoyed. I still serve today as a DOD civilian and can deploy if the need arises.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 30 at 2015 6:07 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 06:07:18 -0400

Absolutely! I was proud to have made CPL, so everything after that is just a bonus opportunity to continue to serve with greater responsibility.

Response by SMSgt Bryan Raines made Jul 30 at 2015 9:26 AM

SMSgt Bryan Raines — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 09:26:53 -0400

Sure am. I was told I would never make E-8, SMSgt, by several SNCO's. I did and it was because of my board scores. Ticked off a lot of people when they found out I made it. LOL

Response by PO1 Alan John made Jul 30 at 2015 9:31 AM

PO1 Alan John — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 09:31:23 -0400

Yea, very proud and so should everyone else be proud of what they achieved. Nuff said.

Response by GySgt Bryan A. McGown "Gunny" made Jul 30 at 2015 9:31 AM

GySgt Bryan A. McGown "Gunny" — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 09:31:45 -0400

Of course, I am. But, I am more proud of the accomplishments I made while leading Marines, and helping Veterans and Civilians after my Active Duty ended some 14 years ago.
@GunnyRet

Response by COL Charles Williams made Jul 30 at 2015 10:56 AM

COL Charles Williams — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 10:56:09 -0400

Yes... I was happy to make Sergeant fast - in that era, and all I every wanted to do after OCS was be Captain and Company Commander. The rest was just gravy. SPC Margaret Higgins

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 30 at 2015 12:30 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 12:30:40 -0400

SPC Margaret Higgins, I am very proud of the rank that I have achieved so far. I joined the Army as a Private (E2) and achieved the rank of SSG within 6 years. I look forward to being able to move up in the ranks and also gain more experience and knowledge!

Response by PO1 Glenn Boucher made Jul 30 at 2015 2:03 PM

PO1 Glenn Boucher — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 14:03:04 -0400

Not to sound disrespectful but its a pretty lame question. Every time you get promoted you are proud of achieving that rank, why would you not be proud? Sure sometimes we do not reach a desired rank but its all part of how things go sometimes. We do not control testing, we do not control selection boards.
I mean who would not be proud of achieving a new rank?

Response by Cpl Peter Martuneac made Jul 30 at 2015 2:22 PM

Cpl Peter Martuneac — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 14:22:24 -0400

I became a Corporal of Marines towards the end of my contract, but spent almost three whole years as a Lance Corporal because the promotion system is a joke. I was more proud to be a senior Lance Corporal anyway, as I was holding down a Sergeant's billet at the time.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 30 at 2015 3:58 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 15:58:32 -0400

Response by Sgt David G Duchesneau made Jul 30 at 2015 4:50 PM

Sgt David G Duchesneau — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 16:50:08 -0400

Yes I am. It took me less than 2 years (21 months) to be promoted to Sergeant.

Response by MSgt Jim Bain made Jul 30 at 2015 6:15 PM

MSgt Jim Bain — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 18:15:33 -0400

My Dad was a twenty year man, U.S. Navy, A Chief Boatsmain's Mate, I graduated from High School at the ripe old age of 17, the Chief marched me down to the local recruiter, a month after my graduation. I was a little different than most of the kids at Great Lakes that summer, I could tie knots better than the instructor, and make the tightest bunk in the company. I ended up as an air dale, AO3, dad forgave me for that, and was in a carrier based squadron, after 3 years, got out, went to collage, was in the reserves for another 3 years. Had a few jobs, got married, 2 kids, joined the Mass. Air National Guard, 104th Fighter Wing, studied like a mad man to get ahead, the day I made Master Sgt., I did not tell the Chief ahead of time, went over to the house, walked in, in uniform, He was speechless, and for my old man, that was something. I wanted to make E-7 for my Dad, and myself of course. He passed away a few months later,...... I could not be prouder than my rank.

Response by SPC William Clark made Jul 30 at 2015 7:03 PM

SPC William Clark — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 19:03:01 -0400

hellz yes! E4! I was happy to not get busted. I have to admit I did not buy into holding my tongue. But I never got into too much trouble.

Response by SFC Robert Ambrosini made Jul 30 at 2015 8:03 PM

SFC Robert Ambrosini — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 20:03:23 -0400

Yes. Looking back, I may have gone further had I made different decisions, but I'm happy where I am and proud of my service.

Response by GySgt John O'Donnell made Jul 30 at 2015 8:10 PM

GySgt John O'Donnell — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 20:10:28 -0400

"GUNNY", do I need say more.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 30 at 2015 9:49 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 21:49:06 -0400

I am proud of the rank that I have obtained so far but I have further goals so I would not say that I have achieved it yet!

