The U.S. Army is the land service division of the military. It was established on June 14, 1775, to fight the American Revolutionary War (1775–1783)—before the United States was formed as a country. In 2021, there were over 1,005,725 total uniformed personnel serving in the Army. Each of the Army’s members holds a rank, which represents their badge of leadership. The higher rank you hold, the more responsibility you have for personnel, equipment, and missions.

In this paper, we are going to provide you with a brief overview of the U.S. Army ranks in order, which are broken down into enlisted, officer, and warrant officer ranks. Now let’s check it out! 

 

1. U.S. Army Ranks – U.S. Army Enlisted Ranks

 

The lowest of the three Total Army Ranks in the Army are the Enlisted Ranks (grades E-1 to E-9). The majority of US Army personnel are enlisted soldiers, who are classified from Private (E-1) to Sergeant Major of the Army (E-9). You are given increasingly more responsibility as you advance in enlisted ranks past Private First Class (E-3).

You will initially be in the enlisted ranks between E-1 and E-4 (Specialist) when you join the Army. When you join the Army, your rank is based on factors like whether you passed the APFT administered by your recruiter, were recommended by someone, or had college credits. The highest enlisted rank at which you can join the US Army and begin basic training is E-4.

NCOs, or non-commissioned officers, refer to enlisted ranks E-5 and higher.  Corporals, who form the foundation of the non-commissioned officer (NCO) ranks, are also regarded as non-commissioned officers.

Use the title “Sergeant (last name)” when addressing staff sergeants, sergeants, and first class sergeants. Refer to higher ranking sergeants by both their names and their full Army ranks.

 

1.1. Private (PVT)

 

  • Class: Enlisted Soldier
  • Abbr.: PVT
  • Title: Private (last name)
  • Paygrade: E-1 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $1,833

In the U.S. Army hierarchy, Private (PVT) is regarded as the lowest enlisted rank and the entry-level rank for trainees who have successfully completed Basic Combat Training (BTC). Entry-level privates are considered “recruits”, “trainees”, or “fuzzies” which explains the blank black velcro patch on a PVT’s uniform sleeve. This rank doesn’t wear any insignia. 

Privates are always responsible for adhering to the orders of their superior officers to the best of their abilities. After 6 months of service, privates (PVT) will get an automatic promotion to pay grade PV2. 

Additionally, in the Army, soldiers who are demoted or found guilty of serious wrongdoing get this rank of “private” until they return to their ranks or are separated from the Army. 

Entry-level privates’ monthly basic salary will automatically increase after 1 or 2 years of service. Furthermore, their earnings consist of multiple types of allowances and bonus pay, including housing allowance, hostile fire pay, education allowance, personal money allowance, and more.

 

1.2. Private Second (PV2)

 

U.S. Army Private Second Class Insignia
U.S. Army Private Second Class Insignia
  • Class: Enlisted Soldier
  • Abbr.: PV2
  • Title: Private (last name)
  • Paygrade: E-2 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $2,055

Private (PV2) is regarded as the second-lowest pay grade in the ranking hierarchy of the Army, which ranks above Private and directly below Private First Class. 

A private’s primary responsibility is to obey the orders of their superior officers to the best of their ability. They also complement some specific job functions and have the knowledge to assure the success of their unit’s current mission. The rank insignia of private (PV2) is made up of a single chevron, an inverted yellow V.

Furthermore, PVT most often promoted to PV2, though promotion from lower pay grades may happen with sufficient displays of leadership and experience. More specifically, all soldiers who graduate basic training & advanced individual training (AIT) and arrive and integrate into an active Unit in the United States Army might attain the rank of PV2. 

Privates’ monthly basic salary will automatically increase after 1 or 2 years of service. Furthermore, their earnings comprise multiple types of allowances and bonus pay, including housing allowance, hostile fire pay, education allowance, personal money allowance, and more.

 

1.3. Private First Class (PFC)

 

U.S. Army Private First Class Insignia
U.S. Army Private First Class Insignia
  • Class: Enlisted Soldier
  • Abbr.: PFC
  • Title: Private (last name)
  • Paygrade: E-3 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $2,161

In the Army’s ranking system, Private First Class is regarded as the third lowest rank, which is directly above Private Second Class and directly below Specialist. Furthermore, soldiers serving in Private First Class are considered the backbone of the Army. 

