Legal Definitions - enlisted member

An enlisted member is an individual serving in the armed forces who has joined by enlisting, rather than by receiving a commission as an officer or warrant officer. They hold a rank within the enlisted grades, which are distinct from and subordinate to officer and warrant officer ranks.

• Imagine a young person who joins the Army right after high school. After completing basic training, they are assigned to a unit as a Private First Class (PFC) specializing in vehicle maintenance. This individual is an enlisted member because they joined by enlisting and hold a rank within the enlisted structure, performing duties under the command of officers and warrant officers.

• Consider a Petty Officer Second Class in the Navy who serves on an aircraft carrier, responsible for maintaining the ship's radar systems. This sailor is an enlisted member. Their rank, Petty Officer Second Class, is an enlisted grade, and their role involves specialized technical work and leadership within their specific team, but they do not hold a commission as an officer or warrant officer.