Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Gunnery sergeant

A gunnery sergeant (GySgt), E-7, is the seventh in the United States Marine Corps and the lowest (NCO) grade, positioned above (E-6) and below and (both E-8). This rank is unique to the USMC among the U.S. armed services and emphasizes technical expertise, leadership, and operational advisory roles within Marine units. The rank of gunnery sergeant was established on March 3, 1899, through the Navy Personnel Act (30 Stat. 1004), which authorized 72 such positions in the with the rank and pay allowances equivalent to those of a ($35 per month at the time). Originally created to address the specialized duties of serving on , where smaller detachments required leaders capable of handling both platoon-level responsibilities and gunnery oversight, the role evolved to support broader and technical operations as the expanded. Over time, the —featuring three chevrons above three rockers with a emblem—has symbolized the rank's focus on weapons proficiency and , with modifications in 1959 to include crossed rifles for alignment. In contemporary service, gunnery sergeants function as unit operations chiefs, collaborating with officers on planning training exercises, tactical maneuvers, and mission execution while maintaining high standards of discipline and morale among subordinates. They often serve in billets such as company gunnery sergeant, , or staff roles in and weapons training, drawing on extensive experience (typically 8–12 years of service) to mentor junior and ensure operational efficiency. Promotion to gunnery sergeant requires demonstrated , completion of required professional military education like the Career Course, and selection by a promotion board convened annually by the .

Overview and Rank Structure

Definition and Pay Grade

The gunnery sergeant (GySgt) is the seventh enlisted rank in the United States Marine Corps (USMC), classified as a staff noncommissioned officer (SNCO) at E-7. This rank serves as a senior enlisted position emphasizing technical and supervisory responsibilities, particularly in gunnery, weapons systems, and operational proficiency within the Marine's military (MOS). It is positioned immediately above (E-6) and below or (E-8) in the USMC enlisted hierarchy. In terms of pay grade equivalence across U.S. military branches, the E-7 aligns with in the , in the Navy, and in the and . These equivalences are standardized by the Department of Defense to facilitate and seniority comparisons among enlisted personnel from different services. As of 2025 (effective April 1, 2025), the base pay for an E-7 gunnery sergeant varies by years of service, starting at $3,788.10 per month for those with two or fewer years (though typically achieved after more service) and reaching $5,951.10 for over 18 years, with further increases up to $6,808.80 for over 40 years. Total compensation includes this basic pay plus allowances such as Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) based on location and dependents, Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) for meals, and special pays for deployment (e.g., imminent danger pay) or longevity increments.
Years of ServiceMonthly Base Pay (E-7, 2025)
2 or less$3,788.10
Over 2$4,134.30
Over 3$4,293.00
Over 4$4,502.10
Over 6$4,666.50
Over 8$4,947.60
Over 10$5,106.30
Over 12 and above$5,387.10 to $6,808.80 (depending on years of service)

Position in the Enlisted Hierarchy

In the United States Marine Corps enlisted rank structure, the gunnery sergeant (E-7) occupies the seventh position, situated above the (E-6) and below the and (both E-8). This placement positions the gunnery sergeant as the highest enlisted rank primarily focused on technical expertise in fields such as gunnery and weapons systems, serving as a critical bridge between junior non-commissioned officers (NCOs) and senior staff NCOs before personnel typically diverge into specialized administrative, command, or advanced technical tracks at E-8. Gunnery sergeants interact extensively with subordinate ranks, including supervising corporals (E-4) and sergeants (E-5) in areas like weapons handling, training exercises, and tactical maneuvers, ensuring proficiency and compliance with operational standards. They report directly to superiors such as master gunnery sergeants, first sergeants, or company-grade officers, providing tactical advice, operational insights, and support in unit readiness while contributing to broader enlisted-officer coordination. This bridging role enhances the flow of information and authority across the hierarchy, fostering discipline, morale, and efficiency within the unit. Unlike the parallel E-7 roles in other branches, the Marine Corps gunnery sergeant emphasizes specialization in , small arms, and related technical domains, distinguishing it from positions like the (E-8), which focuses more on company-level personnel management, welfare, and administrative discipline rather than direct tactical or gunnery oversight. In units, gunnery sergeants often serve as platoon sergeants, directing subordinate actions in combat training and weapons employment, whereas in batteries, they act as battery gunnery sergeants, overseeing technical operations and crew performance. Within unit organization, gunnery sergeants play a pivotal in scenarios, such as leading gun crews in sections or coordinating elements during fire missions, where they integrate technical gunnery knowledge with leadership to execute precise and effective support for maneuver units. This operational focus underscores their contribution to the overall enlisted structure, balancing hands-on expertise with supervisory responsibilities to maintain readiness.