Private First Class’ duties are to be assigned as a machine gunner or other more complicated weapon systems, execute orders issued by their commanding officers, and complete missions. 

Generally speaking, privates will be automatically promoted to this level of PFC after one year of service or earlier at the discretion of their commanding officer as a reward for sustained good performance.

Furthermore, PV2 is most often promoted to PFC though promotion from lower pay grades may happen with sufficient displays of leadership and experience. More specifically, soldiers who enter basic training with prior military training, such as JROTC, an Associate’s Degree, or the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts get an automatic promotion to Private First Class on enlistment. 

Most soldiers who attain the rank of PFC will eventually be promoted to either the rank of Specialist or Corporal. PFC’s monthly basic salary will automatically increase after 1 or 2 years of service. Furthermore, their earnings consist of multiple types of allowances and bonus pay, including housing allowance, hostile fire pay, education allowance, personal money allowance, and more.

 

1.4. Specialist  (SPC)

 

U.S. Army Specialist Insignia
U.S. Army Specialist Insignia
  • Class: Enlisted Soldier
  • Abbr.: SPC
  • Title: Specialist (last name)
  • Paygrade: E-4 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $2,393

A specialist is known as a junior enlisted rank in the United States Army, which ranks above Private First Class and directly below Corporal. A specialist is responsible for commanding other, lower-ranked enlisted soldiers. 

After serving for at least 2 years and completing a leadership and officer candidate training course, a Private First Class might be promoted to the rank of specialist. Besides, those recruited into the Army with a four-year Bachelor’s degree or desirable civilian skills and experience may be entitled to join the Army as a Specialist.

SPC’s monthly basic salary will automatically increase after 1 or 2 years of service. Furthermore, their earnings consist of multiple types of allowances and bonus pay, including housing allowance, hostile fire pay, education allowance, personal money allowance, and more.

 

1.5. Corporal (CPL)

 

U.S. Army Corporal Insignia
U.S. Army Corporal Insignia
  • Class: Noncommissioned Officer
  • Abbr.: CPL
  • Title: Corporal (last name)
  • Paygrade: E-4 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $2,393

Corporal, which ranks above Specialist and directly below Sergeant, is the entry-level of the noncommissioned officer (NCO) ranks. A corporal works as the team leader of the smallest Army units. He or she takes charge of individual training, personal appearance and cleanliness of Soldiers. Furthermore, SPC is most often promoted to CPL, though promotion from lower pay grades may happen with sufficient displays of leadership and experience.

CPL’s monthly basic pay salary will automatically increase after 1 or 2 years of service. Furthermore, their earnings consist of multiple types of allowances and bonus pay including clothing allowance, hostile fire pay, and more.

 

1.6. Sergeant (SGT)

 

U.S. Army Sergeant Insignia
U.S. Army Sergeant Insignia
  • Class: Noncommissioned Officer
  • Abbr.: SGT
  • Title: Sergeant (last name)
  • Paygrade: E-5 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $2,610

A Sergeant is regarded as the second-lowest grade of Non-Commissioned Officer, directly above Corporal. 

The primary duties of sergeants are to oversee small units of soldiers ranging in size from a fire team of around five Soldiers to a squad, which includes two fireteams in their daily tasks, and to set a standard for lower-ranked Soldiers to live up to. Furthermore, CPL is most often promoted to SGT, though promotion from lower pay grades may happen with sufficient displays of leadership and experience.

SGT’s monthly basic salary will automatically increase after 1 or 2 years of service. Furthermore, their earnings consist of multiple types of allowances and bonus pay, including clothing allowance, education allowance, housing allowance, retirement benefits, and more.

 

1.7. Staff Sergeant (SSG)

 

U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Insignia
U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Insignia
  • Class: Noncommissioned Officer
  • Abbr.: SSG
  • Title: Sergeant (last name)
  • Paygrade: E-6 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $2,849

Staff Sergeant is non-commissioned officer (NCO) in the United States Army, ranking above Sergeant and directly below Sergeant First Class. 

