Which rank is the one with Three stripes up, Three Down, Crossed Rifles?

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

Answer: (A)

The pattern shows three stripes up with three rockers down, which signals pay grade E-8. In the Marine Corps, that E-8 level has two ranks: Master Sergeant and First Sergeant. The distinguishing mark in the center is what separates them: a star for Master Sergeant and a diamond for First Sergeant. The crossed rifles in the center isn’t the standard emblem for these E-8s, so focusing on the stripe count and the typical center device, Master Sergeant is the match. The other options either represent different E-8 insignia (First Sergeant with a diamond) or are E-9 ranks with four rockers and different central symbols.