Historical Development

Origins in the Early Marine Corps

The rank of gunnery sergeant was established in the United States Marine Corps through the Navy Personnel Act of March 3, 1899 (30 Stat. 1009), which authorized 72 positions. This creation addressed the growing demand for technically proficient non-commissioned officers to oversee operations amid the U.S. Navy's post-Spanish-American War expansion, when Marine detachments played a critical role in shipboard and coastal during heightened global naval activities. From its , the gunnery sergeant role centered on the maintenance, operation, and instruction of naval guns within Marine detachments stationed aboard warships and at shore-based installations. These duties required hands-on expertise in handling, supervision, and management, ensuring could effectively support naval gunnery batteries in scenarios. Initial appointments filled the 72 authorized slots soon after the act's passage, marking a key step in professionalizing the ' enlisted structure for naval integration.

Evolution and Key Reforms

Following , the U.S. Marine Corps experienced a period of contraction but maintained and gradually expanded its capabilities during the interwar years of the 1920s. This adaptation reflected the Corps' shift toward advanced fire support systems, including early mechanized howitzers, as Marine leaders anticipated future conflicts requiring integrated ground and naval gunfire. During , gunnery sergeants played critical roles in amphibious assaults, such as the 1942 , where they led sections and coordinated defensive fires against Japanese banzai charges, exemplified by Sergeant John Basilone's heroic actions in repelling night attacks. These experiences highlighted the need for enhanced integration of infantry, , and naval support. The 1943 (E-Series, effective April 15, 1943) added a gunnery sergeant to company headquarters for ordnance and logistics duties. In the era, the rank was temporarily abolished post-World War II amid postwar reductions but restored in 1958 through a major enlisted reorganization, establishing gunnery sergeant as the E-7 and designating it a primary supervisory tier distinct from the technical role. This reform, part of broader Defense Department adjustments, aimed to preserve Marine Corps traditions while standardizing leadership positions for supervisory billets in , , and units. Post-9/11 operations necessitated further adaptations for gunnery sergeants in environments. In the , the Corps integrated oversight under , emphasizing distributed operations with small unmanned aerial systems for lethality extension.

Insignia and Uniform Standards

Current Insignia Design

The current for the gunnery sergeant rank in the United States Marine Corps features three upward-pointing chevrons above two arc-shaped rockers, with crossed rifles centered vertically between the chevrons and rockers. This design distinguishes the E-7 from other ranks, such as the , which has three chevrons above one rocker with crossed rifles below. The crossed rifles symbolize the rank's emphasis on expertise and leadership, evolving from historical ties to gunnery and proficiency represented by the former bursting bomb device. Variations in the insignia occur based on uniform type to ensure practicality and visibility. On service uniforms ( and Bravos), the is rendered in embroidered cloth with thread on a scarlet red background for male , sewn onto both sleeves of the or , positioned with the bottom of the chevrons ½ inch above the seam. For blue uniforms, polished -tone metal pin-on devices are used, attached in the same sleeve location. Combat utility uniforms (MCCUU) employ subdued versions with black or olive drab thread, worn as embroidered patches on the collars of the and , centered 1 inch from the bottom front edge. Color standards adhere to for formal contexts and drab or subdued tones for and utility wear, as outlined in Marine Corps Order () 1020.34H, Uniform Regulations (effective 2018 with administrative updates through 2022). These specifications ensure uniformity and compliance across active-duty personnel. Infrared-reflective versions of the have been available for operational environments since the to enhance low-light identification without altering the core design.