Typically, a staff sergeant might be placed in command of a squad of 9-10 soldiers. Nevertheless, in some circumstances, a Staff Sergeant may command a larger unit, such as a platoon including 2 to 4 squads containing anywhere from 16 to 50 soldiers. Especially, a staff sergeant will have at least a sergeant serving under his or her leadership. 

In a leadership position, staff sergeants take charge of developing, maintaining, and utilizing the full range of a Soldier’s potential. Furthermore, SGT is most promoted to SSG, though promotion from lower pay grades may happen with sufficient displays of leadership and experience.

SGT’s monthly basic salary will automatically increase after 1 or 2 years of service. Furthermore, their earnings consist of multiple types of allowances and bonus pay, including retirement benefits, education allowance, food allowance, hazard pay, and more.

 

1.8. Sergeant First Class (SFC)

 

U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Insignia
U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Insignia
  • Class: Noncommissioned Officer
  • Abbr.: SFC
  • Title: Sergeant (last name)
  • Paygrade: E-7 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $3,249

Sergeant First Class, ranking above Staff Sergeant and directly below Master Sergeant, is the first senior non-commissioned officer in the United States Army. 

The soldiers at this rank of Sergeant First Class, who have at least 15 years of Army experience, serve as the chief assistant and advisor to the platoon leader. Furthermore, they may command as many as 40 soldiers in a rifle platoon or 18 soldiers and 4 tanks in an armor platoon. Furthermore, SSG  is most often promoted to SFC, though promotion from lower pay grades may happen with sufficient displays of leadership and experience.

Army Sergeant First Class’ monthly basic pay salary will automatically increase after 1 or 2 years of service. Furthermore, their earnings consist of multiple types of allowances and bonus pay, including clothing allowance, housing allowance, personal money allowance, and more.

 

1.9. Master Sergeant (MSG)

 

U.S. Army Master Sergeant Insignia
U.S. Army Master Sergeant Insignia
  • Class: Noncommissioned Officer
  • Abbr.: MSG
  • Title: Sergeant (last name)
  • Paygrade: E-8 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $4,739

Master Sergeant is a senior non-commissioned officer (NCO) in the United States Army, ranking above Sergeant First Class and directly below First Sergeant. The Master Sergeant serves as a brigade’s NCO in Charge, on a par with the First Sergeant but with fewer leadership responsibilities than one. A Master Sergeant usually specializes in a certain area or subject.

Furthermore, SFC  is most often promoted to MSG, though promotion from lower pay grades may happen with sufficient displays of leadership and experience. The Army Master Sergeant’s monthly basic pay salary will automatically increase after 1 or 2 years of service. Furthermore, their earnings consist of multiple types of allowances and bonuses, including a personal money allowance, a food allowance, and more.

 

1.10. First Sergeant (1SG)

 

U.S. Army First Sergeant Insignia
U.S. Army First Sergeant Insignia
  • Class: Noncommissioned Officer
  • Abbr.: 1SG
  • Title: First Sergeant (last name)
  • Paygrade: E-8 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $4,739

First Sergeant is the 10th rank in the United States Army, ranking above MSG  and just below SGM

The first sergeants are the chief non-commissioned officers and the lifeblood of a company as well. They are disciplinarians and counselors. They guide other sergeants, advise the commander, and help train all enlisted soldiers. Furthermore, they also support company officers (62 to 190 soldiers).

The first sergeants are the principal NCO and life-blood of a company. They work as disciplinarians and counselors. They instruct other sergeants, advise the commander, and help train all enlisted soldiers. Also they assist officers at the company level (62 to 190 soldiers).

Furthermore, MSG is most often promoted to 1SG, though promotion from lower pay grades may happen with sufficient displays of leadership and experience.

Army First Sergeant’s monthly basic pay salary will automatically increase after 1 or 2 years of service. Furthermore, their earnings consist of multiple types of allowances and bonus pay, including personal money allowance, food allowance, and more.

