Name:   MAJ USA RET - Subject:   What does "lifer" REALLY mean? Date:   7/26/2019 10:48:04 AM

“I'm aware of two colloquial uses of that term [Lifer].… to members of the military who remain there for their entire careers, most often failing to receive a commission…”

Failing to receive a commission? Commissioning has nothing to do with success or failure. Enlisted service is no less honorable than commissioned service. In many ways…especially financial… enlisted service entails more sacrifice (i.e. try providing for a family during the years prior to “E-4 over 4”). Early enlisted service requires a special degree of persistence uncommon among our civilian population.

The blood of an enlisted man is no different in color than the blood of an officer… and, in truth… is shed much more often.

“A military "lifer" is typically a corporal or sergeant who can't make a living out in the world and can't advance any further in his/her branch of the military.”

The non-commissioned officer (NCO) is the backbone of the military. Typically, it is an NCO giving orders and maintaining cohesion in the face of enemy fire… at the scene of crushing medical crises… or overwhelming multi-tasks that risk the lives of others… or self. It’s tough to wear the face of courage while trying to avoid peeing your pants.

Navy “lifers” are not corporals or sergeants.

To clarify your accusation “…can't make a living out in the world…” That is nothing but an egregious and unsupported insult. I can imagine you clapping your little flippers after writing that line.

“…The grunts who answer to him/her use the term pejoratively….”   Grunts refer to everyone who is not them with some sort of pejorative. For example, do you know what a “Jody” is?

“Which one are you?”

I was a lifer.