Historical Variations

The insignia for the gunnery sergeant rank has undergone several changes since its establishment in 1899, adapting to the Marine Corps' operational priorities, from naval artillery expertise to modern combat requirements. These variations in design, particularly the central device and supporting elements, highlight shifts in emphasis from gunnery specialization to broader leadership roles while maintaining distinctiveness within the enlisted structure. From 1899 to 1904, the initial design consisted of three chevrons above three straight rockers with a bursting bomb centered over crossed rifles and a naval cannon, underscoring the rank's original focus on naval gunnery and shipboard artillery operations. This configuration, specified in early uniform regulations, symbolized the technical proficiency required for managing shipboard weapons systems during an era when Marines primarily served as sea-going infantry with artillery duties. In 1904, the design simplified to three chevrons with the bursting bomb over crossed rifles on a scarlet field. The and era (1918-1945) saw further evolution, with two arc-shaped rockers added below the chevrons in 1929 to indicate and levels, allowing for differentiation among gunnery sergeants in larger units during global conflicts. This supported the rank's toward supervisory duties in both naval and expeditionary settings, retaining the bursting bomb for expertise. In 1959, the central device changed from the bursting bomb to crossed rifles, emphasizing alignment and over specialized gunnery roles. In the post-Vietnam modernization of the and , the Marine Corps adopted Velcro-backed patches for rank on , enabling quick field changes and removal during chemical, biological, or radiological environments or when transitioning between uniform types. This practical adaptation improved operational flexibility for gunnery sergeants in training and deployment scenarios, reflecting lessons from prolonged where sewn proved cumbersome. During the , particularly in response to the , a 1991 uniform directive introduced infrared-reflective versions of the gunnery sergeant for enhanced low-light compatibility. These subdued, IR-compliant designs minimized detection by night-vision devices while maintaining visibility to friendly forces, addressing the needs of desert night operations and coalition maneuvers in Operation Desert Storm. Current uniform placements for these remain on the collars and sleeves, consistent with historical positioning.

Responsibilities and Duties

Core Operational Roles

Gunnery sergeants serve as key supervisors of weapons platoons within companies, overseeing the maintenance, inventory, and deployment of small arms, mortars, and crew-served weapons to ensure operational readiness during field exercises and combat scenarios. In this capacity, they manage the accountability and condition of equipment, coordinating repairs and resupply to maintain unit firepower effectiveness, often acting as the primary enlisted advisor to the company commander on operations. They coordinate live-fire exercises and enforce range safety protocols. This involves planning range operations, verifying compliance with safety measures, and supervising during qualification and sustainment fires to mitigate risks while building tactical skills. Activities align with the Marine Corps Combat Marksmanship Program, which standardizes training to enhance marksmanship proficiency and safety across units as outlined in MCO 3574.2M. In combat environments, gunnery sergeants frequently lead sections for support, such as directing 81mm teams in expeditionary units to provide and coordinate with maneuver elements during assaults. Their expertise ensures accurate targeting and rapid response, integrating fire with other assets to support advances or defensive positions in dynamic battlefields. Gunnery sergeants serve in Marine Expeditionary Units (MEUs), contributing to joint and multinational operations in the Pacific region, including deployments as of the 2020s, such as those by the 15th MEU, to enhance interoperability and deterrence.

Training and Leadership Functions

Gunnery sergeants play a pivotal role in overseeing enlisted professional military education (PME) for junior Marines, ensuring alignment with career progression requirements. This involves coordinating completion of progressive PME programs, including the Advanced School Distance Education Program (EPME7000) for gunnery sergeants themselves, as outlined in Marine Corps policy to develop warfighting and leadership skills. By monitoring subordinate progress and integrating PME into unit training schedules, they foster professional growth and unit cohesion in non-combat environments. In evaluating and counseling junior Marines on weapons handling, gunnery sergeants conduct regular assessments to enhance proficiency and safety, utilizing the Marine Corps Total Force System (MCTFS) as the authoritative database for tracking performance metrics and maintaining personnel records. This process includes documenting proficiency scores and providing targeted feedback to address deficiencies, contributing to overall enlisted development. Administrative responsibilities encompass scheduling annual qualifications, such as rifle marksmanship training, and compiling readiness reports submitted to battalion leadership to verify unit preparedness. These duties demand meticulous organization to ensure compliance with training standards and timely data submission via systems like the Defense Readiness Reporting System-Marine Corps (DRRS-MC). Leadership development under gunnery sergeants emphasizes ethical conduct. As of September 2025, following Department of Defense policy changes, the Marine Corps has suspended (DEI) training programs and adjusted policies, lifting certain restrictions on conduct while maintaining standards against prohibited activities. In the field, gunnery sergeants supervise weapons employment to reinforce sustainment efforts.