 

1.11. Sergeant Major (SGM)

 

U.S. Army Sergeant Major Insignia
U.S. Army Sergeant Major Insignia
  • Class: Noncommissioned Officer
  • Abbr.: SGM
  • Title: Sergeant Major (last name)
  • Paygrade: E-9 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $5,789

Sergeant Major is known as the 11th rank in the United States Army, ranking above First Sergeant and just below Commander Sergeant.

A Sergeant Major works as the chief administrative assistant at a battalion-sized headquarters unit of 300 to 1,000 soldiers. Furthermore, he or she leads soldiers and junior officers placed directly under his command.

Furthermore, 1SG is most often promoted to SGM, though promotion from lower pay grades may happen with sufficient displays of leadership and experience.

SMG’s monthly basic salary will automatically increase after 1 or 2 years of service. Furthermore, their earnings consist of multiple types of allowances and bonus pay, including food allowance, retirement benefits, hostile fire pay, and more.

 

1.12. Command Sergeant Major (CSM)

 

U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major Insignia
U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major Insignia
  • Class: Noncommissioned Officer
  • Abbr.: CSM
  • Title: Command Sergeant Major (last name)
  • Paygrade: E-9 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $5,789

Command Sergeant Major, ranking above Sergeant Major and directly below Sergeant Major of the Army, is the 12th rank in the United States Army. CSMs serve as the senior enlisted advisors to the commanding officer on the performance, training, appearance, and conduct of enlisted soldiers. Furthermore, SGM is most often promoted to CSM, though promotion from lower pay grades may happen with sufficient displays of leadership and experience.

CSM’s monthly basic salary will automatically increase after 1 or 2 years of service. Furthermore, their earnings consist of multiple types of allowances and bonus pay, including hazard pay, personal money allowance, clothing allowance, and more.

 

1.13. Sergeant Major of the Army

 

Sergeant Major of the Army
Sergeant Major of the Army
  • Class: Noncommissioned Officer (Special)
  • Abbr.: SMA
  • Title: Sergeant Major of the Army (last name)
  • Paygrade: E-9 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $5,789

The 13th rank in the US Army is Sergeant Major of the Army, directly below Warrant Officer 1 and above Command Sergeant Major. The Army has just one Sergeant Major. Every noncommissioned officer is under the SMA’s control. He acts as the Army Chief of Staff’s top enlisted advisor and consultant. Promotions don’t take place the same way as with a standard Army rank promotion since Sergeant Major of the Army is a special or ceremonial post.

More specifically, from a pool of qualified Sergeants Major, the Chief of Staff of the Army (CSA) and the Secretary of the Army, a civilian who reports directly to the Secretary of Defense, personally choose the Sergeant Major of the Army.

Sergeants Major are eligible for nomination and selection if they have held the position of Command Sergeants Major and have completed the necessary service and grade requirements. The CSA and the Secretary of the Army decide which soldiers are qualified for the position based on their merit.

SMA’s monthly basic pay salary will automatically increase after 1 or 2 years of service. Furthermore, their earnings consist of multiple types of allowances and bonus pay, including hostile fire pay, personal money allowance, hazard pay, food allowance, and more.

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2. U.S. Army Ranks – U.S. Warrant Officer Rank

 

Above senior enlisted ranks but below officer grade O-1 are the warrant officer ranks (grades W-1 to W-5; see Officer Ranks). Warrant officers are highly skilled, single-track specialty officers, and although the ranks of warrant officers are authorized by Congress, the Army manages and employs them in a slightly different manner.

The secretary of the relevant service approves the appointment of warrant officers. Warrant officers are commissioned by the President of the United States and take the same oath as regular commissioned officers (O-1 to O-10), except for chief warrant officer ranks (W-2 to W-5). 

In addition to leading, coaching, training, and counseling subordinates, warrant officers are able to command detachments, units, activities, vessels, aircraft, and armored vehicles. The chief responsibility of a warrant officer, however, is to act as a technical expert, offering valuable knowledge, direction, and experience to commanders and organizations in their specialized field.

