<Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This section includes a list of references, related reading or external links, but its sources remain unclear because it lacks inline citations . Please help to improve this section by introducing more precise citations . (July 2014) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> </Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This section includes a list of references, related reading or external links, but its sources remain unclear because it lacks inline citations . Please help to improve this section by introducing more precise citations . (July 2014) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> <P> In the Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps, all ranks of sergeant are termed NCOs, as are corporals in the Army and Marine Corps . A Marine Corps lance corporal (E-3) is not an NCO, but rather junior enlisted . The rank of corporal (E-4) in the Army is a junior NCO, and is to be shown the same respect as any other NCO . In the United States Air Force, E-5 (staff sergeant) and E-6 (technical sergeant) are classified under the NCO tier, while E-7 (master sergeant), E-8 (senior master sergeant), and E-9 (chief master sergeant) are considered senior non-commissioned officers (SNCOs). In the Navy and Coast Guard, all ranks of petty officer are so designated . Junior NCOs (E-4 through E-6 grade), or simply "NCOs" (E-4 and E-5 only) in Marine Corps usage, and function as first - tier supervisors and technical leaders . </P> <P> NCOs serving in the top three enlisted grades (E-7, E-8, and E-9) are termed senior non-commissioned officers (chief petty officers in the Navy and Coast Guard). Senior NCOs are expected to exercise leadership at a more general level . They lead larger groups of service members, mentor junior officers, and advise senior officers on matters pertaining to their areas of responsibility . </P>

Is a e4 in the navy a nco