Qualifications and Career Path

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for promotion to gunnery sergeant (pay grade E-7) in the United States Marine Corps, a staff sergeant (E-6) must meet specific foundational prerequisites that ensure readiness for staff noncommissioned officer responsibilities. The minimum time in service (TIS) requirement is six years from initial enlistment, while the minimum time in grade (TIG) as a staff sergeant is three years; these thresholds establish basic eligibility for consideration by promotion selection boards, though actual selections often favor Marines with greater experience. Per the Fiscal Year 2025 Gunnery Sergeant Promotion Selection Board guidance, eligibility is further conditioned on having at least 24 months of obligated service remaining upon selection to support post-promotion commitments. Professional military education (PME) forms a core eligibility criterion, requiring completion of the Career Course (also known as the Career Course) through either the resident program at Marine Corps Combatant Training Schools or the variant via MarineNet. This approximately 63-hour curriculum emphasizes , , and warfighting skills essential for the gunnery sergeant role. Additionally, prior completion of the Sergeant's Course—mandatory for advancement to —is assumed as a foundational PME element by the time of gunnery sergeant consideration. Recent updates to enlisted PME requirements (as of FY25) may include adjustments to course delivery; should consult current MARADMINs for specifics. Physical fitness and survival qualifications are required for all Marines, including passing scores on the Physical Fitness Test (PFT)—encompassing pull-ups or push-ups, plank, and a three-mile run—and the (CFT), with physical readiness evaluated through fitness reports for promotion consideration. All Marines must also maintain current water survival qualifications, including swim and drown-proofing assessments, to verify operational resilience in aquatic environments. These standards align with Marine Corps Order 6100.13A, ensuring candidates embody the physical demands of expeditionary service. Military occupational specialty (MOS) alignment prioritizes combat arms fields for gunnery sergeant billets, with primary eligibility in (03XX series, such as Infantry Unit Leader 0369) or (08XX series, such as Cannoneer 0811), reflecting the rank's historical roots in weapons expertise and tactical oversight. Waivers may be granted for in or other support MOS (e.g., 04XX or 30XX) serving in specialized units, such as expeditionary or joint operations, but only if they demonstrate equivalent technical proficiency and leadership potential. This focus ensures gunnery sergeants contribute directly to maneuver and elements within Marine air-ground task forces.

Promotion and Selection Process

The promotion to gunnery sergeant in the United States Marine Corps occurs through a merit-based selection process managed by (HQMC) via staff noncommissioned officer (SNCO) promotion selection boards. These boards identify qualified staff sergeants for advancement to the E-7 , emphasizing leadership and technical expertise essential for company-level operations. Eligibility for promotion is determined by annual zones established using time in grade (TIG) and time in service (TIS) cutoffs, with the primary zone open to staff sergeants who have completed at least 36 months TIG as an E-6 and 72 months TIS overall. Above-zone selections provide limited opportunities for those who have exceeded these minimums, allowing recognition of sustained high performance beyond the standard timeline. Basic entry requirements include holding a primary military occupational specialty (MOS) aligned with gunnery sergeant responsibilities, such as infantry or logistics. SNCO promotion boards for gunnery sergeant are convened by HQMC once per for selections, reviewing comprehensive records to select candidates. Each board comprises one as and 20 members (21 total voting members), including officers and senior SNCOs at least one grade above the promotion zone, who receive briefings from promotion branch leadership and the of the Marine Corps to ensure consistent evaluation standards. Key evaluation criteria include fitness reports (FITREPs) assessing leadership and operational effectiveness, command-endorsed recommendations, and proven performance in demanding billets like or combat instructor, which demonstrate readiness for increased responsibilities. Selections prioritize technical proficiency and potential to mentor junior , with final approvals issued by the .

