What does a military sergeant do?

I've been looking into various military careers and I'm curious about the role of a sergeant. What are the responsibilities and challenges faced by a military sergeant, and how does one typically achieve this rank?

A military sergeant is a non-commissioned officer (NCO) who typically commands a small team of soldiers at the most basic level of man-to-man activities. The primary responsibility would involve supervising the team, providing training, ensuring the welfare of their personnel, and enforcing standards.

Here are some specific roles of a military sergeant:

- Training: Sergeants often lead training exercises and mentor junior soldiers, improving their skills and readiness for combat.

- Administrative Tasks: Sergeants may also handle administrative tasks, like getting soldiers the right equipment and facilitating communication between their soldiers and higher-ranking officers.

- Task Execution: They oversee the execution of daily tasks, ensuring that their team stays aligned with the mission's objectives.

- Soldier Wellbeing: They are responsible for their soldiers' emotional well-being and morale, acting as a support system through times of stress and fostering a sense of camaraderie amongst team members.

Achieving the rank of sergeant requires a combination of time-in-service, time-in-grade, and the successful completion of certain training programs. Some requirements might include:

- Professional development courses which equip potential leaders with necessary skills and knowledge.

- Physical fitness assessments to confirm that the candidate is in sound physical condition.

- Demonstrated competence in the leadership of lower-ranked soldiers, signifying readiness to take on larger responsibilities.

Note that requirements and prerequisites can vary depending on the exact branch of the military.

The role of a sergeant is challenging as it demands strong leadership abilities, the knack to handle tough decision-making, and effective communication skills — all while working under significant pressure. Despite such challenges, it can be a rewarding career, offering the chance to have a direct impact on shaping the capabilities and mindset of the soldiers in your command.