The proper way to address a warrant officer is “Mr. (last name)” or “Ms. (last name).” However, a lot of people instead say “Sir,” “Ma’am,” or most frequently, “Chief” and “Warrant,” instead of those titles.

 

2.1. Warrant Officer 1 (WO1) 

 

U.S. Army Warrant Officer 1 Insignia
U.S. Army Warrant Officer 1 Insignia
  • Class: Warrant Officer
  • Abbr.: WO1
  • Title: Mr. (last name) or Chief (last name)
  • Paygrade: W-1 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay: $3,399

The earliest and lowest Warrant Officer rank in the American Army is Warrant Officer 1, or WO1. Enlisted members who wish to join the Warrant Officer program must submit a written application, which is then looked over by commanders to ensure that the applicant meets all eligibility requirements before being submitted as recommended with enthusiasm, confidence, reservation, or not recommended. They are officially appointed by the Secretary of the Army. 

The Army’s technical and tactical experts are warrant officers. Warrant officers at the entry-level rank often assist operations from a team or detachment through a battalion. 

Almost all Warrant Officers 1 (CW1)  will receive an automatic raise in base pay every one to two years. In addition to a monthly basic wage, they may get a variety of allowances and bonuses, including retirement benefits, hazard pay, food allowance, and more. 

 

2.2. Chief Warrant Officer 2 (CW2) 

 

U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Insignia
U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Insignia
  • Class: Warrant Officer
  • Abbr.: CW2
  • Title: Mr. (last name) or Chief (last name)
  • Paygrade: W-2 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay: $3,872

Chief Warrant Officer 2 (CW2), appointed by the Secretary of the Army, is the second Warrant Officer rank in the United States Army. The Chief Warrant Officer 2 supporting teams, detachments, and battalions at all operational levels is a technical and tactical expert of intermediate ability. 

The duties of a Chief Warrant Officer 2 typically require the authority of a commissioned officer. However, they call for complex technical expertise and experience that a commissioned officer would not have had the chance to acquire.  They are accountable for battalion-level leadership.

A Chief Warrant Officer 2 wears the same rank insignia as a Warrant Officer 1, but it is a vertical silver bar with two black stripes inside of it rather than just one.

Almost all Chief Warrant Officers 2 will receive an automatic raise in base pay every one to two years. In addition to a monthly basic wage, they may get a variety of allowances and bonuses, including a clothing allowance, a housing allowance, a personal money allowance, and more.

 

2.3. Chief Warrant Officer 3 (CW3) 

 

U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Insignia
U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Insignia
  • Class: Warrant Officer
  • Abbr.: CW3
  • Title: Mr. (last name) or Chief (last name)
  • Paygrade: W-3 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay: $4,376

The United States Army’s Chief Warrant Officer 3 (CW3) is the third rank of warrant officer, which is formally appointed by the Secretary of the Army. In both the technical and tactical facets of leading in their industry, they are advanced level experts. 

The authority of a commissioned officer is typically required for Chief Warrant Officer 3 duties, but they also call for complex technical knowledge and experience that a commissioned officer would not have the chance to gain. 

They give their subordinates the direction, help, and supervision they require to carry out their tasks. They primarily support operations carried out by a brigade or team. A Chief Warrant Officer 3 wears the same rank insignia as a Chief Warrant Officer 2, but with three black stripes instead of two on a vertical silver bar.

Almost all Chief Warrant Officers 3 will receive an automatic raise in base pay every one to two years. In addition to a monthly basic wage, they may get a variety of allowances and bonuses including clothing allowance, housing allowance, personal money allowance, and more.

 

2.4. Chief Warrant Officer 4 (CW4)

 

U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 4 Insignia
U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 4 Insignia
  • Class: Warrant Officer
  • Abbr.: CW4
  • Title: Mr. (last name) or Chief (last name)
  • Paygrade: W-4 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay: $4,792

The United States Army’s Chief Warrant Officer 4 (CW4) rank is the fourth Warrant Officer rank, which is appointed by the Secretary of the Army. CW4s are senior level authorities in their industry on both the technical and tactical aspects of leadership. 

