US Army members: A couple questions for a short story I'm writing.?

	US Army members: A couple questions for a short story I'm writing.? I'm writing a short story for a creative writing course, which I'd like to be as accurate as possible. I've been doing research online, but a lot of sources contradict one another or don't go into what is typical/realistic, as opposed to what is technically correct. Figured it would be better to ask people who have army experience in order to keep things as realistic as possible. Setting is modern day, in Afghanistan. 1) Is 30ish (give or take) a realistic age for a sergeant (E-5)? How long would one typically serve as E-5 before being promoted to E-6? 2) Are there specific post-secondary degrees needed for a recruit to enter as a specialist, or is any university/college degree acceptable? Regardless of their technical status, in practice, would a specialist have any authority over privates? I know they can't give orders, but would they be expected to show initiative in making sure everyone else is doing what they're supposed to be doing? Are privates considered subordinates to specialists (in practice)? 3) What kind of weapons training, if any, might a typical field medic in Afghanistan have? Do medics hold any kind of rank? Would they simply be addressed as "medic" or something else? Would they answer to a sergeant or other NCO in the same manner as specialists and privates, or are they part of a different command structure altogether? 4) How much of the military slang in films is realistic? Anyone know of a site that lists military slang that is actually used, and not outdated? Thanks :) Asked By: Law & Order: Intarwebz Unit 3.0 - 9/11/2010

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker
1) Most E5s will be in their 20s. It can take anywhere from 1 year to forever to make E6 depending on education, training, Physical Fitness and your job (MOS) some jobs promote fast some slow. 2) If you have any BA you come in as an E4 even if it's in something that has nothing to do with the Army. E4s would definitely have authority over privates if they are the Team leader (they can even have authority over other E4s). A new E4 (or PV4 as I like to say) would not be put as a team leader if he had no experience in the army or as a leader. 3) Medics would be assigned a weapon and would be qualified on that weapon (most likely an M4 but it could be an M9 pistol or an M16 rifle), they would also have fired most crew served weapons in the unit at least one time so they would know how to use it. At unit level a medic could be anywhere from an E2 if they just showed up to E6 if they were the head medic but it all depends on the unit. The medic would work for whatever unit they are assigned to so he would probably work for the HQ PSG in a company or the PSG at a platoon. If no DR is around he may be called "Doc". 4) this is allot harder, without watching a movie I can't think of whats wrong off the top of my head. Good Luck Answered By: MP US Army - 9/11/2010

Additional Answers ()

1) E-5 is usually early 20s and the dwell time between E-5 and E-6 is dependent upon many factors such as their MOS (some have many more slots than others) and whether they busted there butt and received the promotion points needed. I made E-5 at 20 years old and E-6 at 22 (joined at 17), but I have actually seen Soldiers do 20 years and retire as a SGT(P) which is the lowest rank you can retire as. 2) As far as I know you have to have at least a bachelors to be E-4 coming in. And Specialist do have some authority over privates. They can also be put in leadership positions. I was a fire team leader as a Specialist. 3) Medics are issued weapons. I have seen medics with 9MM to the M-4. They are just suppose to use it to defend themselves or a patient. If a medic is good at his job he will usually earn the nick name "Doc". The medics follow the same promotion system as the rest of the enlisted MOSs. 4) http://www.spywriter.com/robots/military_slang.html This site looks pretty accurate for the slang I noticed for the U.S. Army. Source(s): SFC, U.S. Cavalry Answered By: goldspursx3 - 9/11/2010

1. Im 22 years old and have been in the National Guard for 5+ years and have made E-5. Been to baghdad and plenty of other places I can't say... Matters how bad you want it...Do what your told and dont cause no friction...but also standing up for yourself as well. 2. Youll be treated the same until you come out of basic training( at least when I went in 2006) 3. You always respect rank... But most medics like to be called medic/ Doc. Depends on how you address yourself as what you want. 4.Military slang is battle budddy- the guy you bunk with- the one you know you can count on. - but as far as a web site... Im not saying there isn't one but not to my knowledge. Answered By: Jonathan - 9/11/2010

