Which rank uses a Star insignia?

Which rank uses a Star insignia?

• A. Sergeant Major (E-9)
• B. Master Gunnery Sergeant (E-9)
• C. First Sergeant (E-8)
• D. Gunnery Sergeant (E-7)

Answer: (A)

The symbol in the center of an enlisted rank insignia is what distinguishes ranks at the senior level. For the Marine Corps, the star is used specifically for the rank of Sergeant Major, who serves as the senior enlisted advisor to the unit commander. This star sets it apart from other E-8 and E-9 ranks, which use different central devices. For example, Master Gunnery Sergeant uses a different emblem, First Sergeant has a diamond, and Gunnery Sergeant doesn’t feature the star. So the rank identified by the star insignia is Sergeant Major.

The symbol in the center of an enlisted rank insignia is what distinguishes ranks at the senior level. For the Marine Corps, the star is used specifically for the rank of Sergeant Major, who serves as the senior enlisted advisor to the unit commander. This star sets it apart from other E-8 and E-9 ranks, which use different central devices. For example, Master Gunnery Sergeant uses a different emblem, First Sergeant has a diamond, and Gunnery Sergeant doesn’t feature the star. So the rank identified by the star insignia is Sergeant Major.