Chief Warrant Officer 2 responsibilities include those that would ordinarily fall under the purview of a commissioned officer, but also call for complex technical expertise and experience that a commissioned officer would not have the chance to acquire. They provide guidance to lower ranking Warrant Officers and consult with commanders on WO-related matters. In general, their main purpose is to support the operations of battalion, brigade, division, corps, and echelons above corps.

A Chief Warrant Officer 4 wears the same rank insignia as a Chief Warrant Officer 3, but instead of three stripes, it has four horizontal black stripes on a vertical silver bar. Almost all Chief Warrant Officers 4 will receive an automatic raise in base pay every one to two years. In addition to a monthly basic wage, they may get a variety of allowances and bonuses including hazard pay, clothing allowance, and more.

 

2.5. Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CW5) 

 

U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 5 Insignia
U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 5 Insignia
  • Class: Warrant Officer
  • Abbr.: CW5
  • Title: Mr. (last name) or Chief (last name)
  • Paygrade: W-5 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay: $8,520

The fifth and highest Warrant Officer rank in the United States Army is Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CW5), which is appointed by the Secretary of the Army. They are master-level authorities in their industry on both the technical and tactical aspects of leadership. 

Along with the usual Warrant Officer duties, CW5s also have additional leadership and advocacy responsibilities.  A Chief Warrant Officer 5 must have complex technical knowledge and experience to perform their duties. They assist with mentorship, leadership development, and branch and warrant officer advice. They typically provide support for major operations and those at the battalion, brigade, division, corps, and echelons above corps levels.

Chief Warrant Officer 5 rank insignias are very distinctive from other Warrant Officer rank insignias; they have three vertical stripes, with the outer stripes being silver and the center stripe being black.

 

3. U.S. Army Ranks – U.S. Army Officer Ranks

 

Army officers in positions of command power are assigned officer ranks, which range from grade O-1 to O-11. In a military setting, commissioned officers are often the only people qualified to assume leadership of a military unit.

Army ROTC, the United States Military Academy at West Point or the United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, as well as Officer Candidate School, are some of the routes one can take to become a commissioned officer. A select group of professionals, including doctors, nurses, attorneys, and chaplains, receive direct commissions into the Army. Nevertheless, no matter what road an officer takes, the rank insignias are the same.

No matter how many stars they have, refer to all personnel with the Officer rank of General as “General (last name)”. As with first and second lieutenants, refer to all colonels and lieutenant colonels as “Colonel (last name)” and all lieutenants as “Lieutenant (last name)”. Other officer ranks, such as “Major Payne,” are simply “(rank name) (last name)”. If you’re speaking to them directly, just address them as “Sir” or “Ma’am”.

 

3.1. Second Lieutenant (2LT)

 

U.S. Army Second Lieutenant Insignia
U.S. Army Second Lieutenant Insignia
  • Class: Commissioned Officer 
  • Abbr.: 2LT
  • Title: Lieutenant (last name)
  • Paygrade: O-1 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $3,477 

In the United States Army, Second Lieutenant is the entry-level commissioned officer rank. A second lieutenant takes charge of commanding a platoon comprising 16 to 44 soldiers, including two or more rifle squads led by a senior non-commissioned officer. 

Because of their golden bar insignia, second lieutenants are often informally referred to as “butter bars” or “nuggets”. Soldiers might be entitled to the rank of Second Lieutenants if they have completed an ROTC program or a four-year college degree combined with Officer Candidate School. 

Basic pay of almost all Second Lieutenants will be automatically increased every one to two years. Apart from a monthly basic salary, they might be bestowed with multiple types of allowances and bonus pay consisting of retirement benefits, education allowances, hazard pay, and more.

 

3.2. First Lieutenant (1LT) 

 

U.S. Army First Lieutenant Insignia
U.S. Army First Lieutenant Insignia
  • Class: Commissioned Officer 
  • Abbr.: 2LT
  • Title: Lieutenant (last name)
  • Paygrade: O-2 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $4,007 

The second junior commissioned officer rank is referred to as First Lieutenant, which is automatically obtained by Second Lieutenants who have served for 18 to 24 months. Soldiers at this rank may work either as the Platoon Leader of a specialized weapons platoon or as the executive officer of a company including 70 to 250 soldiers.

