Ranks
In the Army, your rank not only indicates your pay grade, but also the amount of responsibility you hold. Corporals, for example, may be responsible for a small team of Soldiers, while a Major General could hold command of anywhere between 10,000-15,000 Soldiers. Learn about the ranks of each Soldier type by clicking on the tabs below.
While the amount of time spent in each rank is based on averages, you can often accelerate the promotion process by taking advantage of additional training and schooling opportunities.
PRIVATE (PVT/PV2)
Private is the lowest rank. Most Soldiers start out at this rank. Their primary role is to carry out orders. The PVT rank does not have an insignia.
PRIVATE FIRST CLASS (PFC)
Privates are generally promoted to this level within a year by request of a supervisor. An individual can begin Basic Combat Training at this rank with experience or prior military training.
MAJOR (MAJ)
The Major serves as the primary Staff Officer for brigade and task force command and manages personnel, logistical and operational missions.
LIEUTENANT COLONEL (LTC)
The Lieutenant Colonel typically commands battalion-sized units (300 to 1,000 Soldiers), with a Command Sergeant Major as an NCO assistant. He or she may also be selected for brigade and task force Executive Officer.
MAJOR (MAJ)
The Major serves as the primary Staff Officer for brigade and task force command and manages personnel, logistical and operational missions.
MAJOR (MAJ)
The Major serves as the primary Staff Officer for brigade and task force command and manages personnel, logistical and operational missions.
MAJOR (MAJ)
The Major serves as the primary Staff Officer for brigade and task force command and manages personnel, logistical and operational missions.
MAJOR (MAJ)
The Major serves as the primary Staff Officer for brigade and task force command and manages personnel, logistical and operational missions.
MAJOR (MAJ)
The Major serves as the primary Staff Officer for brigade and task force command and manages personnel, logistical and operational missions.
MAJOR (MAJ)
The Major serves as the primary Staff Officer for brigade and task force command and manages personnel, logistical and operational missions.
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