Cultural and Symbolic Aspects

Gunnery sergeants are frequently depicted in media as stern disciplinarians and authoritative figures, embodying the archetype of the tough, no-nonsense who enforces rigorous training and maintains unit cohesion. In the 1987 film , directed by , Gunnery Sergeant Hartman, portrayed by , exemplifies this trope as a whose intense, profane methods break down recruits during Marine Corps , influencing public perceptions of military leadership for generations. This portrayal, drawn from Ermey's real-life experience as a Marine , has codified the of the gunnery sergeant as a harsh mentor whose fosters , though critics note it exaggerates for dramatic effect. In literature, gunnery sergeants appear in more nuanced roles that adapt the rank to speculative contexts while highlighting leadership and tactical expertise. David Weber's Honor Harrington series, a saga, incorporates the gunnery sergeant as a senior enlisted within the Royal Manticoran Navy's structure, where characters like those in the Marine detachments demonstrate operational command and loyalty in interstellar conflicts. These depictions emphasize the rank's role in bridging officer directives with troop execution, providing accurate reflections of advisory and supervisory duties in high-stakes environments without the overt stereotypes of boot camp intensity. Post-9/11 media has evolved portrayals to focus on gunnery sergeants' operational leadership in contemporary conflicts, moving beyond training scenarios to real-time decision-making under fire. The 2008 HBO miniseries Generation Kill, adapted from Evan Wright's embedded journalism during the 2003 Iraq invasion, features gunnery sergeants such as Mike "Gunny" Wynn and Rich Barret as key platoon leaders in the 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, showcasing their strategic guidance, logistical oversight, and moral navigation amid chaotic warfare. This representation draws from actual Marine experiences, highlighting the rank's critical function in expeditionary operations and earning praise for its authenticity in depicting enlisted initiative. A 2024 study on gender-integrated recruit training highlights how real-world policies have expanded women's access to and positions in the Marine Corps since 2016. Similarly, analyses of contemporary war stories argue that many media portrayals remain outdated, often sidelining or ignoring the of women into gunnery sergeant roles and perpetuating all-male ensembles that reinforce and undervalue contributions to effectiveness, potentially hindering public understanding of modern .

Notable Individuals and Traditions

One of the most renowned gunnery sergeants in Marine Corps history is , who earned the for his extraordinary heroism during the Battle of Guadalcanal in October 1942, where he commanded two sections of heavy machine guns against overwhelming Japanese forces, personally repairing and manning weapons under intense fire to hold the line. Basilone was promoted to gunnery sergeant following his actions and later received the posthumously for his leadership on , where he was killed in action on February 19, 1945, while directing a tank through enemy lines. Another iconic figure is Gunnery Sergeant Daniel J. Daly, a two-time recipient for valor in the Boxer Rebellion (1900) and the Haitian campaign (1915), who continued serving as a gunnery sergeant during and became legendary for his rallying cry, "Come on, you sons of bitches, do you want to live forever?" during the . In more modern times, , a former Marine Corps who retired as a in 1972, received an honorary promotion to gunnery sergeant in 2002, recognizing his contributions to Marine Corps heritage through his authentic portrayal of Gunnery Sergeant Hartman in the film , which drew from his real experiences at Marine Corps Recruit Depot . The rank of gunnery sergeant carries distinct traditions that foster camaraderie and professional identity within the Marine Corps. Informally, gunnery sergeants are often addressed as "Gunny" by peers, subordinates, and superiors in non-formal settings, a that reflects the rank's technical expertise in gunnery and its role as a bridge between junior and senior noncommissioned officers. This usage underscores the approachable yet authoritative nature of the position, distinguishing it from more formal titles reserved for official occasions. Professional development events, such as the Gunnery Sergeant Career Course offered through , provide gunnery sergeant selectees and incumbents with opportunities for networking, leadership training, and discussions on , helping them transition into the strategic responsibilities of the role. Ceremonial practices highlight the prestige of the gunnery sergeant rank. During ceremonies, the new chevrons—featuring three chevrons, three rockers, and a bursting emblem symbolizing expertise in —are pinned directly onto the uniform by family members or senior leaders, often in a formal setting accompanied by the Marine's Hymn and words of . At the annual Marine Corps Birthday Ball, gunnery sergeants play a key role in upholding traditions, participating in the cake-cutting ceremony where they represent the staff corps by slicing the second piece for the oldest living Marine, followed by toasts that honor the Corps' legacy of service and sacrifice. Despite these traditions, historical narratives of gunnery sergeants have often underrepresented women's contributions, as the rank was male-dominated until women fully integrated into combat roles. Women first achieved the rank of gunnery sergeant in the mid-20th century following their enlistment during , with Geraldine M. Moran becoming the first female promoted to (E-9) in 1960, yet their stories remain less prominent in popular accounts compared to male counterparts. Recent milestones, such as Paulette Lora's in 2023 as the first female in the supply inventory management specialty, continue to address these gaps by showcasing diverse leadership within the rank.

