Who is the Current Sergeant Major of the Army?
The current Sergeant Major of the Army (SGM) of the United States Army is Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Gragg. He serves as the most senior enlisted soldier in the Army and is responsible for advising the Army’s Commanding General on matters affecting the quality of life for soldiers. The SGM is responsible for promoting professionalism, training, and wellness among all soldiers.
Contents
- 1 What is the Role of the Sergeant Major of the Army?
- 2 About the Current SGM: Sergeant Major Michael Gragg
- 3 Interesting Facts About Sergeant Major Gragg
- 4 Conclusion
- 4.1 Enhance Your Knowledge with Curated Videos on Guns and Accessories
What is the Role of the Sergeant Major of the Army?
As the senior enlisted leader of the Army, the Sergeant Major of the Army holds a unique role that focuses on advising and supporting the Army’s command structure, particularly the Army Chief of Staff and other senior leaders. Some key responsibilities include:
- Serves as the chief consultant to the Army Chief of Staff and other senior leaders on enlisted personnel matters.
- Reviews and recommends personnel policies affecting enlisted personnel.
- Collaborates with senior leaders to develop and implement training policies.
- Advises on and implements efforts to improve Army readiness.
- Promotes the quality of life of soldiers.
- Develops and fosters strong relationships with congressional leaders, advocacy groups, and other organizations to inform and support policies affecting enlisted personnel.
About the Current SGM: Sergeant Major Michael Gragg
Sergeant Major Gragg joined the Army in 1987 and graduated from One Station Unit Training (OSUT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) in 1989. His initial Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) was 12B (Infantry), and he quickly rose through the ranks. He held various leadership positions, including:
- First Sergeant
- Company First Sergeant
- Battalion Operations Sergeant Major
- Battalion Command Sergeant Major
During his illustrious career, Sergeant Major Gragg served in a variety of leadership positions and earned numerous accolades and awards, including the:
- Bronze Star Medal
- Meritorious Service Medal (multiple awards)
- Army Commendation Medal (multiple awards)
- Army Achievement Medal (multiple awards)
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He is married to his high school sweetheart, Donna, and they have three grown children, including a daughter who also serves in the Army National Guard.
Sergeant Major of the Army Awards and Accomplishments
Sergeant Major Gragg received the SGM assignment after serving as the Senior Enlisted Leader of the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Armored Division (United States). Before that, he was the Command Sergeant Major of 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. His selection as the Army’s Senior Enlisted Leader comes after demonstrating exceptional leadership skills, training, and readiness throughout his career.
Here is a brief overview of his selection process:
Selectees for Senior Enlisted Leaderships Positions
- Candidate Pool of 17 Nominees
- Reviewed by: Chief Master Sergeant, United States Air Force, Chief Master Sergeant and a panel of esteemed senior military leaders.
- Selection Factors: Performance, Integrity, Judgment, Leadership Abilities, Communication, Initiative, Prior Experience and the ability to effectively communicate at all levels.
Interesting Facts About Sergeant Major Gragg
Did you know?
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- The SGM served as an instructor at Fort Huachuca and then at the United States Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School.
- He attended the Sergeants Major Academy at Fort Bliss, Texas, where he earned his Masters of Military Science (MS) Degree.
- During his extensive career, the SGM has had various combat rotations and has experience in theater operations.
- He believes that mentorship, setting clear expectations, and having an open door policy is key to creating an environment conducive to excellence among soldiers.
- As part of the Army’s continuous efforts to promote readiness and quality of life, SGM Gragg emphasizes the importance of taking care of soldiers and their families.
- Under his leadership, the Army Enlisted Talent Management Board (AETMB) is aiming to further improve retention and development by addressing career challenges and personal development for all soldiers.
- His most significant project, as Sergeant Major, is Developing Talent, an Army-wide strategy aimed at strengthening the core competencies required for readiness, building skills, and developing a next-generation team.
Conclusion
In summary, Sergeant Major Michael Gragg, currently the Sergeant Major of the Army, has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership skills throughout his extensive Army career, from the day he put on his First Sgt. Tab to taking on his current role. This esteemed Soldier’s ability to adapt and thrive in multiple roles sets him apart and highlights the Army’s most valuable resources: their soldiers and leaders.
As the current Sergeant Major of the Army, his leadership, insight, and guidance are critical in building a better quality of life for all Army personnel.
Important Timeline:
- Joining Army: 1987
- Completed OSUT and AIT: 1989
- Initial MOS: 12B (Infantry)
Achievements & Awards:
- Bronze Star Medal
- Meritorious Service Medal (multiple awards)
- Army Commendation Medal (multiple awards)
- Army Achievement Medal (multiple awards)
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Selected Assignments:
- Company First Sergeant, 4th Battalion, 501st Infantry
- Battalion Operations Sergeant Major, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry
- Senior Enlisted Leader, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division
