Is it wise to become a Drill Sgt as an E5 or wait till E6?

2014-06-14T06:07:08-04:00

I was talking to my Sr. and he was apart of the Cpl Recruitment program back in the day. My question was is it better to go to Drill as an E5 to get that service to the Army complete and does it look good when you get looked at for SFC. Does the board look at it as something favourable because you volunteered at an earlier time in your career? Or is it better to go as an E6. Personally I've only seen one E5 drill sgt and he was very squared away.

Response by 1SG Jeffrey Bergeron made Jun 14 at 2014 7:49 AM

2014-06-14T07:49:11-04:00

I would wait until you are a SSG. Drill Sergeant will help separate you from your peers to the board members. Drill Sergeant or Recruiter is a good job to have when you have completed your Squad Leader time 18 months.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 21 at 2014 2:13 PM

2014-09-21T14:13:26-04:00

Greetings SGT Warden, (brief story) when I went to PLDC (today's WLC), there was only one E-3 in the class. He did quite well. Throughout the years, I consistently thought how wise it was for that E-3's leadership to set him up for success. We are told that one is promoted based on potential. Well, that E-3 had the opportunity to learn what right was quite early in his career, and it set a proper foundation for him and the Soldiers that he later led. How incredible it was for him to use what he learned! Thought: if you don't use it you lose it. That Drill opportunity may make you even more squared away. What a great thing for you to gain and subsequently pass on to others around you: seniors, peers, and subordinates alike.

It's true, an E-5 Drill Sergeant is not common. And, that is what makes it positively, priceless. For you to ask about it makes me think two things 1) you probably meet the qualifications, and 2) it's your time.

In closing, tomorrow is not promised. So, live the best life that you can today. Make the most of every single opportunity. Go for it with all of your might!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 24 at 2014 1:02 PM

2014-10-24T13:02:26-04:00

I saw an E-5 Drill Sergeant last week. I believe we (all in the auditorium) had a lot more admiration for him. Because, an E-5 being a Drill Sergeant stands out much more than the normal E-6/E-7 Drill Sergeants that we all see.

Remember: it is important to distinguish yourself from your peers. Who truly knows what will happen for you at the E-7 and up Selection Boards? I'm inclined to think that an E-5 Drill Sergeant may be selected earlier, provided you do well (of course).

I hope that you put in your packet already.