Response by SP5 Joel O'Brien made Jul 30 at 2015 11:01 PM

SP5 Joel O'Brien — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 23:01:43 -0400

My Dad achieved Buck Sgt. during WWII. I got to E-5 in four years. I'd like to think my Dad would be proud of me in reaching his rank as well.

Response by LTC Donell Kelly made Jul 31 at 2015 5:38 AM

LTC Donell Kelly — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 05:38:18 -0400

Yes!

Response by LTC Donell Kelly made Jul 31 at 2015 5:38 AM

LTC Donell Kelly — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 05:38:37 -0400

YES!

Response by LTC Donell Kelly made Jul 31 at 2015 5:39 AM

LTC Donell Kelly — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 05:39:15 -0400

Apparently you can't enter a 3 letter response, so here goes, YES!

Response by LTC Donell Kelly made Jul 31 at 2015 5:39 AM

LTC Donell Kelly — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 05:39:51 -0400

Oooops! Didn't look below to see the entry.....my bad!

Response by SPC Anthony Weisenberger made Jul 31 at 2015 9:25 AM

SPC Anthony Weisenberger — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 09:25:59 -0400

E-4: Best rank in the Army next to E-7

Response by SPC Andrew Griffin made Jul 31 at 2015 10:30 AM

SPC Andrew Griffin — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 10:30:30 -0400

Never even CLOSE! A lot of HATE kept me from ACHEIVING! PLus, the National Guard is SLOW!

Response by CPT Jason Mitchell, MBA made Jul 31 at 2015 10:34 AM

CPT Jason Mitchell, MBA — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 10:34:18 -0400

Yes I am, SPC Margaret Higgins, but not the last rank I attained. Despite having great opportunities to command a unit due to being a Captain, my proudest rank I achieved was SGT E-5. I was lucky enough to have great NCO leadership in my National Guard platoon back when I first joined the Army. My PSG and Squad Leader saw how much I loved being a Soldier and a Forward Observer. They must have sensed leadership qualities in me, so they fast tracked me to E-5 following my successful graduation from PLDC (Now WLC). Though I didn't get to serve as an NCO very long, I hope my impact to my FiST Soldiers was influential in their lives and careers. Being an NCO is truly the most rewarding position in the Army and was my proudest moment; being pinned SGT while reciting the NCO Creed in front of my Battery.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2015 11:40 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 11:40:43 -0400

Yes as I was so proud to provide medical care to my fellow service men, women and their dependents. However, in a typical Army SNAFU I was supposed to be promoted to Colonel and placed in the Individual Ready Reserve but it never happened. Unit personnel and personnel at the US Army Human Resources had me fill out and have all paperwork signed and then someone in the "line" decided not to send my paperwork up for processing and I retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. But I have no regrets after 5 deployments I gave my all. I served proudly and without reservation. I love this country and am proud of those that served before and after me.

Response by SrA Andrea West made Jul 31 at 2015 2:25 PM

SrA Andrea West — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 14:25:48 -0400

By and large, yes. I left the Air Force as a Sergeant (a now-defunct rank, BTW). I feel privileged to have made it that far.

Response by MAJ David Vermillion made Jul 31 at 2015 4:49 PM

MAJ David Vermillion — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 16:49:23 -0400

Very much, higher than I thought I would achieve.

Response by MSgt Earl Morey made Jul 31 at 2015 5:14 PM

MSgt Earl Morey — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 17:14:41 -0400

Yes!!, but with qualifiers. I was in SAC, in an overloaded career field. Making Staff Sergeant was easy, all you needed was a pulse. When promoted they say Staff Sergeant, Permanent, and they weren't kidding. It took a war to get me transferred to a Command that at least gave you a chance. A lot of my peers transferred before me and attained the rank of E-9.

Response by MSgt John Grollimund made Jul 31 at 2015 5:22 PM

MSgt John Grollimund — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 17:22:40 -0400

Yes. I got to work with all branches. The Army training at Ft Riley was a blast, the Marines I spent a year living with were a trip (helped I kept the generator and AC running in Iraq). The SeaBees were nuts (had to learn what a Class 4 was).

I sleep well at night knowing I did the best for my people, and they appreciated that. I did cut my carrier shorter then I wanted because I put my people above my self, but not making myself more "promote-able".

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2015 8:42 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 20:42:03 -0400

I am proud of every promotion I received beyond PV2. I am especially proud of achieving E-4, twice, moving from Specialist 4 to Corporal and Specialist 5 to SGT. But, it is not the promotions that really matter but the people who helped me achieve them. I did what I could but without others, I would have never been promoted at all.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 1 at 2015 9:49 AM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 01 Aug 2015 09:49:30 -0400

Yes, very proud. But will always take great pride in being a Marine (once a Marine, always a Marine!).