1) Yes, that is perectly realistic. You'd typically serve for a few years as an E-5 before getting promoted. 3 years is probably a good number. 2) If you join the army with a 4 year degree, but don't go the OCS route, you will be an E-4 specialist. It doesn't matter what your degree is in. Basket weaving. It doesn't matter. Specialists definitely outrank privates, but you won't see a specialist making a private do pushups or anything. Unless a specialist is put in charge of a given situation, specialists and privates largely interact as equals, with the privates usually extending a bit of extra respect. 3) medics go through basic training and SOME additional combat training in AIT. They will also train with the unit they deploy with prior to deployment. In general, medics have more combat training than, say, an admin guy or a supply person, but a lot less than an infantryman. The exception here are ranger medics or SF medics, who have a ton of combat training, and a lot more medical training as well. 4) The movie Blackhawk Down has some good military slang that is still current. The TV show The Unit has a lot, too. Just sprinkle in some phrases like "hooah" (can mean anything except for no, but is usually an expression of enthusiasm or as "understood.") "roger" (means "yes.") "ate up" (not to military standards) and stuff like that. Good luck! Answered By: cailano - 9/11/2010

Question answered: 1. There is no typical age for becoming a SGT (E-5), it depends on TIS and TIG (Time in Service and Time in Grade). You are then sent to a promotion board. If you are considered promotable, you then have to meet the point requirements for your MOS. Now back in my early years, a typical E5 would be in the age of mid 20s. Nowadays i have seen E5 at early 20s and even some E6 in early 20s. Once you reach E5 you must meet the TIS and TIG to be considered for the promotion board of E6. You can get a waiver for either the TIS or TIG provided they are available for your unit. 2. If you have at least a BC degree you should come in as a Specialist. A SPC would have authority over privates but realistic your E5 Sergeant will be in charge. As a SPC it is your job to show that you have leadership qualities and take the initiative when there is no NCO around. You should already be acting as a NCO as a SPC. Yes anyone that has less rank then you are considered your subordinates. 3. From my experience most junior medics have a M16A4. The officers will carry M9 pistols. Medics have the same ranking system as everyone else. Yes the rank structure is the same regardless of your MOS. 4. Slang is only what you consider it to be. Source(s): Retired Military ( Marines & Army) Answered By: Atruesoldier - 9/11/2010

1. You can make E4 in 18 months. If you are a Specialist you have the same authority as an E4 corporal. But the corporal is considered an NCO and a Specialist rank is not, no matter if they are E4, E5 or E6. You usually only see Spec 4s. 2. Generally you need a 4 year degree at least. Not sure about the specific degree requirements, but if it's a medical degree, as for a nurse, they come in as officers, generally speaking. 3. Medics have the same basic infantry training as any other soldier. Everyone is a soldier under the same command structures. Small groups of some MOSs (job fields) can be attached to infantry units, so they are under the command of the that unit's officers and NCOs. 4. Don't ever rely on hollywood or tv to teach you proper slang. It's often highly inaccurate, and it's faster to just learn the right jargon from a service member than it is to figure out what in film is incorrect. Just remember that the uses of terms does get outdated, and sometimes it varies based on type of service or MOS. Source(s): writer and former service member Answered By: D F - 9/11/2010

1) Assuming you joined the Army at 18, you can make E-5 Sgt by the time you are 22, mid twenties at the latest. All of my current E-6 SSG's are 26-27-29. So that should tell you something. And my old SSG just turned 24. 2) To join as a SPC you need to have a 4 year bachelors degree, any degree is fine. And yes SPC do have authority over privates. They are usually placed into a team leader position and CAN give privates orders. SPC can range any where from high speed initiative types, to disappear as soon as a detail comes down types. A SPC is an E-4, Privates are E-1/E-3. So yes privates are subordinate to SPC. 3) Medics are trained in their individual weapons. Usually a M9 pistol and the M4 carbine. Sometimes the M500 Shotgun. Medic is just another job in the Army. They have the exact same rank structure as the infantry or a cook. When a combat medic is assigned to a line combat platoon, they answer only to that Platoon Sergeant. If they are assigned to an aid station or CSH, they follow the normal chain of command in their medic unit. 4) Some films get military slang and euphemisms pretty close, others are just horrible. lol. I don't know of any sites that list it though, and each branch has their own. Source(s): US Army Scout Answered By: wraeth - 9/11/2010