References

  1. [1]
    Marine Corps Ranks
    STAFF SERGEANT – responsible for the proficiency, training and administration of Marines in their charge. GUNNERY SERGEANT – serves as their unit's operations ...Missing: manual | Show results with:manual
  2. [2]
    [PDF] FIFTY-FIFTH CONGRESS. SESS. III. CHs. 398-400, 413: 1899.
    -An Act To reorganize and increase the efficiency of the personnel of the Navy and Marine Corps of the United States. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of ...Missing: text | Show results with:text
  3. [3]
    The Results of the Navy Personnel Law of March 3, 1899
    This law, which limited the number of officers in each grade of each corps, had solely in view the needs of the navy in existence at that time. No new ships ...Missing: text | Show results with:text
  4. [4]
    Marine Corps Ranks: A Complete Guide to Enlisted and Officer Ranks
    Aug 13, 2025 · Like many other Marine Corps ranks, master gunnery sergeant was established permanently in the late 1950s. They are the technical experts in ...
  5. [5]
    Responsibilities of a company gunnery sergeant - 2d Marine Division
    Jun 10, 2011 · The position of company gunnery sergeant for Headquarters Company requires immense responsibility, discipline and organization.
  6. [6]
    FY25 GUNNERY SERGEANT PROMOTION SELECTION BOARD ...
    Nov 15, 2024 · The Fiscal Year 25 Gunnery Sergeant (GySgt) Promotion Selection Board (PSB) will convene on Tuesday, 14 January 2025 at 2008 Elliot Road, Marine Corps Base, ...
  7. [7]
    Ranks - Marines.mil
    Gunnery sergeants (E-7) indicate their preferred promotional track on their annual evaluations. First sergeants (E-8) and sergeants major (E-9) serve as senior ...
  8. [8]
    Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant - Military-Ranks.org
    Gunnery Sergeant is the 7th rank in the United States Marine Corps, ranking above Staff Sergeant and directly below Master Sergeant.
  9. [9]
    2025 Basic Pay: Enlisted - Defense Finance and Accounting Service
    Mar 12, 2025 · Basic Pay – Enlisted Effective April 1, 2025 ; Pay Grade, 2 or less, Over 2 ; E-9 (Notes 2 & 3), 0, 0 ; E-8, 0, 0 ; E-7, 3,788.10, 4,134.30 ...
  10. [10]
    U.S. Marine Corps Ranks: List of Ranking in Order - ExecutiveGov
    Aug 8, 2022 · Gunnery Sergeant (GySgt). Grade: E-7. The Marine Corps gunnery sergeant rank is the backbone of the SNCO ranks. Gunnery sergeants in the ...Junior Enlisted · Marine Corps Ranks: Staff Non... · Officers: Company-grade...
  11. [11]
    Inspector-Instructor, Battery Gunnery Sergeant
    In January 2022, Gunnery Sergeant Bedolla received orders to Battery O, 5th Battalion, 14th Marines in Seal Beach, CA where he is serving as the Battery Gunnery ...
  12. [12]
    Historical Approach to Warrant Officer Classifications
    The fourth position in lineal order was the Gunner, who was appeared with the introduction of large cannon on ships. About 1505, the continued improvements in ...
  13. [13]
    History of the Marine Gunner: Unearthing the Roots of This ...
    Apr 15, 2024 · One of the Marine Corps' three original warrant officer ranks, the Marine gunner is arguably the most coveted in the service's nearly 250-year ...
  14. [14]
    [PDF] The Evolution of Marine Artillery: A History of Versatility and Relevance
    During World War II, Marine artillerymen served in six artillery regiments as well as other units associated with two Marine Amphibious Corps. Following the war ...Missing: sergeant | Show results with:sergeant<|separator|>
  15. [15]
    Sgt. John Basilone: Marine Hero of Guadalcanal and Iwo Jima
    Banzai!” screamed the Japanese at the top of their lungs as they launched a ferocious night attack against Marines dug in on Guadalcanal. ... amphibious landings ...
  16. [16]
    U.S. Marine Rifle Company (1943-1944) - Battle Order
    A Gunnery Sergeant was added to the Company HQ as well, responsible for ordnance and logistics. Otherwise there was a contingent of rear echelon support ...Missing: reforms combined arms
  17. [17]
    USMC Enlisted Rank Insignia of World War II
    1941 ; Grade 1, USMC enisted rank. Sergeant Major, Master Gunnery Sergeant, USMC enlisted rank. Quartermaster Sergeant ; Grade 2, USMC enlisted rank. First ...
  18. [18]
    [PDF] United States Marine Corps Ranks and Grades, 1775-1969
    In addition to technical sergeant , the ranks of master gunnery sergeant and platoon sergeant also came into being during the autumn of 1935. These changes were ...
