Which rank is represented by three stripes, EGA and 2 stars, four rockers?

• A. Gunnery Sergeant
• B. Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps
• C. Master Gunnery Sergeant
• D. Sergeant Major

Answer: (B)

Recognizing rank is all about reading the insignia: the number of chevrons (stripes) at the top, the number of rockers at the bottom, the emblem in the middle, and any stars around it. Here, there are three chevrons, four rockers, and the emblem is the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor. The two stars flanking the emblem are a distinctive feature that marks the very top enlisted position. That combination identifies the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, the senior enlisted advisor to the Commandant. The other ranks in this group use different center devices (for example, a bursting bomb for Master Gunnery Sergeant or a diamond for First Sergeant) and/or lack the two-star distinction, so they don’t fit this exact insignia.