Submit your answer or comment to this question

Other Career Questions

	What are some military jobs that involve helping people? Once I graduate high school, I'm not entirely sure what I want to do, but I do know that I want to help people, especially through humanitarian work. I'm also considering joining the military, so my question is what are some military jobs that involve helping people? I would especially like to help with civilians in the area where I'm deployed, regardless of where that is, or what that may entail. So, if anyone has any career suggestions, advice, or other information, I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you. 3 answers - Asked By: ? - 3/10/2013

	What military jobs are unavailable to women, and can they be a Navy SEAL? I was reading and it said that 95% of military jobs are open to women, and I am afraid one of them may be something I would like to do. And about the Navy SEAL thing, I just want to be a hero.. So, yeah.. 13 answers - Asked By: - 3/7/2012

	I am looking for information on Civilian Military Jobs? I am looking for information on Civilian Military Jobs. Can you apply with all branches? Looking mainly at Air Force and Army. How does this work and where to begin??? Anyone actually participating in this current position, can you tell me about it? 1 answer - Asked By: deanjp - 2/27/2010


Content is not owned or controlled by Monster. Any content concerns should be addressed with Yahoo! Yahoo! Does not evaluate or guarantee the accuracy of any Yahoo! Answers content. Yahoo! Disclaimer.

Popular Questions

	Is this normal for an interviewer to do this? So today I went in for an interview and I was going in for the 2nd interview by the head chief executive. now this is where it got weird, so she asked me about my previous jobs and said how much she liked that product over that product. then she started talking about her daughter? an her divorce ...then how she didn't finish college because she was making more money doing what she did for this company ... then she talked about how her teenage daughter is a handful... I just played it cool thinking she was using some sort of psychology thing to trick me into saying something stupid. the interview ended and she seemed happy an I was escorted to the door... now I'm freaking confused? is this normal behavior for an executive? like it felt like she was going to burst into tears at one point and tell me her life problems... is this normal? was she trying to see how I react or something? 6 answers - Asked By: Clone - 11/7/2012

	What do you say when they ask what you want to be paid? ? Wen you apply at a job and they ask how mch you want as a salary what do you say? 2 answers - Asked By: Colette - 11/24/2011

	How do I get a job with Dodgy work history and no experience? Basically- no degree, although I have tried completing one in the past and stopped because of physical and mental health issues which were overwhelming to deal with along with going to classes full time. I'm not stupid and I am quite articulate. I am 23 and have only worked for about two years retail in high school and stopped working to go to university. I worked a few months in 2010 retail after I dropped out but it was only a seasonal position, and the only reason why I have not been able to constantly work is because of mental health issues. I had also tried going back to community college during my free time since i left university in 2008/9 and I had panic attacks while in community college, which made my anxiety worse from then on. Well recently I met a good doctor and he prescribed me some meds that are stabilizing my moods and I feel the best I've felt in years, and I'm ready to work. Thing is, I don't know how to get a job now since I've spent literally years being depressed and anxious doing nothing. I don't really have anything to put on my resume, and I never finished my AA degree either. All I've done is cashiering and although I do the job well and I get promoted easily when I do these jobs because I'm a hard worker and I try to go above and beyond what they ask of me,which is the attitude I have no matter what kind of work I'm doing as long as I'm getting paid. But I hate cashiering because it's too easy and I want a job that is more interesting. Any suggestions for me on how to get a job that is NOT Retail with the type of background I have right now? I also realize I have to go to college to get certain types of jobs, I am talking about what I can do right here right now. 1 answer - Asked By: Alex Prieto - 10/14/2012

	Why honesty, hard work and dedication have no place at work? Recently I have overlooked for a project at work and I am unable to accept it why? I am hard working, dedicated, maintain a very professional decorum, very cordial with my colleagues and bosses, give respect to one and all. Still people who take the p***, argue with managers, gossip mongers have been selected for some very responsible positions at work. I seriously can't get my head around it why, why unprofessional people who have no work ethics being selected over me, whereas I have a track record of excellent performance and never shy away from any work my manager ask me to do? I am at my lowest point and not getting hold of my manager to ask the question why not me, why them who can't even bother? I am feeling like a complete loser, giving years to this place, building my performance, trust and this is how I get rewarded. Why my life is so shit, anything I wish for turns to dust? 1 answer - Asked By: network7 - 11/6/2012

