Military ranks across different branches

Hi, currently working through my junior year but I've been thinking about joining the military. Been curious about rankings such as SGT Major in the different branches. Can someone explain the differences in ranks across the military branches, and perhaps where SGT Major falls in that order?

In the U.S. military, there are a wide range of ranks across the different branches, including enlisted ranks, non-commissioned officers (NCOs), and commissioned officers. Each branch of the military has its unique set of ranks, but there are some commonalities. Let's break it down:

1. Army and Marine Corps: In these branches, Sergeant Major is the highest enlisted rank. For the Army, the progression typically goes from Private, Private First Class, Corporal, then starts on the Sergeant ranks, ending at Sergeant Major of the Army. The Marines have a similar path.

2. Air Force and Space Force: These branches of the military begin with the rank of Airman or Specialist (respectively), then go up through the Sergeant ranks, culminating in Chief Master Sergeant. The top position is Command Chief Master Sergeant in the Air Force and Chief Master Sergeant of the Space Force in the Space Force.

3. Navy and Coast Guard: Enlisted ranks start at Seaman Recruit and go up through the Petty Officer ranks, ending at Master Chief Petty Officer. The top enlisted position is Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy or Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard, depending on the branch.

It's important to note that these are the enlisted ranks. There exist separate commissioned officer ranks within each branch, usually starting at Second Lieutenant or Ensign and going up to General or Admiral. There's also a special category of non-commissioned officers (NCOs), which includes ranks like Sergeant or Petty Officer.

I hope this clarifies the different ranks! It's great that you're considering a career in the military, and understanding the hierarchy can indeed be a crucial part of that exploration.