Response by MAJ Raúl Rovira made Aug 1 at 2015 4:43 PM

MAJ Raúl Rovira — Sat, 01 Aug 2015 16:43:20 -0400

I am grateful for the current rank. But I'll add that I am most grateful for the experiences and the years overseas.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Aug 1 at 2015 6:10 PM

Capt Richard I P. — Sat, 01 Aug 2015 18:10:59 -0400

Yep. I only ever wanted to be a Captain.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 1 at 2015 7:06 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 01 Aug 2015 19:06:52 -0400

I am proud to have achieved my current rank. When I originally enlisted, it was my retirement goal. It is gratifying to achieve a rank that puts me in a position to ensure that my Soldiers receive quality training with a minimum of distractions and have enough influence to ensure that they are recognized for their achievements.

I'm in line for 1SG which will increase my sphere of influence and enable me to ensure the next generation of NCOs are better prepared to lead.

Response by Capt Terry Fillmore made Aug 1 at 2015 8:57 PM

Capt Terry Fillmore — Sat, 01 Aug 2015 20:57:18 -0400

Of all the ranks that I held, I am most proud of Sergeant (E-5). It took 2 years and 9 months to pick it up. There is much responsibility and respect that comes with the rank, but not some of the extraneous duties that come with being a Staff NCO.

Response by CW5 Jim Steddum made Aug 2 at 2015 11:49 AM

CW5 Jim Steddum — Sun, 02 Aug 2015 11:49:23 -0400

I could not be more proud to have achieved my current (new) rank. I owe a huge debt of gratitude to people like CW5 Charlie Poulton and CW5 Sharon Swartworth who set positive examples and led from the front their entire careers/lives. I hope to inspire like them.

Response by PO3 Sherry Thornburg made Aug 3 at 2015 10:46 PM

PO3 Sherry Thornburg — Mon, 03 Aug 2015 22:46:22 -0400

Studied long hours to do good on that test.

Response by CMDCM Gene Treants made Aug 4 at 2015 5:12 PM

CMDCM Gene Treants — Tue, 04 Aug 2015 17:12:31 -0400

Yes, I am very proud of earning every pay grade I was promoted to during my career. I know that starting out a Seaman Apprentice our of Recruit Training gave me a little boast over my peers, but most caught up quickly. The nice thing about Navy was and is our system of advancement is both Vacancy and Performance driven. Part of advancement IS in our control, it is not just luck.

Being selected and frocked to Master Chief at 17 years was personally very satisfying. Then turning around and being selected for then Navy's Command Master Chief Program, that was just another personal goal accomplished (in the same year). By the time I retired at 30 years had completed 4 tours as a Command Master Chief. So, yes, I am proud of my accomplishments in Navy and the people who helped me accomplish them. What I did I did NOT ALONE. Many people use a very small part of the following, I choose to use it all:

No man is an island,
Entire of itself,
Every man is a piece of the continent,
A part of the main.
If a clod be washed away by the sea,
Europe is the less.
As well as if a promontory were.
As well as if a manor of thy friend's
Or of thine own were:
Any man's death diminishes me,
Because I am involved in mankind,
And therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls;
It tolls for thee.

John Donne

Response by MSgt James Mullis made Aug 4 at 2015 5:32 PM

MSgt James Mullis — Tue, 04 Aug 2015 17:32:39 -0400

Absolutely, I was very proud to make MSgt in one of the Air Forces smallest careers. I was equally proud to retire and manage a large Hospital Safety Program, then to Manage a Multi-hospital Healthcare Systems' Safety Program, then to become a Senior Industrial Hygienist for the state of Iowa.

Upon thinking about it, the rank I was most proud of was making Senior Airman "Below the Zone".

Response by 1SG Scott Munn made Aug 15 at 2015 2:34 AM

1SG Scott Munn — Sat, 15 Aug 2015 02:34:54 -0400

To answer the question YES. read some of the others reasons and they are valid but mine is very simple for every promotion I had a squad, section, platoon or Battery of great Soldiers willing to give me 100% if I gave them my time and full devotion. So Yes I'm Proud of my rank,Very proud, my men gave it me.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2015 3:25 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 03:25:21 -0400

For the sake of professionalism and, feeling bound by the NCO Creed for such, I'm compelled to bite my tongue on this subject matter, and to say congratulations to all of those who ARE proud of the rank they've achieved.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 28 at 2015 1:12 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 13:12:35 -0400

you bet i am. Looking forward towards my SFC.