	I have applied for over 100 jobs I have gotten no calls for a job interview, what can i do? As stated in my question I've applied for multiple jobs and gotten no job interview, you name a place I've applied there. I've said i will work ridiculous hours from like 12am to 5am and nothing. I've said I am willing to work weekends public holidays everything and I have gotten nothing back I am so desperate for money it's not funny. 9 answers - Asked By: Jamie - 1/9/2012

	What to wear to a job interview VS a career fair? So I have a nice white button up shirt, business skirt and pants, and a suit jacket. I'm applying for a software development job and I'm very short and can look young so I'm trying to look adult, yet professional. I'm also attractive so I'm trying not to look too sexy. For the career fair I'm thinking of wearing just my nice shirt and a skirt with low heels. My reasoning being it's approachable and attractive without going overboard since the career fair hosts are mostly younger male recent grads. I want to be remembered but not intimidating. For my interviews I was thinking pants, suit jacket (power suit). My reasoning being it'll be older execs and HR people (mostly women) so less sexy with the pants but more powerful with the suit jacket. What do you think?! 2 answers - Asked By: Beast - 9/23/2012

	What career or jobs can i get after graduating Information Technology? I am currently a 1st year irregular college student taking I.T. I transferred schools and my majors never got credited. But it's okay because i am slowly getting the logics in programming in Java. This next semester i am taking a System Analysis and Design(SADSIGN) and i am getting nervous because even though i am pretty good at logics, i am not that good at coding. But since it is a case study, we will be on group, we will be four i think. Project manager, Analyst, Documentation, and the programmer. I am asking what jobs i can get after graduating I.T. because what if i graduated I.T. and still not that good at coding, i am hoping that there will be a jobs that will require less programming. Like Database manager or in Multimedia or in charge of Network. So is there jobs that doesn't require hardcore programming skills? 2 answers - Asked By: Jay p*e - 5/6/2013

	Which of these careers would I not have a problem getting a job in? Account Executive Hospitality Manager Sales Representative Editorial Assistant Advertising Manager Hotel Manager Personnel Specialist Writer/Author Association Administrator Presenter Special Events Coordinator Political Aide Promotions Manager Speech Writer Consumer Affairs Specialist Sportscaster Public Information Officer Communications Director Public Relations Specialist Radio/TV Announcer Technical Writer Telemarketing Specialist Customer Service Rep. Fund Raiser Training & Development Specialist Events Planner Flight Attendant Youth Worker Media Manager Recruiter Market Research Analyst Community Action Director Recreation/Attractions Manager Restaurant Manager Campaign Manager Development Director Script Writer Photojournalist Advertising Copywriter Museum Director Greeting Card Writer Production Assistant Actor, Mime Narrator Stage Manager Director Impersonator Make-up Artist Stunt Coordinator Booking Agent Talent Scout Drama Coach Stand-in Playwright Stage Manager Movie Theater Manager 2 answers - Asked By: Jolynn - 4/28/2013

	What's the difference between computer science and computer engineering majors? Can someone tell me te difference between computer science and a computer engineering major. Is it the same? 2 answers - Asked By: Rosalva - 5/6/2013