The basic pay of almost all First Lieutenants will be automatically increased every one to two years. Apart from a monthly basic salary, they might be bestowed with multiple types of allowances and bonus pay, including hostile fire pay, education allowance, and more.

 

3.3. Captain (CPT) 

 

U.S. Army Captain Insignia
U.S. Army Captain Insignia
  • Class: Commissioned Officer 
  • Abbr.: CPT
  • Title: Captain (last name)
  • Paygrade: O-3 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $4,637

A captain is regarded as a commissioned officer at company level. A captain typically works as a company commander in charge of 62 to 190 soldiers. Furthermore, he or she will be placed in command of the tactical and everyday operations of their troops, assisted by several junior commissioned officers and one or more senior non-commissioned officers. 

Additionally, sometimes he or she might take charge of teaching roles at combat schools or special training sessions as well as being a staff officer at the battalion level. 

The basic pay of almost all captains will be automatically increased every one to two years. Apart from a monthly basic salary, they might be bestowed with multiple types of allowances and bonus pay, including hazard pay, housing allowance, and more.

 

3.4. Major (MAJ) 

 

U.S. Army Major Insignia
U.S. Army Major Insignia
  • Class: Field Officer 
  • Abbr.: MAJ
  • Title: Major (last name)
  • Paygrade: O-4 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $5,247

The first field officer rank in the United States Army is Major. Typically, most majors who attend the Command and General Staff School in Kansas for a ten-month course before beginning their commission work as specialized executive or operations officers for battalion-size units of 300 to 1,200 soldiers. Besides, they might serve as primary staff officers in high-level command posts, who task force commands and manage personnel, logistical, and operational missions.

The basic pay of almost all majors will be automatically increased every one to two years. Apart from a monthly basic salary, they might be bestowed with multiple types of allowances and bonus pay, including an education allowance, hostile fire pay, and more.

 

3.5. Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) 

 

U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel Insignia
U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel Insignia
  • Class: Field Officer 
  • Abbr.: LTC
  • Title: Colonel (last name)
  • Paygrade: O-5 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $6,112

The second field officer grade commissioned officer rank is that of a Lieutenant Colonel. One or more Majors, numerous subordinate non-commissioned officers, and a Command Sergeant Major who serves as the primary enlisted advisor support Lieutenant Colonels as they lead their battalions.

 In a variety of senior units or command positions, a lieutenant colonel may also act as an executive officer or staff officer. An officer can typically advance to the rank of lieutenant colonel in 16 to 22 years. Many career officers who are qualified to retire after 20 years of active service do so with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel as a result.

Basic pay of almost all Lieutenant Colonels will be automatically increased every one to two years. Apart from a monthly basic pay salary, they might be bestowed with multiple types of allowances and bonus pay including education allowance, hostile fire pay, and more.

 

3.6. Colonel (COL) 

 

U.S. Army Colonel Insignia
U.S. Army Colonel Insignia
  • Class: Field Officer 
  • Abbr.: COL 
  • Title: Colonel (last name)
  • Paygrade: O-6 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $7,332

Colonel is the senior field-officer grade commissioned officer rank, directly above Lieutenant Colonel and below Brigadier General. 

The colonel is typically placed in command of brigade-sized units (3,000 to 5,000 soldiers), with the assistance of several junior commissioned officers and a Command Sergeant Major as a primary non-commissioned officer advisor. Colonel might work as the chief of divisional-level special agencies.

There are over 200 Army officers who graduate from special training at the Army War College in Pennsylvania annually. Colonels who demonstrate their exceptional skill and leadership are often promoted to Brigadier General.

Basic pay of almost all colonels will be automatically increased every one to two years. Apart from a monthly basic pay salary, they might be bestowed with  multiple types of allowances and bonus pay including hostile fire pay, personal money allowance, and more.

