Marines Facing Big-Time Promotions

Due to an increase in Marine Corps end strength of 22,000 over the next four years, Marines can expect a surge of promotions to the ranks of corporal through colonel, say Marine personnel planners. Officer eligibility zones will expand, which will bring officers up for consideration earlier than in the past. The planned annual increase of at least 5,000 Marines translates to an additional four colonels, 25 lieutenant colonels, 70 majors and 190 captains each year. Increased enlisted promotion allocations already have commenced, with a 14 percent jump planned for gunnery sergeant and staff sergeant vacancies. The added promotions will in turn open up slots for sergeants and corporals.