	Rate my resume please? I'm really having a hard time finding a job. I'm not sure why employers aren't contacting me :( I have about 4 years in expereince ( about 1 year of management) Well, here it is Jon smith Erlanger KY, USA Cell: +1-859-111-1111 E-mail:abc.def@outlook.com OBJECTIVE Obtain a position as a project manager/coordinator allowing me to utilize my administrative, organizational and problem-solving skills with a growing organization to mutually enhance growth of professional development and success. WORK EXPERIENCE ATS Jun 2012 – Apr 2013 Project Manager I: Managed projects development and staff in different divisions to achieve projects goals through practices of planning, executing and analyzing project-related tasks. Duties, responsibilities and contributions to assigned projects include the following: • Prepare and create project scopes, SWOT analysis reports and statements of work as assigned. • Visit anticipated project sites and create assessments for necessary work. • Analyze given scopes to assist engineers into reaching projects’ objectives. • Examine and manage available resources relating to materials and manpower. • Coordinate staff and arrange regular meetings. • Inspect daily operations and quality of products used on premise. • Implement solutions to resolve complex jobs relating to the project. • Manage and ensure that operations are executed in accordance to project scope and SOW. • Review and submit documents for projects deliverables/submittals and create schedules for subcontractors. • Document all events occurred during project life cycle and submit reports to senior management. Assigned Projects: 1- Conference Rooms IT/Multimedia Project Duration: Jun 2012 – Dec 2012 2- Military Base Renovation Project Duration: Aug 2012 – Aug 2013 AT&T / U-verse Division Oct 2011 – Feb 2012 Command Center Agent II: Applied knowledge to solve common and complex related issues to consumer’s services and devices. The position allowed for individual work at minimum supervision and within teams when necessary. Duties of the position included: •Provide phone/virtual support to internal and external customers. •Audit reports submitted by technicians and follow up with customers. •Implement and updated solutions within workflow system (WFE system). •Interact with IT department personnel to resolve common issues. •Provide assistance to first level support agents. •Maintain database and accounts for customers. Cleve’s Connections May 2009 – Nov 2010 IT Specialist: Provided hands-on and virtual administration for all IT related topics and managed sales for all devices and services. This included consulting, providing solutions, and improving efficiency for small businesses in design and security areas. Tasks performed while working included: • Resolve & close all open cases submitted by staff or customers. • Setup and manage user accounts through Active Directory. • Monitor network activities and logs and report system bugs, downtimes or crashes. • On-site maintenance and installation of network equipment and computer hardware/software. • Perform system setup operations and data backups as requested. • Create case analysis and audit reports given by technicians. • On-call support 24/7. EDUCATION • Devry University, Cincinnati OH Bachelor in Management Graduation: 2012 • Cincinnati State, Cincinnati OH Associate in Network Administration Graduation: Transfer 2010 To Andy: What does my Devry have to do with anything? for profit school? I'm not sure what college you graduated from, but in the real world experience weights more than a piece of paper stating you've completed few written assignments and imaginary projects. SMH! 3 answers - Asked By: Zaid I - 5/8/2013

	What jobs can you get from going to an engineering school? The question explains it, i am thinking of going to an engineering high school but of course it will focus on other stuff too but still. What kind of jobs can you get because i dont want to be a mechanic(no offence to any) but please help me! 2 answers - Asked By: hungergameslover - 5/13/2013

	How can l find a job in the pharmacitical field as a sales and marketing manager,in south africa? L want to study medicine and work as a doctor but l am limited due to luck of required monyes. however l swtched on to anther career but still within my career interests as a care giver, but this is somthing to do with sales and marketing in the pharmcitical industry. 2 answers - Asked By: tonnydanabwembya - 12/24/2005

	What is the difference between a nurse practitioner and an ARNP? Is there any difference between a "nurse practitioner" and an "advanced registered nurse practitioner"? 1 answer - Asked By: lucysmom - 3/27/2006

	Are there any career in computers that doesn't involve code scripting? 1 answer - Asked By: Big D - 5/3/2013

	I'm an exellent welder/fabricator,does anyone out in Las vegas land have a job for me? 3 answers - Asked By: hubbard_billy - 2/24/2006

	What can you do with a graduate degree in communications? And a BA in criminology? 2 answers - Asked By: Taylor - 5/9/2013

	Job description of supply and logistics manager? I am applying for a job of supply and logistics manager so I need to know more about the this job 1 answer - Asked By: waelasfour - 6/19/2006

	I want to become an Escrow Officer, does anyone know how to go about it? What kind of training will I need? I know that Escrow is within Title industry in Texas. What would be the best way to get my foot in the door. I am assuming I will have to start as an Escrow assistant and work my way up, but I would really like to find out more about this career path. How does an officer usually get licensed? Are there classes we need to take and exam to take? Any response is appreciated. 2 answers - Asked By: schang25 - 2/10/2006