 

3.7. Brigadier General (BG)

 

U.S. Army Brigadier General Insignia
U.S. Army Brigadier General Insignia
  • Class: General Officer 
  • Abbr.: BG
  • Title: General (last name)
  • Paygrade: O-7 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $9,668

Brigadier General is the lowest ranking of the General Officer ranks. Typically, brigadier generals work as  advisors and deputy commanders to major generals, who are placed in command of a division-sized unit of 10,000 to 15,000 soldiers. More specifically, they take charge of overseeing the tactical planning and coordinating the division’s missions.  

Basic pay of almost all Brigadier Generals will be automatically increased every one to two years. Apart from a monthly basic pay salary, they might be bestowed with  multiple types of allowances and bonus pay including housing allowance, clothing allowance, and more

 

3.8. Major General (MG)

 

U.S. Army Major General Insignia
U.S. Army Major General Insignia
  • Class: Major General
  • Abbr.: MG
  • Title: General (last name)
  • Paygrade: O-8 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay $11,636

The highest permanent position in the Army during peacetime is the Major General, which is a two-star General Officer rank. A division-sized unit of 10,000 to 15,000 troops is under the leadership of a Major General.

Only after going through a rigorous nomination and evaluation procedure by many offices and promotion boards can a major general be appointed. Major General-level officers are obligated to retire after five years on the job or after 35 years of service overall, unless promoted or reappointed.

Almost all Major Generals will receive an automatic raise in base pay every one to two years. In addition to a monthly basic wage, they may get a variety of bonuses and allowances, such as hazard pay, food benefits, retirement benefits, and more.

 

3.9. Lieutenant General (LTG) 

 

U.S. Army Lieutenant General Insignia
U.S. Army Lieutenant General Insignia
  • Class: General Officer
  • Abbr.: LTG
  • Title: General (last name)
  • Paygrade: O-9 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay: $16,445

The Lieutenant General is a three-star General Officer position whose pay grade is above the highest permanent rank of the Major General. 

Lieutenant General is referred to as a temporary position that is reserved for times of war and expires with the end of the general’s active tour of duty, typically 3 to 5 years. A Lieutenant General is a senior staff officer or department head who oversees corps-sized units of 20,000 to 45,000 soldiers. They may also serve in different domestic and foreign headquarters as senior staff officers or department heads on occasion.

Almost all Lieutenant Generals will receive an automatic raise in base pay every one to two years. In addition to a monthly basic wage, they may get a variety of allowances and bonuses, including an education allowance, retirement benefits, hostile fire pay, a housing allowance, and more.

 

3.10 General (GEN) 

 

U.S. Army General Insignia
U.S. Army General Insignia
  • Class: General Officer
  • Abbr.: GEN
  • Title: General (last name)
  • Paygrade: O-10 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay: $16,975

The highest rank an officer may achieve outside of the General of the Army level, which is only available during times of war, is General, a four-star General Officer rank. A maximum of seven four-star generals are allowed in the Army at any given time, with some of these positions being filled permanently, such as the Army Chief of Staff, who is a four-star general. 

A general has served in the military for more than 30 years. They are in charge of all operations occurring within their administrative region.

A four-star general is nominated for the position by the president, and the Senate must approve them before they may start serving. All four-star general grades are transitory and dependent on the general’s current positions. Four-star generals are required to retire after 40 years of service or at the age of 64; however, the Army Chief of Staff or the President may prolong this requirement.

Almost all Generals will receive an automatic raise in base pay every one to two years. In addition to a monthly basic wage, they may get a variety of allowances and bonus pay, including hazard pay, retirement benefits, and more.

 

3.11. General Of The Army (GA) (Reserved for wartime only)

 

General Of The Army
General Of The Army Insignia
  • Class: General Officer
  • Abbr.: GA
  • Title: General (last name)
  • Paygrade: O-10 (DoD Pay Grade)
  • Monthly Basic Pay: $16,975

Only in times of war is this position possible, and even then, the commanding officer must be on par with or superior to those in charge of the armies of allies. The last officers to have this rank were in service during and just after World War II.

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To sum up, this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the U.S. Army ranks in order. Follow our site to keep up to date with more informative blogs, military news, and ASVAB tests. Don’t forget to take our ASVAB Practice Questions right now if you are planning to take the U.S. military test for admission.