  19. [19]
    [PDF] Force Design 2030: The Ongoing Debate - Marine Corps Association
    Dec 3, 2022 · precision munitions and more capable enemy reconnaissance-strike complexes instead of ubiquitous tactical nuclear weapons.10 The need for ...
  20. [20]
    [PDF] Marine Corps Cyber Security Training
    Aug 20, 2025 · that will allow some signals and cyber recruits to enter the service at high enlisted ranks, including up to gunnery sergeant. The Marine Corps.
  21. [21]
    History Of The Marine Gunnery Sergeant Rank! - Angelfire
    After the World War, the Marine Corps added to its rank structure the ranks (first used by the army) of Staff Sergeant, Technical Sergeant, and Master Sergeant.
  22. [22]
  23. [23]
    USMC Uniform Guide
    On the Service Uniforms, place the insignia 1 inch and parallel to the collar. What are "Chucks"?Missing: gunnery | Show results with:gunnery
  24. [24]
    Marine Minute: Uniform Update 2022 - Marines.mil
    The Commandant of the Marine Corps has authorized several changes to Marine Corps Order 1020.34H “Marine Corps Uniform Regulations” following recommendations ...Missing: OCP | Show results with:OCP
  25. [25]
    MCO 3574.2M - Marines.mil
    This Order establishes Marine Corps policy and prescribes requirements governing the Marine Corps Combat Marksmanship Program (MCCMP)
  26. [26]
    15th Marine Expeditionary Unit - Marines.mil
    The 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) provides a forward deployed, flexible sea-based Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) capable of conducting Amphibious ...Contact Us · About · Leaders · Past Leaders
  27. [27]
    Marine Deployment to Southeast Asia Highlights Roles for Force ...
    Jan 17, 2024 · The 200 Marines and sailors assigned to Marine Rotational Forces Southeast joined allies in the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia in exercises ...
  28. [28]
    UPDATED ENLISTED PME REQUIREMENTS BY GRADE > United ...
    Sep 14, 2021 · This Marine Administrative Message clarifies and supercedes previously published enlisted professional military education requirements by grade.
  29. [29]
    ENLISTED college distance education program SEMINARs
    It's designed to prepare you for the responsibilities of a Sergeant – leading Marines, reinforcing standards, and taking ownership of your team's success. The ...
  30. [30]
    Records Management - USMC Manpower & Reserve Affairs
    Data collected and stored in the Marine Corps Total Force System (MCTFS). This data is represented in the Header Data on the Master Brief Sheet (MBS). 2 ...
  31. [31]
    [PDF] DRRS-MC Commander's Readiness Handbook
    Commanders, with staff assistance, must ensure the submission of complete, accurate, and timely readiness assessments. When done correctly throughout the ...
  32. [32]
    Marine Corps Enlisted Promotion System Explained - LiveAbout
    Jun 25, 2019 · Gunnery Sergeant (E-7) - 6 years TIS and 3 years TIG; Master Sergeant/First Sergeant (E-8) - 8 years TIS and 4 years TIG; Master Gunnery ...Marine Corps Promotion Criteria · The Difference in the USMC E...
  33. [33]
    Marine Corps Promotion to E-7 Gunnery Sergeant - Military-Ranks.org
    To promote to E-7, a Marine must have spent a minimum of 3 years as an E-6 and 6 years overall in the Corps, and have completed a certain level of Enlisted ...<|separator|>
  34. [34]
    FY24 GUNNERY SERGEANT PROMOTION SELECTION BOARD ...
    Nov 22, 2023 · Paragraph 3102.2 of reference (e) outlines commander responsibilities related to assisting Marines prior to the board convening however, ...
  35. [35]
    PFT/CFT - Fitness.Marines.mil
    Gunnery Sgt. Travis Titopace explains how to properly conduct a plank exercise on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Jan. 11, 2023.
  36. [36]
    Marine Corps Physical Fitness Test (PFT) - Military.com
    Feb 15, 2024 · The Marine Corps PFT is a semi-annual evaluation and has three events, pull-ups, abdominal crunches, and a 3-mile run. Find requirements for ...
  37. [37]
    Marine Corps Infantry Unit Leader – MOS-0369 - LiveAbout
    Jan 2, 2020 · These Marines supervise and coordinate the preparation of personnel, weapons, and equipment for movement and combat. They establish and operate ...
  38. [38]
    Enlisted Promotions (MMPB-11) - USMC Manpower & Reserve Affairs
