Much co-nrusian abounds in trying to understand the new Marine Corps
rank structure and many pages have been filled trying, to explain it.
Here goes another try for those not acquainted with it. It’s really
very simple.
Before Uan59 the Marine Corps
rank structure was like this:
Corporal . E3
Sergeant
Staff Sergeant
E4 ^
E 5 ^
Technical Sergeant E6 XX
X
Master Sergeant E7
After Uul63 the Marine Corps
rankestructure Wjn be like this:
Lance Corporal E3 '
Corporal
Sergeant
Staff Sergeant
Gunnery Sergeant
E4
E5
E6
E7
e
Note that Privates (El) a'hd^FCs (E2) and Master and First ^Serg
eants (E8s) and Master Gunnery-Sergeants and Sergeants Major (E9s),
have been left off the chart because Privates and PFCsremain the same
in both rank structures (no rank insignia for a Private and PFCs one
stripe) and the rank changes in the grades of E8 and E9do not effect
the average sailor or civilian.
Now it only stands to reason that after 1963, everyone will be able
to understand the rank title of a Marine* In the meantime, both rank
structures are used. If a Marine comes strolling by withtwo stripes
on his arm, you k~ow that under the old rank structure, he is a Corp
oral. You say, '’Good morning, Corporal.” The next Marine walks by
and he has two stripes and crossed rifles, and by the new structure
he is a Corporal (too). He is also referred to as "Corporal”. Only
difference is, one is an E3 and the other an E4. Same way with all
ranks. The reason there is an interim period is that Marines who got
their rank under the old way will keep it until they get promoted,
when a Corporal E3 gets promoted, he will advance to Corporal E4. Same
way on up the line. After 1963> all those not promoted into the new
rank structure will be converted to the new title of theirpay grade,
naking everyone the same and everything easy to understand.
If this clear, concise, pertinent explanation has left you still in
doubt, remember these points.
a. The rank title is that shown opposite the stripes In the chart
shown above, no matter if it is the old or new rank structure.
b. A Marine, when promoted, goes into the new rank structure.
c. The word "Acting” is no longer used in connection with rank.
U* If you're not sure, just call him Marine.
(Contd next page, bottom)