The Sergeant Major
“Sergeant major” refers to both a rank and position in the military. It is the highest enlisted rank that can be reached and is just above first sergeant. A sergeant major will serve as a command sergeant major leading as small a unit as a battalion and will even serve all the way up to sergeant major of the Army.
Duties of the Sergeant Major
A sergeant major’s job is to oversee all enlisted functions and assist officers in everything from a battalion-sized force and higher. Anywhere from hundreds to over thousands. He or she will lead soldiers and officers assigned to his or her command in each of their duties. The sergeant major will receive not only their base pay but many additional pay allowances, such as BAH, personal money allowances and additional retirement benefits.
What it takes to Become a Sergeant Major
You are not handed this position because of your time in rank or grade. This position is earned through hard work and advanced leadership skills training. The STEP program and NCOER is what is used to evaluate and decide if a soldier is ready for Sergeants Major Academy and many other tasks prior to being promoted to sergeant major.
What They Really Do
A sergeant major really does a lot. They will most likely be the first one in for the day and the last one out. They are responsible for everybody and at most times will travel along with battalion commanders when they are visiting soldiers and units within their command. Their job is truly never done, even when the lights go out. They’re truly dedicated to their soldiers and officers. They’re committed to the mission and success of their units. They will attend countless briefings and lead in mission planning so that each task is accounted for. The safety of their soldiers is their number one concern. The sergeant major leads the leaders, and as with all NCOs, is the true backbone of the Army.
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