An Armor Crewmember, identified only as a current service member, posted a message online stating they anticipate long-term professional difficulties stemming from a recent assignment. The post, containing 19K votes and 864 comments, suggests the assignment will create lasting complications within their Army career.
The 19K Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) designates an individual as an Armor Crewmember, responsible for operating tanks and assault vehicles, according to the U.S. Army’s goarmy.com website. These soldiers operate as part of a team to engage and destroy enemy forces using firepower and mobility. The role requires readiness for deployment globally.
Career progression charts for the CMF 19 – Armor MOS, effective October 2024, detail a structured path for advancement. Documents released by the Maneuver Center of Excellence (MCoE) and the United States Army outline the expected sequence of roles and responsibilities for Armor Crewmembers. The Bradley Crewmember, a key component of the Armor force, focuses on decisive action in unified land operations, utilizing firepower, mobility, and shock effect.
The Army’s COOL program provides resources for soldiers seeking to enhance their skills and qualifications. The program lists 19K as a recognized MOS, offering potential pathways for civilian career alignment. Still, the recent online post suggests that, at least for one service member, a specific assignment within this MOS is viewed negatively.
Becoming an Armor Crewmember requires completion of Basic Combat Training for enlisted soldiers, or the Basic Officer Leadership Course (BOLC) for officers, followed by specialized training related to the job. All soldiers are required to pass the Army Fitness Test annually to maintain service eligibility. The Army offers waivers for individuals who do not initially meet all eligibility requirements, allowing them to demonstrate overcoming disqualifying issues.
The Army emphasizes that whereas civilian jobs may offer higher starting salaries, military service provides a comprehensive compensation package including benefits in addition to base pay. However, the online post indicates a perceived career setback, despite these broader benefits.