	How could I better prepare myself for a second interview? My second interview is on Monday and I want to be prepared. It's for an assistant controller position. I've already met with the controller and the hr manager. Monday I will be meeting with the president of the company. How could I prepare myself for Monday's interview? Thanks! Any comments would be great! 3 answers - Asked By: Virginia - 6/6/2009

	If someone has a bachelors degree in computer information system, what types of jobs are available for them? What kind of jobs can they look for if they receive "B Grade" in C++ & Java? Also, if no jobs for them are available in the Computer field, can they look for jobs elsewhere? If so, what types of jobs? Lastly, can they become Math Teachers at a High School or teach basic Math or Programming courses in College? 2 answers - Asked By: Blah... - 4/29/2013

Monster Communities

Teaching Community: Where teachers meet and learn.
ArtBistro: Create and connect.
Excelle: Networking for the career-minded woman.
Nursing Link: Where nurses call the shots.
More Monster Communities

Monster Partners

Scholarships: Scholarships, financial aid and more ways to pay for school.
Education.org: Find top campus and online degree programs.
Military.com: Military portal for the US Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.
Financial Aid: Scholarships & financial aid.
Staffing for Government Jobs: Staffing and hiring solutions for federal government agency jobs.
More Monster Partners

Job Hunt Strategy

Six Ways to Make a Recruiter Hate You

If you want to blow your chances with recruiters -- and, by extension, with the companies they work for -- here are six perfect ways to do so.

Resumes & Cover Letters

Rev Up Your Resume to Relocate

Hoping to relocate? Get the ball rolling on landing the right job in the right location with these expert resume and cover letter tips.

Interviewing

100 Potential Interview Questions

Interview questions can run the gamut. You probably won't face all 100 of these, but you should still be prepared to answer at least some of them.

Salary & Benefits

10 Questions to Ask When Negotiating Salary

Most of us aren't natural negotiators, but asking these 10 questions during salary negotiations can help you get everything you deserve.

Attracting Candidates

Facebook for Employers: Make Friends, Not Fans

Recruiting? Go where the talent is. See why recruiters have befriended social networks.

Employee Sourcing

Employment Index

November Monster Employment Index Grows 13% Year-Over-Year, Tenth Consecutive Month of Positive Annual Growth.

Interviewing Candidates

Improving Interview Skills: Learn from the Experts

What’s the key to a great interview? According to experts: Practice, practice, practice.

Workforce Planning

Enhance your Small Business Marketing Strategy with Social Media

Social media. It’s everywhere. But how can it help you? Learn how to utilize social media even monetize it.

For Seekers

Campus and Online Degrees: Advance your career and earn more with an online degree.
Free Salary Wizard: What are you worth? Find out and negotiate a better salary.
Research Careers: Get information on jobs and career paths to help guide your choices
Questions & Answers: Find answers to all your career related questions -- powered by Yahoo! Answers
Resume Distribution Service: Our distribution service puts your resume right in the hands of recruiters.
Resume Writing Services: Our experts will craft a keyword-rich resume that stands out in the crowd.
More Career Resources

For Employers

Career Ad Network: Target your job posting to more candidates on thousands of websites.
Hire Right Background Checks: Explore our background check packages to improve the quality of your hires.
Hiring Home Page: Find the best candidates for your business with Monster hiring solutions.
Job Postings: Find the right solution for your hiring needs. Starting at $99.
Power Resume Search: Monster's new search technology precisely matches people with your jobs.
Resource Center: Find staffing insights, labor trends, HR best practices and more.
Target Post: Connect with skilled, hourly and administrative candidates for only $99.

Social Media

Jobs on Twitter: Find jobs in your area and industry.
Monster Careers: Tune into our career advice and discussions tackling a wide range of topics and industries.
Monster Corporate & PR: Stay up-to-date on the latest news. Get the 'Who', 'What', 'When', and 'Why' on all things Monster related.
Monster Customer Service: Got a Monster question? We've got the answer. Whether you're a job seeker or employer, we can help you find the answers you need.
Monster for Employers: Find advice on hiring.
Follow Us: Check out our many pages and stay connected with the latest industry news, events, career advice and job openings.

Are You An Employer?