Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 12/9/2008

Question
I'm writing a book, and my client's father was a private with the rank of Tech 5.  What did that mean in 1943-44?  Thank you.
Sue Clark

Answer
Dear Sue --

I don't think he was a private, with a Tech 5 rank.  The rank of Tech 5 in WWII means that he was the equivalent of a corporal (E-4) but in a field that was more technical.  Tech specialists could not give orders to other Soldiers, but were responsible for goods or services such as logistics, maintenance or commissary and mess halls.

He may have enlisted as a private and been promoted in his field to Tech 5 as his skills and responsibilities increased.

To read more about the Technical rank and history please visit: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Army_enlisted_rank_insignia_of_World_...

If you have any documentation I could look at, I may be able to help you more.

Good luck to you.