    ... promotions of Marines who receive select grades generated on the unit's DFR. Time in Grade and Time in Service Requirements (minimum). USMC & USMCR Promotion to ...promotion requirements · remedial promotions · board process · board schedule
  39. [39]
    FY25 STAFF NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER PROMOTION BOARD ...
    The FY25 USMC SNCO PSB schedule is: Board Convene Date/Board Length SgtMaj through MSgt 15 Oct 2024 (8 weeks) GySgt 14 Jan 2025 (8 weeks) Active Reserve SNCO ...Missing: HQMC | Show results with:HQMC
  40. [40]
    Staff NCO Promotions - Manpower & Reserve Affairs
    Medical - Marines in medical status, to include limited duty or pending evaluation by a physical evaluation board, and meet all other requirements are eligible ...
  41. [41]
    FY 2025 APPROVED SELECTIONS TO GUNNERY SERGEANT ...
    Mar 12, 2025 · The FY 2025 approved selections for Gunnery Sergeant were made on 3/12/2025. Marines must complete 24 months obligated service by 1 May 2025. A ...Missing: expertise | Show results with:expertise
  42. [42]
    'Full Metal Jacket' Seduced My Generation and Sent Us to War
    Apr 18, 2018 · For my generation and those to come, the Gunny secured the already-supercharged drill instructor stereotype into one of the most recognizable ...
  43. [43]
    Ranks - Honorverse Wiki - Fandom
    the highest Marine SNCO aboard the ship, called the Gunny · First Sergeant · Master Sergeant · Staff Sergeant · Platoon ...
  44. [44]
    Worlds of Weber by David Weber - SFFWorld
    Sep 24, 2008 · David Weber is one of the giants of modern Military Science Fiction having created the popular and best selling character/series Honor ...
  45. [45]
    Cast & Characters - Generation Kill - HBO Max
    Generation Kill Cast & Characters | HBO Max. ... Gunnery Sgt. Mike 'Gunny' Wynn. Lee Tergesen. Evan 'Scribe' Wright. Langley ...<|separator|>
  46. [46]
    Generation Kill
    Jul 8, 2022 · Generation Kill was lauded upon release for its portrayal of “real” Marines, warts and all. The Marines were shown to be unruly and profane, ...
  47. [47]
    Increasing Gender Integration in U.S. Marine Corps Recruit Training
    Jun 26, 2024 · Gender-integrated military training has been shown to positively alter perceptions and evaluations of women in military settings over ...<|separator|>
  48. [48]
    [PDF] Representations of Military Women in Contemporary War Stories
    This dissertation explores how war stories influence perceptions of who belongs in military service, and how women's service destabilizes questions of who is ...
  49. [49]
    Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone, USMC (deceased)
    Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone, of Raritan, New Jersey, was awarded the Medal of Honor in recognition of his outstanding heroism at Guadalcanal.Missing: promotion | Show results with:promotion
  50. [50]
    Basilone, John - Naval History and Heritage Command
    Gunnery Sergeant, USMC, (1916-1945) John Basilone was born in Buffalo, New York, on 4 November 1916. Educated in Raritan, New Jersey, he enlisted in the US ...
  51. [51]
    R. Lee Ermey - Marine Parents
    Famous for his role as Gunnery Sergeant Hartman in the 1987 film "Full Metal Jacket", R. Lee Ermey served 11 years in the United States Marine Corps. Ermey ...
  52. [52]
    A Glimpse Into Service Slang - Department of War
    Apr 23, 2025 · In the Marine Corps, a gunnery sergeant is called gunny, a master sergeant is called top, a master gunnery sergeant can be called master guns, ...
  53. [53]
    Staff sergeant selectees level up from tactical to strategic ... - DVIDS
    NCR Staff Sergeant Transition Symposium aims to shape Marines into ethical, operationally grounded SNCOs. Photo By Cpl. Braydon Rogers | U.S. Marine Corps ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  54. [54]
    [PDF] Marine Corps Birthday Ball Ceremony
    When last escorts have reached position, band stops. Guest of Honor and Senior Marine (i.e. Sergeant Major for Staff NCO Ball) enter between line of escorts,.
  55. [55]
    More Than 100 Years of Women in the Corps - Marine Parents
    2007 - Sgt Maj Barbara J. Titus first female sergeant major of Marine ... Master Gunnery Sergeant; 2012 - First female Marines take Combat Leadership Test ...
  56. [56]
    2023 WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH > United States Marine Corps ...
    Feb 17, 2023 · Master Gunnery Sergeant Paulette Lora is the first female Master Gunnery Sergeant in the Military Occupational Specialty 3051 - Supply Inventory ...